Question 1

What are the major attractions in Santa Barbara?

Accepted Answer

If your trip to Santa Barbara is all organized but your itinerary is looking a bit empty, we can give you a helping hand.

Think of Santa Barbara and then say the first thing that pops into your brain. Bet you said "Presidio Santa Barbara," right? Being such an iconic attraction, you can't miss seeing it. Toss your gear into the trunk and check it off your bucket list.

Take in the best of what this place has to offer by adding Santa Barbara Museum of Art and Santa Barbara Natural History Museum to your travel itinerary. If you have some extra time, swing by Santa Barbara Zoo and Santa Barbara Botanical Garden too.

Plan a stop at Stearns Wharf. It's one sight you'll usually find on many visitors' must-do lists. If you still have some room on that schedule, Santa Barbara Bowl and Upper State Street will keep you amused as well.

Question 2

What are the best road trip destinations near Santa Barbara?

Accepted Answer

Santa Barbara is incredible, there's no doubt about that — but there's loads more to see just down the road. Climb back into the driver's seat and enjoy a new adventure in Solimar Beach. This great day-trip destination offers some interesting attractions, such as Ventura Pier.

Question 3

Where are the best beaches near Santa Barbara?

Accepted Answer

Fill up your tank, put your key in the ignition and get ready to feel the fresh sea air in your hair. Santa Barbara is home to some stunning stretches of coast, such as:

Arroyo Burro Beach (3 miles away).
Butterfly Beach (3 miles away).
Fernald Point (4 miles away).

Question 4

Where are the best convention centers near Santa Barbara?

Accepted Answer

Get to know the locals while you're in Santa Barbara by attending an event at one of the great convention centers. There are a few terrific things on, so scan through the schedule and set aside a day. Recommended places include:

Santa Barbara Deep Sea (1 mile away).
Cabrillo Pavillion (2 miles away).

Santa Barbara Deep Sea (1 mile away).
Cabrillo Pavillion (2 miles away).

Question 5

What kind of rental car should I get for Santa Barbara?

Accepted Answer

Nothing screams good times like a good ol' road trip, particularly when you're headed somewhere as wonderful as Santa Barbara. With renowned attractions like University of California, Santa Barbara and Santa Barbara County Courthouse, there's so much to see in so little time. That's where a rental car is a godsend. You'll be able to visit more places — but pick something small for easy city driving, like a mini. If you don't want to tackle the urban jungle, Santa Barbara County is packed with natural gems. Trade the zippy runabout for something bigger, like a four-wheel drive, and discover the stunning sandy shores.

Question 6

Should I get a luxury rental car in Santa Barbara?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes it's all about the journey, which makes choosing the right car important. If you're about to embark on an epic road trip around Santa Barbara, a spacious SUV could be the best solution. If you want the cheapest price possible and plan on sticking mostly to the city, an economy car is a wise pick. All you need to do is choose what suits you best, load up the car, and start clocking up those miles.

Question 7

Is it difficult to park in Santa Barbara?

Accepted Answer

It's relatively easy to find somewhere to park in Santa Barbara, although you might find it hard to get a spot in the busiest streets. Booking a hotel that offers on-site parking is always a smart idea.

Question 8

Does Santa Barbara have peak-hour traffic?

Accepted Answer

As the population of Santa Barbara is around 91,800, you won't have a lot of difficulty with traffic congestion. That being said, major roads generally get busy in the rush hours before and after work, so you may want to avoid driving then.

Question 9

What happens if I get a speeding fine while driving a rental car in Santa Barbara County?

Accepted Answer

More often than not, your chosen car rental company will bill the fined amount to your credit card. Alternatively, the company may provide your contact information to local law enforcement agencies so they can send a fine to you directly.

Question 10

Is it illegal to use a cell phone while driving in Santa Barbara?

Accepted Answer

If you have hands-free functions like Bluetooth enabled, you can lawfully use your cell phone while driving around Santa Barbara. But be sure to keep concentrating on the road.

Question 11

What are the rules around drink driving in Santa Barbara?

Accepted Answer

In Santa Barbara, it is a punishable offence to drive with a BAC (blood alcohol content) over 0.08%. If you're in the mood for a couple of drinks with lunch or dinner, you'd be wise to leave the car at your hotel.

Question 12

Is turning on a red light allowed in Santa Barbara?

Accepted Answer

You aren't allowed to turn on a red light in Santa Barbara. When you come across one, enjoy a mindful moment until the signal changes to green.

Question 13

Are seat belts compulsory in Santa Barbara County?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Although, there are a couple of exceptions for vehicles run by public transportation systems.

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