Why is Santa Barbara so popular?

Santa Barbara has Mediterranean weather, sweeping coastlines, and incredible wine. Summer is near and crowds of tourists will soon descend on France's fabled Riviera. But sunseekers longing for a Mediterranean getaway can find all the luxuries they want just 90 miles north of Los Angeles on California's central coast.

Why do people like Santa Barbara?

Stunning cliffside views, pristine beaches, a gorgeous Mediterranean climate, historic architecture, and a sense of community — Santa Barbara offers all of that and more.

What makes Santa Barbara so special?

Santa Barbara County, often branded as the American Riviera, is home to a beautiful landscape and great climate for living, playing, and working. The County is well known for its strong sense of community, prime agricultural land, award-winning wineries, and attractive cultural and tourism opportunities.

What is great about Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara's grandeur doesn't end with its architecture. There's wild natural beauty to be discovered in the Los Padres National Forest lands that hug the city. Dozens of hiking trails start on Santa Barbara's oak-lined northern edge, including the popular 10-mile round-trip to La Cumbre Peak.

What is the city of Santa Barbara known for?

Santa Barbara is best known for its broad, sandy beaches, and whether you're looking to catch the perfect wave or the perfect sunset, there are plenty from which to choose.

A history of Santa Barbara

Do any celebrities live in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is a favored destination for celebrities, offering a beautiful coastal location and a relaxed lifestyle. The city's proximity to Los Angeles makes it an attractive choice for Hollywood stars. Several A-list celebrities, including Oprah Winfrey and Julia Louis-Dreyfus, own properties in Santa Barbara.

Is Santa Barbara a party town?

Santa Barbara, a city renowned for its stunning coastline and Spanish-style architecture, also boasts a vibrant and diverse nightlife that caters to every taste.

Is there anything fun to do in Santa Barbara?

Nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Take your pick of rock climbing, hiking, biking, surfing, sailing and a plethora of other outdoor adventures that beckon in Santa Barbara.

Is Santa Barbara worth the trip?

Whether you're passing through on a California road trip, looking for a second city to visit near Los Angeles (it's a roughly two-hour drive from downtown Santa Barbara), or vacationing there specifically, Santa Barbara is worth the trip.

What are the disadvantages of living in Santa Barbara?

Living in Santa Barbara Cons

The cost of living in the city is 123.4% higher than the national average. Housing – Like Santa Monica, housing prices in Santa Barbara are very high at almost twice the California average. A home in the city costs an average of $1,468,019. Rents are also very expensive.

What is the best month to visit Santa Barbara?

The best time to visit Santa Barbara is from March to May or from September to November.

Where do the rich live in Santa Barbara?

One of the older neighborhoods in the city of Santa Barbara, the Riviera also ranks as one of the wealthiest. Named for its close resemblance to the Mediterranean coasts of France and Italy, the Santa Barbara Riviera bridges the two-mile gap between Sycamore Canyon and Mission Canyon.

Is Santa Barbara for rich people?

Yes, there are a lot of rich people who live near Santa Barbara (Oprah spent $50 million on her digs in nearby Montecito) but most of the people who live in the city proper are decidedly not wealthy.

What is the vibe of Santa Barbara?

People from Santa Barbara are so neighborly and cool, you'll wonder if you've secretly belonged there all along. You have that signature laid-back surfer vibe and a sense of ease. The locals focus on living healthy and carefree lives and that positive mindset finds itself in just about everything.

Is Santa Barbara better than San Diego?

So while both cities are perfectly safe, Santa Barbara has a higher crime rate. Attractions: San Diego also tends to win when it comes to attractions, culture, and nightlife. Both cities offer beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and plenty of shopping and restaurants.

Is Santa Barbara nicer than Santa Monica?

So, whether you're seeking a relaxed or a more fast-paced lifestyle, the choice between Santa Barbara and Santa Monica ultimately comes down to your personal preference. Both cities possess their unique charm and qualities that make them among the top choices to live in California - you can't go wrong with either one!

Is Santa Barbara cheaper than LA?

The cost of living in Los Angeles, CA is -2.4% lower than in Santa Barbara, CA.

Is Santa Barbara luxurious?

Known for its Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings with red-tile roofs, world-class vineyards and luxury resorts, Santa Barbara is a destination where special moments are made, and where experiences can be tailored to create your dream retreat. Welcome to The American Riviera®.

Is it safe to walk around Santa Barbara at night?

Safety at nightSafe. Santa Barbara overall is a safe and friendly city with a low crime rate. However, like any tourist destination, it's always wise to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-populated areas and major streets where restaurants and shops are still open.

Is Santa Barbara a walkable city?

Santa Barbara has been designated a Gold-Level Community by Walk Friendly Communities. With its many paseos, Santa Barbara's shopping district is made for pedestrians.

What is Santa Barbara known for food?

Classic seafood dishes are perennially popular here, like oysters, clam chowder and lobster rolls. When it's available, the local, internationally renowned Santa Barbara sea urchin, served on fresh scallops with a slice of lime, is the best item on the menu.

Is Santa Barbara a white city?

The 5 largest ethnic groups in Santa Barbara, CA are White (Non-Hispanic) (55.5%), White (Hispanic) (15.2%), Other (Hispanic) (12.2%), Two+ (Hispanic) (7.94%), and Asian (Non-Hispanic) (3.55%). None of the households in Santa Barbara, CA reported speaking a non-English language at home as their primary shared language.

Where do celebrities hang out in Santa Barbara?

What is the prettiest neighborhood in Santa Barbara?

Riviera is gorgeous, thanks to its Spanish-style mansions, mountainous backdrop, and scenery that resembles the French Riviera it was named for. The Mesa — comprising East, West, and Alta Mesa — is one of the nicest areas, too, owing to its beaches, bike paths, and proximity to downtown Santa Barbara.