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 U.S. 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 Cincinnati and Santa Barbara, at least according to travel site Skyscanner.
Here’s a list of flights, hotels, restaurants and local attractions in Santa Barbara to get you excited about your next excursion.
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Cheapest Santa Barbara flights
The cheapest flights between Cincinnati and Santa Barbara are if you leave on June 11 and return from California on June 13. Frontier Airlines currently has roundtrip tickets for $323.
There are also deals to be had in May. If you fly out of Cincinnati on May 24 and return from Santa Barbara on May 27, American Airlines can get you there and back for $613 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)
If you're looking to treat yourself, 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.
Situated near the airport, this Santa Barbara hotel is also close to Westmont College and Santa Barbara Zoo, as well as Presidio Santa Barbara. Additional attractions in the area include Santa Barbara Botanical Garden.
The Hyatt Centric Santa Barbara (1111 E. Cabrillo Blvd.)
If you're looking for an inexpensive place to stay, there's 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.
Featured Santa Barbara restaurants
Don't miss Santa Barbara's food scene, with plenty of popular spots to get your fill of local cuisine. Here are a few of the top-rated eateries from Skyscanner's listings.
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."
Featured local attractions
To round out your trip, Santa Barbara offers plenty of popular attractions worth visiting. Here are some top recommendations, based on Skyscanner's descriptions and reviews.
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."
Butterfly Beach (Montecito)
Lastly, spend some time at Butterfly Beach, a popular spot for stand-up paddleboarding and other water sports.
"The most beautiful beach in Santa Barbara," wrote visitor Anne. "Park on the street and go at low tide for a walk in the sand. It's right in front of the Four Seasons Biltmore Hotel, but doesn't get too crowded."
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.
