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Top reasons to visit Santa Barbara

• Stunning Beaches: Enjoy the beautiful beaches of Santa Barbara, perfect for relaxing, swimming, and soaking up the sun.
• Cultural Attractions: Explore the Santa Barbara Museum and charming downtown filled with rich history and local culture.
• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in outdoor activities in urban parks, botanical gardens, and along the picturesque harbour.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Discover a range of fun activities suitable for families, ensuring entertainment for all ages.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a variety of lodgings, from charming motels to luxurious hotels, catering to all needs.

Find great hotels in and around Santa Barbara

Discover the ideal accommodation for your Santa Barbara getaway, where stunning beaches and adventure await. From charming motels to luxurious hotels, you'll find a range of pet-friendly options to suit your needs. Whether you're seeking a relaxing retreat or an action-packed holiday, Santa Barbara offers a variety of lodgings that cater to every traveller, ensuring a memorable experience in this beautiful coastal city.

• Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn: Nestled 16.1km from the vibrant heart of Santa Barbara, Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn is a 3.5-star hotel perfect for adventurous travellers and business-minded guests. This LGBTQIA welcoming accommodation offers a unique blend of corporate amenities, including a 24-hour business centre, ensuring a seamless work experience. For those seeking adventure, the hotel provides easy access to thrilling activities such as skydiving, kayaking, and mountain biking nearby. With a commitment to inclusivity and a range of recreational options, it’s an excellent choice for both leisure and work.
• The Milo: The Milo, situated right in Santa Barbara, invites families to enjoy a delightful beachside retreat. This 3.5-star hotel features direct access to the beach, making it an ideal spot for sun-soaked days by the ocean. Family-friendly amenities, including beach toys and a pool gate for safety, ensure a worry-free stay for parents. Guests appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to build lasting memories while enjoying the seaside charm of Santa Barbara.
• Amanzi Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection: Located 41.8km from Santa Barbara, Amanzi Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection is a nature lover’s paradise in the city centre. This hotel caters to adventure seekers with activities like fishing, windsurfing, and hiking available nearby. With its urban location, guests can easily venture into the city while still having access to the great outdoors. The perfect blend of urban convenience and natural exploration makes Amanzi Hotel a distinctive choice for those looking to experience both adventure and city life.

Where to stay in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara offers a delightful blend of relaxation and history, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Explore the charming downtown, stroll along the picturesque Santa Barbara Harbour, and unwind in quaint seaside inns. With its friendly atmosphere and stunning scenery, this city promises a romantic getaway. Whether you're soaking in the sun or delving into the rich local culture, your perfect Santa Barbara escape awaits just around the corner.

• Montecito: Nestled just east of Santa Barbara, Montecito is an upscale neighbourhood known for its lush landscapes and serene atmosphere. This area attracts visitors predominantly in January, March, and July, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a family-friendly beach experience. Montecito boasts exquisite shopping centres, educational institutions, and access to stunning local landmarks such as pristine beaches and the picturesque national state park. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach or indulge in boutique shopping, Montecito offers a tranquil retreat with plenty of outdoor activities for all ages.
• Santa Barbara Beach: Located along the stunning coastline, Santa Barbara Beach is a vibrant neighbourhood that thrives during the warmer months, particularly from June to August. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, this area invites visitors to enjoy outdoor adventures, from sunbathing on the sandy shores to engaging in water sports. With a shopping area and a nearby theme park, there’s something for everyone. The beach serves as a central attraction where families can create lasting memories, making it a must-visit for those looking to soak up the Californian sun.
• Downtown Santa Barbara: As the heart of Santa Barbara, Downtown offers a lively urban experience year-round, with peak visitor numbers in the summer months. This bustling area is perfect for families and city enthusiasts alike, featuring a mix of shopping, education, and entertainment options, including theatres showcasing local performances. With close proximity to beautiful beaches and a vibrant tourist precinct, Downtown Santa Barbara is the ideal base for exploring the region while enjoying the conveniences of city life.

Things to do in and around Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara offers a delightful mix of family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures, perfect for a memorable holiday. Explore the vibrant local scene through its renowned craft breweries, indulge in relaxing spa experiences, and enjoy shopping and theatre options. Don't miss the chance to uncover the charm of Santa Barbara itself, making it an ideal destination for both education and entertainment.

Shopping

Your shopping experience in Santa Barbara will be delightful. Visit Paseo Nuevo Mall for a range of shops and entertainment. For local flair, check out the Santa Barbara Public Market. If you're up for a drive, explore the unique offerings at Rafael Gonzalez House for distinctive gifts.

Recreation

At Santa Barbara Bowl, immerse yourself in vibrant music performances amidst stunning natural acoustics, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. For outdoor enthusiasts, Santa Barbara Golf Club offers scenic fairways where you can enjoy a leisurely round of golf. Elings Park invites you to unwind in its tranquil surroundings, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Adventure

The Cabrillo Bikeway offers a scenic coastal ride with stunning ocean views, perfect for cycling enthusiasts. Rattlesnake Canyon Trail presents an exhilarating hiking experience, showcasing breathtaking scenery and adventure. For tennis lovers, the Municipal Tennis Center provides an exciting atmosphere to enjoy a game in the heart of Santa Barbara.

Nightlife

Experience the enchanting Arlington Theater for a captivating show, or enjoy a cozy evening at Cold Spring Tavern, where romance meets great drinks. For a fun twist, visit Zodo's - Bowling and Beyond, just 11.3km away, for an exciting night of bowling and arcade games.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a fantastic destination for budget-conscious travellers. Enjoy free attractions like Santa Barbara Harbor, Stearns Wharf, and the County Courthouse. For getting around, consider biking or using the trolley, which are both affordable options. The best time to visit for lower prices is from January to February and November, with Tuesdays being the cheapest days for accommodation. Use Expedia to find deals, including free cancellation options, and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities to save even more.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Santa Barbara are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Santa Barbara is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Santa Barbara is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. To find the best prices and special offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Santa Barbara hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is perfect for a family-friendly, outdoor vacation filled with entertainment. Explore stunning beaches, urban parks, and botanical gardens that cater to culture lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Don't miss the Santa Barbara Museum, the picturesque waterfront, and the inviting local beaches for a memorable experience in this beautiful Californian city.

• Santa Barbara Harbor: Experience the vibrant marina atmosphere with opportunities for outdoor adventures, such as kayaking or paddleboarding. Enjoy the laid-back beach vibe while taking in stunning views of the coastline and the Santa Ynez Mountains.
• Stearns Wharf: Stroll along this historic jetty, the oldest working wharf in California. Indulge in fresh seafood, visit unique shops, and take in panoramic ocean views, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and exploration.
• Santa Barbara County Courthouse: Marvel at the stunning Spanish-Moorish architecture of this historic building. Explore its beautifully landscaped gardens and climb the clock tower for breathtaking views of the city and beyond, immersing yourself in the local culture.

Best time to go to Santa Barbara

The best time to visit Santa Barbara is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	55.0°F (12.8°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
April	60.3°F (15.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
May	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
June	68.2°F (20.1°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	72.1°F (22.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	72.9°F (22.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	71.6°F (22.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
November	60.4°F (15.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Barbara

When visiting Santa Barbara, California, you can fly into several major airports. Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is located 12.9km from the city centre, with nearby luxury hotels like The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara and El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel. Santa Ynez Airport (SQA), 40.2km away, offers options such as Hotel Corque and Chumash Casino Resort. Oxnard Airport (OXR) is 51.5km from Santa Barbara, with accommodation choices including Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach and Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach. Each airport provides accessible transportation options to these hotels, ensuring a smooth trip for tourists.