Explore Southwest Airlines® destination Santa Barbara, CA.

When you deplane at Santa Barbara Airport, you may feel as though you’ve arrived in the Mediterranean. Thanks to the city’s location between the Pacific Coast and the Santa Ynez Mountains, the climate is quite similar to that of the Riviera. And while the American Riviera’s distinctive architecture is evocative of early Spanish and American settlers, the city is full of modern amenities to enjoy while you indulge in an old-world aesthetic.

Consider starting your stay in Santa Barbara with a visit to one of their famed downtown beaches. East Beach is a popular stop for visitors and famous for its beach volleyball. After you’ve indulged in fun in the sun, head over to Stearns Wharf—which separates East Beach from West Beach—for a meal or a treat. The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center makes its home on the landmark wharf as well—interact safely with a range of sea life or just sit back and watch majestic jellies swim by. If you want to hit the water for a self-directed adventure, West Beach offers kayaking, windsurfing, and other water sports.

When it’s time to indulge in Santa Barbara’s culture beyond the beach, head to the Presidio neighborhood in the middle of downtown. Here, you’ll step back in time to the place where Santa Barbara officially began. Take a tour inside of the presidio for which the neighborhood was named or visit the Santa Barbara Historical Museum. For a taste of modern Santa Barbara, head over to the Funk Zone, home to local wine makers, art galleries, and other cultural attractions. Sightseeing shutterbugs should take advantage of the food-and-photo tours of the area to fill their camera rolls while they fill their bellies.

Answer the call of the American Riviera by booking a flight with Southwest. Southwest Airlines offers flights to Santa Barbara Airport, making your visit even easier to plan. And when you book with Southwest, know that you can book with confidence. Discover more about what makes the Southwest® Experience so unique and reserve your upcoming flight to Santa Barbara, CA.