Santa Barbara Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, top activities, must-try dishes, local culture, and safety tips in Santa Barbara with this comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a coastal city in Central Coast, California, known for its stunning beaches, Mediterranean-style architecture, rich history, and diverse cultural scene. It is home to a vibrant community of artists, writers, and musicians, as well as world-class wineries, museums, and restaurants. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, foodie, or beach bum, Santa Barbara has something to offer for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Santa Barbara

Here are some top attractions and must-visit places in Santa Barbara:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Santa Barbara County Courthouse: A beautiful Spanish-Moorish building dating back to 1929 with panoramic views of the city and the sea.
  • Santa Barbara Mission: Founded in 1786, it is one of the oldest Spanish missions in California and features beautiful gardens, chapels, and a museum.
  • Santa Barbara Museum of Art: A fine art museum with a collection of more than 27,000 works from ancient to contemporary art.
  • MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation: A hands-on science and technology museum perfect for children and families.
  • Santa Barbara Historical Museum: Exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of Santa Barbara’s rich history.

Natural Attractions of Santa Barbara: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Santa Barbara Botanic Garden: 78 acres of native plants and flowers, including a redwood forest, a meadow, and a desert garden.
  • Arroyo Burro Beach Park: Also known as Hendry’s Beach, it is a popular spot for surfing, swimming, and picnicking.
  • Santa Barbara Zoo: A small and well-maintained zoo with over 500 animals from around the world.
  • Stearns Wharf: A historic wooden pier with restaurants, souvenir shops, and great views of the harbor.
  • Channel Islands National Park: A chain of five islands just off the coast of Santa Barbara known for their unique wildlife, hiking trails, and beautiful beaches.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. Some of the best ones include:

  • Romero Canyon Trail: A challenging hike that takes you through a lush canyon with waterfalls and stunning views of the Pacific.
  • San Ysidro Trail: A moderate hike with beautiful wildflowers and great views of Santa Barbara.
  • Douglas Family Preserve: A dog-friendly park with easy hiking trails and panoramic views of the coastline.
  • Elings Park: A multi-use park with over 230 acres of hiking and biking trails, sports fields, and picnic areas.
  • Santa Barbara Waterfront Bike Path: A scenic 3-mile trail that runs along the beach and the harbor, perfect for cycling or walking.

Best Things to Do in Santa Barbara: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Santa Barbara:

  • Wine tasting: Santa Barbara County is home to over 200 wineries and is known for its world-class Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays.
  • Sailing: Take a sunset sail or a whale-watching tour and admire the beauty of the Santa Barbara coastline from the water.
  • Shopping: Head to State Street, the main shopping district, for boutiques, shops, and art galleries.
  • Surfing: Hit the waves at Rincon Point, a legendary surf spot that attracts surfers from around the world.
  • Hot springs: Soak in the natural hot springs of Sycamore Canyon and relax in the midst of nature.

Week-Long Itinerary for Santa Barbara

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Santa Barbara:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Santa Barbara Mission, explore State Street
Day 2 Take a wine-tasting tour of the Santa Ynez Valley
Day 3 Hike the Romero Canyon Trail, relax on the beach
Day 4 Visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, take a sunset sail
Day 5 Take a day trip to Channel Islands National Park
Day 6 Explore the Douglas Family Preserve, go shopping on State Street
Day 7 Relax at the spa, enjoy a final dinner in downtown Santa Barbara

Food and Drink Scene of Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara has a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of local specialties to try and world-class restaurants to explore. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Santa Maria-style barbecue: Tri-tip steak, cooked over red oak wood and served with salsa and beans.
  • Seafood: Fresh fish and shellfish, especially local specialties like abalone, sea urchin, and rock crab.
  • Mexican food: Santa Barbara has a large Hispanic population, and there are many great taquerias and Mexican restaurants around town.
  • Italian food: Many Italian immigrants settled in Santa Barbara, and their legacy can be seen in the city’s many Italian restaurants.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Santa Barbara County is known for its world-class wines, especially Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah.
  • Craft beer: Santa Barbara has a vibrant craft beer scene, with many local breweries and taprooms to explore.
  • Cocktails: Many bars and restaurants in Santa Barbara specialize in creative and refreshing cocktails made with local ingredients and spirits.

Where to Stay in Santa Barbara: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Santa Barbara has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Some of the best options include:

  • Belmond El Encanto: A luxury hotel with stunning views of the ocean and the city, beautiful gardens, and a relaxing spa.
  • The Wayfarer: A stylish and affordable hostel in downtown Santa Barbara, perfect for solo travelers and backpackers.
  • Cheshire Cat Inn: A romantic bed and breakfast in a historic Victorian home, with luxurious rooms and a delicious breakfast.
  • Harbor View Inn: A beachfront hotel with a pool, a spa, and beautiful rooms with balcony or patio.
  • Kimpton Goodland: A hip and quirky hotel with a retro beach vibe, a pool, and a restaurant with live music.

What to Buy in Santa Barbara: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Santa Barbara:

  • Wine: Take home a bottle (or several) of Santa Barbara County wine and enjoy the taste of the region long after your trip is over.
  • Olive oil: Santa Barbara is home to many small-scale olive oil producers that are known for their high-quality products.
  • Arts and crafts: Santa Barbara has a thriving arts community, with many studios, galleries, and shops that sell unique and beautiful pieces.
  • Surf gear: Santa Barbara is a surfer’s paradise, and there are many surf shops around town that sell boards, wetsuits, and other gear.

Local Culture and Customs of Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara has a laid-back and friendly culture, with a strong Hispanic influence and a love for the outdoors. Here are some local customs and traditions to be aware of:

  • Respect the local environment: Santa Barbara is a beautiful and ecologically rich area, so be sure to follow the “leave no trace” principles when hiking, camping, or enjoying the outdoors.
  • Embrace your inner beach bum: Santa Barbara is a beach town at heart, so feel free to wear flip flops, shorts, and t-shirts wherever you go.
  • Celebrate the local festivals: Santa Barbara has many festivals throughout the year, including the Old Spanish Days Fiesta, the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, and the Summer Solstice Parade.

Best Time to Visit Santa Barbara

The best time to visit Santa Barbara is from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-70s. Summer (June to August) can be crowded and hot, with temperatures in the 80s and above. Winter (December to February) is the rainy season in Santa Barbara, with occasional storms and temperatures in the 50s and 60s.

Do’s and Don’ts of Santa Barbara

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Santa Barbara:

Do:

  • Take a beach day: Santa Barbara has many beautiful beaches to explore, so be sure to bring sunscreen, towels, and a good book.
  • Try the local wine: Santa Barbara County is known for its high-quality wines, so be sure to take a wine-tasting tour or visit a local winery.
  • Embrace the local culture: Santa Barbara has a laid-back and friendly vibe, so be sure to chat with locals, try new foods, and explore the city’s many festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the natural environment: Santa Barbara is home to many sensitive ecosystems, so be sure to stay on designated hiking trails, dispose of trash properly, and respect wildlife and plant life.
  • Expect a wild nightlife: Santa Barbara is not a party town, and many bars and restaurants close early. Be sure to plan accordingly if you’re looking for a late-night scene.
  • Overpack: Santa Barbara is a casual and relaxed destination, so leave your fancy clothes and shoes at home and pack light and comfortable clothes instead.

Safety and Health

Santa Barbara is a safe and healthy destination for travelers, with good medical facilities and a low crime rate. However, there are a few safety and health issues to keep in mind:

Safety in Santa Barbara

  • Theft: Like in any tourist destination, theft can be a problem in Santa Barbara. Be sure to keep an eye on your belongings when walking around downtown or on the beach.
  • Beach safety: Santa Barbara’s beaches can have strong currents and dangerous waves, especially during the winter months. Be sure to obey all safety signs and warnings and avoid swimming alone.
  • Traffic: Santa Barbara’s streets can be narrow and crowded, especially during peak tourist season. Be sure to drive defensively and follow all traffic laws.

Health in Santa Barbara

  • Sun protection: Santa Barbara has plenty of sunny days, so be sure to wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses when spending time outdoors.
  • Food and drink safety: Santa Barbara has many excellent restaurants and cafes, but it’s still important to follow basic food safety guidelines, such as washing hands, avoiding undercooked food, and drinking bottled water.

Getting to Santa Barbara: Transportation Options and Logistics

Santa Barbara is easily accessible by car, bus, train, or plane. Here are some transportation options and logistics to keep in mind:

Airports Near Santa Barbara

  • Santa Barbara Airport (SBA): Located just a few miles from downtown Santa Barbara, SBA serves several major airlines and has direct flights to several major U.S. cities.
  • Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): Located 90 miles south of Santa Barbara, LAX is a major international airport with connections to destinations around the world.

Bus Stations Near Santa Barbara

  • Santa Barbara Greyhound Station: Located downtown, the Greyhound station has regular connections to major cities in California and across the U.S.
  • Santa Barbara MTD: The Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District serves the city and the surrounding area with a network of buses and shuttles.

Other Options

  • Car: Santa Barbara is located off Highway 101, a major north-south artery that runs along the California coast.
  • Train: Amtrak has several trains per day that stop in Santa Barbara on their route from Los Angeles to San Francisco.

How to Get Around in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a small and walkable city, with many attractions located within a few miles of each other. However, it’s still a good idea to have a car or a bike to explore the area fully. Some transportation options include:

  • Santa Barbara MTD: The local bus system serves most of the city and runs from early morning until late at night.
  • Taxi and Uber/Lyft: Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in Santa Barbara, especially in the downtown area.
  • Biking: Santa Barbara has many bike lanes and dedicated bike paths, making it a great place for cycling enthusiasts.
  • Car rental: Several major car rental companies have offices in Santa Barbara, making it easy to rent a car for a day or a week.

Where to Go Next from Santa Barbara: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider after your trip to Santa Barbara:

  • Los Angeles: The City of Angels is just 90 miles away and offers a wealth of cultural, entertainment, and dining options.
  • San Luis Obispo: Just to the north of Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo is a charming college town with a beautiful mission and great farmer’s markets.
  • Solvang: A small town just a few miles from Santa Barbara, Solvang is known for its Danish architecture, bakeries, and wineries.
  • Big Sur: One of the most scenic drives in the U.S., Big Sur is a rugged and beautiful stretch of coastline just a few hours north of Santa Barbara.

Conclusion

Santa Barbara is a charming and diverse destination that is perfect for travelers of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just some relaxation on the beach, Santa Barbara has something to offer for everyone. Be sure to explore the city’s many museums, wineries, and outdoor attractions, and enjoy the local food and drink scene. With its year-round mild climate and friendly atmosphere, Santa Barbara is a destination that you’ll want to visit again and again.

Stearn's Wharf, Santa Barbara Stearn's Wharf, Santa Barbara Santa Barbara Airport Santa Barbara Airport Santa Barbara railway station. Santa Barbara railway station. Mission Santa Barbara Mission Santa Barbara Mural Room of Santa Barbara County Courthouse Mural Room of Santa Barbara County Courthouse View north from the tower of the Santa Barbara Courthouse, showing red tile-roofed mission-style buildings and the mountains beyond View north from the tower of the Santa Barbara Courthouse, showing red tile-roofed mission-style buildings and the mountains beyond Paseo Nuevo, near State Street Paseo Nuevo, near State Street State Street State Street Aerial photo of Santa Barbara, showing its position between the ocean and the mountains Aerial photo of Santa Barbara, showing its position between the ocean and the mountains