The laid-back California beach town of Santa Barbara doesn't try too hard, yet it still managed to place third on the New York Times' list of 52 Places to Go in 2019. Perfect weather may have something to do with its chill reputation — the city's Mediterranean climate was ranked best in the country, according to U.S. News and World Report.
As it's still an active Franciscan mission, Mission Santa Barbara is a great place to visit for a taste of California's history. Or, head straight for the city's many wine tasting rooms and excellent eateries for a taste of something entirely different. You can bet the beach also beckons, so make time to soak up the sun and surf by the sea while you're in town, and don't forget to catch a spectacular Pacific sunset.
Using travel site Skyscanner, we’ve sifted through the cheapest flights between Denver and Santa Barbara in the next few months, including some popular hotel options and beloved local attractions. (Prices and availability are current as of publication and subject to change.)
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Cheapest Santa Barbara flights
Currently, the cheapest flights between Denver and Santa Barbara are if you leave on Nov. 5 and return from California on Nov. 7. Frontier Airlines currently has roundtrip tickets for $143.
There are also deals to be had in September. If you fly out of Denver on Sept. 24 and return from Santa Barbara on Sept. 26, Alaska Airlines can get you there and back for $241, roundtrip.
Top Santa Barbara hotels
To plan your accommodations, 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.
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/night.
"The rooms are lovely, and the grounds are equally impressive. The service is always a step above the rest, and the hotel has a lot of amenities that are worth the price if you intend to take advantage of them," wrote reviewer Ryan.
The Hyatt Centric Santa Barbara (1111 E. Cabrillo Blvd.)
There's also the 4.3-star rated The Hyatt Centric Santa Barbara, which has rooms for $149/night.
"This is a really nice hotel. Located across the street from a really nice beach. They have a great pool with views of the ocean," wrote visitor Travis.
San Ysidro Ranch (900 San Ysidro Lane)
If you're looking to splurge on top-tier quality, try San Ysidro Ranch. With a five-star rating on Skyscanner and rooms currently listed for $595/night, the hotel is one of the most luxurious in the city.
Situated near the airport, this Santa Barbara hotel offers convenient proximity to attractions such as Westmont College, Santa Barbara Zoo, Santa Barbara Botanical Garden and Presidio Santa Barbara.
Featured Santa Barbara food and drink
Santa Barbara has loads 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.
Apart from its sustainable seafood, clam chowder and fresh, crusty sourdough bread, this restaurant is known for its fun, lively atmosphere with beautiful views of the ocean and harbor — and of Santa Barbara and the mountains, too.
"Brophy Brothers is the quintessential Santa Barbara restaurant with views of the harbor and the best clam chowder bowls," wrote visitor Leila. "Start with their oysters and a bloody mary cocktail, and then definitely order one of their fish dishes (cooked any way you like)!"
Arigato Sushi (1225 State St.)
If you're looking for a local favorite, 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."
La Super-Rica Taqueria (622 N. Milpas St.)
Finally, there's La Super-Rica Taqueria.
"[La Super-Rica Taqueria is] the only Mexican road stand recommended by Julia Child," wrote Jeff. "Fantastic, simple dishes for the whole family. Expect a line!"
What to see and do in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara is also full of sites to visit and explore. Here are some popular attractions to round out your trip, again from Skyscanner's listings.
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.
"This is a fun place to explore with lots of shops, restaurants and a small aquarium," wrote visitor Irene. "The aquarium here [has] lobsters that you can actually pet, as they have no pinching claws!"
The Santa Barbara Bowl (1122 N. Milpas St.)
The Santa Barbara Bowl is another popular destination.
Located just minutes from downtown Santa Barbara, The Santa Barbara Bowl is a natural amphitheater that can hold up to several thousand spectators.
"In my opinion, the nicest outdoor amphitheater in the world," wrote visitor Steve. "Great acts [and] every seat is good."
Butterfly Beach (Montecito)
Lastly, consider checking out Butterfly Beach.
This Santa Barbara beach is popular for stand-up paddle-boarding and other water sports.
"The most beautiful beach in Santa Barbara ... go at low tide for a walk in the sand," wrote visitor Anne.
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.
