Hotels in Santa Barbara

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Top 5 hotels in Santa Barbara at a glance

  1. Inn By The Harbor — 3.5-star hotel in Santa Barbara Beach. Guest rating: 9.2/10 — Wonderful.
  2. Hotel Santa Barbara — 3-star hotel in Downtown Santa Barbara. Guest rating: 9.4/10 — Exceptional.
  3. The Milo — 4-star hotel in Santa Barbara Beach. Guest rating: 8.6/10 — Excellent.
  4. Lavender Inn by the Sea — 3.5-star hotel in Santa Barbara Beach. Guest rating: 9.2/10 — Wonderful.
  5. Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach — 3.5-star hotel in Santa Barbara Beach. Guest rating: 9.4/10 — Exceptional.

Where to stay in Santa Barbara?

Properties are selected based on real traveler reviews and popularity among guests who’ve booked a night in Santa Barbara on Hotels.com. These Santa Barbara hotels consistently deliver on comfort, location and traveler experience. Last updated on .

Exterior

Inn By The Harbor

Inn By The Harbor
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,869 reviews)
"Breakfast are appreciated amenities. We always stay here. The location is great."
United States
DARCY
5 days ago
$278 nightly
The price is $318
Jun 29 - Jun 30
Total with taxes and fees
Inn By The Harbor
Reception

Hotel Santa Barbara

Hotel Santa Barbara
3.0 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,412 reviews)
"Every staff member I encountered was very warm."
United States
Brittany
7 days ago
$263 nightly
The price is $300
Jul 1 - Jul 2
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Santa Barbara
Exterior detail

The Milo

The Milo
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,590 reviews)
"The Milo is a good spot for long or short stays."
United States
Thomas
4 days ago
$286 nightly
The price is $327
Jul 5 - Jul 6
Total with taxes and fees
The Milo
Free daily continental breakfast

Lavender Inn by the Sea

Lavender Inn by the Sea
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,332 reviews)
"The staff is very friendly. The hotel is walking distance to shops beach."
United States
Claudia
2 days ago
$260 nightly
The price is $297
Jul 1 - Jul 2
Total with taxes and fees
Lavender Inn by the Sea
Exterior

Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,398 reviews)
"Very nice simple place to stay and very nice staff."
United States
Brian E.
4 days ago
$298 nightly
The price is $340
Jul 28 - Jul 29
Total with taxes and fees
Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach
Deluxe Room, Multiple Beds (Deluxe Queen Suite) | Desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes, iron/ironing board

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,271 reviews)
"The front desk clerk was super sweet."
United States
Brandie
4 days ago
$203 nightly
The price is $230
Jul 19 - Jul 20
Total with taxes and fees
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
View from property

West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel

West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,124 reviews)
"Absolutely wonderful n charming across from the ocean on site parking great location great restaurant."
United States
Leah
9 days ago
$229 nightly
The price is $261
Jun 30 - Jul 1
Total with taxes and fees
West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel
Terrace/patio

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
7.8 out of 10, Good, (336 reviews)
"Our room was big. We liked the hotel it's beautiful."
United States
Constance
5 days ago
$326 nightly
The price is $372
Jul 5 - Jul 6
Total with taxes and fees
Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
Luxury Suite, 1 Bedroom, Ocean View (Anacapa) | Beach/ocean view

Santa Barbara Inn

Santa Barbara Inn
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,004 reviews)
"The facility was more modern than we expected."
United States
Fanlu
2 days ago
$269 nightly
The price is $307
Jun 29 - Jun 30
Total with taxes and fees
Santa Barbara Inn
Sports facility

Hyatt Place Santa Barbara

Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,129 reviews)
"Held great conversations. Were very pleasant to talk."
United States
Taylor
16 days ago
$254 nightly
The price is $295
Jun 30 - Jul 1
Total with taxes and fees
Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
Room, 2 Double Beds, Garden View | Premium bedding, pillowtop beds, in-room safe, desk

Riviera Beach House

Riviera Beach House
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,000 reviews)
"Pros dog friendly hotel. Funk Zone Cons we got the room with 2 double beds."
United States
Sharon
2 days ago
$256 nightly
The price is $292
Jul 26 - Jul 27
Total with taxes and fees
Riviera Beach House
Outdoor pool

Harbor View Inn

Harbor View Inn
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Amazing location, staff, rooms, exceptional experience."
United States
Miyuan
8 days ago
$348 nightly
The price is $397
Jul 7 - Jul 8
Total with taxes and fees
Harbor View Inn
Lobby sitting area

Beachside Inn

Beachside Inn
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,217 reviews)
"The staff was amazingly helpful. The breakfast was much better than most hotel breakfasts."
United States
Veronica
9 days ago
$209 nightly
The price is $239
Jul 12 - Jul 13
Total with taxes and fees
Beachside Inn
Daily cooked-to-order breakfast for a fee

Best Western Plus Santa Barbara

Best Western Plus Santa Barbara
3.5 star property
Oak Park
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,000 reviews)
"Room is nice and clean."
United States
Selvin
12 days ago
$209 nightly
The price is $239
Jun 28 - Jun 29
Total with taxes and fees
Best Western Plus Santa Barbara
Superior Apartment, 2 Bedrooms, Kitchen, Mountain View | Living area | 65-inch Smart TV with digital channels, Netflix, Hulu

Casa Riviera

Casa Riviera
4.5 star property
Laguna
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (234 reviews)
"Very clean and large studio room and beautifully decorated."
United States
jina
2 days ago
$248 nightly
The price is $283
Jun 29 - Jun 30
Total with taxes and fees
Casa Riviera
Exterior

Mar Monte Hotel, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

Mar Monte Hotel, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (1,004 reviews)
"Staff greeted us kindly. We had a pleasurable stay at Mar Monte."
United States
Andrew
17 days ago
$357 nightly
The price is $408
Jul 5 - Jul 6
Total with taxes and fees
Mar Monte Hotel, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
Room amenity

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach
2.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,394 reviews)
"Great location for beach activities and a fun, clean environment."
United States
Richard
3 days ago
$189 nightly
The price is $216
Jul 6 - Jul 7
Total with taxes and fees
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach
Fountain

The Franciscan Hotel

The Franciscan Hotel
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,192 reviews)
"Very dog friendly. Beautiful property with the perfect vintage."
United States
Elizabeth
4 days ago
$212 nightly
The price is $242
Jun 29 - Jun 30
Total with taxes and fees
The Franciscan Hotel
Lobby sitting area

Sandpiper Lodge

Sandpiper Lodge
2.0 star property
North State
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (2,510 reviews)
"It was a lovely experience nice clean rooms."
United States
Laura
4 days ago
$127 nightly
The price is $145
Jun 28 - Jun 29
Total with taxes and fees
Sandpiper Lodge
Front of property

Mason Beach Inn

Mason Beach Inn
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,004 reviews)
"This place was very nice with very spacious nice rooms and nice staff."
United Kingdom
James
17 days ago
$358 nightly
The price is $407
Jul 23 - Jul 24
Total with taxes and fees
Mason Beach Inn
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Lobby
The Upham Hotel

The Upham Hotel

The Upham Hotel
4.0 star property
Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
We have 4 left at
$176 nightly
The price is $200
Total with taxes and fees
The Upham Hotel
Showing deals for:Jul 3 - Jul 5
Exterior
El Encanto Santa Barbara

El Encanto Santa Barbara

El Encanto Santa Barbara
5.0 star property
Upper Riviera
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (574 reviews)
$1,661 nightly
The price is $3,795
Total with taxes and fees
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El Encanto Santa Barbara

Check out pet-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara

Exterior
Casa Iglesia

Casa Iglesia

Casa Iglesia
4.5 star property
Oak Park
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (19)
$204 nightly
The price is $233
Jun 29 - Jun 30
Total with taxes and fees
Casa Iglesia
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You may also like hotels with pools in Santa Barbara

Lobby sitting area
Sandpiper Lodge

Sandpiper Lodge

Sandpiper Lodge
2.0 star property
North State
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (2510)
$127 nightly
The price is $145
Jun 28 - Jun 29
Total with taxes and fees
Sandpiper Lodge
View all properties

You can also stay at family-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara

Exterior
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara

Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara

Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1213)
$196 nightly
The price is $227
Jul 5 - Jul 6
Total with taxes and fees
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
View all properties

When is the best time to visit Santa Barbara?

Our prices for hotels in Santa Barbara are cheapest in May
Price trends for hotels in Santa Barbara
Pricing is based on two traveler single night rates
View properties in June
Currently viewing crowd sizes and weather for June.
Typical weather for Santa Barbara
June
High 76°F / low 59°F. Sunny most days.
View properties in June
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June, no crowd data, average high temperature 76 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 59 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunny most days.
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July, no crowd data, average high temperature 80 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 64 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunny most days.
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August, no crowd data, average high temperature 81 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunny most days.
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September, no crowd data, average high temperature 81 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 64 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunny most days.
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October, no crowd data, average high temperature 77 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 59 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunny most days.
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November, no crowd data, average high temperature 70 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 53 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunny most days.
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December, no crowd data, average high temperature 64 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 49 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunny most days.
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January, no crowd data, average high temperature 65 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 49 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunny most days.
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February, no crowd data, average high temperature 64 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 48 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunny most days.
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March, no crowd data, average high temperature 66 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 49 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunny most days.
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April, no crowd data, average high temperature 69 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 52 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunny most days.
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May, no crowd data, average high temperature 72 degrees Fahrenheit, average low temperature 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunny most days.
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Monthly weather averages (˚F)

Top neighborhoods in Santa Barbara

A coastal house on stilts with a pier extending into calm waters, surrounded by boats and mountains in the background.

The Funk Zone

Santa Barbara's Funk Zone has traded its industrial past for artistic cool, with colorful murals splashed across converted warehouses. You can watch glassblowers craft masterpieces in working studios, hop between wine tasting rooms, or explore interactive exhibits at MOXI museum. The neighborhood sits just three blocks from East Beach, making it easy to combine creative inspiration with ocean relaxation. Getting around this compact six-block area is a breeze on foot, with everything from craft breweries to art galleries within walking distance. Most venues open around 11am, with tasting rooms pouring until 8-9pm. While accommodations are limited within the Zone itself, boutique hotels with industrial-chic vibes can be found nearby.

A sandy beach with large rocks in the foreground and a cliff with trees in the background.

The Mesa

The Mesa serves up California coastal living with a laid-back, residential vibe. Shoreline Park crowns the neighborhood with sweeping Pacific views and palm-lined paths perfect for sunset strolls. Beach lovers can brave the Mesa Lane Steps down steep cliffs to secluded sands, while nature enthusiasts explore eucalyptus-scented trails through the Douglas Family Preserve's coastal scrubland. This quiet hillside area has minimal dining options, so most visitors drive downtown for restaurants. With primarily vacation rentals and private homes available, The Mesa offers an authentic Santa Barbara experience away from tourist crowds. A car is essential for exploring this Mediterranean-style neighborhood where ocean breezes and birdsong replace city noise.

A coastal beach with palm trees, a sandy shore, and a clear blue sky.

Montecito

Celebrity-favored Montecito offers backcountry hiking trails and attractions like Lotusland and El Fureidis. Easily accessible via State Route 192 and the U.S. 101 Freeway, it's well-connected to Santa Barbara County.

A coastal town with a pier extending into the ocean, a beach, and a mix of residential and commercial buildings.

Santa Barbara Beach

Santa Barbara Beach captivates with pristine sandy shorelines and ocean vistas framed by the Santa Ynez Mountains. Stearns Wharf extends into the Pacific, offering seafood dining and the Sea Center for curious explorers. The palm-lined Cabrillo Boulevard buzzes with cyclists and joggers while East Beach draws volleyball enthusiasts and sun-seekers. Upscale oceanfront restaurants serve fresh seafood alongside casual beachside cafés with perfect sunset views. Luxury resorts and boutique hotels dominate the accommodation scene with spa services and prime beach access. Getting around is breezy with rental bikes, a coastal path, and easy walking access to most waterfront attractions.

A coastal town with a prominent white building with a red roof, palm trees, and mountains in the background.

Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara pairs historic Spanish charm with beachside bliss just blocks from the Pacific. Red-tiled roofs and palm-lined streets create a picture-perfect backdrop as you explore the iconic County Courthouse and El Presidio. State Street buzzes with boutiques, restaurants, and theaters where you can shop, dine, or catch a show. From casual tacos to upscale seafood, the food scene satisfies every craving. Most attractions sit within easy walking distance, though public buses run regularly along main routes. Boutique hotels and historic inns offer stylish stays that capture Santa Barbara's relaxed coastal elegance.

Top landmarks in Santa Barbara

A marina with multiple boats docked, calm water, and a clear sky.
Photo by Adam Hoggatt
Open Photo by Adam Hoggatt

Santa Barbara Harbor

9.2/5 (2,746 reviews)
You can stroll along Santa Barbara Harbor for relaxing water views when you're in Santa Barbara Beach. If you carry on walking you'll get to West Beach, Stearns Wharf, and Leadbetter Beach for some more water views.
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Santa Barbara and related destinations

Red-tiled roofs and whitewashed buildings create a Mediterranean fantasy along America's Riviera. The historic Mission Santa Barbara stands as a testament to Spanish influence, while the County Courthouse offers panoramic views from its clock tower. Kayak along the palm-fringed coastline or sample local vintages at beachfront tasting rooms where pourers know every vineyard by name. The Funk Zone's converted warehouses house artisan shops and hip eateries between State Street and the shore. Leadbetter Beach attracts sunbathers while East Beach hosts serious volleyball players on permanent courts. After exploring the compact zoo, catch a performance at the Granada or Arlington Theatre, where golden-age Hollywood glamour lives on in every ornate detail.

See all hotels in Santa Barbara
A coastal town with a beach, houses, and mountains in the background.

Check out reviews of Santa Barbara hotels guests love

Inn By The Harbor

Inn By The Harbor

10/10 Excellent
"Super friendly. Inn is a little dated but very clean and welcoming."
Jenifer 1-night trip
Posted 2 hours ago
Inn By The Harbor

Frequently asked questions

How much does a hotel room cost in Santa Barbara?
You can find top hotels in Santa Barbara from $145 with options to suit your budget and needs. ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel and Castillo Inn at the Beach are a couple of affordable hotels popular with our travelers. To find an affordable hotel in Santa Barbara that meets all of your requirements, just apply filters on Hotels.com and sort hotels by "Price: low to high".
How can I find deals and earn rewards at Santa Barbara hotels?
Discover great deals on Santa Barbara hotel stays with Hotels.com. It's also a good idea to look at hotel prices mid-week or during the low season as you're likely to find off-peak deals. If you're up for a spontaneous trip, don't forget to check out our last-minute deals on Santa Barbara hotels.
Can I book Santa Barbara hotels with free cancellation?
It's easy to book a refundable Santa Barbara hotel on Hotels.com. Simply filter hotels by "Property cancellation options" and select "Fully refundable property". Many hotels offer free cancellation, so you can receive a refund if you need to cancel. Some hotels do require cancelling more than 24 hours before check-in, so double-check your booking beforehand.
What are the top-rated luxury hotels in Santa Barbara?
Some of the most popular luxury hotels in Santa Barbara are Hotel Californian, Simpson House Inn, and Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara. Hotel Californian is a luxury hotel with a high guest rating amongst our travelers, and it offers an outdoor pool, a full-service spa and private wine tours. Simpson House Inn and Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara are also popular luxury stays in great Santa Barbara locations.
What are some of the best Santa Barbara beach hotels?
For a beachy vacation in Santa Barbara, Butterfly Beach, Miramar Beach, and Leadbetter Beach are some of the best places to visit. Stay at a top-rated Santa Barbara beach hotel and make the most of your vacation. Check out West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel in Santa Barbara Beach if you're after a hotel that's near the water. With beach access plus an outdoor pool and a hot tub, our travelers rate it highly at 9.4 out of 10. Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel is another great choice for a relaxing beach vacation in Santa Barbara Beach. Located near the beach, this motel has an outdoor pool and a terrace along with a variety of other amenities to enjoy, and our travelers rate it 8.8. If you're venturing to Santa Barbara Beach, The Milo is another ideal choice. Travelers love the beach access plus the 2 outdoor pools and hot tub, and it has a guest rating of 8.6.
What are some top pet-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara?
Our travelers' top pet-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara include:You can also use the "Amenities" filter in your search on Hotels.com and check "Pet friendly" to discover more pet-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara.
What are some of the best hotels in Santa Barbara for couples?
Stay at a top-rated Santa Barbara romantic hotel and make the most of your couple's vacation. Our travelers love Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara, a hotel in Montecito with a beach as well as in-room massages. Another romantic hotel with top reviews is El Encanto Santa Barbara. This hotel can be found in Upper Riviera with an ocean-view restaurant and an outdoor pool for a perfect stay. Use the "Traveler experience" filter in your search and select "Adults only" or "Romantic" to find even more hotels in Santa Barbara for couples on Hotels.com.
What are some of the best kid-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara?
Some of the most well reviewed Santa Barbara hotels for kids include Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara, El Encanto Santa Barbara, and Rosewood Miramar Beach. Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara is a kid-friendly hotel in Montecito with a guest score of 9.4 out of 10, offering family-friendly amenities like a beach and a free children's club, plus free cribs in guestrooms. Check out El Encanto Santa Barbara in Upper Riviera with a guest score of 9.4. This popular hotel has an outdoor pool and children's meals, as well as free cribs in the guestrooms. Rosewood Miramar Beach is another good option in Montecito with a beach, 2 outdoor pools, and 2 hot tubs. Find even more kid-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara by using our "Family friendly" filter on Hotels.com when you search.
What are the top Santa Barbara hotels with a pool?
For a little extra luxury, discover some of the best Santa Barbara hotels with a pool. Lavender Inn by the Sea is a great hotel in Santa Barbara Beach with an outdoor pool and a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. Plus, you can make the most of its free continental breakfast and gym. West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel is a popular hotel in Santa Barbara Beach that features an outdoor pool along with a beach (direct access) and a hot tub. To find more stays in Santa Barbara with a pool, use the "Amenities" filter on Hotels.com in your search and select "Pool".
What are some of the best Santa Barbara hotels with free parking?
If you're exploring by car, finding a great Santa Barbara hotel with free parking is a win. Our travelers' favorites include:
  • Beachside Inn: A hotel in Santa Barbara Beach with an average guest rating of 9 out of 10
  • La Playa Inn: A hotel in Santa Barbara Beach with an average guest rating of 9.6
  • Marina Beach Hotel: A motel in Santa Barbara Beach with an average guest rating of 9.8
What are the top Santa Barbara boutique hotels?
Treat yourself to a stylish and luxurious boutique hotel in Santa Barbara. El Encanto Santa Barbara is a popular hotel with our travelers, offering guests an outdoor pool and a full-service spa as well as individually decorated guestrooms with streaming services and late-night room service. You'll find it in Upper Riviera, a great location. Another top-rated boutique property is Palihouse Santa Barbara. Located in Laguna, this upscale property has an outdoor pool and a restaurant along with individually decorated guestrooms with balconies/patios and fireplaces.
What are some popular hotels in central Santa Barbara?
For hotels in central Santa Barbara, check out Santa Barbara Inn and Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel. Travelers love Santa Barbara Inn for its location, as well as the outdoor pool, ocean-view restaurant and bar/lounge this hotel offers. Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel is another popular central motel with an outdoor pool, a terrace and free parking. Stay at one of these hotels for easy access to top sights like Santa Barbara Harbor, Santa Barbara Zoo, and Santa Barbara Bowl. Santa Barbara Beach and Montecito are some of the most central neighborhoods for your Santa Barbara vacation.

Find out more about Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara: Where Sun-Kissed Shores Embrace Coastal Charm

Experience the enchanting allure of Santa Barbara, California, where sun-kissed beaches meet Spanish colonial charm. Stroll through downtown's vibrant streets, lined with upscale boutiques and gourmet eateries, before relaxing at luxurious beachfront hotels or cozy seaside inns. Explore the picturesque Santa Barbara Harbor, perfect for sailing and sunsets, while the stunning coastline invites beach lovers to unwind on pristine sands. With its captivating blend of culture, nature, and romance, Santa Barbara is an idyllic getaway for all who seek relaxation and adventure in a truly stunning setting.

Discover great hotels near Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara offers a diverse selection of accommodations, from luxury hotels with stunning ocean views to charming boutique inns. Many properties feature relaxing spas, inviting hotel bars, and beautifully appointed rooms, making it easy to unwind after a day of exploring this picturesque coastal destination. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers near Santa Barbara:

  1. Best Western Plus South Coast InnOpens in a new window: This charming budget-friendly hotel features a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10 and is ideal for leisure travelers seeking beach adventures. With direct access to the beach, guests can indulge in a variety of nearby adventure sports including windsurfing, kayaking, and motorboating. The property boasts a beautiful outdoor pool and modern accommodations designed for comfort. Review sentiments highlight the clean rooms, inviting atmosphere, and exceptional outdoor spaces, making it a delightful choice for those looking to unwind and enjoy the scenic Santa Barbara coastline.
  2. Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/GoletaOpens in a new window: Rated 8.4 out of 10, this budget-friendly hotel is perfect for travelers seeking a vibrant and inclusive beach getaway. With direct beach access, guests can explore nearby adventure sports such as hiking, kayaking, and parasailing. The hotel features a refreshing pool and a satisfying breakfast, ensuring a pleasant stay. Positive sentiments emphasize the well-maintained property and welcoming environment, appealing to those looking for a lively and engaging vacation experience in Santa Barbara.
  3. The Leta Santa Barbara GoletaOpens in a new window: This delightful 4.0-star hotel boasts a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10 and caters to leisure travelers seeking a unique beach experience with hot spring amenities. With direct beach access and a natural hot spring nearby, guests can unwind in a tranquil setting while enjoying various adventure sports like snorkeling and horseback riding. The cozy and thoughtfully designed rooms create a welcoming atmosphere, complemented by friendly service. Positive reviews stress the comfortable accommodations and charming décor, making it an excellent choice for those looking to relax and rejuvenate in Santa Barbara.

Where to stay in Santa Barbara

In Santa Barbara, California, great areas to stay include Hope Ranch, Lower Village, and Montecito. Hope Ranch offers upscale living and beautiful beaches, while Lower Village provides charming shops and restaurants. Montecito is known for its luxury hotels and coastal lifestyle. For first-time visitors, Lower Village is ideal due to its proximity to downtown attractions and dining options.

  1. MontecitoOpens in a new window: If you're looking for a luxurious getaway, Montecito is the place to be. Nestled between the mountains and the ocean, this charming area is known for its stunning beaches and upscale shopping. You can explore the beautiful Butterfly Beach, perfect for relaxing or enjoying a sunset. The area is also home to a variety of boutique shops and art galleries, providing a unique shopping experience. Don’t miss the chance to visit the picturesque Lotusland, a botanical garden filled with rare plants and beautiful landscapes.
  2. Lower VillageOpens in a new window: Lower Village is a delightful spot that captures the essence of Santa Barbara's coastal charm. Known for its quaint shops and local markets, it's a wonderful place to stroll and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. The proximity to the beach makes it easy to enjoy sun-soaked days, while local parks offer green spaces for relaxation. With charming cafes and cultural attractions nearby, Lower Village provides a cozy, community-oriented vibe for travelers looking to immerse themselves in local life.
  3. Hope RanchOpens in a new window: If privacy and tranquility are what you seek, Hope Ranch is an idyllic choice. This exclusive residential area features beautiful landscapes with stunning ocean views and lush gardens, making it a peaceful retreat. The nearby beach access allows for serene walks along the shore, while the surrounding trails are perfect for leisurely hikes. Hope Ranch is not just about relaxation; its proximity to Santa Barbara's cultural attractions ensures you can easily explore art galleries and theaters when you're ready for a taste of local culture.

Things to do in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara enchants travelers with its stunning beaches, majestic mountains, and lush parks. Enjoy leisurely walks along the coastline, explore scenic biking trails, or unwind with captivating sunsets. With charming seaside inns and vacation rentals, it's the perfect getaway for those seeking relaxation and outdoor fun.

  • Mission Santa BarbaraOpens in a new window – Step into history at Mission Santa Barbara, a beautiful church that showcases stunning architecture and rich heritage. Take a guided tour to learn about its significance in California’s history and enjoy the serene gardens that surround this landmark.
  • Butterfly BeachOpens in a new window – Embrace the sun at Butterfly Beach, where golden sands meet the sparkling ocean. Perfect for sunbathing or a leisurely stroll, this beach also offers breathtaking sunset views that are sure to leave you in awe.
  • Arroyo Burro BeachOpens in a new window – Head to Arroyo Burro Beach for a relaxed beach day. This charming spot is ideal for picnics, beachcombing, and spotting local wildlife. Don’t miss the chance to dive into the refreshing waters or enjoy a delightful meal at the nearby café.
  • Santa Barbara County CourthouseOpens in a new window – Visit the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, a stunning historic Civic Government Building that features beautiful murals and intricate tile work. Climb to the top of the clock tower for panoramic views of the city and surrounding coastline.
  • Santa Barbara HarborOpens in a new window – Explore Santa Barbara Harbor, a vibrant marina filled with boats and charming shops. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront, savor fresh seafood at local eateries, or simply relax and watch the world go by.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Santa Barbara

  1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Santa Barbara is during January, February, and November when hotel prices are lower. For a budget-friendly getaway, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the city’s key historical landmarks and cultural attractions. You can explore beautiful beaches, indulge in local wineries, stroll along the sea, shop in charming boutiques, and savor delicious meals at cafes and dining spots. Don’t miss the stunning sunsets and the opportunity to bike through scenic areas, making your trip a great value for money.
  2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: For travelers considering a getaway to Santa Barbara, exploring the DealsOpens in a new window and Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com may lead to discounted rates on accommodations close to your travel date. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could stay informed about flash sales and special promotions. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, helping you identify our best options. With real-time updates on availability and pricing, you're more likely to find the perfect room for your last-minute escape.
  3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Being flexible with your travel dates may help you find a better deal on your stay in a Santa Barbara hotel. If you're interested in unique accommodations, boutique hotels can provide a more personalized experience and potentially better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is higher than usual, we’ll suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, helping you to find a great option.
  4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Santa Barbara's great public transportation options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that still offers good connections. If you're interested in exploring less crowded neighborhoods or even some lesser-known nearby towns, you can often find excellent value for your money. Opting for these alternative locations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 55.0°F (12.8°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 72.9°F (22.7°C). December is usually the wettest month. June to August are the peak travel months in Santa Barbara, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. On the other hand, January, February, and May tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to light rainfall and sunny conditions.

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