Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) – The Ultimate Traveler’s Guide
Your Complete Guide to Santa Barbara’s Primary Airport
Introduction: Why Fly from Santa Barbara Municipal Airport?
Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is the primary airport serving Santa Barbara County and California’s Central Coast. Located just 7 miles west of downtown Santa Barbara, SBA offers convenient access to domestic and international destinations while providing a stress-free, scenic travel experience.
Santa Barbara Airport is known for its efficient check-in process, relaxed atmosphere, and Spanish-style architecture, reflecting the city’s unique coastal charm. With nonstop flights to major U.S. cities, modern facilities, and easy ground transportation, SBA is a top choice for travelers looking for an alternative to larger airports like LAX.
This airport guide will provide everything you need to know about Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA), including airlines, destinations, terminals, parking, transportation, hotels, and travel tips.
1. General Information About Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA)
✔ Airport Code: SBA
✔ Location: 500 James Fowler Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93117
✔ Owned & Operated By: City of Santa Barbara
✔ Elevation: 10 feet (3 meters)
✔ Annual Passenger Traffic: ~1 million
✔ Terminals: 1
✔ Runways: 3
✔ Primary Airlines: American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines
Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) serves both business and leisure travelers, offering short wait times, modern facilities, and direct flights to major hubs.
2. Airlines and Destinations at Santa Barbara Municipal Airport
Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is served by four major airlines, offering direct flights to key destinations across the U.S..
Airlines Operating at SBA:
- American Airlines (Hub at DFW)
- Alaska Airlines (Hub at SEA)
- United Airlines (Hub at DEN & SFO)
- Southwest Airlines (Hub at OAK, DEN, and LAS)
Nonstop Destinations from SBA:
✔ Denver, CO (DEN) – United, Southwest
✔ Seattle, WA (SEA) – Alaska Airlines
✔ San Francisco, CA (SFO) – United Airlines
✔ Los Angeles, CA (LAX) – American Airlines
✔ Dallas/Fort Worth, TX (DFW) – American Airlines
✔ Las Vegas, NV (LAS) – Southwest Airlines
✔ Phoenix, AZ (PHX) – American Airlines
✔ Portland, OR (PDX) – Alaska Airlines
✔ Oakland, CA (OAK) – Southwest Airlines
Santa Barbara Airport’s growing route network ensures easy connections to domestic and international destinationsthrough major airline hubs.
💡 TIP: Book flights early to secure the best fares from SBA to major U.S. cities.
3. Terminals at Santa Barbara Municipal Airport
SBA has one passenger terminal, featuring modern amenities and an efficient layout.
Terminal Features:
✔ Spacious check-in area with self-service kiosks
✔ TSA security checkpoint with short wait times
✔ Five departure gates with comfortable seating
✔ Luggage claim & rental car counters near arrivals
✔ Food & beverage options, retail stores, and business-friendly amenities
First Floor (Arrivals & Baggage Claim):
✔ Baggage Claim Area – Quick access to your luggage
✔ Car Rental Counters – Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, Budget
✔ Taxis & Rideshare Services – Pickup area outside baggage claim
Second Floor (Departures & Ticketing):
✔ Airline Check-In Counters – Located near terminal entrance
✔ TSA Security Checkpoint – Efficient, hassle-free screening
✔ Gate Areas & Passenger Lounges – Comfortable seating and USB charging stations
💡 TIP: Arrive 60–90 minutes before your flight for a fast, stress-free airport experience.
4. Transportation Options: Getting To & From Santa Barbara Airport
Santa Barbara Airport is easily accessible by car, public transit, and shuttle services, ensuring a smooth trip for all travelers.
Public Transit & Shuttle Services:
✔ Santa Barbara MTD Bus Service – Affordable public transportation connecting SBA to downtown Santa Barbara
✔ Hotel Shuttles – Many hotels near SBA offer free shuttle services
Taxis & Rideshare Services:
🚕 Santa Barbara Taxi & Shuttle Services – Available outside baggage claim
🚗 Uber & Lyft – App-based rides available 24/7
Car Rentals at SBA:
🚙 Enterprise Rent-A-Car
🚗 Hertz
🚙 Avis
🚗 Budget
💡 TIP: If you’re exploring the Central Coast, renting a car is highly recommended for easy access to beaches, wineries, and scenic drives.
5. Parking at Santa Barbara Airport
SBA provides short-term, long-term, and economy parking options:
| Parking Type | Hourly Rate | Daily Max | Weekly Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short-Term Parking | $2.00 per hour | $15.00 | $90.00 |
| Long-Term Parking | $1.50 per hour | $12.00 | $75.00 |
| Economy Parking | $1.00 per hour | $10.00 | $60.00 |
✔ First 30 minutes of parking is FREE in short-term parking!
✔ Handicap-accessible parking available in all lots
💡 TIP: Reserve airport parking online in advance for discounted rates and guaranteed availability.
6. Hotels Near Santa Barbara Airport
🏨 Best Hotels Near SBA:
✔ The Ritz-Carlton Bacara – 5-star luxury resort
✔ Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort – Ocean views, spa, pool
✔ Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta – Budget-friendly, free shuttle
✔ Best Western Plus South Coast Inn – Free breakfast & Wi-Fi
💡 TIP: If you’re visiting during Santa Barbara’s busy festival season, book your hotel early for the best rates.
7. Travel Tips for Santa Barbara Airport
✔ Arrive Early: Allow at least 60 minutes for domestic flights.
✔ Check Flight Status: Use the SBA airport website or airline apps for real-time updates.
✔ Use Rideshare for Quick Pickups: Uber and Lyft have designated pickup areas outside baggage claim.
✔ Try Local Santa Barbara Eats at the Airport: Grab a bite at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf before your flight!
Conclusion: Why Choose Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA)?
✔ Closer to downtown Santa Barbara (only 7 miles away)
✔ Fast check-in & security screening
✔ Convenient parking options (short-term, long-term, economy)
✔ Easy connections via major airlines
✔ Great for business travelers & Central Coast visitors
Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) provides a convenient, hassle-free airport experience, making it the best airport option for travelers flying to and from California’s Central Coast.
