How To Plan A Safe Night Out in Santa Barbara County

Santa Barbara County has beautiful weather and gorgeous views, with its mountain vistas and sandy coastlines. There are wineries and boutique shops and historical attractions that can keep visitors and locals busy all day.

But don’t discount Santa Barbara once the sun goes down and night spreads through the valley. The area is full of clubs, restaurants, and venues that can entertain you and your companions late into the evening.

So why not enjoy a Santa Barbara night out under the stars?

Whether you’re in Santa Barbara for a romantic getaway or bachelorette party weekend, impressing business clients, or a local who just wants to take advantage of the area’s fun spots, your visit won’t be complete without a night on the town. 

Santa Barbara is generally beautiful and fun, but like any city, there can always be unexpected circumstances, especially if you’re a stranger to the area. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice an exciting evening.

Before you head out, for your eating, drinking, dancing, and fun, there are a few simple things you can do to make sure you and others stay safe throughout the night.

Here are a few tips to maximize your safety and your good time.

Plan Your Destinations

The nightlife in Santa Barbara County can suit almost anyone’s preference for a fun evening. Bars and restaurants in the Funk Zone cater to people seeking a contemporary vibe, while those along State Street will put you right in the action of downtown Santa Barbara. 

Do you prefer live music, bowling, or a walk along a beautifully lit beach at sunset? Santa Barbara County has those options, too. 

It can certainly be tempting to leave your home or hotel and go wherever your heart leads throughout the night, but for the safest night out it’s a good idea to plan your destinations in advance. 

With a little planning and research, you’ll be much more prepared for your night, and it will also be much more enjoyable. You’ll learn more about each establishment, where it’s located, and it’s best features. You won’t waste time getting to a restaurant just to find out it’s closed, or pay to get into a club and realize the vibe just isn’t your style. 

Some preparation will also prevent you from trying to walk between bars and getting lost, or realizing they were further away than you thought. You’re also less likely to encounter other unexpected surprises. 

If you’re a stranger to the area, one of the best ways to plan is with night out transportation services and a chauffeur who knows Santa Barbara. With Silk Road transportation services, you’ll have direct transport to your location of choice and a pre-arranged ride home, so you can avoid unexpected cab fees and unreliable ride shares.

Don’t leave your fun night up to chance. Plan ahead so you can make the most of your evening out!

Stay Close to Your Group and Belongings

One of the best ways to stay safe is to stay with your group and look out for each other. If you’re out on the town with some friends, coworkers, or a date, you’ll know there’s someone nearby who is making sure you’re having fun and not about to encounter any less than ideal situations.

Large groups are often safer, and with private night out transportation in Santa Barbara, you won’t have to worry about how to travel together. Our large, roomy chauffeured vehicles can transport groups of up to 14 people in safety and style.

First, if you travel together, you’re less likely to get lost or find yourself waiting alone outside of an unfamiliar location. There will also be someone else who can sense if something might be wrong and get you out of a tight spot or find help.

Even if these events are unlikely to occur, it’s just nice to have the peace of mind that someone is looking out for you.

And don’t forget to keep important items nearby, too. Make sure you always have a form of identification, mobile phone, and some money so you have easy access to any necessary resources or communication you might need.

Have Fun, But Be Smart

Nights out at restaurants, bars, and clubs often involve alcohol, though they certainly don’t have to! But if you are going to drink, there are some important tips that will help ensure you stay safe throughout the night.

First, make sure to eat a substantial meal and snack throughout the night so you aren’t drinking on an empty stomach. You’ll be less likely to become intoxicated too quickly. Luckily, Santa Barbara has dozens of establishments that can tempt any pallet, so you’re sure to easily find a delicious late night meal or snack throughout your night.

Especially if you’re in a busy club or bar, keep an eye on your drinks so you know they’re always safe to keep enjoying. It’s perfectly fine to order a new one for yourself, a friend, or coworker if you aren’t sure.

And while it can be tempting to keep drinking as the night goes on, becoming too intoxicated could ruin your night if you get sick or can’t think straight. Have a smart plan in place for how much you and your companions will drink.

Finally, if you plan to enjoy some alcohol during your Santa Barbara night out, don’t drive yourself home. Consider night out transportation instead, so you know you’ll get home safely.

Let Someone Else Drive

Letting someone else take the wheel is a great strategy for ensuring a safe night out in Santa Barbara County. It doesn’t just prevent you or a companion from driving under the influence or while super tired; there are many other benefits to booking night out transportation.

Even if you’ve had a Santa Barbara night out before, you’ll want to take in the sights as you travel to and through the city. The views are beautiful as the sun sets, and the area lights up beautifully as the stars come out. 

Our experienced and knowledgeable chauffeurs can do the driving so you aren’t distracted behind the wheel. 

They also know the fastest or most scenic routes, necessary detours, and safest driving practices. They are experts at navigating the Santa Barbara roads and downtown area, even on busy nights with lots of other cars and pedestrians.

Unfortunately, last minute cabs and ride shares aren’t always dependable when you need them. But Silk Road private transportation is reliable. Our cars and drivers arrive on time at your accommodation to take you downtown, and we’ll pick you up when you’ve planned for us to take you home. You won’t have to wait in the city late at night. 

Unexpected things do happen. But with a little planning, you can experience a safe night out in Santa Barbara County and fully enjoy all the sights, tastes, and music the area has to offer.

If you’re ready for a Santa Barbara night out, let Silk Road Transportation help you get to and from your evening of fun.. We’ve got your transport needs covered.