Travel to Santa Barbara

Travel to Santa Barbara

Sunny, well-scoured Santa Barbara, located only 95 miles north of Los Angeles, is the link between northern and southern California. Santa Barbaras Spanish-Mexican heritage can be seen in the architectural style of the mission, courthouse and many homes and public buildings. The seaside town is ideal for kicking back on white-sand beaches; prowling the shops and galleries that line the villages historic streets; and relaxing over a meal at one of many top-notch cafs and restaurants.

Transportation to Santa Barbara

Santa Barbaras airport only operates flights to domestic destinations. It is a small airport, but the busiest along the California coast between Los Angeles and San Jose. Los Angeles is the nearest international airport, 85 miles to the northwest. The road network is well-developed, making driving by private or hire car a good choice and also making coach services convenient for transport to other North American cities. The city is served by the efficient Amtrak railway network.

Getting around the city is easy, with transport options ranging from open-air trolleys and electric shuttle buses to pedi-cabs. Buses operated by Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District travel all over Santa Barbara and its satellites including Goleta and Montecito.

What to see

Santa Barbara offers a wide selection of interesting and charming attractions to visitors of all ages and interests. The early Spanish influence can be seen in the citys many historical buildings and residences. Built in 1782, the Presidio is the oldest standing building in Santa Barbara. It originally served as a Spanish military outpost, today it is open to visitors.

The Casa del Herrero estate and garden is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features Spanish colonial details that are complemented by European antique furnishings and art. Tree-lined State Street in the Old Town is lined with quaint shops, modern shopping malls and fine restaurants.

Daytrips

Hearst Castle in San Simeon is the amazing vacation home of newspaper giant William Randolph Hearst and it offers a unique journey through the life and vision of one of Americas 20th century icons. The Aquarium of the Pacific at Long Beach is a fantastic aquarium that offers a wide variety of sea life in exhibits that mimic the natural environment. The entire aquarium focuses on the Pacific Ocean. Disneyland in Anaheim is only 2 hours drive away and provides classic entertainment for the whole family, with lots of exciting rides.

Activities and leisure

Santa Barbaras prime seaside location makes it a heaven for water sports fans and outdoor aficionados. No less than nine beaches are within easy reach of the city, offering a wide variety of water sports. Other choices include whale-watching in the Santa Barbara Channel. The season for whale-watching runs from February to September. Several golf courses are available for land rats.

Safety issues

Visitors to major tourist cities should be aware of crimes such as muggings, pick-pocketing and theft. Additionally, carjacking is a real threat for those driving through the state. Be aware of your surroundings and take out travel insurance before visiting Santa Barbara.