You might be free to wander around today, but Presidio Santa Barbara hasn't always been so welcoming! Get to know the story behind this mighty stronghold and exactly what it was built to defend.

This history-filled fortress is situated in Downtown Santa Barbara, a place that has loads going for it! Santa Barbara County Courthouse, Mission Santa Barbara, and Santa Barbara Zoo are other good sightseeing options not far away when you've finished up at Presidio Santa Barbara.

Plan a trip to see Presidio Santa Barbara

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Riviera Beach House

Santa Barbara Beach

Save 100% on your flight

per person

Sep 3 - Sep 7

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Chicago (ORD) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

8.4/10 Very Good! (1,004 reviews)

Great property, would definitely stay again on a short trip. Rooms are on the smaller side, but it’s a small boutique hotel the staff and the lobby make up for the size of the room.

Reviewed on Jul 27, 2025

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

Santa Barbara Beach

Save 100% on your flight

per person

Sep 3 - Sep 7

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Chicago (ORD) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

7.2/10 Good! (22 reviews)

The resort’s staff were extremely friendly

Reviewed on Jul 28, 2025

Hotel Californian

Santa Barbara Beach

Save 100% on your flight

per person

Sep 3 - Sep 7

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Chicago (ORD) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

9.2/10 Wonderful! (892 reviews)

It was a lovely hotel

Reviewed on Jul 19, 2025

Browse tours and tickets to explore Presidio Santa Barbara

Tours & day trips

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Los Angeles Day Trip to Santa Barbara via Oxnard-Amtrak Coast Starlight

Free cancellation available

Food, drink & nightlife

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Santa Barbara: Chocolate Bar and Art Box Making Workshop

Free cancellation available

Adventure & outdoor

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Santa Barbara: Zipline Tour with 4x4 Humvee Ride

Free cancellation available

Water activities

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Wildlife Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)

Free cancellation available

Air, helicopter & balloon tours

See all 5 activities

Santa Barbara: Beach and Coastline Helicopter Tour

Free cancellation available

Popular places to visit

El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park

Visit this historic landmark to learn about the colonization of the city and see a stunning reconstruction of the colonial era.

Paseo Nuevo Mall

You can enjoy retail therapy at Paseo Nuevo Mall during your trip to Santa Barbara. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

Santa Barbara County Courthouse

See the best views of Santa Barbara and enjoy a stunning variety of architectural styles at the city’s historic courthouse.

Old school theater now featuring Joe Bonamassa!

Arlington Theater

Get tickets for a show at Arlington Theater, a storied theater in Santa Barbara. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches or experience its lively festivals.

Alameda Park

After visiting Alameda Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Santa Barbara. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.

Lobero Theater

Get tickets for a show at Lobero Theater, a storied theater in Santa Barbara. Stroll along the area's waterfront, or simply savor its top-notch restaurants.