Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara offers international students and professionals a warm, welcoming environment that goes far beyond academics. Its inviting community, paired with a wealth of recreational and cultural opportunities, creates a rich and rewarding experience for those coming from abroad to study, work, or explore.

Often called the “American Riviera,” Santa Barbara is known for its sunny, Mediterranean climate—ideal for both learning and leisure. With more than 300 days of sunshine annually, the city provides the perfect setting for outdoor activities, from hiking in the hills to relaxing by the sea.

The coastal lifestyle here is both relaxing and dynamic, drawing visitors with its scenic beaches and ocean-friendly activities. Santa Barbara’s coastline is particularly popular for surfing, while local programs like Santa Barbara Surf School offer instruction and camps in paddleboarding, kayaking, and water safety—perfect for all skill levels.

Culture and entertainment thrive throughout the city. State Street, Santa Barbara’s bustling downtown hub, is lined with galleries, boutique shops, and performing arts venues. For those interested in history and heritage, the Old Mission Santa Barbara offers a window into California’s Spanish colonial past, while the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History showcases the region’s biodiversity and native cultures.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy. Pristine beaches such as East Beach and Butterfly Beach offer excellent spots for sunbathing, swimming, and beach sports. Just off the coast, Channel Islands National Park invites exploration, with opportunities to kayak sea caves, snorkel in clear waters, and hike among rare native plant life.