Car Rental - Santa Barbara

 

Car rental in Santa Barbara puts you at the center of California’s golden coast. With the beautiful Santa Ynez Mountains behind you, and glistening shoreline in front, you’ll be met with a stunning backdrop at every angle as you explore the city.

The bright lights of Los Angeles are only 90 minutes away in your Santa Barbara rental car, or you can embark on a boat tour to the nearby Channel Islands from Santa Barbara harbor. There’s plenty to do in the city too, from coastal walks along to Stearns Wharf, to discovering buildings overflowing with Spanish colonial history.

We have holiday rental cars to suit all itineraries, from roomy sedans for family trips, to practical SUVs for tackling California’s wild side. Plus, there are holiday or business car rental pick-up locations across the city, including at Santa Barbara Airport.

Reserve your Santa Barbara car rental with Hertz today to immerse yourself in the delights of the Golden State.

Santa Barbara Locations

Google
Map data ©2026 Google
Map data ©2026 Google

A Quick Guide to Santa Barbara

Old Mission Santa Barbara

Old Mission Santa Barbara

2201 Laguna Street, CA 93105

Santa Barbara is overflowing with Spanish Colonial historical architecture, especially at Old Mission. Embark on a tour of the building and its grounds to delve into the historic church, cemetery and mausoleum – all while enjoying sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Ynez mountains. 

Santa Barbara Zoo

Santa Barbara Zoo

500 Ninos Drive, CA 93103

There’s fun for all ages at Santa Barbara Zoo. Park your holiday car rental and hop onboard the Zoo Train for a whistle-stop tour of the park. Discover animal encounters or wander the grounds at your own pace to discover local and exotic species, from California Condors, to Asian otters and African lions.

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

1212 Mission Canyon Road, CA 93105

Located on the foothills of Santa Ynez mountains, this botanical garden provides the perfect oasis for an afternoon among nature. With 78 luscious acres and 1,000 species of wildlife, the garden also features Californian flora in their natural environment and an authentic Japanese Tea Garden.

Residence Inn by Marriott Santa Barbara Goleta

6350 Hollister Avenue, CA 93117

Sat opposite Santa Barbara Airport, this hotel radiates comfort and convenience. You’re ideally placed to explore Santa Barbara and wider California, with easy access to travel along the U.S. 101 highway in your holiday car rental. After a road trip to remember, unwind by the outdoor firepit and in the spacious suites and studios.

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

633 East Cabrillo Boulevard, CA 93103

Just meters from East Beach, Hilton’s beachfront resort offers up stunning views of the glistening Pacific Ocean from the balcony of your room. Guests are free to enjoy the on-site facilities, including the luxurious spa, outdoor pool and tennis courts. 

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

8301 Hollister Avenue, CA 93117

Experience Californian glamor at this five-star hotel, situated on the outskirts of Santa Barbara. With breathtaking views over the Pacific, access to two beaches, a world-class dining experience and 

The Lark Santa Barbara

131 Anacapa Street, CA 93101

Situated in an old fish market, this modern eatery celebrates southern Californian cuisine in a communal setting, with hand-crafted furniture and vintage radiators. Find a spot for your holiday car rental and tuck into fresh foods from the farm, ocean and ranch, including grilled trout and hand-cut tagliatelle. 

Opal

1325 State Street, CA 93101

Enjoy a delicious meal while watching the world pass by on State Street, at a restaurant that fuses Californian cuisine with global inspirations. Take a seat and be transported through the Golden State, with authentic meals ranging from fresh seafood to wood-burning pizzas. 

Convivo Restaurant

901 East Cabrillo Boulevard, CA 93103

Sit out on the patio overlooking the ocean and sample classic Italian fare at this seafront eatery. From fresh salads and homemade pastas, to smoked meats and roasted seafood, all dishes draw influence from Southern California’s coasts, farmlands and vineyards.

Driving In and Around Santa Barbara

  • City of Santa Barbara Downtown Parking Lots (93101) are scattered along State Street and are open 24/7. They’re great for parking your holiday car rental close to all the main attractions, including the city’s theaters, museums and shopping centers.
  • Harbor West Parking Lot (93109) is moments from the city pier and has more than 100 spaces for short stay parking when visiting the West Beach area of the city.
  • Cabrillo East Parking Lot (93103) is in a prime location for those wanting to spend an afternoon at East Beach and Stearns Wharf. It operates a self-pay parking system and is open all day, seven days a week for your Santa Barbara car rental.
  • U.S. Route 101 runs along the west coast of California, cutting through Santa Barbara. Use this route to reach Thousand Oaks and LA in the east, or head west towards Santa Maria.
  • State Route 1 travels alongside U.S. 101 and several sections become the Pacific State Highway. It eventually reaches San Francisco in the north and San Diego in the south.
  • State Route 192 runs parallel to U.S. 101, to Santa Barbara’s north. This scenic route is also known as Foothill Road, as it runs along the foothills of Santa Ynez Mountains.

As the main highway in and out of the city, the U.S. 101 can become congested during peak times. The city can get busy in the summer months too, when Californians and tourists alike flock to the coast to soak up the sunshine. 

How to Get From Santa Barbara to Los Angeles

Swap seaside splendor for Hollywood glamor with a trip to Los Angeles along the U.S. 101. This route takes around 90 minutes and will take your holiday car rental along the scenic coast, before venturing inland towards the bright lights of LA.

BESbswy