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.

Secret Garden Inn and Cottages

Oak Park

Save 100% on your flight

$739

per person

Jan 13 - Jan 18

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

New York (NYC) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

8.2/10 Very Good! (1,000 reviews)

Such a lovely place. And the breakfast is delicious .

Reviewed on Dec 4, 2025

The Craft House Inn

Save 100% on your flight

$3,934

per person

Feb 13 - Feb 16

found 14 hours ago

Roundtrip flight included

Dallas (DFW) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

9.2/10 Wonderful! (11 reviews)

The house is absolutely beautiful- renovated to an amazing standard. The bedroom was small with no wardrobe and limited storage space. It like staying at someone’s house - so no control over the ac and no control over others coming and goings without the comforts of hotel soundproofing etc. If you were hiring the whole house it would be amazing. But it’s like a very nice Air BNB - you get a room in someone’s house. Also no human contact- my husband was convinced we were speaking to AI at all times. Also the Harbour room which we had faced the street and was very noisy.

Reviewed on Nov 6, 2025

Goleta Getaway by Avantstay Private Backyard, 1.5mi to the Beach!

Save 100% on your flight

$1,826

per person

Feb 13 - Feb 16

found 14 hours ago

Roundtrip flight included

Dallas (DFW) to Santa Barbara (SBA)

8/10 Very Good! (1 review)

The property is nice and clean, but the air conditioning didn’t work and it was very hot inside, overall had a nice stay.

Reviewed on Aug 31, 2025

Browse tours and tickets to explore Presidio Santa Barbara

Tours & day trips

See all 73 activities

Coastal Cruise on Yacht in Santa Barbara

Free cancellation available

Private & custom tours

See all 28 activities

Santa Barbara Downtown Self Guided Walking Tour

Free cancellation available

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 24 activities

Santa Barbara: Chocolate Bar and Art Box Making Workshop

Free cancellation available

Water activities

See all 9 activities

Wildlife Kayak Tour in Santa Barbara Harbor (2 Hours)

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 waterfront 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.