Car rental at the Santa Barbara Municipal Airport

Car Rentals at the Airport

Once you've touched down, getting on the road is straightforward. The Rental Car Centre at the airport houses a number of known car rental companies like Avis, Enterprise and Hertz, providing a broad spectrum of vehicles to choose from. From a comfortable saloon for the family to a convertible for soaking up the California sun, there's plenty to suit your needs.

Car class recommendations

While it's the American dream to cruise California in a Mustang, keep in mind Santa Barbara's distinct topography. On broad, scenic highways, full-size cars and SUVs provide comfort and powerful handling. But for negotiating downtown traffic and smaller coastal roads, a compact or economy car is often a better choice.

Getting Underway

The nearest petrol station is less than half a mile from the airport, ideal for topping up the tank before exploring Santa Barbara and beyond. Make sure to familiarise yourself with American road signs and driving on the right side of the road, a significant difference from the UK. Don't forget to keep an eye on the speed limits, too!

Exploring the Area

Santa Barbara is a dazzling blend of stunning beaches, charming Spanish-style architecture and an array of wonderful places to dine and shop. Its location along the Pacific Coast Highway makes it perfect for road trips. Cruise north to the vineyards of Santa Ynez Valley, or south towards vibrant Los Angeles or the majestic coastline of Big Sur. The possibilities are endless!

Tips for British Visitors

Visitors from the UK will find the climate in Santa Barbara delightful, as it's surprisingly similar to the Mediterranean with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. It's a good idea to carry a credit card for most transactions, including car rentals, as this is the most widely accepted form of payment. And don't forget to check your travel insurance for coverage on car rental excess!