Santa Barbara Vacations

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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 in the area like Stearns Wharf and MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation.

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

Celebrity-favored Montecito offers backcountry hiking trails and attractions like Lotusland and El Fureidis. Easily accessible via State Route 192 and the U.S. 101 Freeway, it's well-connected to Santa Barbara County.

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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 Arlington Theater or Lobero Theater 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

While visiting West Beach, you might make a stop by sights like Santa Barbara Harbor and West Beach.

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

East Beach

East Beach is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights in the area like East Beach and Santa Barbara Zoo.

Find hotels in East Beach

Find the Best Santa Barbara Vacation Packages

Things to do in Santa Barbara

Shopping

In Santa Barbara, visit Paseo Nuevo Mall for a vibrant shopping experience with various stores and entertainment options. For local goods, check out the Santa Barbara Public Market. If you're up for a drive, explore the Rafael Gonzalez House for unique souvenirs and gifts.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at the Santa Barbara Golf Club, where lush greens meet outdoor excitement. Enjoy live performances at the Santa Barbara Bowl, immersing yourself in vibrant entertainment. Finally, savor the charm of the Arlington Theater, a cultural gem perfect for family outings and romantic evenings.

Adventure

Explore the Cabrillo Bikeway for a scenic ride along the coastline, soaking in the beautiful ocean views. For a thrilling hike, tackle the Rattlesnake Canyon Trail, where you'll encounter stunning landscapes and adventure. If you prefer racquets, enjoy a match at the Municipal Tennis Center, surrounded by a vibrant atmosphere.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Santa Barbara at Cold Spring Tavern, a charming pub offering a romantic ambiance and lively entertainment. Enjoy local drinks while soaking in the lively atmosphere that makes for a perfect evening out in this beautiful coastal city.

*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 is perfect for family vacations and outdoor adventures, offering a mix of culture and urban charm. Explore top attractions like the Santa Barbara Museum, relax at Santa Barbara Beach, and visit local churches and urban parks. Whether you're seeking an unforgettable getaway or family-friendly experiences, Santa Barbara's diverse points of interest cater to all travelers looking to enjoy the scenic beauty and vibrant atmosphere of this coastal gem.

  • Santa Barbara County Courthouse: This stunning historic building is a masterpiece of Spanish-Moorish architecture, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the beautifully landscaped gardens and climb the clock tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and coastline.
  • Butterfly Beach: Known for its serene atmosphere and picturesque sunsets, Butterfly Beach is a perfect spot for relaxation and beach activities. The soft sands and gentle waves create an inviting environment, ideal for sunbathing, picnicking, or taking a leisurely stroll along the shoreline.
  • Stearns Wharf: As California's oldest working wharf, Stearns Wharf offers a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and stunning ocean views. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, explore marine exhibits, and take in the picturesque scenery of Santa Barbara's coastline.

Best time to go to Santa Barbara

The best time to visit Santa Barbara can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Santa Barbara falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Santa Barbara falls in February, 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 during the off-peak season (typically January to February and November) for more affordable package holidays to Santa Barbara.
  • 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 Vacation

There's nothing like a Santa Barbara vacation 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 center 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 vacation 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 vacation 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 vacation in Santa Barbara. Why not browse through some private vacation 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 vacation 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.

Santa Barbara Hotel Deals

Hotel Santa Barbara

Hotel Santa Barbara

533 State St Santa Barbara CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
￥38,582
￥44,863 total
Sep 2 - Sep 3
includes taxes & fees
Hotel Santa Barbara
Sandpiper Lodge

Sandpiper Lodge

3525 State St Santa Barbara CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
￥20,853
￥23,772 total
Sep 7 - Sep 8
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (2,653 reviews)
"Great stay! Clean, nice, great location"

Reviewed on Aug 26, 2026

Sandpiper Lodge
Hyatt Place Santa Barbara

Hyatt Place Santa Barbara

4111 State Street Santa Barbara CA
￥30,988
￥36,484 total
Sep 8 - Sep 9
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,173 reviews)
"Nice new hotel close to the freeway with ample underground parking. Great free breakfast"

Reviewed on Aug 26, 2026

Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
See all 1,181 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 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. Savor fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants while watching the sunset paint the Santa Ynez Mountains.
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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 amphitheater offers panoramic ocean views while showcasing world-class musical performances. Arrive early to savor local cuisine and watch the sunset before the show begins.
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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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A giraffe with a patterned coat and a brown mane, set against a backdrop of lush greenery and a clear blue sky.

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 Masai giraffes or ride the Zoo Train while enjoying panoramic ocean views.
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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 colors reflect on the pristine shoreline near Santa Barbara's luxury estates.
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A nighttime fountain with illuminated patterns, a church with a bell tower, and a paved area with benches.
Photo by John Clark

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 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

Helicopter Beach Tour

Santa Barbara: Beach and Coastline Helicopter Tour

￥11,013
per adult
Santa Barbara: Beach and Coastline Helicopter Tour
Santa Barbara Trolley Tour

Santa Barbara Trolley Tour

￥5,906
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Santa Barbara Trolley Tour
Coastal Cruise on Yacht in Santa Barbara

Coastal Cruise on Yacht in Santa Barbara

￥6,065
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Coastal Cruise on Yacht in Santa Barbara
See all activities in Santa Barbara

Frequently asked questions

How much does a Santa Barbara vacation package cost?
Offering great value package deals on Expedia, you'll be surprised at how little a vacation 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 vacation 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 neighborhoods like Santa Barbara Beach and West Beach during your Santa Barbara vacation. Be sure to also add Butterfly Beach and Arlington Theater 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 vacation package to Santa Barbara?
It's no wonder a Santa Barbara vacation is on the must-do list of many travelers. 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 vacation as a package?
You can enjoy significant savings on your next Santa Barbara getaway by booking a personalized vacation package. Check the "Package" heading, then enter your destination and travel dates to browse the best flight and hotel prices. Bundling can save travelers hundreds of dollars. Consider adding a rental car and you may land a better deal.
When to book a vacation package to Santa Barbara?
If you've got your Santa Barbara vacation 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, favorite 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 personalized Santa Barbara vacation 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.