聖塔芭芭拉擁有適合步行的環境，非常方便以步行方式探索這座城市。市中心區域範圍緊湊，許多景點、商店和餐廳都在步行可及的距離內。當地也積極投資於步行相關基礎設施，包括維護良好的人行道和行人穿越道。溫和的氣候更提升了步行的吸引力，全年氣溫大多舒適。不過，部分地區地勢較為起伏，對某些行人來說可能較具挑戰性。整體而言，步行是聖塔芭芭拉市區內非常實用的移動方式。

在聖塔芭芭拉騎自行車是一種便利的城市探索方式，因為這裡擁有完善的自行車道網絡和設施。市區提供公共自行車停車位及安全的自行車存放選項，讓你能輕鬆在熱門地點附近停放。溫和的氣候和相對平坦的地形，讓騎乘體驗更加舒適，一年四季都適合出行。此外，市區還有電動輔助自行車共享計畫，為短程出行提供便利選擇。憑藉這些特色，騎自行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.