A Travel Price Comparison for California Los Angeles vs. Santa Barbara for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Los Angeles or Santa Barbara?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a sprawling, energetic, and dynamic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include theater, nightlife, and live music.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a stunning, wealthy, and opulent coastal town. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Los Angeles and Santa Barbara: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Los Angeles or Santa Barbara?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Los Angeles than Santa Barbara. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Los Angeles is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, and big city activities, while Santa Barbara attracts visitors for its historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Los Angeles is more touristy than Santa Barbara and is popular for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also well known for Hollywood. Santa Barbara is famous for its historic missions, pristine beaches, world-class surfing, and scenic hikes that are full of coastal views.

How is Los Angeles different from Santa Barbara?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Santa Barbara and Los Angeles. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Los Angeles or Santa Barbara?

Los Angeles is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Santa Barbara is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Los Angeles on the map. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Many visitors head to Santa Barbara specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is famous for its missions, with Mission Santa Barbara being the most iconic. Also visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and Sea Center.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Barbara Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is a well-known place for its shows and theatre. However, Santa Barbara is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Los Angeles. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Santa Barbara is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Los Angeles or Santa Barbara? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Los Angeles is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Santa Barbara is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Los Angeles is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Santa Barbara. The city is best known for its fine dining, particularly if you enjoy seafood. The scallops, oysters, clam chowder, and sea urchin (when available) are all world class. Head for a waterfront setting for the best views and some of the freshest seafood.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Barbara Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Santa Barbara is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for nightlife.

Los Angeles is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Santa Barbara. For the best nightlife in the city, head downtown to State Street. This is where you'll find the most active bars and biggest crowds. There's a large student population in town, so you'll find much of the nightlife scene is focused on the younger population.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Barbara Better for Music?

Los Angeles is renowned for its music scene. However, Santa Barbara is not a live music destination.

In Los Angeles you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Santa Barbara is not a live music destination.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Barbara Better for Resorts?

There are superb resorts to choose from in both Los Angeles and Santa Barbara.

There are plenty of resorts in Los Angeles to choose from. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Santa Barbara is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Many people enjoy the luxurious vacation rentals around Santa Barbara, but there are also a number of high end resorts including the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort, The Ritz-Carlton, and Hotel Californian.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Barbara Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Santa Barbara is not a good coastal town for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Los Angeles has a few good snorkeling spots. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Santa Barbara. Snorkeling areas not far from town include Refugio State Beach and Tajiguas. You'll see a few fish, beautiful rocks, and anemones that are unique and impressive.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Barbara Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles and Santa Barbara both offer amazing beaches.

Los Angeles offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Santa Barbara. The city is famous for its pristine, sandy beaches. Whether you want to enjoy world class surfing or enjoy a gentle ocean setting, Santa Barbara has many options.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Barbara Better for its Old Town?

Santa Barbara is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Los Angeles does not have a historic old town.

Santa Barbara has an old town worth visiting. The city's downtown "Old Town" is a high end, pedestrian-friendly area with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Los Angeles does not have a historic old town.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Barbara Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, and they are amazing.

Los Angeles is well-known for its hiking and trekking. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

People visit Santa Barbara specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Just outside of town are countless hiking opportunities that offer spectacular ocean views. Popular hikes include Inspiration Point, San Ysidro Trail, and Cold Spring East Fork.

Is the Shopping Better in Los Angeles or Santa Barbara?

Shoppers can find a variety of amazing stores in both Los Angeles and Santa Barbara.

Many people travel to Los Angeles specifically to go shopping. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

Santa Barbara is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is famous as a high end shopping destination. Head to State Street for a palm tree lined street with local boutiques.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Barbara Better for Families?

Los Angeles is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Santa Barbara is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Los Angeles is a very family-friendly destination. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

Santa Barbara is a very family-friendly destination. The city has some nice family-friendly activities including a zoo, some cool museums, and even whale watching. There are also many beautiful beaches where everyone can run around and play, as well as parks and other outdoor settings. For animal-lovers, there are wildlife centers and sea life opportunities.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Barbara Better for Couples?

Los Angeles and Santa Barbara both amazing destinations for a couple.

Los Angeles is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

Santa Barbara makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The town is a stunningly beautiful destination with beautiful beaches, excellent shopping, and nice resorts that make for a great honeymoon or romantic trip.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Barbara Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Los Angeles is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Santa Barbara is not a good coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Los Angeles is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Santa Barbara is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city isn't really known as a budget friendly destination, but there are a couple of hostels in the area. There's also a large student population with a fun nightlife scene.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Barbara Better for Students?

Los Angeles is renowned for students. Also, Santa Barbara is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Los Angeles. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Santa Barbara is very popular with students. With a major university right in town, there's plenty of student life that international students or locals can enjoy.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Barbara Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Los Angeles and Santa Barbara.

Los Angeles has some public transit options. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

You'll find some public transit in Santa Barbara, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Transit options include buses, trolleys and water taxis.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Barbara a more walkable city?

Santa Barbara is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Santa Barbara is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is very pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot.

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

For even more information, also check out Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting? and Is Santa Barbara Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Santa Barbara or Los Angeles?

How long in Los Angeles or Santa Barbara?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Los Angeles than in Santa Barbara. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Los Angeles, and 2-3 days is enough time in Santa Barbara.

Families should spend more time in Los Angeles than Santa Barbara. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Los Angeles, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Los Angeles than Santa Barbara. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Los Angeles that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles than Santa Barbara if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Los Angeles.

One day in Los Angeles or Santa Barbara?

Los Angeles is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the affluent coastal town of Santa Barbara. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Los Angeles or Santa Barbara?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Los Angeles. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the wealthy destination of Santa Barbara. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This coastal town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Los Angeles or Santa Barbara?

Los Angeles is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

The pristine coastal town of Santa Barbara offers shopping and museums. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Los Angeles or Santa Barbara?

Los Angeles is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Santa Barbara. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, we can see that Los Angeles is more expensive. And not only is Santa Barbara much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Santa Barbara would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Santa Barbara and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Los Angeles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Los Angeles than you might in Santa Barbara.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Los Angeles Expensive? and Is Santa Barbara Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Los Angeles or Santa Barbara?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Santa Barbara. When comparing the sizes of Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Los Angeles or Santa Barbara?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Santa Barbara in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Los Angeles as well as Santa Barbara. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Santa Barbara for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Los Angeles is a little warmer than Santa Barbara in the summer. The daily temperature in Los Angeles averages around 72°F (22°C) in July, and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 65°F (19°C).

Los Angeles usually gets less rain in July than Santa Barbara. Los Angeles gets 0 inches (0 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Santa Barbara in the Autumn?

Both Santa Barbara and Los Angeles are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Los Angeles for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Santa Barbara in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Los Angeles is around the same temperature as Santa Barbara. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Los Angeles in October average around 64°F (18°C), and Santa Barbara averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In October, Los Angeles usually receives more rain than Santa Barbara. Los Angeles gets 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Santa Barbara in the Winter?

Both Santa Barbara and Los Angeles during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Los Angeles in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Santa Barbara for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Los Angeles is generally a little warmer than Santa Barbara. Daily temperatures in Los Angeles average around 55°F (13°C), and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Los Angeles usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Santa Barbara. Los Angeles gets 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Los Angeles or Santa Barbara in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. Most visitors come to Los Angeles for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Santa Barbara because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Los Angeles is a little warmer than Santa Barbara in the spring. The daily temperature in Los Angeles averages around 61°F (16°C) in April, and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In April, Los Angeles usually receives less rain than Santa Barbara. Los Angeles gets 1 inches (25 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Santa Barbara and Los Angeles