Santa Barbara (CA) Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Santa Barbara.
Climate overview of Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, California, United States of America, enjoys a steady climate throughout the year, with daytime temperatures typically around 22°C (72°F). September is the warmest month at 25°C (77°F), while December is the coolest at 18°C (64°F).
With around 388 mm (15 in) of annual rainfall, Santa Barbara has a fairly dry climate. However, it has a distinct dry season from April to November. The wettest month is January, while August sees the least rain. July is the sunniest month, averaging 11.4 hours of sunshine per day.
Santa Barbara Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Santa Barbara - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Santa Barbara
The temperature in Santa Barbara remains steady throughout the year, providing a consistently comfortable climate. Average daytime temperatures reach a comfortable 25°C (77°F) in September. In December, the coolest month of the year, temperatures drop to a pleasant 18°C (64°F).
At night, temperatures range from around 15°C (59°F) in September to 7°C (45°F) in December.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara maintains relatively dry conditions year-round, recording average annual precipitation of 388 mm (15 in). Santa Barbara can be quite wet during January, receiving approximately 88 mm (3.5 in) of precipitation over 6 rainy days.
In contrast, during the driest month (August), you will experience much drier conditions, with 0.4 mm (0.02 in) of precipitation spread across 0 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Santa Barbara Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara can be enjoyed more throughout the sunniest month of July under a blue sky, with approximately 11.4 hours of sunshine daily. In contrast, the city experiences much darker days in November, with only 6.1 hours of sunlight per day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Best Time to Visit Santa Barbara
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November
- Warmest weather: July, August, September and October
- Most sunshine: July
- Fewer rainy days: May, June, July, August and September
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from April to November
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Santa Barbara
What is the best time to visit Santa Barbara?
February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November typically offer the most optimal weather in Santa Barbara. In contrast, January and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Santa Barbara has a distinct dry season from April to November.
What temperatures can I expect in Santa Barbara?
Daytime highs range from 18°C (64°F) in December to 25°C (77°F) in September. Nighttime lows range from 7°C (45°F) to 15°C (59°F). Temperatures stay relatively stable year-round.
How much rain does Santa Barbara get?
Annual rainfall is around 388 mm (15 in). January is the wettest month with 88 mm (3.5 in), while August is the driest with 0.4 mm (0.02 in).
How sunny is Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara receives around 3,114 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 342 hours, while November is the cloudiest with just 182 hours. Overall, Santa Barbara enjoys abundant sunshine.
Santa Barbara 3-Day Forecast
Santa Barbara (CA) 3-Day Forecast
Santa Barbara on the map
Santa Barbara is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
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