Santa Barbara in December
Not the best time
December starts the quiet season with cooler weather and occasional rain. Great for budget travelers who don't mind trading beach weather for lower prices.
Weather
December marks winter's return with cooler temperatures and increasing chance of rain. Marine layer becomes more persistent, often not burning off until afternoon. The first substantial rains typically arrive, though sunny days still outnumber cloudy ones.
19°C high9°C low4 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$185/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Holiday events and parades downtown
- •Winter solstice celebrations
December Tips
- •Pack rain gear for potential December storms
- •Many attractions reduce hours or close certain days
- •Hotel rates hit yearly lows except around holidays
All Months
Santa Barbara's Mediterranean climate means you can visit almost year-round, but timing matters for crowds and costs. April through June offers the sweet spot – warm days, cool nights, and fewer tourists than summer.
Summer (July-September) brings perfect beach weather but also peak prices. Hotel rates double, and popular restaurants require reservations weeks ahead. The upside? Long days and consistent sunshine.
Fall might be the best-kept secret. September and October deliver warm, dry days with offshore winds that clean up the surf. Wine harvest season adds extra energy to the tasting rooms.
Winter sees occasional rain but stays mild – think 60-degree highs and 40-degree lows. January through March offers the best hotel deals, sometimes 50% off summer rates. Just pack layers for cool evenings.
Avoid Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends unless you enjoy traffic jams and crowded beaches. The Fiesta celebration in early August brings colorful parades but also massive crowds to downtown.
Santa Barbara Scores
Solo
7/10
Couples
9/10
Families
8/10
Adventure
6/10
Budget
3/10
Luxury
8/10
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