聖塔芭芭拉環境優雅, 適合步行遊覽市內各處。市中心地區十分緊湊, 眾多景點、商店和餐廳均在步行距離之內,本市已投資興建支援步行的基建, 包括保養良好的行人路和行人過路處。全年氣候宜人, 更增加了步行的吸引力。不過, 部分地區可能為多山坡地, 對部分步行者來說可能較為困難。整體而言, 步行是適合的出行選擇, 特別是在聖塔芭芭拉的中部地區。

在聖塔芭芭拉騎單車是一個方便的方式去探索這個城市，因為這裡有完善的單車徑網絡和設施。市內設有公共單車停泊位和安全的單車存放選擇，讓你可以輕鬆在熱門地點附近鎖好單車。溫和的氣候和相對平坦的地形，令騎單車的體驗更加舒適，一年四季都適合出行。此外，市內亦有提供電動輔助單車的共享單車計劃，為短途出行提供方便的選擇。有了這些設施，騎單車成為在聖塔芭芭拉實用又愉快的交通方式。

The city features a range of public transportation options that make getting around the city convenient. The Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District (MTD) provides bus services that are safe and environmentally friendly, connecting various parts of the city. Additionally, Amtrak trains, including the Coast Starlight and Pacific Surfliner, link Santa Barbara to a broader rail network. The city’s infrastructure supports these transit options, making it easy to reach popular destinations. The mild weather generally supports comfortable travel conditions, enhancing the appeal of using public transit.

Ferries in Santa Barbara primarily serve as a gateway to the Channel Islands, rather than a means of local transportation. Trips to islands like Santa Cruz and Anacapa are available year-round, with varying schedules. These ferries are pedestrian-friendly but not designed for cars or bikes. Travel times range from 1 to 4 hours, depending on the destination. While ferries offer scenic views and access to unique island experiences, they are not ideal for daily commuting within Santa Barbara itself. Weather and sea conditions can affect schedules, making them less predictable for regular travel.