Is Santa Barbara Worth Visiting? 43 Pros and Cons to Consider
Nestled on the central coast of California, Santa Barbara is often referred to as the “American Riviera” for its Mediterranean-like climate, palm-lined beaches, and stunning Spanish architecture. But is Santa Barbara really worth visiting? If you’re considering a trip to this coastal city, there are several factors to take into account. From its idyllic beaches and wine country to its high cost of living and tourist crowds, there are both pros and cons to visiting Santa Barbara.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into 43 pros and cons of visiting Santa Barbara to help you make an informed decision about whether or not this charming city is the right destination for your next vacation.
❗️Short on time to read?
👉🏽 THIS is the best (at an affordable price) tour to check off the TOP Santa Barbara sites
Here are the best places to stay:
💎 LUXURY: The Ritz-Carlton Bacara 🏆 8.6/10
⭐️ MID-RANGE: Kimpton Canary Hotel, an IHG Hotel 🏆 8.8/10
💲BUDGET: The Lemon Tree Inn 🏆 7.8/10
Is Santa Barbara Worth Visiting?
Santa Barbara is one of my absolute favorite cities not only in California but probably in most of my travels. I went to college in Santa Barbara and still go back to visit the city a few times every year because it’s just that incredible to spend time in!
However, the answer to whether or not Santa Barbara is worth visiting for YOU ultimately depends on what you’re looking for in a vacation. On the one hand, Santa Barbara boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in California, with crystal-clear waters and golden sands. It’s also home to a thriving wine country, with plenty of vineyards and tasting rooms to explore. Additionally, the city’s Spanish Colonial architecture and rich history make it a fascinating cultural destination.
On the other hand, Santa Barbara can also be quite expensive, with high costs for accommodations, dining, and activities. The city is also a popular tourist destination, which means it can be crowded during peak season. Overall, if you’re looking for a picturesque coastal destination with plenty of outdoor activities, rich culture, and great wine, Santa Barbara is definitely worth considering.
Let’s dive into the pros and cons of whether Santa Barbara is worth visiting.
PROS – Why Santa Barbara IS Worth Visiting
1. Beaches: The beaches in Santa Barbara are some of the most beautiful in the world, with a mix of pristine white sands and rocky tide pool sections, sparkling waters, and great waves for surfing.
2. Weather: The weather in Santa Barbara is nearly perfect year-round, with warm (but never too hot) summers and mild winters that make it an ideal destination at any time of year.
3. Wine: The nearby Santa Ynez Valley is home to dozens of wineries and tasting rooms, where visitors can sample some of the best wines California has to offer. Take a wine-tasting tour or simply check out one of the many wine-tasting rooms scattered throughout the Funk Zone and Downtown.
Some of the best wine-tasting tours include:
✔️ Santa Ynez Valley Wine Tour
✔️ Santa Barbara Vineyard to Table Taste Tour by E-Bike
✔️ Wine & Chocolate Walking Tour of Downtown Santa Barbara
4. History: Santa Barbara has a rich history, with a fascinating blend of Spanish and American influences that are reflected in the city’s architecture and culture.
Some historical sites that are a must-visit:
Big history buff?
👉🏽 Check out this Private Santa Barbara History and Architecture Walking Tour
5. PCH: The drive along the Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most scenic in the world, with breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains, and coastline.
6. Outdoor Activities: There are endless opportunities for outdoor activities that make Santa Barbara worth visiting, including hiking, biking, SUPing, surfing, kayaking, and more.
7. Dining: The food scene in Santa Barbara is diverse and delicious, with an emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and creative cuisine. You will find anything from delicious street tacos to more upscale restaurants.
Some of my favorite restaurants and eateries include:
⭐️ Or take this Downtown Santa Barbara Food Tour for a more in-depth dining experience!
8. Arts & Culture: Santa Barbara has a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and theaters showcasing local and international talent.
Best museums in Santa Barbara:
9. Sunsets: Santa Barbara is known for its stunning sunsets, which are particularly beautiful when viewed from the beach or from the hills overlooking the city. The sunsets stretch across the sky in a dazzling spectrum of blues and purples to pinks and oranges, it’s unlike anything you’ve seen before!
10. Excellent Downtown: Downtown Santa Barbara is full of charming shops, boutiques, and restaurants, and is the perfect place to spend a leisurely afternoon exploring.
11. Shopping: For those that enjoy shopping, Paseo Nuevo (located on State Street) has a range of shops from boutique to high-end.
12. Zoo: The Santa Barbara Zoo is a great place to take the family, with a wide range of animals and exhibits to explore.
13. Family-Friendly: There are plenty of things to do with kids in Santa Barbara including the popular MOXI, a museum featuring interactive exhibits with a focus on science, technology, and the arts.
14. Relaxation: For those looking to relax, Santa Barbara has plenty of spas and wellness centers that offer everything from massages to yoga classes.
15. Views & Vistas: The views from the hills overlooking the city and the ocean are simply breathtaking, and are a must-see for any visitor to Santa Barbara. Take the hike up to Inspiration Point, boulder through Lizard’s Mouth, or explore Knapp’s Castle.
16. Location: Santa Barbara is conveniently located near other popular destinations like Los Angeles and San Francisco, making it a great stop on any California road trip.
17. Harbor: The harbor in Santa Barbara is bustling with boats, kayaks, and paddle boards available for rent, making it easy to explore the ocean and the nearby islands. Take your little ones on the Lil’ Toot narrated water taxi for a fun and quick ride around the harbor.
18. Events: Santa Barbara hosts many popular events throughout the year such as the International Film Festival, a world-renowned event that attracts top filmmakers and actors from around the globe.
Or the Old Spanish Days Fiesta is one of Santa Barbara’s most beloved annual events, celebrating the city’s rich Spanish heritage with colorful parades, live music and dance performances, delicious food and drink, and cultural activities for all ages.
19. Markets: The farmers markets in Santa Barbara are filled with fresh, locally grown produce, and are a great place to pick up some delicious snacks or ingredients for a picnic. The main downtown market happens on Saturdays from 8am to 1pm.
20. Adventure: For those looking for adventure, Santa Barbara has plenty of outdoor activities like rock climbing, mountain biking, sky-diving, parasailing, and even a flying trapeze class that offer an adrenaline-pumping experience.
21. The Funk Zone: The Funk Zone is a vibrant neighborhood filled with local breweries, wineries, and cocktail lounges plus local art galleries and boutique shops, and is the perfect place to wander around for a day. The Funk Zone alone makes Santa Barbara a fun destination and worth a visit!
Some of the best places to visit in the Funk Zone include:
22. Whale Watching: The whale watching in Santa Barbara is some of the best in the world, with gray whales and humpback whales (the last time we saw orcas!) passing through the area during migration season.
23. The Santa Barbara Bowl: an iconic outdoor concert venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in music, from Bob Dylan to Odesza and beyond.
24. Hot Springs: Santa Barbara is home to several hot springs, including the famous Gaviota and Montecito Hot Springs, where visitors can soak in natural mineral waters and relax in a beautiful setting.
25. Surfing: There are some excellent surf spots around Santa Barbara, including the infamous Rincon Point AKA the “Queen of the Coast.”
First time on a board or new to these spots?
👉🏽 Try out a Private Surf Lesson with Santa Barbara Surf School
26. Wedding Destination: For couples considering where to get married, Santa Barbara is incredibly wedding-friendly with many gorgeous venues around town that range from budget-friendly to extravagant.
27. Solvang: Santa Barbara is located about one hour away from the adorable Danish-style village of Solvang full of unique European shops, bakeries, and restaurants. Solvang makes for one of the best local day trips and is worth a visit in its own right!
28. Dog-Friendly: Santa Barbara is incredibly welcoming to your furry friend! Dogs are allowed off-leash at West Ellwood Beach in Goleta and Shoreline Park Beach to Arroyo Burro. Many restaurants and breweries around town allow dogs on their patios, and make sure to stop at Wine Therapy which allows dogs inside too.
29. Nightlife: At night, downtown Santa Barbara offers plenty of entertainment from live music and karaoke to dive bars and happening nightclubs.
30. Parks & Gardens: Santa Barbara has many parks and gardens to explore, including the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden and Lotusland, a stunning 37-acre estate with rare and exotic plants from around the world.
31. Channel Islands: Located just off the coast of Santa Barbara is the Channel Islands National Park which offers a unique and breathtaking natural experience. Visitors can explore these rugged, undeveloped islands, which are home to a variety of plant and animal species found nowhere else in the world.
Take a boat from the Ventura harbor, or join this incredible Private Santa Barbara Channel Islands Full-Day Excursion.
32. Safety: Santa Barbara is considered one of the safest “big” cities in California.
33. Walkability: Santa Barbara’s downtown is very walkable. You can get just about everywhere from State Street to downtown and Stearns Wharf on foot or by bike. Plus, post-pandemic State Street has stayed mostly blocked off for pedestrians.
34. Parking: Compared to other large coastal cities in California, parking here is heavenly! While it can still be tough to find parking (especially in the Funk Zone) on a crowded day, just about everywhere in Santa Barbara has parking that’s free or free for the first 90 minutes and then fairly cheap thereafter.
35. Stearns Wharf: Spend some time exploring the wharf where you will find plenty of souvenir shops, ice cream parlors, restaurants, and the Sea Center.
CONS – Why Santa Barbara Is NOT Worth Visiting
36. Cost: The cost of living is high in Santa Barbara. It’s a lovely area because it can’t be overdeveloped as it’s wedged in between the mountains and ocean, however, that also means property value is extremely high. This translates to high costs for accommodation, dining, attractions, etc.
37. Flooding: When heavy rain comes in the winter, the potential for flooding increases. It can get fairly bad in the city, with flooded streets and road closures.
38. Crowds: Santa Barbara is a popular tourist and wedding destination, meaning it can get fairly crowded, especially during the high-season tourist months over the summer.
39. Wildfires: There have been increasing cases of wildfires in the Santa Barbara region, especially in the fall after the plants have dried up from the summer heat. While wildfire doesn’t tend to directly affect tourist areas, it can cause excessive smoke and road closures leading into and around town.
40. Mudslides: Intense rain with a lack of plants after the fires means there is an increased potential for mudslides as well. Areas in the mountains and Montecito are especially at risk for destruction due to mudslides.
41. Weather: While the weather stays fairly mild and nice year-round, it can get a bit chilly, grey, and windy during the winter months.
42. Homelessness: Like many other bigger cities in California, Santa Barbara has some cases of people experiencing homelessness. While these people do not typically cause any problems, they may be a concern for some.
43. Nightlife & Events: For some that are looking for a big city and an excess of choices of nightlife and events, Santa Barbara may feel too small.
How Many Days Should I Spend in Santa Barbara?
The ideal length of a trip to Santa Barbara depends on your interests and travel style. If you want to explore the city’s attractions, sample its cuisine, and enjoy some beach time, plan to spend at least 2-3 days in Santa Barbara.
However, if you want to explore the surrounding area, including nearby wineries, hiking trails, and beaches, consider staying for 4-5 days or more. Whether you have a few days or a week, Santa Barbara offers plenty of opportunities to explore its natural beauty, culture, and history.
Is Santa Barbara Safe?
Yes, Santa Barbara is generally considered a safe destination for tourists and locals alike. While no place is entirely free from crime, Santa Barbara’s crime rate is relatively low compared to other California cities of its size.
The city also has an active police department and a strong community policing program that focuses on building relationships between law enforcement and community members. Visitors should still exercise common sense safety practices, such as locking their vehicles, securing their valuables, and not walking alone at night, but overall, Santa Barbara is a safe and enjoyable place to visit.
Best Parts of Santa Barbara to Stay In
Santa Barbara offers a variety of neighborhoods and areas to stay in, each with its own unique charm and attractions. There are options on Upper State Street as well as Lower, though I would recommend staying towards Lower State Street and the wharf if you don’t have a car or want to walk as much as possible while visiting.
Otherwise, there are also some budget options in Goleta to the north and some quieter areas outside of downtown.
These are some of the best parts of Santa Barbara to stay in:
- Downtown: This is the heart of Santa Barbara and a great place to stay if you want to be close to shopping, restaurants, and nightlife. State Street is the main thoroughfare, and many of the city’s top attractions are within walking distance.
- East Beach: This area is ideal for those who want to be close to the beach. East Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand that’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. There are also several beachfront hotels and vacation rentals in the area.
- West Beach: This area is located just west of downtown and is another great option for those who want to be close to the beach. West Beach is a bit quieter than East Beach and is home to several beachfront hotels and vacation rentals.
Top 3 Recommended Hotels in Santa Barbara:
💎 Luxury – The Ritz-Carlton Bacara 🏆 8.6/10
The Ritz Carlton Bacara is a luxurious 5-star hotel located on the coast of Santa Barbara, offering breathtaking views of the ocean. The hotel is situated close to popular attractions such as Sandpiper Golf Club and Goleta Butterfly Grove.
Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a poolside bar and aromatherapy, Ayurvedic treatments, and hydrotherapy at the onsite full-service spa. For those looking for some activity, the hotel also provides free bicycle rentals and 4 outdoor tennis courts.
While the hotel is located about 20 minutes north of downtown, its beautiful surroundings and top-notch amenities make it a perfect destination for those looking for a luxurious and relaxing getaway.
⭐️ Mid-Range – Kimpton Canary Hotel, an IHG Hotel 🏆 8.8/10
The Kimpton Canary Hotel is a 4-star hotel located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, making it an ideal base for exploring the city’s attractions, restaurants, and bars. The hotel boasts a lovely outdoor terrace that often hosts events, and guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s pool and poolside bar.
The hotel is pet-friendly and offers yoga classes, free bicycle rentals, and a spa. The onsite restaurant, Finch and Fork, serves up delicious cuisine (and an especially good brunch!) that is sure to satisfy any appetite. With its excellent location on State Street, the Kimpton Canary Hotel is the perfect place to stay for those looking for plenty of amenities at a reasonable price in Santa Barbara.
💲Budget – The Lemon Tree Inn 🏆 7.8/10
When I stayed here with my friends I was very pleasantly surprised by how nice the Lemon Tree is for being one of the cheapest options in Santa Barbara. While the ratings and photos don’t do it justice, I found that the rooms were basic but very spacious, there is a pool, a lovely patio with fire pits, and a restaurant onsite that looked quite good.
Located on Upper State Street, we were able to walk to some areas or take a quick and affordable Uber downtown. There was plenty of easy parking on site and the staff was helpful and friendly. The Lemon Tree Inn is an excellent option to save some money during your stay in Santa Barbara.
Best Months to Visit Santa Barbara
The mild Mediterranean climate makes Santa Barbara an ideal destination worth visiting year-round. However, the best months to visit Santa Barbara depend on your interests and what you want to do during your stay.
If you’re interested in beach activities and want to experience the warmest temperatures, the best time to visit Santa Barbara is during the summer months of June through August. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and warm, with temperatures in the mid-70s to mid-80s°F (23-30°C). However, it’s also the most crowded time of year.
If you’re more interested in hiking and exploring the city’s natural beauty, consider visiting Santa Barbara in the spring or fall. During these months, there are not as many tourists and temperatures are still mild, with highs in the 60s to low 70s°F (15-23°C). Plus, the hills and mountains surrounding the city are lush and green and during the spring you will see beautiful flowers in bloom.
Winter is also a great time to visit Santa Barbara, especially if you’re interested in holiday festivities or want to take advantage of off-season rates. While temperatures can be cooler, with highs in the 50s to low 60s°F (10-16°C), the city is still bustling with activity and there are plenty of indoor attractions to explore.
Should I Go to Santa Barbara With or Without a Car?
If you plan on staying in the city center and primarily using public transportation or walking to get around, it may be more convenient to forego renting a car. Santa Barbara has a relatively comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and shuttles, that can take you to many of the city’s top attractions. Additionally, many hotels and vacation rentals in the city center are within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and other attractions.
On the other hand, if you plan on exploring the city and its surrounding areas, renting a car might be the best option. Santa Barbara is a relatively spread-out city, and many of the top attractions, such as the beaches, the Santa Barbara Mission, and the Santa Ynez Mountains, are located outside of the city center. Having a car will allow you to easily access these areas and explore at your own pace.
Additionally, if you plan on taking day trips to nearby destinations, such as Solvang or the Channel Islands, having a car will be essential. Plus, it can be a bit tricky to reach Santa Barbara without a car. Though you can take Amtrak from Los Angeles for easy access from the south.
If you decide to rent a car, make sure to check out DiscoverCars. They compare prices across leading car rental companies to find you the best deals and lowest prices.
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Additional FAQs to Determine if Santa Barbara Is Worth Visiting
Santa Barbara is known for its stunning beaches, Spanish Colonial-inspired architecture, and beautiful wine country. It also has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries and museums, and is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and kayaking as well as attractions such as the Old Mission.
Yes, Santa Barbara is a very walkable city, with many of its attractions located within a compact area. Its charming downtown area, beaches, parks, and historical landmarks are all easily accessible on foot (or by bike/public transportation), making it a great destination for exploring on foot.
Santa Barbara is known for its fresh seafood, particularly its local catch of lobster, crab, and other shellfish. It also has a thriving farm-to-table food scene, with many restaurants using locally-sourced ingredients such as avocado, citrus fruits, and artisanal cheeses. Tacos are another popular food in Santa Barbara, with many delicious options available at local taquerias. Additionally, Santa Barbara is home to several excellent wineries, and wine tasting and pairings are a must-do activity in the region.
Santa Barbara has both a party town side and a laid-back, family-friendly side, it depends on what you are looking for. For those that want to party, you will be able to find a fun atmosphere for day drinking in the Funk Zone and a happening night scene downtown. Santa Barbara is popular with bachelor/bachelorette parties and attracts a young crowd from the local colleges.
The rainy season in Santa Barbara typically runs from November through March. During this time, the region receives most of its annual rainfall, with occasional storms and heavy downpours. The rest of the year is generally dry and sunny, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities and beach-going.
The main shopping street in Santa Barbara is State Street, a pedestrian-friendly promenade that runs through the heart of downtown. State Street is lined with a variety of shops, restaurants, cafes, and galleries, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Santa Barbara is generally a safe city, and it’s typically safe to walk around at night in well-lit and populated areas. However, as with any city, it’s always advisable to exercise caution and common sense and to stay aware of your surroundings. It’s recommended to avoid walking alone in isolated or dimly lit areas, especially after dark.
The cheapest season to visit Santa Barbara is typically during the winter months from December to February, excluding the holidays. During this time, hotels and flights may offer lower rates, and there will be fewer crowds. However, visitors should be prepared for cooler temperatures and the possibility of rain.
LA and Santa Barbara are bout 95 miles apart and it takes anywhere from 1.5 hours to 2.5 hours to drive there, depending on traffic and what part of Los Angeles you’re leaving from or going to.
>>> Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting?
One of the most scenic routes to Santa Barbara is the Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, which offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the coastline. Another scenic route is Highway 101, which takes you through the beautiful wine country and offers views of the Santa Ynez Mountains.
Santa Barbara is much more quaint, has stunning nature, and does not get nearly as busy at the beach. Santa Monica has much more to do nearby and better nightlife, with more luxury resorts to choose from as well.
Personally, I find Santa Barbara to be far nicer than Santa Monica, but it’s all based on personal opinion.
Both Santa Barbara and San Diego are popular tourist destinations in California, and the better option to visit depends on your interests and preferences. Santa Barbara offers beautiful natural beaches, wineries, and a charming downtown area, while San Diego boasts a vibrant city scene, trendy restaurants and bars, and world-class attractions such as SeaWorld and LEGOLAND.
>>> Is San Diego Worth Visiting?
CONCLUSION: So, Is Santa Barbara Worth a Visit?
Yes, Santa Barbara is definitely worth a visit! With its stunning beaches, natural beauty, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture, Santa Barbara has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, fine dining, or exploring the local art scene, Santa Barbara has it all.
Additionally, the city’s mild Mediterranean climate makes it a pleasant destination to visit year-round. While there are some drawbacks, such as the potential for fires and flooding, high prices, and homelessness, these are issues that many cities face and should not deter you from experiencing all that Santa Barbara has to offer. Overall, Santa Barbara is a beautiful and unique destination that is definitely worth a visit.
❗️Recap❗️
👉🏽 THIS is the best (at an affordable price) tour to check off the TOP Santa Barbara sites
Here are the best places to stay:
💎 LUXURY: The Ritz-Carlton Bacara 🏆 8.6/10
⭐️ MID-RANGE: Kimpton Canary Hotel, an IHG Hotel 🏆 8.8/10
💲BUDGET: The Lemon Tree Inn 🏆 7.8/10
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Where to Stay in Napa Valley on a Budget
Swimming With Dolphins in Los Angeles
☀️ California FAQs ☀️
✈️ Where Can You Find the BEST Flight Deals to California?
1. Scott’s Cheap Flights – FREE flight deals alert, works best if you can be flexible
2. Skyscanner – FREE search engine, great for budget flights + deal
❗Is Travel Insurance Required in the U.S.?
No, it’s not.
However, it’s always recommended to have travel insurance any time you travel in case of injury, accident, lost luggage, missed flight, etc. The best and most affordable travel/expat insurance is Safety Wing. It covers some medical as well, which is important in the U.S. due to the high cost of health care.
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☔️ When Is the Best Time to Visit California?
Summer (June-August) – is the warmest (in some parts it can be pretty hot) but you will have the most crowds. Some parts of the state get “June Gloom” where it can be cloudy during the morning and burn off by mid-day.
Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have the potential of rain, but you will beat some of the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers (spring)/greenery (fall).
🏠 Where Should You Stay in California?
Hotels, vacation rentals, and house-sitting are all available for accommodation. My top recommendations for each are:
• Booking.com
• Vrbo
• Trusted Housesitters (watch a home/pets in return for a FREE place to stay)
🌴 Where Can You Find Tours?
I find incredible tours around the world >>> HERE with private and guided group tours of the most popular attractions and ones that fit your specific interests.
🚘 Should You Rent a Car in California?
I very highly recommend renting a car in California so you don’t miss out on the gorgeous scenery and wonderful things to do in between the big cities! California is fantastic for road trips – there is SO much to see up and down the coast. Plus, sites are often spread far out, even in the cities, so having a car is the most convenient option.
>>> Best car rental rates and deals
