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Ready to discover the best things to do in Santa Barbara? Let this guide be your go-to resource for planning your time in Central California’s prettiest coastal city.
Something about Santa Barbara always pulls me back. I’ve been making my way up the coast to this gorgeous little city for years. When I lived in Los Angeles, it was easily one of my favorite weekend getaways.
But even when I’m heading further north along the Pacific Coast Highway, I can’t resist making a pit stop here even if it’s just for tacos at La Super-Rica or a nostalgic drive-by.
Maybe it’s the polished yet laidback vibe here. Or the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture that gives the whole city a Mediterranean feel. Both of which are things I love about Santa Barbara.
Santa Barbara is one of those rare California destinations that really has it all: beaches, mountains, wine country, beautiful architecture, incredible restaurants, and a relaxed coastal energy that makes it feel both upscale and completely easygoing.
Whether you’re planning a quick weekend away or a longer coastal road trip, there’s plenty to see and do in Santa Barbara, California. In this post, I’m sharing all my favorite spots and essential information to help you plan the perfect trip to the coast.
The Ultimate Santa Barbara Travel Guide
In this guide, I’m sharing everything you need to have the best time in Santa Barbara. From the dreamiest hotels and Airbnbs to top beaches, activities, day trips, and everything in between, I’ve got you covered.
Where Is Santa Barbara Located?
Santa Barbara sits along the Central California Coast about 95 miles northwest of Los Angeles. Santa Ynez Valley is only 30 miles away.
The Pacific Ocean and Santa Ynez Mountains frame the city giving it some of the most scenic views in the state. Plus, Highway 1 runs right through Santa Barbara, making it an easy stopping point for any coastal road trip.
How to Get to Santa Barbara
Getting to Santa Barbara by Car: Most people get to Santa Barbara by driving along the Pacific Coast Highway or the 101 freeway. From Los Angeles, it’s about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive depending on traffic. From San Francisco, it’s about 5.5 to 6 hours.
Getting to Santa Barbara by Plane: If you’re not local to California, you can fly directly into Santa Barbara Airport (SBA), the local regional airport minutes from the downtown area. Catch direct flights from major airports including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver, Seattle, Phoenix, Dallas-Fort Worth, and more. Usually, it’s more affordable though to fly into larger SoCal airports like LAX or even Burbank and rent a car to drive up the coast.
Getting to Santa Barbara by Train: For a more scenic journey with stunning views along the coast, take Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner. The train line runs between San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Luis Obispo with a stop in Santa Barbara. The line drops you off right near the Funk Zone and State Street, so it’s entirely possible to do a trip here without a car if that’s your jam.
Is Santa Barbara Worth Visiting?
Without hesitation, yes! Santa Barbara is one of those places that delivers on every front. The city’s nickname is “American Riviera” for its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. You’ll see the white stucco buildings and signature red-tiled roofs wherever you go throughout town.
Sparkling coastline beaches and proximity to wine country in nearby Santa Ynez Valley also make it a popular destination.
The Santa Barbara Channel is also one of the best whale watching destinations on the West Coast, and Condor Express runs daily trips year-round from Santa Barbara Harbor. Plus, it’s an ideal location for accessing Channel Islands National Park.
Whether you love wine, enjoy the outdoors, or just want to slow down for a few days, you’ll love a trip to Santa Barbara.
How to Get Around Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara is a wonderfully walkable city, especially if you’re staying downtown or in the Funk Zone. Many of the city’s top spots are within walking distance of each other.
Biking is a popular option for slightly longer distances. And some hotels offer courtesy rides around town which is incredibly convenient.
The Downtown-Waterfront Shuttle typically runs seasonally during the summer from late May to early September from Friday-Sunday. During these months, it’s an easy and affordable way to get around without a car.
Ride shares like Uber and Lyft are also easily available. When planning a visit to Montecito, Summerland, or Santa Ynez Valley however, renting a car is the most practical option.
If you need to rent a car, I recommend booking with Discover Cars—they make it super easy to compare prices between all the top rental agencies to find the best deals.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Santa Barbara?
This coastal city is great year-round, but the best times to visit are spring and fall when the weather is warm without the peak summer crowds.
Summer brings a lively peak season with plenty of crowds, long beach days, and events like Old Spanish Days Fiesta.
Keep in mind that California experiences “May Gray” and “June Gloom.” These are real phenomena that locals know all too well. If you’re coming here for the beaches, I’d suggest booking your trip between July and September when clear, sunny days are more reliable.
What is the Weather Like in Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara has a Mediterranean-style climate year-round with mild, comfortable temperatures.
Summers are warm and sunny. Temperatures are typically in the mid-70s°F with August being the hottest month. Though “June Gloom” — a marine layer of fog in the morning — is common during early summer.
Spring and fall are still warm, but only reach the high 60s°F to low 70s°F typically.
Winters are cooler, but are rarely super cold, with occasional rain. The ocean breeze can make evenings feel a bit more chilly no matter what time of the year, so always pack layers.
Where To Stay In Santa Barbara
Best Hotels:
Drift Santa Barbara ($) – A stylish boutique hotel with a more minimal, modern look in a central downtown location. Imagine if Tulum, Manhattan and Santa Barbara had a baby—that’s the aesthetic at the Drift. The hotel offers an on-site restaurant and bar and concierge services. Additional amenities include yoga classes, and free bicycles to explore the city.
Hotel Californian ($$) – I’ve stayed at Hotel Californian in Santa Barbara twice and it’s a great go-to. I love its location in the Funk Zone which makes everything easily walkable. Plus, they provide rides around town. Each Moroccan-inspired room features a beautiful design, with every room slightly different. Don’t miss a cocktail at the Djinn Library Bar and the unique turndown service.
Palihouse Santa Barbara ($$) – This hotel stays true to the Palisociety style mixing vintage-inspired cozy decor with ultra-chic California vibes. Bright, colorful rooms surround a lush courtyard which is perfect for unwinding after exploring nearby. Amenities include Peloton bikes, a pool, and a cocktail bar. Plus, a stay here is just three blocks from State Street.
The Craft House Inn ($$) – This reimagined and restored 100-year-old bed and breakfast blends old-world charm with modern amenities. The Craft House Inn feels like you’re staying in someone’s luxe home and offers a more intimate and cozy stay with fewer rooms. You can also enjoy thoughtful services like a personal chef and private wellness offerings during your stay.
Rosewood Miramar Beach ($$$) – For an ultra luxurious stay with a top-tier seaside resort experience, Rosewood Miramar Beach is worth the splurge. The beachfront hotel sits directly on the sand. The whole place has a West Coast elegance meets contemporary Cali-living vibe. Here you can enjoy fine dining, multiple bars, spas, and a pool scene that belongs on a magazine cover.
Ritz-Carlton Bacara ($$$) – Another next-level stay for those who want to be pampered is the Ritz-Carlton Bacara. Sitting on a dramatic stretch of coastline next to the Sandpiper Golf Course, the Ritz-Carlton offers sweeping views and a more secluded feel. Plus, you’d be hard pressed to find an amenity that they don’t have here.
Best Airbnbs:
Loft in Lower State – A stylish one bedroom loft right in the heart of the Funk Zone. The loft features thoughtfully curated art and is close to the beach.
Dreamy Beach Cottage – An adorable one bedroom cottage with beachy charm close to Leadbetter Beach and Shoreline Park. Outdoor spaces also include a spa and sauna, private deck, and outdoor dining.
Apartment in Santa Barbara – A one bedroom apartment in a Spanish-style building combining historic charm with modern luxury. Only a few blocks from State Street, you’re just a short walk from all the action.
Home in Montecito – A private garden cottage in Montecito perfect for a peaceful and quiet getaway among fruit and olive trees. The home is close to Butterfly Beach with beach cruisers available for your adventures.
Modern Mountain A-Frame – A beautiful A-frame cabin set in the mountains with modern, design-forward finishes. The panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and cedar hot tub for soaking under the stars make it worth the 20-minute drive to downtown.
What To Do In Santa Barbara
Explore The Funk Zone
The Funk Zone is one of the coolest neighborhoods in Santa Barbara, but it didn’t always used to be. This once-overlooked neighborhood near the waterfront has completely transformed over the past decade. Now it’s a hub packed with amazing restaurants, cute coffee shops, creative street art, charming boutiques, and wine tasting rooms.
I typically choose to stay in the Funk Zone when I visit Santa Barbara as there’s just so much to walk to.
While in the area, don’t miss grabbing a bite from Lucky Penny (their pizza is so freaking good), and Dart Coffee is great for a morning pick-me-up. The whole area is walkable and endlessly fun to explore.
Sip Along the Urban Wine Trail
The Urban Wine Trail running through downtown Santa Barbara and the Funk Zone is a vinophile’s dream. Unlike wine country where you have to drive from winery to winery, here you can walk between tasting rooms and spend your afternoon sipping incredible wine without ever having to get into a car.
There are over 20 participating tasting rooms in total, but Valley Project and Fess Parker are a couple of excellent stops along the trail that happen to be next to one another.
Grab a map of all the wineries along the trail here, or purchase your Urban Wine Trail membership card for $200 which grants you a free tasting at each participating location.
Good to Know: The whole experience on the Urban Wine Trail is super casual and you don’t have to make reservations.
Shopping on State Street Promenade
State Street is the main artery of downtown Santa Barbara, and no trip to the area would be complete without shopping along the picturesque palm tree-dotted street.
Many shops, local boutiques, patios, galleries, restaurants, and bars line the vibrant heart of downtown. And much of it is pedestrian-only, so it’s got a vibrant energy with people spilling out into the street.
While you’re there, don’t skip McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams for a sweet treat.
Tour the Town
If you’re someone that likes to kick off any trip with a tour of the area, then you have some great options in Santa Barbara. These tours will give you a deeper dive into the history and sights of the city, so you can wander off on your own with confidence.
E-Bike Tour: One of my top recommendations is an e-bike guided tour. This 2.5-hour tour takes you through the highlights of the city in a fun and effortless way. During the ride, a local tour guide gives you the history and fun facts about all the stops you visit.
Trolley Tour: If you’d rather sit back and enjoy a ride around the city with minimal effort, a Santa Barbara Trolley Tour is more your style. The trolley tour is a 90-minute narrated ride on a classic red trolley that takes you to all the local hotspots. Book your ticket here before heading to the Visitor Center where all trolley tours begin.
Walking Tour: For something a little more unexpected, check out this Comedian-Led Food and Walking Tour. This tour takes you on foot through downtown Santa Barbara with much more than your average tour guide. You’ll enjoy local snacks and drinks, learn about the city’s history and culture, and hopefully enjoy lots of laughs. You’ll also get some awesome photo ops along the way.
Go Antique Shopping at The Blue Door
If you love antiques and vintage finds, you cannot miss stopping into The Blue Door. The shop spans three floors in a brick building and every corner inspires a creative shopping experience.
To say I’m obsessed with this place would be an understatement. This is my all-time favorite place to peruse in Santa Barbara and it’s filled with so many treasures. Think everything from furniture, art, sculptures, vintage clothes, and more. If you’re currently decorating a space, you’ll definitely want to leave some extra room in your luggage for any little gems you might find.
Book a Private Harbor Cruise
One of the most memorable things you can do in Santa Barbara is get out on the water. This private electric boat cruise for up to 6 people is a great way to see the harbor and coastline up close. And you’ll likely spot some sea life along the way. This cruise is perfect for something fun like a bachelorette trip or a relaxing sunset ride that you can totally make your own.
Visit the Old Mission
Old Mission Santa Barbara is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. People often call it the “Queen of the Missions” because of its beautiful design and scenic location. Founded in 1786, it’s still an active parish to this day.
I was delighted at its pink and cream facade, which is so unique from most of the missions you’ll find in California.
If you want to tour the Mission museum, you can buy tickets for $17. Self-guided tours are generally offered Monday–Saturday from 9:30 AM–5 PM and Sundays from 12:30 PM–5 PM, with the last ticket sold at 4 PM.
Or check their events calendar to join in on one of their unique offerings like motor shows and sip and strolls. When you visit, you can’t miss the Rose Garden across from the Mission which is a lovely spot for a picnic lunch.
Tour Ganna Walska Lotusland
I’ll never forget my first visit to Lotusland when my mom and I drove up for a day trip from LA. Even a decade later, I still remember how blown away I was by the incredible gardens and variety of plant life. If you’re looking for a peaceful way to spend an afternoon, this is the perfect spot.
A little backstory: Famed opera singer Madame Ganna Walska spent decades curating this globally renowned 37-acre botanical garden. The 3,000+ plant species are whimsical and impressive, and it’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in the area.
Good to Know: Lotusland requires advance reservations, and walk-ins are not allowed. For 2026, the garden is open to the public March 11 through November 14.
Relax at the Beach
You can’t miss spending some time relaxing and unwinding under the sun on one of Santa Barbara’s stunning beaches. Visiting the beach at sunset is equally as magical. Here are a few to add to your list.
Butterfly Beach is one of the most beloved beaches in the area. The long stretch of sand with incredible views makes for a nice beach stroll any time of the day. And there’s a chance you’ll spot a celebrity (it is Montecito, after all). Since it faces West, it’s also one of the best beaches in California to catch the sunset on the Central Coast, and dogs are welcome here.
East Beach is Santa Barbara’s largest and most popular beach. Whether you want to sunbathe, enjoy a game of volleyball, or ride a bike along the coast, this iconic beach is a solid choice. The beach is extremely family-friendly featuring a playground. Nearby, you’ll find Stearns Wharf which is a nice stop after you’ve soaked up some Vitamin D.
Leadbetter Beach near the Santa Barbara Harbor is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Waterfront tables with park amenities make it a nice spot for a picnic too. And you can walk up to nearby Shoreline Park for a bird’s-eye view of the surfers below and some of the best views of the Channel Islands.
Arroyo Burro Beach (aka “Hendry’s Beach”) is a local favorite that’s super dog-friendly. Grab a bite when you get hungry or drink at happy hour at the iconic beachfront restaurant, Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach. Best times to snag a spot in the on-site parking lot are early morning or late afternoon.
El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park
A visit to El Presidio will transport you back in time. The historic park is one of the last four Spanish Military fortresses built in Upper California and it’s surprisingly smack dab in the middle of downtown.
Restored adobe buildings and the museum give you a fascinating peek into colonial California. A cool spot for history lovers and a nice complement to a visit to the Santa Barbara Mission.
El Presidio is open daily from 10:30am to 4:30pm and costs $5 to visit. Guided tours happen every Saturday and Sunday at 2pm.
Hop on a Kayak Tour
If staying active during your trip is a priority, then hopping on a kayak tour is one of the best ways to explore the miles-long breathtaking Santa Barbara coastline. Taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide around the harbor lets you see seals, dolphins, and other ocean wildlife. Plus, it’ll give you a completely different vantage of the city than you’d get on land.
I recommend this Santa Barbara Kayak Tour. Join it as a group tour or make it a private experience. Either way, even beginners with no previous experience will enjoy this tour.
Grab Smashburgers at Third Window Brewing
The 27 rotating taps of craft beer at Third Window Brewing are excellent, but an even bigger draw at this brewery are its smashburgers. They make their award-winning smashburgers with 100% Fess Parker Ranch Wagyu beef. The family has raised the cows on their land for four generations.
You can’t go wrong with one of their classic mouthwatering cheeseburgers—it was one of our favorite meals of the trip. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, go for the peanut butter & jelly smashed cheeseburger.
Spend an Afternoon in Montecito
Just a few miles east of downtown Santa Barbara, Montecito deserves an afternoon of its own if you have the time. This ultra-wealthy enclave is home to some of the most beautiful estates in California. Lots of celebrities live here—Oprah and Jennifer Aniston ring a bell?
A couple of my favorite must-visit spots include:
- Bettina for wood-fired pizza
- The Post Montecito which features a collection of destination restaurants and specialty shops
- Montecito Hot Springs which I’ll get into more detail about below
- Caruso’s at Rosewood Miramar Beach is a 1 Michelin star splurge-worthy restaurant if you’re celebrating a special occasion
- Tre Lune for fantastic Italian classics
Get a Panoramic View from the Courthouse Clocktower
I wouldn’t normally suggest visiting a courthouse on an itinerary, but this one is different. Santa Barbara County Courthouse is a gorgeous example of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture making the public building worthy of a stop even just to admire from the outside.
Make sure to head up to the clocktower for epic panoramic views of downtown Santa Barbara and the Pacific.
The courthouse is free to visit. Hours are from 8am to 5pm on weekdays, 10am to 5pm on weekends and court holidays.
Montecito Hot Springs
This hot springs hike used to be a local secret but has now become a well-known spot. The bright milky blue natural pools of Montecito Hot Springs cascade down the mountainside in varying temperatures, and they’re quite surreal to witness. Getting here requires a 2.5 mile out and back hike starting at the Hot Springs Trailhead on East Mountain Drive.
I highly suggest going early (before 8AM) because parking is in a residential neighborhood and extremely limited. The springs can get busy because they’re so popular, but they still feel incredibly relaxing after the hike. Just don’t be surprised if you find some people enjoying the pools in the nude.
Important Note: Since this is a residential area and local favorite spot, please be respectful of the area if you choose to visit. Remember to always practice Leave No Trace principles and leave the land better than you found it.
Brunch at Helena Avenue Bakery
Helena Avenue Bakery is a charming neighborhood spot in a cool industrial style building. They serve homestyle artisan baked goods along with made-to-order breakfast and lunch. Items on the menu include a wildflower honey ricotta on sourdough toast. And they have seasonal handmade pastries so there’s always something new to try whenever I go back.
Have brunch on the flower-filled patio and grab some rustic breads and sweet treats to enjoy later on the beach or on the drive home.
Explore Summerland
Summerland is a small seaside haven just south of Santa Barbara. The town is easy to drive past without realizing there’s something worth stopping for, but don’t make that mistake.
Get your small-town fix at this charming community’s boutique shops, quaint cafes, wine tasting rooms, antique and vintage stores, and more.
My favorite spots you can’t miss are Godmothers, Field and Fort, and The Sacred Space.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church
Even if you’re not particularly religious, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church is worth a stop, or at the very least a drive-by. I especially love the architecture here.
The unique Southwestern look comes from a mix of Pueblo Indian building traditions and Spanish Colonial style. Inside, you’ll find colorful details and intricate metalwork that make it especially beautiful to photograph.
There’s a reason why it’s a popular destination for weddings as it has to be one of the most unique churches in California.
Grab Tacos at La Super-Rica Taqueria
The legendary La Super-Rica Taqueria is one of my favorite pit stops when driving up the coast for lunch. They make their tortillas fresh and have an extensive menu with lots of yummy choices—the marinated pork (adobado), grilled steak (bistec), and chorizo tacos can’t be missed.
Fun fact: this was one of Julia Child’s favorite spots when she lived in Santa Barbara, and you’ll understand why once you visit.
Make sure to bring cash and keep in mind there’s always a line at this cute little white and turquoise building on Milpas Street. Trust me, it’s worth the wait.
Visit During One of the City’s Special Events
If you’re willing to fight a bit harder for accommodations, then I highly recommend planning your trip around one of Santa Barbara’s festivals or special city events.
We happened to be in town during La Fiesta when the city celebrates its history and heritage each August. Officially, it’s known as Old Spanish Days Fiesta. The festival was a super fun event with a huge parade plus tons of extra festivities happening up and down State Street. It just made our whole trip all the more fun and vibrant.
Here are a few more festivals and events you might want to consider planning a trip for:
- Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) – An 11-day festival in February screening 200+ feature films and shorts from around the world.
- I Madonnari Italian Street Painting Festival – A 3-day festival in May when the Mission plaza is transformed into a vibrant art gallery by street painters.
- California Wine Festival – One of the largest outdoor wine festivals in California that happens in July.
- Goleta Lemon Festival – A weekend of lemon-filled food, fun, and entertainment. This festival is one of the biggest celebrations in the area and happens every September.
- The Santa Barbara Bowl concert season – From April to November, you can find a stacked lineup of concerts in the gorgeous outdoor amphitheater.
Take a Day Trip to Go Wine Tasting
One of the best things about Santa Barbara’s location is how close it is to some of the finest wine country in California. A short drive away are so many amazing places to go wine tasting for the day in Santa Ynez Valley. Venture out to Los Olivos, Los Alamos, or head up Foxen Canyon Road.
These are a few of my favorite wineries and tasting rooms you’ll want to add to your list:
Santa Ynez
Los Olivos
- Carhartt
- Story of Soil (to support female winemakers!)
Los Alamos
If you’d rather relax and let someone guide you through wine country, book this Santa Barbara Wine Country Tour. This tour includes transportation, so you don’t have to worry about drinking and getting behind the wheel.
For something more intimate, this Small-Group Wine Tour is a great option. The tour will give you behind-the-scenes experiences you might not get on your own.
Got more questions about visiting Santa Barbara? Make sure to drop them in the comments below!
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