Santa Barbara County, California, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Santa Barbara County, California, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Santa Barbara County, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

  1. When to go to Santa Barbara County
  2. Important essentials for Santa Barbara County
  3. Activities for Santa Barbara County
  4. Santa Barbara County in January: weather and what to pack
  5. Santa Barbara County in February: weather and what to pack
  6. Santa Barbara County in March: weather and what to pack
  7. Santa Barbara County in April: weather and what to pack
  8. Santa Barbara County in May: weather and what to pack
  9. Santa Barbara County in June: weather and what to pack
  10. Santa Barbara County in July: weather and what to pack
  11. Santa Barbara County in August: weather and what to pack
  12. Santa Barbara County in September: weather and what to pack
  13. Santa Barbara County in October: weather and what to pack
  14. Santa Barbara County in November: weather and what to pack
  15. Santa Barbara County in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to Santa Barbara County, California, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in Santa Barbara County, California, United States of America, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Santa Barbara County, California, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Santa Barbara County, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Santa Barbara County, California, United States of America by month

January

January for Santa Barbara County is chilly. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Barbara County. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

If you visit Santa Barbara County during February, you may find that it is relatively cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Barbara County. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the correct type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

March

Traveling to Santa Barbara County in March, you will notice that it is cool. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Barbara County. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the necessary kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

April in Santa Barbara County is mild and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Barbara County. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the right type. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

May

If you visit Santa Barbara County during May, you are likely to find that it is mild and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Barbara County. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

June in this region is balmy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Barbara County. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the right type. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

July

July is mild and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Barbara County. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the necessary type. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

August

If you vacation in Santa Barbara County during August, you will probably see that it is a perfect temperature and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Barbara County. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

September

If you visit Santa Barbara County during September, you might find that it is a perfect temperature and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Barbara County. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

October

October in Santa Barbara County is warm and dry with little rain. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Barbara County. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the right kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

November

November in Santa Barbara County is balmy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 60% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Barbara County. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the correct type. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

December

Traveling to Santa Barbara County in December, you will notice that it is cool. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Barbara County. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in Santa Barbara County, California, United States of America

Santa Barbara County is one of the most beautiful and vibrant destinations for tourists in California. Located on the central coast, this county offers a perfect blend of urban and rural areas, natural wonders, and historic landmarks. From stunning beaches and iconic landmarks to quaint towns and stunning vineyards, Santa Barbara County offers visitors a wide variety of fun and exciting things to see and do. In this article, we will highlight some of the top tourist attractions you can visit in Santa Barbara County.

1. Santa Barbara Mission

The Santa Barbara Mission is an iconic Spanish Colonial landmark and is the tenth mission founded by the Spanish Franciscans in California. The mission was built in 1786 and today, it remains an important cultural and religious site for visitors. The mission features traditional gardens, a museum, and a stunning church. Visitors can take a guided tour and learn more about the history of the mission and the area.

2. Santa Barbara County Courthouse

Built-in 1929, the Santa Barbara County Courthouse is one of the most stunning courthouses in the United States. Visitors can tour the courthouse and explore the Spanish-Moorish architecture, beautiful murals, and stunning views of the city from the top of the clock tower. The courthouse is also the venue for many local events and concerts.

3. Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country

The Santa Ynez Valley is a beautiful rural area and is home to several vineyards that produce award-winning wines. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyards, taste the wine, or even take part in a wine-making class. The region is also known for its beautiful landscape, with rolling hills and picturesque countryside.

4. Stearns Wharf

Stearns Wharf is a historic pier that was built-in 1872 and is a popular destination for visitors in Santa Barbara. The pier is home to several restaurants, shops, and galleries, and is a perfect spot to watch the sunset or see the harbor. Visitors can also go fishing, take a boat tour, or visit the Sea Center, which features exciting exhibits and interactive displays about marine life in the surrounding waters.

5. Channel Islands National Park

The Channel Islands National Park is a stunning, remote wilderness area off the coast of Santa Barbara County. The park is home to several unique species of plants and animals, including the famous island fox. Visitors can explore the islands on foot, kayak, or boat, and experience the breathtaking scenery of the Pacific Ocean.

6. Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is a beautiful 78-acre garden that features a wide variety of plants native to California. The garden is home to hiking trails, beautiful gardens, and a greenhouse that showcases rare and endangered plants. Visitors can also take part in guided tours, lectures, and workshops.

7. Butterfly Beach

Butterfly Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Santa Barbara County, with a long stretch of beautiful white sand and crystal-clear water. The beach is a perfect spot to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Visitors can also go swimming or take a walk along the coastline.

In conclusion, Santa Barbara County offers a wide variety of fun and exciting attractions for visitors. From historic landmarks and natural wonders to vineyards and beaches, this beautiful county has something for everyone. Visitors can explore the rich history and culture of the region, experience the beauty of the landscape, and spend time relaxing and enjoying the sunshine.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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