This laid-back California beach town doesn't try too hard, but it still managed to come in third on the New York Times' list of 52 Places to Go in 2019. Perfect weather may have something to do with that: the city's Mediterranean climate was ranked best in the country, according to US News and World Report.
Visit Mission Santa Barbara, still an active Franciscan mission, for a taste of California history — or for a taste of something different, head straight for the city's many wine tasting rooms and excellent eateries. The beach also beckons any visitor, so make time to soak up the sun and surf while you're in town, and don't forget to catch a spectacular Pacific sunset before you go.
Fortunately, there are plenty of relatively inexpensive flights between Sacramento and Santa Barbara on travel site Skyscanner.
Here’s a list of flights, hotels, restaurants and local attractions in Santa Barbara to get you started.
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Flight deals to Santa Barbara
Currently, the cheapest flights between Sacramento and Santa Barbara are if you leave on June 19 and return on June 22. Contour Airlines currently has roundtrip tickets for $194.
There are also deals to be had in May. If you fly out of Sacramento on May 15 and return from Santa Barbara on May 19, Contour Airlines can get you there and back for $252 roundtrip.
Top Santa Barbara hotels
To plan your stay, here are some of Santa Barbara’s top-rated hotels, according to Skyscanner, that we selected based on price, proximity to things to do and customer satisfaction.
The Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara (1260 Channel Drive)
For an all-around top recommendation, consider The Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara. The hotel has a 4.8-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $395.
This beachfront hotel is near the Santa Barbara Zoo and Westmont College.
The San Ysidro Ranch (900 San Ysidro Lane)
If you're looking to splurge on top quality, try The San Ysidro Ranch, which has rooms for $595/night.
Area attractions include Presidio Santa Barbara and the Santa Barbara Botanical Garden.
The Hyatt Centric Santa Barbara (1111 E. Cabrillo Blvd.)
A third option is The Hyatt Centric Santa Barbara. The 4.3-star hotel has rooms for $149/night.
"Located across the street from a really nice beach. They have a great pool with views of the ocean. The rooms have been recently redone in a clean, modern style that was surprising given the old Spanish mission style exterior," wrote visitor Travis.
Local restaurant picks
Santa Barbara has plenty of top-notch dining options. Here are a few of the most popular, according to Skyscanner.
Brophy Bros. Clam Bar & Restaurant (119 Harbor Way)
First things first: where to get seafood. For a popular option, check out Brophy Bros. Clam Bar & Restaurant, which has an average of 4.6 stars out of 51 reviews on Skyscanner.
The restaurant offers a fun, lively atmosphere with beautiful views of the ocean and harbor. Go for the sustainable seafood, clam chowder and fresh crusty sourdough bread.
Arigato Sushi (1225 State St.)
If you're looking for a local favorite restaurant pick, head to Arigato Sushi, with 4.8 stars from 29 reviews.
"A delicious and well-rounded menu with a nice vegetarian selection," wrote reviewer Maria. "The sake and wine were both wonderful as well."
Los Agaves (600 N. Milpas St.)
Also worth considering is Los Agaves.
"Two words: salsa bar," wrote Leila. "Los Agaves is an authentic Mexican restaurant with several locations. The chicken enchilada is delicious! It's great for families and big groups."
Ca' Dario (37 E. Victoria St.)
Finally, there's Ca' Dario, a charming Italian restaurant known for its pasta, meats and other classics.
"The atmosphere is serene," wrote Emily. "Very authentic Italian food like the pasta is handmade. It feels like Ol' Italy is giving you a hug."
Top Santa Barbara attractions
Not sure what to do in Santa Barbara, besides eat and drink? Here are a few recommendations, provided by Skyscanner.
Stearns Wharf (217 Stearns Wharf)
First up is Stearns Wharf.
This ocean pier is lined with restaurants and classic California entertainment, popular with locals and tourists alike.
"Lovely and chill," wrote visitor Kajsa. "Lots of art, a couple good places, a museum and the small aquarium. Gorgeous beach."
The Santa Barbara Zoo (500 Ninos Drive)
The Santa Barbara Zoo is another popular destination.
"It's a smallish zoo but the exhibits are first rate," wrote visitor Tracy. "We spent about 2.5 hours here. The animals look well cared for and the informational displays are well curated."
Mission Santa Barbara (2201 Laguna St.)
Finally, spend some time at Mission Santa Barbara.
This historic yet still active mission gives visitors a glimpse into the past while exploring the gardens, church, cemetery and museum. When you visit the Old Mission, you step back into time as you venture into a structure dating back to 1786. The complex includes the church itself, expansive gardens, a historic cemetery and a thriving museum.
This story was created automatically using flight, hotel, and local attractions data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.
