Hotels in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara: Where Sun-Kissed Shores Meet Enchanting Coastal Culture

Nestled between the stunning Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara is a coastal gem that enchants visitors with its Mediterranean charm. Explore downtown's vibrant streets lined with Spanish-style architecture, boutique shops, and delicious eateries. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Santa Barbara Harbour, where sailboats dance on the water and fresh seafood awaits. Unwind on sun-kissed beaches or indulge in wine tasting in the nearby vineyards. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and romantic ambiance, Santa Barbara promises an unforgettable escape for every traveller. For our best hotel rates in Santa Barbara and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Santa Barbara

Some of the best places to stay in Santa Barbara are Montecito, Downtown Santa Barbara and West Beach. Santa Barbara, California, offers enchanting destinations for travellers. Montecito boasts upscale charm with luxury hotels and serene landscapes. Downtown Santa Barbara provides vibrant shopping, dining, and historic sites, perfect for first-time visitors. West Beach features beautiful seaside views and a relaxed atmosphere. Accommodations range from boutique hotels to historic inns, with varied room rates to suit all budgets. Each area promises a unique experience, ensuring a memorable vacation in this stunning coastal city. Here are some of the best hotels in Santa Barbara that our travelers love:

1. MontecitoOpens in a new window: Montecito is a picturesque area known for its stunning beaches and outdoor adventures. With attractions like Santa Barbara Harbor, Butterfly Beach, and Stearns Wharf, it's perfect for those seeking relaxation and adventure. Hotels in this area include Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa BarbaraOpens in a new window, a 5-star property offering direct beach access and business amenities for a comfortable stay. Montecito InnOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel, also provides beach access, adventure sports, and extensive business facilities. For family-friendly options, Rosewood Miramar BeachOpens in a new window is another 5-star hotel featuring amenities for children alongside its beachside location.
2. Downtown Santa BarbaraOpens in a new window: This vibrant area blends family-friendly attractions with cultural heritage, featuring the Santa Barbara County Courthouse and Stearns Wharf. El EncantoOpens in a new window is a luxurious 5-star hotel with beach access and adventure activity options nearby. Another great option is Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHGOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel that also offers direct beach access and various adventure sports. For a blend of luxury and adventure in the city centre, Simpson House InnOpens in a new window, a 5-star Bed & Breakfast, is an excellent choice.
3. West BeachOpens in a new window: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to key attractions, West Beach is ideal for beach lovers. It offers easy access to Santa Barbara Harbor and the County Courthouse. Hideaway Santa BarbaraOpens in a new window is a 4-star Bed & Breakfast that welcomes pets, making it a unique choice for travellers with furry friends. For those seeking adventure and business amenities, Inn By The HarborOpens in a new window and Lavender Inn by the SeaOpens in a new window are both 3.5-star hotels that provide direct access to the beach and various recreational activities.

Things to do in Santa Barbara for first times

Three days in Santa Barbara offer the perfect opportunity to soak in stunning beaches, majestic mountains, and lush parks. Enjoy activities like biking along scenic coastal paths, hiking through diverse landscapes, or unwinding with picturesque sunsets. This charming destination promises relaxation and adventure in a breathtaking natural setting. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Santa Barbara:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the Santa Barbara Harbor, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the ocean and perhaps even catch a glimpse of local marine life. After soaking in the seaside atmosphere, take a short walk to the iconic Moreton Bay Fig Tree, known for its impressive canopy and historical significance. Finally, immerse yourself in the artistic heritage of the region at the Carriage and Western Art Museum, where you can explore fascinating exhibits showcasing the region's equestrian history and Western art.
• Day 2: Your day starts on Upper State Street, a vibrant area filled with boutique shops and delightful cafes perfect for a leisurely breakfast. Next, head to the Earl Warren Showgrounds, where you can check out any local events or exhibitions happening during your visit. Conclude your day with a visit to the stunning Mission Santa Barbara, known as the Queen of the Missions, where you can learn about its rich history and beautiful architecture.
• Day 3: Kick off your morning at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, a magnificent architectural gem that offers panoramic views from its clock tower. After taking in the sights, make your way to Butterfly Beach, a serene spot perfect for sunbathing or a leisurely walk along the shore. Wrap up your day at Stearns Wharf, where you can enjoy fresh seafood, browse local shops, and watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean, making for a perfect end to your Santa Barbara experience.

4 tips to find a great Santa Barbara hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Santa Barbara is during January, February, and November, when hotel rates tend to be lower. For international travellers, it’s advisable to book your flight at least 3 months in advance to secure cheaper fares. Domestic travellers should aim to book at least 2 months ahead for better deals. To truly enjoy the main attractions, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended. Santa Barbara offers great value for money, with highlights including its stunning beaches and the beautiful sea, making it a fantastic destination for those on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Searching for last-minute deals to Santa Barbara can lead to great savings on your getaway. To explore the best options on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you might uncover affordable rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. You could also consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, keeping you informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute offers, so you’re more likely to snag a bargain on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As such, being flexible with your travel dates could mean you may save on hotel expenses in Santa Barbara.
4. Consider your location: When booking your holiday accommodation on Hotels.com, take your location into account. Staying closer to major attractions or city centres can offer greater convenience, but it often comes at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, as they usually tend to be cheaper while still allowing you to balance cost with easy access to the places you intend to visit.

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, with no rainfall. On the other hand, January, May, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to light rainfall and sunny conditions.