Car rental at Santa Barbara Airport (SBA)
Discover the Turo car rental marketplace
- Car rental
- United States
- Santa Barbara Airport
Extraordinary selection
From standard cars to supercars, find the perfect car for any occasion or budget
Liability insurance included
Third-party liability insurance comes standard, and choose from a range of vehicle protection plans
Easy airport pickup
You can skip the rental counter at 100+ airports across the US and Canada
Rental cars at Santa Barbara Airport SBA
Average daily prices for a 3-day trip
Honda Civic
2026
•5.0
(30)
Kia K4
2025
•5.0
(62)
Toyota Camry
2024
•4.98
(58)
Tesla Model 3
2018
•5.0
(22)
Volkswagen Jetta
2020
•4.95
(65)
Nissan Sentra
2025
•5.0
(18)
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
2014
•5.0
(77)
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
2018
•4.92
(41)
FIAT 500
2015
•5.0
(8)
Discover Santa Barbara Airport car rental on Turo
If you're looking to secure a car rental near Santa Barbara Airport, Turo has you covered. Located just 9.1 miles from Downtown Santa Barbara, you can collect your rental car near the airport to get your Santa Barbara exploration kickstarted. Whether you're looking to experience California summer, swim in the ocean, or simply relax on the beach, booking a rental car on Turo allows you to skip the airport rental counter and head straight to the open road to start your adventure.
Santa Barbara Airport car rental: How it works
On Turo, renting a car at SBA is easy. Browse cars online, confirm your pickup location, book your car, and get on the road sooner. With pickup locations at airports across the US, you'll be able to find the perfect car for whatever you have planned.
1. Find the perfect car
Enter a date and airport location in Santa Barbara, CA (or beyond), filter to find the best car for you, and read reviews from previous renters.
2. Select a pickup location
Rent a car for pickup at the airport, or opt for delivery to various destinations, including airports, train stations, and hotels.
3. Hit the road
Your host sends you pickup details, and you’re all set to hit the roads of Santa Barbara, CA! If you have questions, you can easily chat with your host or contact support.
Recent reviews
The host was perfectly professional and the car was spotless. It was a great experience.
Gorgeous car, better than described, and communications were terrific, what a great host!
Max was a great host. The best part was his flexibility with delivering the car, which made the whole trip way more convenient.
Max is a great host. He is very responsive and helps us a lot. We will definitely rent a car from him next time we visit Santa Barbara!
The car rides super well! Josiah is an excellent host and is very helpful and kind! 10/10 would rent again
Jordan was a great host and car was everything I expected and more! Will rent again for sure.
This was an incredible experience. From pickup to dropoff everything was smooth, and it was the best way to experience this type of vintage vehicle in one of the best places. Loved every minute, thanks Will!
The car was left exactly where I asked for it to be dropped off. The owner was super great. Will be renting again from them in the future!! Thank you.
Great car great gas mileage which with these prices is a plus and communication was great. Definitely recommend.
Picking up at SBA
Pickup & return areas at SBA
Collecting your car after you land is convenient and stress-free. Everything you need to know about where to pickup and return your rental car will be listed in the Turo app. This ensures a smooth handoff - just head to the pickup point, hop in, and you'll be on the road to Santa Barbara in minutes.
Communicate with your host
It's easy to connect with your Turo host through the app. Here, you can chat with your Turo host to ensure that every part of the rental process is smooth and convenient. Remember to follow the instructions your host has given you to return the vehicle to Santa Barbara Airport.
Parking & airport fees
Santa Barbara Airport charges a small fee for your host to drop off your vehicle, which Turo collects and passes straight on — no markups. If there’s a fee to get in or out of the parking garage, your host will have that info listed on their vehicle listing page.
Why rent a car at the airport on Turo?
Contactless check-in and checkout
Many hosts offer contactless check-in and checkout, if their car has remote access technology, allowing you to find the car, unlock it, and be on your way without meeting them in person. Message your host for specific instructions.
Convenient airport car rental pickup and return
Rather than hustling at the busy terminal curbside, take your time picking up the rental car at approved parking lots or garages. Check in, load up your luggage, and get comfortable with the car without a big rush.
Relax with support & damage protection
24/7 support and roadside assistance mean help is just a call away, plus you can choose from a range of protection plans.
Santa Barbara car rentals for any occasion
Take on whatever you have planned in Santa Barbara with the perfect rental vehicle. On Turo, you'll discover the right car for any occasion.
Vacation car rental
If you're planning a vacation to Santa Barbara, having a rental car allows you the freedom and flexibility to make the trip your own. Work to your own schedule, cross everything off your list, and take your time exploring with a rental car. If you want to visit the Santa Barbara Zoo or just hit the beach, having a rental car makes it easy to get up and go whenever. Whether you're looking for a convertible or an electric vehicle, Turo has you covered.
Long-term car rental
If you're planning to visit Santa Barbara long-term or even relocate here, having a rental car gives you the ultimate flexibility. Fit in with the locals and own your adventure with a convertible or even a reliable sedan. A rental car makes it seamless and stress-free to explore Santa Barbara long-term, and you can rent a vehicle on Turo for however long you need.
Road trip car rental
If you're taking a road trip from Santa Barbara, finding a rental car on Turo is the perfect option. Discover the beauty of the Pacific Coast, explore wine country, or dive into nearby locations like Los Angeles with a rental car. From Ford Mustangs to Teslas, Turo has you covered with a range of popular vehicle makes and models available.
Turo vs. Traditional car rental
Turo
App-based experience
No waiting in line
Get the exact car you choose
Delivery options & thousands of pickup locations
Contactless pickup and dropoff available
Traditional car rental
Standard rental counter experience
Waiting in line
Get one type of car “or similar”
Pickup at retail locations
Requires in-person handoff
Skip the car rental counter at Santa Barbara Airport
Things to do and places to see in Santa Barbara, CA
Whether you're exploring the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, strolling the length of Stearns Wharf, or having a bite to eat at the Cold Spring Tavern, there's something for every traveler to discover in Santa Barbara.
Rent the perfect car
Santa Barbara Zoo
If you want to get up close and personal with your favorite wildlife, the Santa Barbara Zoo is a must-visit. Unlike other city zoos, it's not sprawling, so you can take your time getting around the grounds without getting tired. The animals are very well cared for, and you can spot a huge range of furry friends - from lions and penguins, to California condors. There's a train that goes around the zoo if you want to see it all without getting too many steps in, and the location is right on the ocean with amazing views.
Old Mission Santa Barbara
Visiting the Old Mission in Santa Barbara is a core memory moment. In a beautiful, peaceful, old building sitting up on the hill, you can experience spectacular views of the mountains and the ocean, all at once. The Mission is from the 1700s, which means you can discover California history from the moment you step in. You can either wander around on your own or even do an audio tour if you want the full background. For a total change of pace from the beach or downtown Santa Barbara, the Old Mission makes your visit wholesome.
Santa Barbara County Courthouse
The Santa Barbara County Courthouse is a building filled with history and culture, and it will leave architecture buffs wanting more. Walk around the Sunken Gardens outside, and inside there's a Mural Room that looks like something out of a storybook. Hand-painted walls tell the story of California's history and are beautifully curated. The best part of the Santa Barbara County Courthouse is the clock tower. The views from the top are stunning, and it's right in the middle of downtown, so you can pop in anytime.
Nearby locations
Browse SBA rental cars by make
Browse SBA rental cars by category
Top tips for renting a car in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara has everything a traveler could need - beaches, sun, and beautiful architecture. You'll want to soak up everything this town has to offer in from the minute you get here. This is why it's handy to brush up on California road rules before your visit. Here are our top tips on collecting and returning your rental car, as well as driving, parking, and fueling up in Santa Barbara.
How does airport pickup work at Santa Barbara Airport?
Want to know how to pick up your car rental? Santa Barbara Airport collection is easy. After booking the rental car of your choice, check the Turo app to discover everything you need to know about where to collect your rental car. After you grab your bags at baggage claim, head to the pickup location, and you're ready to start your adventure.
Popular pickup spots near the airport include the Harder Stadium, which is ideal for sports lovers or anyone attending a game in Santa Barbara. Goleta Beach Park and the University of California campus are perfect pickup locations for travelers who want to kick-start their adventure with local attractions. For those staying in the area or arriving in the evening, Lake Los Carneros Park is a quieter location away from the hustle and bustle.
How does drop-off work at Santa Barbara Airport?
Forget about the chaotic rental car counter returns. When it's time to return your car, follow the instructions in your Turo app to drop-off your vehicle near the airport. Once you've returned your rental car, simply make your way to Santa Barbara Airport terminal to check-in and catch your departing flight.
How far is Santa Barbara Airport from Downtown Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara Airport is approximately 9.1 miles from Downtown Santa Barbara. The drive typically takes around 15 minutes, which makes it a quick and easy cruise to the city center.
What are the road rules and driving conditions in Santa Barbara?
Driving in Santa Barbara provides scenic views and a taste of the ocean air, but it's important to be aware of traffic here, especially during rush hours. Santa Barbara is home to the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, which gives you breathtaking views of the coastline, and is the perfect option for the scenic route. During commuting rush hours, the third lane on the highway is restricted to carpools, so it's best to be vigilant of the hours you are driving during.
Traffic can slow you down, so plan your route outside of rush hours if possible. If you're planning on taking a scenic drive up the Pacific Coast Highway, it's best to fuel up before starting your journey, as there are limited gas stations in some areas of this highway.
The climate in Santa Barbara is hot and sunny, so make sure you use windshield screens and make good use of the A/C in your rental car! As always, adhere to local speed limits, wear a seatbelt, and only operate your phone hands-free while driving.
What is parking like in Santa Barbara?
Finding a parking spot for your rental vehicle in Santa Barbara can be challenging in popular areas, but the city offers a range of parking options, from metered parking to lots. Many downtown parking lots offer free parking for the first 75 minutes, which is great if you don't need much time for your plans. Street parking can be found in some areas, but it's often time-limited.
Street parking is available in popular areas like downtown and near the beach, but pay attention to time restrictions and other rules on signage around the parking. If you're visiting the University of California, there is a wide variety of parking offered on campus, depending on your situation.
Are there toll roads in Santa Barbara?
No, there are no toll roads in Santa Barbara, so you can keep your adventure rolling without worrying about tolls!
Where can I find gas stations and EV chargers in Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara offers ample gas stations for you to keep your exploration fueled. Pump your gas at the ARCO on State Street, Santa Barbara Gas on Carrillo Street, or Conserv Fuel on La Cumbre Road.
If you're driving an electric vehicle, you can charge up at the Electrify America Charging Station on State Street, the EVgo Charging Station on Hope Avenue, or the EVgo Charging Station on Anapamu Street.
Do I need to rent a car in Santa Barbara?
Yes, we definitely recommend renting a car in Santa Barbara. It's possible to get around without a car in downtown, but a rental car offers the flexibility and freedom to explore outside of the city center, like the coast and wine country. Having a rental vehicle allows you to travel at your own pace and get to attractions, shops, and restaurants without relying on public transport or paying for taxis. Whether you want to rent an SUV or a reliable sedan, you can find it on Turo.
What rental car types can I find on Turo in Santa Barbara?
Whether you want to zip around Santa Barbara in a Ford Mustang, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Jetta, Kia Forte, or a Tesla Model 3, Turo has you covered. Vehicle classes available include trucks, SUVs, compact cars, electric cars, and sedans - just to name a few. Popular makes and models on Turo include the Maserati Quattroporte, the FIAT 500, the Nissan Sentra, the Chevrolet Spark, and the Toyota Yaris.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Santa Barbara?
The cost of car rental in Santa Barbara can vary depending on car type, booking length, extras, and delivery. For cheap car rentals in Santa Barbara, look out for discounts on longer-duration bookings and early bookings.
Frequently asked questions
What documents and paperwork do you need to rent a car on Turo?
To rent a car on Turo, you must create a Turo account, have a valid driver’s license, get approved to drive on Turo, and be 18 years old or older in the US, 21 years old or older in Australia, or 23 years old or older in Canada.
In the UK, you must be 21 years old or older and have held a UK or EU license for at least one year, or another driver’s license for at least two years. In France you must be 18 years old or older and have held a driver’s license for at least 2 years, longer for certain makes and models of vehicles.
When you’re booking your first trip, you’ll go through a quick approval process by entering your driver’s license and some other information. In most cases, you’ll get approved immediately, and you’ll be set for all future road trips, day trips, and business trips!
What kind of license do I need to rent a car on Turo?
Turo accepts valid licenses (not expired, suspended, or revoked) that allow for full driving privileges; this includes driver’s licenses issued outside of the US. Licenses that Turo doesn’t accept in the US include any that have expired, have been altered, are conditional, probational, provisional, or restricted. Learner’s permit/instruction permits are not accepted.
Do I need to be a certain age to rent a car on Turo?
To rent a car on Turo in the US, you must be 18 years old or older.
How does car rental insurance work on Turo?
You don’t need personal insurance coverage to rent a car on Turo.
In the US, any personal insurance you may have that covers damage to the host’s vehicle would kick in before your Turo protection plan. When booking a car in the US, you’ll choose between three protection plans — Premier (eligibility requirements apply), Standard, or Minimum — to get the level of protection that’s right for you. On each trip, you’re covered with third-party automobile liability insurance provided under a policy issued to Turo by Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company.*
In New York state, you’ll also choose between Premier (if available), Standard, or Minimum. With each plan, you’re covered with liability insurance of $1,250,000.* Protection plans for New York trips also include access to roadside assistance, priority phone support, and 24/7 customer assistance.
Can I get car rental discounts on Turo?
You can get discounts and low cost car rental on Turo.
On your Account page, make sure you’ve checked the box to receive email notifications, and enable push notifications from the Turo app in your phone settings — we’ll send you occasional promo codes, discounts, and deals.
Additionally, frequent travelers on Turo can get rewarded with the loyalty bonus — earn a promo code for one bonus day when you take trips totaling 10 days in a 90-day period.
Learn how the loyalty bonus worksIs there long term car rental on Turo?
Yes there is — whether you want to rent a car for three days, three months, or even longer, you can on Turo. You’ll find discounted prices on bookings lasting 3+, 7+, or 30+ days, so you can get the best deals and lowest rates possible by booking longer trips.
See more about promotions & discountsIs there unlimited mileage car rental on Turo?
Some hosts offer unlimited distance for a trip; others set a daily distance limit — you’ll need to check on each rental car individually to see if this service is provided. On the vehicle pages, you’ll see the total miles or kilometres you’re allowed to drive under the heading “Distance included.” You can find cars offering unlimited mileage with every trip by using the “Unlimited distance” filter.
Can other people drive the car that I rented?
Yes, multiple guests can drive the car you rent on Turo, as long as they are all approved to drive. The primary driver (whoever rented the car) can add additional drivers with no fees or additional charges. Only the primary driver can request to add drivers; Turo hosts cannot do it for you. We encourage you to request to add additional drivers before your trip starts, though guests can request to add a driver while a trip is in progress.
To speed up the process, have your additional driver create a Turo account and get approved to drive before you request to add them. All drivers must have a valid driver’s license and meet the age requirements for the car you’ve booked. You can request to add drivers via the “Trips” tab in the Turo app without additional driver charges or extra costs.
At which airports can I pick up my car on Turo?
Turo has agreements and pilot programs in place with a number of airports across the United States, and we’re always working hard to secure arrangements at even more airports to make your transition between air travel and car travel as smooth as possible, no matter what city.
Currently, Turo has agreements with some regional and international airports in at least 24 US states. The group of airports where Turo has airport pickup permits for guests may change, so refer to the link below for an up-to-date list.
List of airport locations* Any personal insurance you may have that covers damage to the host’s vehicle would kick in before your protection plan, except in limited situations for trips booked in Maryland, but this protects your own wallet. Liability insurance is provided under a policy issued to Turo by Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company. Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. The policy does not provide coverage for damage to a host’s vehicle.
For questions or information about the third party liability insurance that is included in protection plans, consumers in Maryland and the licensed states listed here may contact Turo Insurance Agency at (415) 508-0283 or claims@turo.agency. For questions about how damage to a host’s vehicle is handled, visit the Turo Support site.
When a trip is booked in the state of Washington, physical damage to the host’s vehicle is covered by insurance purchased by Turo, but Turo’s insurance does not change the contractual responsibilities of hosts or guests with respect to physical damage to a host’s vehicle.