What is the best month to visit in Santa Barbara?

September is often considered the best month to visit in Santa Barbara due to warm temperatures, sunny skies, and fewer crowds.

What is the coldest month in Santa Barbara?

December and January are usually the coolest months in Santa Barbara, with average daytime temperatures around 65°F (18°C).

Does it snow in Santa Barbara?

Snow is extremely rare at sea level in Santa Barbara, though nearby mountains may occasionally receive light snowfall.

What is May Gray and June Gloom in Santa Barbara?

May Gray and June Gloom in Santa Barbara refer to seasonal marine layer clouds that bring overcast mornings in late spring and early summer, often clearing by afternoon.

Is it humid in Santa Barbara?

Humidity levels in Santa Barbara are generally moderate and comfortable compared to tropical destinations.

What is the ocean temperature in Santa Barbara?

Ocean temperatures in Santa Barbara range from about 55°F (13°C) in winter to around 65°F (18°C) in late summer.

Are there hurricanes in Santa Barbara?

Hurricanes are extremely rare in Santa Barbara due to its location along the Southern California coast.

Is summer too hot in Santa Barbara?

Summer in Santa Barbara is typically comfortable, with coastal breezes keeping temperatures below the mid-80s°F (30°C).

What should I pack for winter in Santa Barbara?

For winter in Santa Barbara, pack light layers, a sweater, and a light rain jacket for cooler evenings and occasional rain.

What should I pack for summer in Santa Barbara?

For summer in Santa Barbara, bring sunscreen, sunglasses, beachwear, and a light sweater for cooler evenings.

Is fall a good time to visit in Santa Barbara?

Fall is an excellent time to visit in Santa Barbara, offering warm days, clear skies, and fewer tourists.

Does Santa Barbara experience extreme weather?

Extreme weather in Santa Barbara is rare, as the climate is generally stable and mild throughout the year.

How many sunny days are there in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara averages over 280 sunny days per year.

Santa Barbara Weather by Month: A Complete Guide for Travelers

Q: What type of climate does Santa Barbara have?

Santa Barbara has a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers.

Q: What is the hottest month in Santa Barbara?

August and September are typically the warmest months in Santa Barbara, with average highs around 77°F (25°C).

Q: Does it rain a lot in Santa Barbara?

Rainfall in Santa Barbara is generally light and occurs mainly between November and March.

Q: When is the rainy season in Santa Barbara?

The rainy season in Santa Barbara typically runs from November through March.

Located along the stunning coastline of Southern California, Santa Barbara enjoys a Mediterranean climate that makes it a year-round destination. With mild winters, warm summers, and abundant sunshine, it’s often called the “American Riviera.”

If you’re planning a trip, here’s a detailed month-by-month guide to help you decide the best time to visit.

Quick Santa Barbara Climate Overview

Climate Type: Mediterranean
Average Annual Temperature: 60–70°F (16–21°C)
Rainy Season: November – March
Driest Months: May – September
Warmest Months: August & September
Coolest Months: December & January

Santa Barbara Weather by Month

Month	Avg High °F (°C)	Avg Low °F (°C)	Rainfall	Travel Notes
January	65°F (18°C)	45°F (7°C)	Moderate	Coolest month, occasional storms
February	66°F (19°C)	46°F (8°C)	Moderate	Mild, fewer tourists
March	67°F (19°C)	48°F (9°C)	Light–Mod	Spring begins, greener hills
April	69°F (21°C)	50°F (10°C)	Low	Comfortable outdoor weather
May	70°F (21°C)	53°F (12°C)	Very Low	“May Gray” mornings
June	73°F (23°C)	56°F (13°C)	Minimal	“June Gloom” fog early day
July	76°F (24°C)	59°F (15°C)	None	Sunny, great beach weather
August	77°F (25°C)	60°F (16°C)	None	Warmest, festival season
September	77°F (25°C)	58°F (14°C)	None	Often warmest overall
October	74°F (23°C)	54°F (12°C)	Very Low	Ideal fall weather
November	70°F (21°C)	48°F (9°C)	Increasing	Start of rainy season
December	66°F (19°C)	45°F (7°C)	Moderate	Cool, holiday atmosphere

January

Average High: 65°F (18°C)
Average Low: 45°F (7°C)
Rainfall: Moderate

January is one of the cooler and wetter months. Expect mild days, cool evenings, and occasional rainstorms. It’s a peaceful time to visit with fewer tourists.

Best for: Whale watching, scenic drives, cozy coastal stays.

February

Average High: 66°F (19°C)
Average Low: 46°F (8°C)
Rainfall: Moderate

Similar to January, but slightly sunnier toward the end of the month. Wildflowers begin to bloom in nearby hills.

Best for: Off-season travel deals and photography.

March

Average High: 67°F (19°C)
Average Low: 48°F (9°C)
Rainfall: Light to moderate

Spring begins to arrive. Rain decreases and sunshine increases.

Best for: Hiking and exploring the Santa Ynez Mountains.

April

Average High: 69°F (21°C)
Average Low: 50°F (10°C)
Rainfall: Low

Pleasant spring weather with comfortable daytime temperatures.

Best for: Outdoor dining, wine tasting tours.

May

Average High: 70°F (21°C)
Average Low: 53°F (12°C)
Rainfall: Very low

May brings the famous “May Gray” marine layer—mornings may start cloudy but clear up by afternoon.

Best for: Relaxed beach days and sightseeing.

June

Average High: 73°F (23°C)
Average Low: 56°F (13°C)
Rainfall: Minimal

“June Gloom” can bring morning fog, but afternoons are typically sunny and pleasant.

Best for: Early summer beach trips without peak crowds.

July

Average High: 76°F (24°C)
Average Low: 59°F (15°C)
Rainfall: None

Sunny, dry, and ideal beach weather. Ocean breezes keep temperatures comfortable.

Best for: Beach activities, kayaking, sailing.

August

Average High: 77°F (25°C)
Average Low: 60°F (16°C)

One of the warmest and sunniest months of the year.

Best for: Swimming, festivals, outdoor concerts.

September

Average High: 77°F (25°C)
Average Low: 58°F (14°C)

Often the warmest month overall due to ocean heat retention.

Best for: Perfect beach weather with fewer summer crowds.

October

Average High: 74°F (23°C)
Average Low: 54°F (12°C)

Warm days, crisp evenings, and very little rain.

Best for: Wine harvest season and hiking.

November

Average High: 70°F (21°C)
Average Low: 48°F (9°C)
Rainfall: Increasing

Rainy season begins, but many days remain sunny and mild.

Best for: Budget-friendly travel.

December

Average High: 66°F (19°C)
Average Low: 45°F (7°C)
Rainfall: Moderate

Cooler temperatures and occasional rain showers.

Best for: Holiday events, peaceful coastal escapes.

Best Time to Visit Santa Barbara

☀️ For Beach Lovers

July through September – Warmest ocean temperatures and sunny skies.

🌼 For Fewer Crowds

January through March – Mild weather and better hotel rates.

🍷 For Wine & Food Experiences

September and October – Harvest season in nearby wine country.

Santa Barbara Weather FAQs

1. What type of climate does Santa Barbara have?

Santa Barbara has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers.

2. What is the best month to visit Santa Barbara?

September is often considered the best month due to warm temperatures, sunny skies, and fewer crowds.

3. What is the hottest month in Santa Barbara?

August and September are typically the warmest months, with average highs around 77°F (25°C).

4. What is the coldest month?

December and January are the coolest months, though daytime temperatures still average around 65°F (18°C).

5. Does it rain a lot in Santa Barbara?

No. Rainfall is generally light and mostly occurs between November and March.

6. When is the rainy season in Santa Barbara?

The rainy season usually runs from late fall through early spring (November to March).

7. Does Santa Barbara get snow?

Snow is extremely rare at sea level. Nearby mountains may occasionally see light snowfall.

8. What is “May Gray” and “June Gloom”?

These terms describe a seasonal marine layer that brings cloudy mornings in May and June, often clearing by afternoon.

9. Is Santa Barbara humid?

Humidity levels are generally moderate and comfortable, especially compared to tropical destinations.

10. What is the ocean temperature like?

Ocean temperatures range from about 55°F (13°C) in winter to 65°F (18°C) in late summer.

11. Can you swim year-round in Santa Barbara?

Yes, but most people prefer swimming from July through September when the water is warmest.

12. Does Santa Barbara get hurricanes?

No. Hurricanes are extremely rare along the California coast.

13. Is summer in Santa Barbara too hot?

No. Ocean breezes help keep summer temperatures comfortable, rarely exceeding the mid-80s°F (30°C).

14. What should I pack in winter?

Bring light layers, a sweater, and a light rain jacket.

15. What should I pack in summer when I visit Santa Barbara?

Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, beachwear, and a light sweater for cooler evenings.

16. Is fall a good time to visit Santa Barbara?

Yes. Fall offers warm days, clear skies, and fewer tourists—especially in October.

17. Does Santa Barbara have extreme weather?

Extreme weather is rare. The climate is known for being stable and mild year-round.

18. Is it windy in Santa Barbara?

There can be light coastal breezes, especially in the afternoon, but strong winds are uncommon.

19. How many sunny days does Santa Barbara get?

Santa Barbara averages around 280+ sunny days per year.

20. Is Santa Barbara a good year-round destination?

Absolutely. Thanks to its mild Mediterranean climate, Santa Barbara is enjoyable any time of year.

What to Pack by Season

Winter (Dec–Feb):

Light jacket
Sweater
Umbrella

Spring (Mar–May):

Light layers
Sunglasses
Comfortable walking shoes

Summer (Jun–Sep):

Sunscreen
Beachwear
Light sweater for evenings

Fall (Oct–Nov):

Light jacket
Casual evening wear

Final Thoughts

Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, Santa Barbara is truly a year-round destination. Whether you’re chasing sunshine, planning a romantic getaway, or looking for outdoor adventure, there’s no bad time to visit—only different vibes each season.