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Top reasons to visit Santa Barbara

• Stunning Beaches: Santa Barbara boasts beautiful beaches with golden sands and picturesque views, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
• Rich Cultural Scene: The city features a vibrant cultural scene, including captivating theatre performances and educational attractions.
• Historic Architecture: Explore charming streets lined with historic churches and buildings that reflect the city’s unique heritage.
• Outdoor Activities: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, Santa Barbara offers urban parks and scenic hiking trails amidst stunning landscapes.
• Welcoming Hospitality: Enjoy the warm hospitality of locals and a variety of accommodation options catering to all preferences.

Find great hotels near Santa Barbara

Discover the charming hospitality of Santa Barbara, where a variety of hotels and motels cater to adventurous travellers seeking a beach getaway. Whether you prefer the luxury of star-rated accommodations or the warmth of pet-friendly options, there's a perfect spot for everyone. From the renowned Hotel Californian to the heart of Hotel Santa Barbara, your ideal holiday experience awaits in this picturesque coastal city.

• Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn: Situated 16km from Santa Barbara, the Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn boasts a guest rating of 8.6 and offers a delightful beach, adventure, and golf-themed experience. This hotel features direct access to the beach, allowing guests to indulge in sun-soaked relaxation or partake in nearby adventure sports such as mountain biking, hiking, and even skydiving. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the on-site golf experience, making this property an excellent choice for active travellers seeking both leisure and adventure.
• Amanzi Hotel, an Ascend Collection Hotel: Located 42km from Santa Barbara, Amanzi Hotel holds a commendable guest rating of 9.0, appealing to those who appreciate a nature-themed getaway. With direct beach access, the hotel encourages outdoor exploration, offering a range of adventure sports like fishing and windsurfing nearby. The property emphasises a natural accommodation experience combined with wellness elements, making it an ideal retreat for those looking to reconnect with nature while enjoying modern comforts.
• Motel 6 Carpinteria, CA - Santa Barbara - South: Just 18km from Santa Barbara, Motel 6 Carpinteria offers a welcoming stay with a guest rating of 8.2, particularly for pet lovers. This motel allows pets on-site, adhering to a friendly pet policy that includes free accommodation for dogs and cats. With its straightforward amenities and convenient location, it serves as a practical choice for travellers seeking comfort without sacrificing their furry companions.

Where to stay in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, a charming coastal city, offers a delightful blend of historical charm and modern luxury, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Wander through its picturesque streets, bask in the warm hospitality of friendly locals, and indulge in romantic excursions. Nearby areas enhance your experience with relaxing atmospheres and captivating urban vibes, making Santa Barbara an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.

• Santa Barbara Beach: Nestled along the stunning coastline of Santa Barbara, this neighbourhood offers a quintessential beach experience. With gentle waves and golden sands, Santa Barbara Beach is perfect for families looking to indulge in outdoor activities. The area sees a spike in visitors from June to August, making it an ideal summer holiday destination. You can enjoy shopping at local boutiques or explore nearby attractions, including the picturesque tourist precinct and family-friendly beaches. The relaxed atmosphere, coupled with beautiful ocean views, makes it a delightful spot for sun-seekers.
• Montecito: Just a stone's throw from Santa Barbara, Montecito is renowned for its luxurious charm and natural beauty. This neighbourhood experiences seasonal fluctuations in visitor numbers, peaking in January, March, and July. Montecito is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures or leisurely strolls through its upscale shopping centres. The nearby beaches and the vast national state park offer splendid opportunities for exploration. The tranquil setting, combined with its family-friendly environment, makes Montecito a hidden gem for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle.
• Downtown Santa Barbara: Vibrant and bustling, Downtown Santa Barbara is the cultural heart of the city. With a consistent flow of visitors throughout the year, especially during the summer months, this area is known for its diverse offerings. From chic shops to educational venues and theatres, Downtown Santa Barbara caters to all interests. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local scene while enjoying the proximity to beautiful beaches and family-friendly attractions. This lively neighbourhood beautifully balances city life with outdoor charm, making it a must-visit for any traveller.

Things to do in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a vibrant mix of city-themed activities. Visitors can explore educational attractions, enjoy captivating theatre performances, and experience the thrill of arena entertainment. Whether you're seeking your next adventure or a scenic sightseeing stop, Santa Barbara promises an array of engaging experiences that cater to diverse interests.

Shopping

In Santa Barbara, visit the Paseo Nuevo Shopping Centre, featuring a mix of shops, restaurants, and outdoor spaces. If you're up for a drive, head to the Camarillo Premium Outlets, located about 80km away, offering a vast selection of designer brands at discounted prices.

Recreation

YogaWorks Santa Barbara offers tranquil classes in a peaceful environment, promoting mindfulness and physical well-being. For rejuvenation, head to the Four Seasons Resort, which features luxurious spa treatments and stunning ocean views, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and self-care.

Adventure

In Santa Barbara, explore the stunning coastline with a kayaking adventure in the Channel Islands National Park, where you can spot marine life and enjoy breathtaking views. For thrill-seekers, hike the scenic trails of the Santa Ynez Mountains, offering panoramic vistas and a chance to connect with nature.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Good Lion, where inventive cocktails meet a warm atmosphere. For a lively evening, visit The Funk Zone, home to various wine tasting rooms and art galleries, perfect for mingling and soaking up local culture.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Barbara

• 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 preferences, such as budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To discover the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel stay in Santa Barbara with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a delightful destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering an array of attractions such as beautiful beaches, urban parks, and historic churches. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying a variety of experiences that are perfect for all ages, combining the charm of city life with the allure of nature.

• Upper State Street: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Upper State Street, where you can explore an array of shops, cafes, and local eateries. This bustling thoroughfare showcases the charming character of Santa Barbara with its diverse architecture and friendly locals.
• Stearns Wharf: Enjoy a scenic stroll along Stearns Wharf, a historic jetty that offers stunning views of the coastline and the Santa Barbara skyline. Here, you can find fresh seafood restaurants, local shops, and even a small aquarium, making it a lovely spot to relax and soak in the ocean breeze.
• Leadbetter Beach: Experience the laid-back beach vibes at Leadbetter Beach, perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, or enjoying water sports. This family-friendly beach is a popular spot for both locals and visitors, offering picturesque views and a welcoming atmosphere.

Best time to go to Santa Barbara

The best time to visit Santa Barbara is dependent 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

Flying into Santa Barbara, California, you have several major airports to consider. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is approximately 130km away, with nearby hotels such as the Fairmont Miramar Hotel, The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey, and Casa Del Mar, all offering convenient access to the airport. Hollywood BURbank Airport (BUR) is about 127km from Santa Barbara, with options like The Sun Rose West Hollywood and 1 Hotel West Hollywood. Long Beach Municipal Airport (LGB) is the furthest at 159km, with hotels like Parkwest Bicycle Casino and Hotel Maya providing airport transfers. Each location offers a variety of transport services for easy access to Santa Barbara.