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 & 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 San Antonio 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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Cheapest Santa Barbara flights

Currently, the cheapest flights between San Antonio and Santa Barbara are if you leave on June 23 and return from California on June 26. American Airlines currently has roundtrip tickets for $336.

There are also deals to be had in May. If you fly out of San Antonio on May 31 and return from Santa Barbara on June 3, American Airlines can get you there and back for $370 roundtrip.

Top Santa Barbara hotels

To plan your accommodations, here are some of Santa Barbara’s top-rated hotels, that we selected from Skyscanner's listings based on price 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.

Located in Santa Barbara, 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 the Santa Barbara Zoo, as well as the Presidio Santa Barbara. Additional attractions in the area include 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.

Featured Santa Barbara food and drink

If you're looking to snag a bite at one of Santa Barbara's many quality eateries, here are a few popular culinary destinations from Skyscanner's listings that will help keep you satiated.

Brophy Bros. Clam Bar & Restaurant (119 Harbor Way)

Let's start with the basics: where to get a drink and 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 has a fun, lively atmosphere with beautiful views of the ocean, harbor and mountains. 

Arigato Sushi (1225 State St.)

One of Santa Barbara's most popular restaurants is 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. If you like sushi, this is the place to go in Santa Barbara."

Los Agaves (600 N. Milpas St.)

Also worth considering is Los Agaves.

"Los Agaves is an authentic Mexican restaurant with several locations," wrote Leila. "The chicken enchilada is delicious! It's great for families and big groups."

Ca' Dario (37 E. Victoria St.)

Finally, there's Ca' Dario.

This charming Italian restaurant in Santa Barbara is known for its execution of simple pasta, meats and other classics. There is also a fantastic wine list with many available by the glass.

"The atmosphere is serene," wrote Emily. "It's very authentic Italian food."

Top Santa Barbara attractions

Not sure what to do in Santa Barbara, besides eat and drink? Here are a few recommendations, provided by Skyscanner.

Coral Casino Beach & Cabana (1281 Channel Drive)

First up is the Coral Casino Beach & Cabana.

"This place is first class all the way, " wrote visitor Wolf. "The location — right on the beach in Montecito — and the swimming pool is a spectacular Olympic size pool with hot tubs. There are consistently dolphins cruising out front in the ocean."

Shoreline Park (Shoreline Drive and Santa Rosa Place)

Then, there's Shoreline Park.

"It's an awesome park to go for a stroll with your dog or any kind of activity," wrote visitor Eduardo. "This place is just beautiful."

The Santa Barbara Bowl (1122 N. Milpas St.)

Lastly, consider checking out The Santa Barbara Bowl.

Located just minutes from downtown Santa Barbara, the Santa Barbara Bowl is a natural amphitheater that can hold up to several thousand spectators. The Bowl has undergone extensive renovations and construction improvements since its creation in 1936.

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.