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.
Using travel site Skyscanner, we’ve sifted through the cheapest flights between Phoenix and Santa Barbara in the next few months, including some standout hotel options and highly reviewed local attractions.
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Flight deals to Santa Barbara
The cheapest flights between Phoenix and Santa Barbara are if you leave on June 28 and return from California on July 1. American Airlines currently has roundtrip tickets for $233.
There are also deals to be had earlier in June. If you fly out of Phoenix on June 20 and return from Santa Barbara on June 23, American Airlines can get you there and back for $243 roundtrip.
Top Santa Barbara hotels
To plan your accommodations, here are two of Santa Barbara’s top-rated hotels, that we selected from Skyscanner's listings based on price and customer satisfaction.
The Hyatt Centric Santa Barbara (1111 E. Cabrillo Blvd.)
Topping the list is the 4.3-star rated The Hyatt Centric Santa Barbara, which 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.
The San Ysidro Ranch (900 San Ysidro Lane)
If you're looking to splurge on top quality, try The San Ysidro Ranch. With a five-star rating on Skyscanner, the hotel is one of the most luxurious in the city. Rooms are currently listed for $595/night.
Situated near the airport, this Santa Barbara hotel is also close to Westmont College and the Santa Barbara Zoo, as well as the Presidio Santa Barbara.
Featured Santa Barbara food and drink
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 4.7 stars out of 51 reviews on Skyscanner.
"A beer and clam chowder are always available within a 10-minute walk from home," wrote Steve.
Arigato Sushi (1225 State St.)
One of Santa Barbara's most popular restaurants is Arigato Sushi, with 4.8 stars from 29 reviews.
"Expect a delicious and well-rounded menu with a nice vegetarian selection," wrote reviewer Maria.
Los Agaves (600 N. Milpas St.)
Also worth considering is Los Agaves, with 4.7 stars from 35 reviews.
"Los Agaves is an authentic Mexican restaurant with several locations. The chicken enchilada is delicious! It's great for families and big groups," wrote Leila.
Featured Santa Barbara attractions
To round out your trip, Santa Barbara offers plenty of popular attractions worth visiting. Here are a couple top recommendations, based on Skyscanner's descriptions and reviews.
Stearns Wharf (217 Stearns Wharf)
First up is the Stearns Wharf. It checks in with 4.6 stars from 93 reviews on Skyscanner.
This ocean pier is lined with restaurants and classic California entertainment options, popular with locals and tourists alike.
The Santa Barbara Zoo (500 Ninos Drive)
The Santa Barbara Zoo is another popular destination. It has 4.6 stars from 78 reviews on Skyscanner.
"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."
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.
