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

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.

Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels

Downtown Santa Barbara

Save 100% on your flight

$720

per person

Nov 6 - Nov 9

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip flight included

Denver (DEN) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

8.4/10 Very Good! (365 reviews)

What is so special about the Drift are the people. Everyone from folks at the coffee shop, check in team, to the GM Jacqueline are so lovely and provide excellent customer service! So completely above and beyond to make my stay wonderful! I love the streamline design of the rooms, the yoga mat in every room, and the coffee every morning at Dawn! There are bikes and surf boards to borrow and enjoy in SB. Make sure you check out the yoga studio too! Also, the location is perfect for exploring, especially all of the vintage shops and The Funk Zone! I highly recommend staying at The Drift, and hope to check out their other properties.

Reviewed on Jul 27, 2025

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

Santa Barbara Beach

Save 100% on your flight

$863

per person

Nov 6 - Nov 9

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip flight included

Denver (DEN) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

8/10 Very Good! (78 reviews)

Very good hotel with view of the beach and walk across the road to the beach front park and trail.

Reviewed on Aug 21, 2025

Los Aguajes

Santa Barbara Beach

$1,050

per person

Nov 6 - Nov 9

found 16 hours ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Dallas (DFW) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

7/10 Good! (4 reviews)

Browse tours and tickets to explore Presidio Santa Barbara

Tours & day trips

See all 78 activities

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

Free cancellation available

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 30 activities

Santa Barbara: Chocolate Bar and Art Box Making Workshop

Free cancellation available

Adventure & outdoor

See all 20 activities

Santa Barbara: Zipline Tour with 4x4 Humvee Ride

Free cancellation available

Water activities

See all 13 activities

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

4.5/5(31 reviews)

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

Paseo Nuevo Mall

4/5(17 reviews)

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

4.5/5(417 reviews)

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

4.5/5(62 reviews)

Get tickets for a show at Arlington Theater, a storied theater in Santa Barbara. Stroll along the area's seaside 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

4.5/5(6 reviews)

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.