Santa Barbara Transportation: getting to, and getting around

You’re off on your vacation to enjoy sand, sun, and a break from the daily grind. Transportation is going to be one of your top priorities as you think about getting to Santa Barbara. To make your arrival as hassle-free and smooth as possible, do your homework. The sooner you make it to one of California’s favorite destinations, the sooner you can get down to enjoying your trip to the fullest.

Think About Travel Time


If you are coming in from different points in California, getting to Santa Barbara couldn’t be easier to budget your time. Hollywood is only 89 miles away, while LAX is about 92 miles. It’s a bit more of a stretch at 228 miles from San Diego and 332 miles from San Francisco. If you want to make the commute short and sweet, a flight is the best way to go, but driving is doable. If you’re on your way from LAX, the Airbus has 16 runs throughout the day and you can book as late as two hours before you are on your way. Starting June 5, 2022, Southwest Airlines will offer direct daily flights from Sacramento to Santa Barbara. A huge perk for Northern Californians looking to escape to the Coast. Whether you’re coming on a plane, train or automobile, Santa Barbara welcomes you with open arms.

The Weather Won’t Let You Down


Sunny Santa Barbara has a reputation for excellent weather. With an average of over 300 days out of the year bringing in the sunshine, you have pretty good odds of enjoying the great outdoors during your visit. Plan on packing your swimsuit. Once you’ve chosen your favorite of the city’s vacations rentals, be sure to protect your skin with sunblock on your way out. You’re going to need it.

If You Don’t Have to Drive, You Won’t Need a Car Once You Arrive


You can spare yourself the cost of a rental car once you arrive at one of the many popular vacation rentals in the city. Convenience is this destination’s specialty. You can take a taxi on the water, catch a bus, try the trolley, or pedal your way around with a bike rental on the beautiful bike path. Save yourself money, let someone else do the driving, and take in the sights.

Take a Peek in the Santa Barbara Visitors Magazine to Figure out Where You Want to Go


Make the Visitors Center your first stop so you can find all the hot spots. It will be easy to plan your stay to make sure you don’t miss anything. Fill your itinerary every day or be spontaneous. It’s up to you.

Open Yourself to Doors of Opportunity as You Explore One of California’s Precious Gems


Experience America’s Riviera in all its glory for yourself. Let the Pacific be your lullaby while the Santa Ynez Mountains wrap around you. You’ll find there isn’t enough time in the day to get the most out of everything this gem of a study has to offer. It will be hard to let go as you make your way to the beach or travel winding mountain roads. Before you’re on your way home, you’ll be thinking about how you will plan your next visit. Santa Barbara will be waiting for you. Drop in any time.