Welcome to Santa Barbara, California: a captivating blend of colorful history, distinctive architecture and the legendary Southern California lifestyle. Known all over the world for its exceptional beauty, Santa Barbara County boasts crystal-clear air, stunning scenery and glistening, palm-lined beaches.
The places to see are many. Goleta, Santa Barbara and Carpinteria sit at the ocean's edge and look out on the Pacific. As you travel north, you'll discover the Santa Ynez Valley, dotted with vineyards. The North County also includes the Danish village of Solvang, known for its windmills and delicious pastries, and Santa Maria, home of the Santa Barbara County Fair and originator of the tri-tip barbecue. While exuding warmth and friendliness, Santa Barbara County offers an outstanding variety of attractions, such as outdoor activities, theatre, dance, art galleries and music performances. Visit us, and see why Santa Barbara has been the destination of discerning travelers for over a century.
FACTS FOR VISITORS
Located on the coast of California, Santa Barbara County's climate is mild and sunny all year, with an average daytime temperature between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit (16 and 21 degrees Celsius). Santa Barbara attire is generally California casual, and transportation and sightseeing services are abundant.
LOCATION
Santa Barbara County lies along the coast, 332 mi./531 km. south of San Francisco and 92 mi./147 km. north of Los Angeles. Distances to Santa Barbara from other destinations:
Hearst Castle 118 mi./189 km.
Santa Barbara County Wine
Country 32 mi./51 km.
Universal Studios 85 mi./136 km.
Disneyland 110 mi./176 km.
Hollywood 89 mi./142 km.
POPULATION
In the 1990 census, the city of Santa Barbara numbered 90,200; Goleta 85,260; Montecito 9,440; Summerland/Carpinteria 14,600. The greater area of Santa Barbara County numbered 357,608.
CLIMATE
Mild and sunny all year, there is no "off-season" in Santa Barbara. Average temperatures range from 60 to 70 degrees throughout the year with low humidity.
DRESS
Santa Barbara attire is casual. A sweater or jacket is recommended for the cooler winter season and evenings even in summer. Dressier clothing is appropriate for some restaurants and night spots, but the atmosphere is generally informal, and comfortable sportswear is almost always appropriate.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Two visitor information centers are open to the public. The Santa Barbara Tourist Information Center, located at 1 Garden St., at Cabrillo Boulevard opposite Chase Palm Park, is open Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Hours may vary according to season). (805) 965-3021. Santa Barbara Hot Spots, 36 State St., is open Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sun., 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Coffee bar and lobby open 24 hours with ATM. 564-1637, (800) 793-7666.
