Santa Barbara Holidays

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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

Things to do in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is an ideal destination for family holidays, offering a blend of outdoor adventures and city experiences. Visitors can enjoy relaxing beach outings, vibrant live music scenes, and exciting sailing experiences. The city also boasts educational opportunities, theatre, and arena entertainment, making it a perfect spot for fun excursions on water and memorable adventures for all ages.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in Santa Barbara, visit Montecito Village Shopping Center for a mix of boutiques and eateries. The Santa Barbara Public Market offers local goods and fresh produce. If you're up for a drive, explore charming shops at Rafael Gonzalez House for unique finds.

Recreation

Experience the charm of Santa Barbara at the Arlington Theater, where romance and culture intertwine through captivating performances. Enjoy live music at the Santa Barbara Bowl, a hub of entertainment. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Santa Barbara Golf Club offers a perfect blend of sports and scenic beauty.

Adventure

The Cabrillo Bikeway offers an exhilarating outdoor experience along the stunning coastline, perfect for biking enthusiasts. For a scenic adventure, hike the Rattlesnake Canyon Trail, where breathtaking views await. Alternatively, challenge yourself at the Municipal Tennis Center, where the vibrant atmosphere ignites your competitive spirit.

Nightlife

Experience the enchanting nightlife in Santa Barbara by visiting Cold Spring Tavern, a charming drinking pub that exudes romance and lively entertainment vibes. It's the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a delightful evening with friends amidst the stunning Californian backdrop.

*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 a delightful blend of family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and urban experiences. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches, serene urban parks, and historic churches, making it perfect for those seeking culture and relaxation. With stunning coastal views and a variety of attractions, Santa Barbara is an ideal destination for a memorable holiday filled with outdoor fun and family bonding.

  • Upper State Street: Experience the lively atmosphere of Upper State Street, where local boutiques, cafes, and restaurants create a vibrant city vibe. Enjoy shopping for unique goods and savour delicious meals while soaking in the energetic pulse of Santa Barbara.
  • Lotusland: Discover the enchanting Lotusland, a stunning botanical garden that offers a romantic setting for couples and a family-friendly atmosphere. Explore diverse plant collections and tranquil landscapes, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and connection with nature.
  • West Beach: Unwind at West Beach, a picturesque sandy stretch where you can bask in the sun, enjoy beach activities, and admire stunning ocean views. The beach vibe invites you to relax and indulge in the beauty of the California coast.

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 kilometres 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

3 out of 5
533 State St Santa Barbara CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is S$351 per night from 9 Mar to 10 Mar
S$351
9 Mar - 10 Mar
includes taxes & fees
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,165 reviews)
Beautifully decorated hotel with top notch service and beyond perfect location in downtown Santa Barbara.

Reviewed on 31 Jan, 2026

Hotel Santa Barbara
Best Western Plus Pepper Tree Inn

Best Western Plus Pepper Tree Inn

3 out of 5
3850 State St Santa Barbara CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is S$246 per night from 8 Feb to 9 Feb
S$246
8 Feb - 9 Feb
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,084 reviews)
Great breakfast.

Reviewed on 2 Feb, 2026

Best Western Plus Pepper Tree Inn
Sandpiper Lodge

Sandpiper Lodge

2 out of 5
3525 State St Santa Barbara CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is S$135 per night from 10 Feb to 11 Feb
S$135
10 Feb - 11 Feb
includes taxes & fees
8.4/10 Very Good! (2,158 reviews)
Clean. Comfortable. Stiff was fast and got me in and out quickly.

Reviewed on 1 Feb, 2026

Sandpiper Lodge
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.

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What to do in Santa Barbara

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