Travel to Santa Barbara

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Where to stay in Santa Barbara

Find the best Santa Barbara areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Santa Barbara
A coastal town with a pier extending into the ocean, a beach, and a mix of residential and commercial buildings.

Santa Barbara Beach

3 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

Santa Barbara Beach is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights area like Stearns Wharf and West Beach.

Find hotels in Santa Barbara Beach
A hilly landscape with a fenced path, a person walking, and a distant view of a body of water and hills.

Montecito

1 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Montecito. A stop by Miramar Beach or Butterfly Beach might round out your trip.

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A historic building with arched windows and a bell tower, surrounded by palm trees and greenery.

Downtown Santa Barbara

1 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Santa Barbara. A stop by Lobero Theater or Presidio Santa Barbara might round out your trip.

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A calm sea at sunset with a sailboat and several ships in the distance.

West Beach

1 out of top 10 points of interest in this area

If you're spending some time in West Beach, Santa Barbara Harbor and West Beach are top sights worth seeing.

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A beach with palm trees, a pier, and the ocean at sunset.

East Beach

East Beach is beloved for its stunning beaches. Take some time to explore sights in the area like East Beach and Santa Barbara Zoo.

Find hotels in East Beach

Things to do in and around Santa Barbara

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, the Camino Real Marketplace, located 16.1km away, offers a vibrant public market atmosphere. In Santa Barbara, you can enjoy shopping at Paseo Nuevo Mall, which provides a delightful mix of business and entertainment, along with the Rafael Gonzalez House for unique store finds.

Recreation

Explore Elings Park for a serene retreat amidst nature, offering scenic trails and picnic spots perfect for relaxation. Experience vibrant performances at the Santa Barbara Bowl, where music and entertainment blend beautifully. Finally, enjoy the romantic atmosphere of the Arlington Theatre, showcasing diverse cultural performances for all ages.

Adventure

Cycle along the scenic Cabrillo Bikeway, soaking in coastal views, or embark on an exhilarating hike through Rattlesnake Canyon Trail, where stunning landscapes await. For a thrilling experience, challenge yourself at the Municipal Tennis Center, perfect for those seeking adventure and a bit of friendly competition.

Nightlife

Cold Spring Tavern offers a charming atmosphere with a touch of romance. Enjoy a delightful selection of drinks while soaking in the lively entertainment vibes. This inviting pub is perfect for a relaxed night out in Santa Barbara, where you can unwind and connect with fellow visitors.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara offers an ideal vacation for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, featuring beautiful beaches, urban parks, and historic churches. This charming destination is perfect for those seeking cultural experiences and family-friendly activities. Visitors can enjoy the stunning Santa Barbara beach and explore various local attractions that cater to a diverse range of interests, ensuring a memorable holiday for everyone.

  • Westmont College: Nestled in the scenic hills of Santa Barbara, Westmont College offers a blend of modern architecture and lush landscapes. Explore its beautiful campus, engage with students and faculty, and enjoy the vibrant city atmosphere that surrounds this prestigious institution.
  • MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation: A fascinating destination for all ages, MOXI is a hands-on museum that ignites curiosity through interactive exhibits in science, technology, and art. Experience the vibrant culture of Santa Barbara as you engage in innovative learning and creative exploration.
  • West Beach: Relax on the golden sands of West Beach, where stunning ocean views and playful waves create a perfect seaside escape. Enjoy beach activities, scenic strolls along the waterfront, and the lively local atmosphere that makes this beach a beloved spot for both locals and tourists.

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.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
April60.3°F (15.7°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
May63.1°F (17.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June68.2°F (20.1°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July72.1°F (22.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August72.9°F (22.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September71.6°F (22.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October66.7°F (19.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
November60.4°F (15.8°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
December55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowAverage

Tips to save on your trip to Santa Barbara

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Santa Barbara.
  • Consider traveling to Santa Barbara during the low season (January to February and November) for more affordable options.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Santa Barbara Beach Holiday

There's nothing like a Santa Barbara holiday to give you a little extra bounce in your step. The sound of rolling surf and the smell of salty sea air will rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. To be near the centre of town on your trip to Santa Barbara, find a hotel around Butterfly Beach (only 6 kilometers away). If you're planning to hang around a while, look into our Santa Barbara holiday packages. Not only can you save some cash, you'll also have other beautiful beaches around you to explore, like Miramar Beach and East Beach. Now that's a win-win!

Things You Should Know About Santa Barbara

  • If your idea of the perfect holiday is fresh ocean breezes and strolls along the shore, check out our Santa Barbara beach hotels. You'll forget the stresses of daily life at these perfectly located retreats.
  • No matter your style and budget, you'll find a great place to stay for your holiday in Santa Barbara. Why not browse through some private holiday homes, like Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels and AGAVE INN HOTEL? They're popular with visitors of all types.
  • There are tons of activities that keep the 91,800 or so residents of Santa Barbara entertained. Checking out our Santa Barbara things to do page will show you what this place has to offer.
  • Santa Barbara holiday deals are a great way to save on fun experiences. Some ideas, including Vandenberg Air Force Base, Chumash Casino and Chumash Casino, should be at the top of your to-do list.

Top hotels in Santa Barbara

Hotel Santa Barbara

Hotel Santa Barbara

533 State St Santa Barbara CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
RM990
RM1,151 total
1 Nov - 2 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Hotel Santa Barbara
Sandpiper Lodge

Sandpiper Lodge

3525 State St Santa Barbara CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
RM483
RM550 total
19 Oct - 20 Oct
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (2,744 reviews)
"Room was very clean and comfortable. The room was spacious and easy to relax in. Great staff...friendly and helpful when we had questions."

Reviewed on 9 Oct 2026

Sandpiper Lodge
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

128 Castillo St Santa Barbara CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
RM585
RM698 total
9 Nov - 10 Nov
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (2,433 reviews)
"The property was as described, clean, very nice rooms. Was it worth over $400 per night- no, but that’s pretty typical of SB. Great location near the harbor, walkable to west beach, downtown, funk zone, etc. Hot tub was a great bonus."

Reviewed on 9 Oct 2026

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
See all 1,180 properties in Santa Barbara
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Santa Barbara attractions

A historic building with a clock tower, arched windows, and a central archway.

Santa Barbara County Courthouse

9.2/10 (1,499 reviews)
This 1929 Spanish Colonial Revival masterpiece enchants with hand-painted murals and a four-faced clock tower. Climb to the top for breathtaking 360-degree views of Santa Barbara's coastline and mountains.
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An elephant in a zoo enclosure with a rocky background and mountains in the distance.

Santa Barbara Zoo

9.0/10 (1,101 reviews)
Perched along California's coastline, the Santa Barbara Zoo offers intimate wildlife encounters in a compact 30-acre setting. Feed Maasai giraffes or ride the Zoo Train while enjoying panoramic ocean views.
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A brick building with a tiled roof labeled "Santa Barbara Bowl."

Santa Barbara Bowl

9.0/10 (551 reviews)
This historic amphitheatre offers panoramic ocean views while showcasing world-class musical performances. Arrive early to savour local cuisine and watch the sunset before the show begins.
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A historic church with a bell tower and a fountain in the foreground.
Photo by Leonardo De Leon

Mission Santa Barbara

9.2/10 (1,948 reviews)
Known as the "Queen of the Missions," this 1786 Spanish colonial landmark captivates with its twin bell towers and stunning architecture. Explore the nine-room museum and serene gardens with views of the Pacific Ocean.
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A pier with lights reflecting on the water, a flag, and buildings in the background.

Stearns Wharf

9.0/10 (4,143 reviews)
California's oldest working wharf since 1872, Stearns Wharf combines history with panoramic ocean views. Savour fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants while watching the sunset paint the Santa Ynez Mountains.
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A residential area with houses, palm trees, and a road.

Upper State Street

9.0/10 (3,969 reviews)
Upper State Street offers a relaxed Santa Barbara experience with local boutiques and family-owned restaurants. Enjoy a stroll through La Cumbre Plaza before dining at beloved local spots like Harry's Plaza Café.
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A coastal beach with palm trees, a sandy shore, and a clear blue sky.

Butterfly Beach

9.2/10 (486 reviews)
Butterfly Beach's unique east-west orientation provides both stunning sunrises and sunsets. Stroll the flower-lined path and watch the sky's colours reflect on the pristine shoreline near Santa Barbara's luxury estates.
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A two-story building with a beige facade, large windows, and a balcony.

Santa Barbara City College

8.8/10 (522 reviews)
Perched on a coastal bluff, Santa Barbara City College offers breathtaking Pacific Ocean panoramas. Visitors can enjoy spectacular sunset views while strolling through the architecturally harmonious grounds.
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What to do in Santa Barbara

Happy kayakers

Wildlife Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)

RM241
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Wildlife Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)
Coastal Cruise on Yacht in Santa Barbara

Coastal Cruise on Yacht in Santa Barbara

RM155
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Coastal Cruise on Yacht in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara Sunset Cruise on Yacht with Full Bar

Santa Barbara Sunset Cruise on Yacht

RM265
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Santa Barbara Sunset Cruise on Yacht
See all activities in Santa Barbara

Frequently asked questions

How much does a Santa Barbara holiday package cost?
Offering great value package deals on Expedia, you'll be surprised at how little a holiday to Santa Barbara costs! Expedia's packages make travel planning easier and your savings go further.
What are the cheapest months to go to Santa Barbara?
You can typically find lower prices and greater availability in December, January and February. Take a look at our cheap Santa Barbara holiday packages and you could score some great off-season deals.
How many days is enough for Santa Barbara?
With around 2 days, you'll have plenty of time to visit popular neighbourhoods like Santa Barbara Beach and West Beach during your Santa Barbara holiday. Be sure to also add Butterfly Beach and Arlington Theatre to your list of must-sees. Searching for more adventures? Consider exploring outside of Santa Barbara on tours and day trips.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Santa Barbara?
It's no wonder a Santa Barbara holiday is on the must-do list of many travellers. Popular attractions like Santa Barbara Zoo are just the start of things to see and do here.
How to find the best Santa Barbara package deals?
Start your search for a Santa Barbara package deal by entering your preferred travel dates and destination under our "Packages" tab. Then apply a few filters, like "Property type" and "Amenities," to tailor the results to your exact needs. You can also sort by "Package discount" and browse offers that come with unbeatable savings. If you don't find the ideal Santa Barbara package deal right away, just tweak your dates and search again. Keep in mind that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Santa Barbara escape off to a flying start.
Is it cheaper to book a Santa Barbara holiday as a package?
You can enjoy significant savings on your next Santa Barbara getaway by booking a personalised holiday package. Check the "Package" heading, then enter your destination and travel dates to browse the best flight and hotel prices. Bundling can save travellers hundreds of dollars. Consider adding a rental car and you may land a better deal.
When to book a holiday package to Santa Barbara?
If you've got your Santa Barbara holiday dates locked in, book as soon as you can to score some terrific deals. With Expedia, you can typically reserve some flights up to a year in advance. Prefer spur-of-the-moment adventures? Our last-minute deals are perfect for impromptu escapes.
How to plan a trip to Santa Barbara?
  1. Pick the ideal time to travel: Your schedule, favourite season and the type of weather you enjoy can all impact your decision on when to go to Santa Barbara.
  2. Set a budget: Consider costs such as flights, food and transportation when working out how much to put aside for your trip to Santa Barbara. Then, pick a property that matches your budget, whether that's a wallet-friendly stay or a high-end retreat.
  3. Decide how many days away: Start by making a list of all the sights and activities you want to experience in Santa Barbara. Then, estimate how long you'll need for each, along with any travel time.
  4. Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in place, you can combine your hotels, flights, car rental and more into a personalised Santa Barbara holiday package.

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* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.