Free cancellationBest price guaranteeNo hidden fees24/7 multilingual supportCar rental in Santa Barbara - Search, Compare, and Save
Free cancellationNo hidden feesPick-up location
Pick-up date
Drop-off date
4.67/5
Reviews from 1300+ people
Excellent
Trustpilot
Cheapest Car Rental Rates in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Santa Barbara
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Santa Barbara
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Santa Barbara
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car rental is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average rental duration of 6 days
Why Rent a Car in Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara is a beautiful coastal city known for its stunning beaches, Spanish colonial architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. While it's possible to get around using public transport or ride-sharing services, renting a car offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility to explore all that this region has to offer.
Unrestricted Access to Scenic Drives. Santa Barbara County boasts some of California's most picturesque drives, from the Pacific Coast Highway to the Santa Ynez wine country. A rental car lets you experience these routes at your own pace, stopping whenever and wherever you please.
Explore Hidden Gems. Venture beyond the city limits to discover secluded beaches, charming small towns, and breathtaking mountain vistas that are difficult to reach without a car.
Convenience for Families and Groups. If you're traveling with children or a group, a rental car provides the space and comfort you need to transport luggage, beach gear, and other essentials without the hassle of public transport.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Santa Barbara
Before you book a rental car in Santa Barbara, it's important to understand the standard terms and conditions. These guidelines cover crucial aspects such as age requirements, licensing, insurance, and potential fees. Awareness of these details ensures a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.
Area
76.77 km² (29.64 sq mi)
Population
Approximately 90,000 residents
Time Zone
Pacific Standard Time (PST), UTC-8
Ideal for
Exploring scenic routes and nearby wineries
Rush Hours
Expect heavier traffic during 7 AM - 9 AM and 4 PM - 6 PM
Rating
4.8/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies in Santa Barbara require drivers to be at least 21 years old. However, drivers under 25 may incur a young driver surcharge. Be sure to check the specific policy of your chosen rental agency.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s license is required. International visitors should have their domestic license along with an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their license isn't in English.
3. Insurance & DepositsRental agreements typically include basic insurance coverage. Consider options like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI) for added protection. A security deposit is usually required and held on your credit card until the car is returned.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyReview the mileage policy to determine if there are any restrictions. Fuel policies often require you to return the car with the same level of fuel as when you picked it up to avoid refueling charges.
5. Additional FeesBe aware of potential extra charges for additional drivers, one-way rentals, or optional extras like GPS navigation systems or child safety seats.
Car Rental Prices in Santa Barbara – How Much Does It Cost?
In Santa Barbara, the average daily rate for an economy-class rental car starts from £35 / $44 / €42 per day. Prices can vary depending on the season and the type of vehicle you choose.
Business:
from £45 / $57 / €54 per day
Electric:
from £50 / $63 / €60 per day
Classic:
from £40 / $50 / €48 per day
Executive:
from £60 / $76 / €72 per day
7 Seater:
from £70 / $88 / €84 per day
Automatic:
from £48 / $60 / €58 per day
SUV:
from £55 / $69 / €66 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Sees higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (November to February): Often come with discounts
Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Santa Barbara?
Booking a rental car in Santa Barbara is easy if you follow a few simple steps. By comparing prices, choosing the right vehicle, and reviewing the rental terms, you can ensure a smooth and affordable experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to find the best deals from various rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs and budget, considering factors like size and fuel efficiency.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully read the rental agreement to understand the mileage limits, insurance coverage, and other conditions.
4. Book in Advance - Reserve your car well in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure lower prices and better availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s license, credit card, and any other required documents when you collect your rental vehicle.
General Information About Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, nestled on the Californian coast, blends natural beauty with Spanish colonial charm. Known for its beaches and wineries, exploring beyond the city center requires a car. Understanding local traffic rules and parking is key for a smooth visit.
Santa Barbara is renowned for its relaxed atmosphere and Mediterranean climate. Whether you're here for the beaches, wine country, or historical sites, a car can significantly enhance your travel experience. Driving within Santa Barbara is generally straightforward, but awareness of local regulations is essential.
Top Attractions to Discover
Santa Barbara Mission
A historic landmark showcasing Spanish colonial architecture and beautiful gardens.
Stearns Wharf
A bustling pier offering stunning ocean views, shops, and restaurants.
State Street
The main thoroughfare, filled with boutiques, cafes, and cultural attractions.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Several garages offer convenient parking in the downtown area.
On-Street Parking
Metered parking is available but can be limited, especially during peak hours.
Park & Ride
Consider using the park-and-ride service to avoid congestion in the city center.
Gas Stations in Santa Barbara
Major Brands Available
Find stations from Chevron, Shell, and other major brands throughout the city.
Convenient Locations
Gas stations are easily accessible along main roads and highways.
Plan Ahead
Refuel before heading out on longer trips to avoid running low on gas.
Useful Tips for Visiting Santa Barbara
Allow Extra Travel Time
Traffic can be heavy during rush hours, so plan accordingly.
Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists
Be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists, especially in downtown areas.
Check Parking Regulations
Pay attention to parking signs to avoid tickets or towing.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially during warmer months, to stay comfortable while exploring.
Key Transportation Hubs in Santa Barbara
Major Bus Stations
Santa Barbara Transit Center
Serves as the central hub for local and regional bus services.
Railway Stations
Santa Barbara Amtrak Station
Provides rail connections to Los Angeles and other destinations.
Airports
Santa Barbara Airport (SBA)
Offers flights to major cities within the United States.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Santa Barbara?
To rent a car in Santa Barbara, you’ll need to meet a few key requirements. Having these documents and information ready will make the rental process smooth and efficient.
Ensure your driver’s license is current and valid. International visitors might need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to their home country license.
Most rental agencies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, and surcharges may apply for those under 25.
A major credit or debit card in the renter's name is necessary for the security deposit and rental fees. Some companies may require a credit card.
A passport or government-issued photo ID may be required, especially for international renters.
Our Content Quality
This content was written, fast-checked, and/or translated by our expert team of content creators.
Every piece of information on this page has gone through our Content Quality Assurance (CQA) process - a multi-step review that includes human editing, localization accuracy checks, and expert travel validation.
Learn more about our Content Quality Standards
This page was edited, fast-checked, and/or translated by our experts which are passionate about helping travelers experience the world by car. CarTravelers team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, rented cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customers Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Santa Barbara as
Because we want to make sure each review listed here is left by a real customer, we don’t have the option to post a review here. Instead, we ask each and every customer to leave a review after they return their rental car. This way, you know that all reviews are authentic.
Chill vibes, good drive.
Alex Smith
Reviewed: 28.07.2025
Relaxing, easy drive.
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 24.05.2025
Such a gorgeous spontaneous weekend! Exploring Santa Barbara by car was perfect.
Sarah Chen
Reviewed: 28.01.2025
Lovely Santa Barbara! Met friends, explored the coast. The State Street shops were a bit touristy, though.
David Lee
Reviewed: 24.07.2025
Pretty chill, good food
Jessica Wilson
Reviewed: 18.02.2025
Santa Barbara was stunning! Quick business trip, but managed to explore a bit. Loved having a car.
Kevin Jones
Reviewed: 04.05.2025
Absolutely loved exploring; Santa Barbara charmed me!
Evelyn Reed
Reviewed: 17.07.2025
Coastal charm and easy drives; perfect for a relaxing getaway!
Olivia Rodriguez
Reviewed: 31.01.2025
Perfect stop on our road trip! Santa Barbara was beautiful, easy to navigate with a car.
Benjamin Harris
Reviewed: 30.09.2024
So peaceful, loved it.
Amelia Davis
Reviewed: 24.04.2025
Pretty laid-back, nice.
Ethan Brown
Reviewed: 26.12.2024
Pretty mellow, nice roads.
Maya Garcia
Reviewed: 23.06.2025