Hotels in Santa Barbara

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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 quality, location and traveler experience. Last updated on .

1. Sandpiper Lodge

Sandpiper Lodge
2.0 star property
North State
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (2,816 reviews)
The price is CA $142
CA $162 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 8 - Nov 9
Sandpiper Lodge

2. Hotel Santa Barbara

Hotel Santa Barbara
4.0 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,570 reviews)
The price is CA $420
CA $489 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 8 - Dec 9
Hotel Santa Barbara

3. Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (2,448 reviews)
A cozy motel just a 5-minute drive from Santa Barbara Harbour and Zoo. After sightseeing, unwind in the outdoor pool and relaxing hot tub. With free WiFi, parking, and comfortable beds, this hotel earns praise for its helpful staff and tasty breakfast.
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

4. Hyatt Place Santa Barbara

Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,211 reviews)
Experience comfort at this Santa Barbara hotel with convenient access to the harbour and UCSB. Energize at the fitness centre before enjoying the restaurant or unwinding at the bar. The terrace provides a perfect spot to relax after exploring nearby La Cumbre Plaza.
The price is CA $237
CA $280 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 29 - Nov 30
Hyatt Place Santa Barbara

5. Inn By The Harbor

Inn By The Harbor
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,965 reviews)
The price is CA $328
CA $375 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 10 - Nov 11
Inn By The Harbor

6. The Milo

The Milo
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,615 reviews)
Bask in Mediterranean vibes at this beach hotel steps from Santa Barbara Harbour. Enjoy the outdoor pool, free bikes, and volleyball court. Clean rooms await after exploring West Beach or catching a train from the nearby station.
The price is CA $344
CA $392 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 30 - Dec 1
The Milo

7. 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, (1,462 reviews)
Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this Santa Barbara gem, just a 5-minute walk to the harbour. Complimentary bike rentals, an outdoor pool, and hot tub enhance your coastal escape, while immaculate gardens create a peaceful backdrop for your stay.
The price is CA $332
CA $379 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 9 - Nov 10
Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

8. Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
7.6 out of 10, Good, (499 reviews)
Immerse yourself in coastal splendour at this beachfront resort. Located near Santa Barbara Harbour and East Beach, the hotel offers 2 restaurants, outdoor pool, and full-service spa. Guests can enjoy pickleball courts, water activities, and relaxation in a serene atmosphere.
The price is CA $309
CA $415 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 29 - Nov 30
Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

9. The Franciscan Hotel

The Franciscan Hotel
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,332 reviews)
Wake up to Santa Barbara's charm at this beachside hotel with a refreshing pool and hot tub. Borrow complimentary bicycles to visit nearby Santa Barbara Harbour and Zoo, or walk to the train station. Free WiFi and parking complete your carefree coastal getaway.
The price is CA $192
CA $219 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 7 - Dec 8
The Franciscan Hotel

10. Beachside Inn

Beachside Inn
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,326 reviews)
Experience coastal charm at this hotel with an outdoor pool just 5 minutes from Santa Barbara Harbour and Zoo. Wake up to complimentary breakfast before strolling to nearby beaches and pier. Higher floor rooms showcase stunning ocean and sunset vistas.
The price is CA $204
CA $233 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 9 - Nov 10
Beachside Inn

11. The Upham Hotel

The Upham Hotel
4.0 star property
Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
Romantic getaway in the heart of Santa Barbara offers free WiFi and convenient parking. Explore nearby Santa Barbara Public Market, then savour American cuisine at Louies Restaurant. The 24-hour front desk staff delivers exceptional service in this historic setting.
The price is CA $377
CA $430 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 29 - Nov 30
The Upham Hotel

12. Casa Riviera, a ZenStay Hotel

Casa Riviera, a ZenStay Hotel
4.5 star property
Laguna
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (361 reviews)
Slip into comfort at this upscale aparthotel with Egyptian cotton sheets and designer toiletries. Just 5 minutes from Santa Barbara Bowl and Zoo, with Santa Barbara Harbour nearby. Free WiFi, parking and Netflix complement your coastal getaway.
The price is CA $200
CA $333 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 30 - Dec 1
Casa Riviera, a ZenStay Hotel

13. Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara

Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,488 reviews)
Peaceful gardens surround this hotel where you'll enjoy a free breakfast before exploring Santa Barbara. Just 10 minutes from the harbour, with snorkelling nearby, guests love the outdoor pool and serene atmosphere. Staff are helpful and parking is free.
The price is CA $265
CA $307 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 11 - Nov 12
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara

14. Lavender Inn by the Sea

Lavender Inn by the Sea
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,359 reviews)
Lavender-scented gardens create a tranquil atmosphere just minutes from Santa Barbara Harbour. The outdoor pool offers relaxation after exploring nearby State Street shops. Guests love the comfortable beds and complimentary breakfast at this seaside retreat.
The price is CA $230
CA $263 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 17 - Nov 18
Lavender Inn by the Sea

15. Marina Beach Hotel

Marina Beach Hotel
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,200 reviews)
Marina Beach Motel sits just a 5-minute walk from Santa Barbara Harbour with hiking trails nearby. Enjoy a continental breakfast, borrow bikes to explore, or relax in the garden and terrace. Guests love the comfortable beds and helpful staff.
The price is CA $219
CA $249 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 17 - Nov 18
Marina Beach Hotel

16. Lemon Tree Inn

Lemon Tree Inn
3.5 star property
North State
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,499 reviews)
Located within a short drive from Santa Barbara Harbour, this hotel offers a refreshing outdoor pool and rooftop terrace. Grab meals at The Crocodile Restaurant or unwind at the bar. Free WiFi, complimentary parking, and lush garden surroundings enhance your coastal escape.
The price is CA $168
CA $192 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 16 - Nov 17
Lemon Tree Inn

17. 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, (1,522 reviews)
This Santa Barbara motel offers an outdoor pool, free WiFi, and convenient parking. Located near East Beach, with Santa Barbara Harbour only 10 minutes away by car. Guests love the clean rooms and friendly staff at this coastal retreat.
The price is CA $167
CA $191 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 18 - Nov 19
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

18. Best Western Plus Santa Barbara

Best Western Plus Santa Barbara
3.5 star property
Oak Park
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,006 reviews)
This peaceful hotel features a beautifully landscaped garden, outdoor pool, and hot tub perfect for relaxation. Just 10 minutes from Santa Barbara Harbour and Zoo, with the well-reviewed Live Oak Cafe serving American meals throughout the day.
The price is CA $237
CA $271 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 22 - Nov 23
Best Western Plus Santa Barbara

19. Mason Beach Inn

Mason Beach Inn
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,002 reviews)
Escape to this peaceful Santa Barbara retreat steps from the beach. Located near Santa Barbara Harbour and Zoo, with an outdoor pool for relaxation. Hiking trails and mountain biking await nearby, while clean rooms and helpful staff ensure a comfortable coastal getaway.
The price is CA $291
CA $341 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 29 - Nov 30
Mason Beach Inn

20. Santa Barbara Inn

Santa Barbara Inn
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,002 reviews)
Mediterranean charm graces this beachfront inn with stunning ocean vistas. Steps from East Beach, the hotel offers Italian cuisine at Convivo restaurant, a serene outdoor pool, and peaceful rooms where you'll fall asleep to crashing waves.
The price is CA $387
CA $442 total
includes taxes & fees
Dec 6 - Dec 7
Santa Barbara Inn
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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.

When is the best time to visit Santa Barbara?

Our prices for hotels in Santa Barbara are cheapest in April
Price trends for hotels in Santa Barbara
Pricing is based on two traveller single night rates
View properties in November
Currently viewing crowd sizes and weather for November.
Typical weather for Santa Barbara
November
High 21°C / low 12°C. Sunny most days.
View properties in November
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Top neighborhoods in Santa Barbara

The Funk Zone

Santa Barbara's Funk Zone has traded its industrial past for artistic cool, with colourful 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 area 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.

The Mesa

The Mesa serves up California coastal living with a laid-back, residential vibe. Shoreline Park crowns the area 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 area where ocean breezes and birdsong replace city noise.

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.

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 Centre 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.

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 theatres 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

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.

A coastal town with a beach, houses, and mountains in the background.

Check out reviews of Santa Barbara hotels guests love

Frequently asked questions

How much does a hotel room cost in Santa Barbara?
You can find top hotels in Santa Barbara from CA $162 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, Leadbetter Beach, and Miramar 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 Harbor View Inn in Santa Barbara Beach if you're after a hotel that's near the water. With beach access plus an outdoor pool and a children's pool, our travelers rate it highly at 9.2 out of 10. The Milo is another great choice for a relaxing beach vacation in Santa Barbara Beach. Located near the beach, this hotel has 2 outdoor pools and a hot tub along with a variety of other amenities to enjoy, and our travelers rate it 8.6. If you're venturing to Montecito, Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara is another ideal choice. Travelers love the beachfront setting plus the 2 outdoor pools and hot tub, and it has a guest rating of 9.4.
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 offers 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 free supervised activities for children, plus free cribs in guestrooms. Check out El Encanto Santa Barbara 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. 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 Zoo, Santa Barbara County Courthouse, and Santa Barbara Harbor. Santa Barbara Beach and Montecito are some of the most central neighborhoods for your Santa Barbara vacation.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Santa Barbara?
If you need the flexibility to change your plans to Santa Barbara, most accommodations provide refundable* rates you can book. You can see these accommodations by searching our site and using the "fully refundable" filter to narrow down the results.

Find out more about Santa Barbara

Embrace the Coastal Charm of Santa Barbara: Where Nature Meets Culture

Discover the enchanting charm of Santa Barbara, California, where sun-kissed beaches meet the vibrant culture of this coastal gem. Stroll through downtown Santa Barbara, lined with Spanish-style architecture, boutique shops, and delightful eateries. Unwind at the picturesque Santa Barbara Harbour, where sailboats bob gently in the breeze. Explore the stunning landscapes of nearby state parks or soak up the sun on family-friendly beaches. With its romantic ambiance and abundant outdoor activities, Santa Barbara is a perfect getaway for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Experience the magic of this captivating destination—you won't want to leave! For unmissable hotel rates in Santa Barbara, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels near Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara offers a diverse range of hotel accommodations, from charming boutique inns to upscale resorts. Many properties feature beautiful ocean views, lush gardens, and easy access to local attractions. Enjoy a relaxing stay in this picturesque Californian coastal city, known for its Mediterranean climate and vibrant culture. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers near Santa Barbara:

  1. Best Western Plus South Coast InnOpens in a new window: This budget-friendly hotel boasts a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, making it an attractive choice for leisure travelers seeking a vibrant beach experience. With direct access to the beach, guests can indulge in adventure sports such as parasailing and windsurfing, all available nearby. The property offers a comfortable atmosphere, featuring a pool and hot tub for relaxation after a day of activities. Positive sentiments highlight the hotel’s ideal setup for short stays, complemented by amenities that ensure a pleasant experience.
  2. Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/GoletaOpens in a new window: With a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta presents a charming atmosphere for those looking for a beach getaway with an inclusive vibe. This budget-friendly hotel features direct beach access and a variety of adventure sports, including kayaking and sailing. Guests appreciate the well-maintained pool area and the inviting breakfast options that enhance the overall experience. The hotel’s convenient location near the Santa Barbara airport makes it an excellent choice for travelers seeking ease and comfort during their stay.
  3. The Leta Santa Barbara GoletaOpens in a new window: A distinguished 4.0-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, The Leta Santa Barbara Goleta offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. The property is situated near natural hot springs and provides direct beach access, appealing to leisure travelers seeking a rejuvenating escape. Guests can engage in various activities such as fishing and kayaking, while the stylishly designed common areas and on-site restaurant contribute to a refined experience. The tranquil environment and thoughtful amenities create a perfect sanctuary for those looking to unwind and enjoy their vacation.

Where to stay in Santa Barbara

Stay in Lower Village, Hope Ranch, or Santa Barbara Beach for a memorable Santa Barbara experience. Lower Village offers charming shops and eateries, while Hope Ranch boasts stunning coastal views and tranquil surroundings. Santa Barbara Beach is perfect for sunbathing, biking, and enjoying sunsets by the sea. For first-time visitors, Santa Barbara Beach is the ideal choice due to its vibrant atmosphere and proximity to attractions.

  1. Santa Barbara BeachOpens in a new window: Santa Barbara Beach is a fantastic spot to stay for those who love sun, sea, and stunning sunsets. With its beautiful sandy shores and vibrant atmosphere, it’s perfect for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy activities like biking along the coast or birdwatching in the nearby natural areas. The beach is also an excellent place for boating and leisurely walks, making it a great place to unwind. Plus, with the friendly locals and picturesque views, you’ll feel right at home. Accommodations range from charming beachfront hotels to cozy inns, providing various options for all types of travelers.
  2. Lower VillageOpens in a new window: Lower Village is a charming area that offers a delightful blend of local culture and scenic beauty. Staying here gives you easy access to unique shops and boutiques, perfect for a leisurely shopping experience. With a friendly atmosphere, the area is well-suited for exploring on foot, making it easy to discover local art galleries and cultural attractions. The nearby parks and gardens provide lovely spots for relaxation and enjoying the outdoors, while the sense of community makes it a welcoming place to stay. Look for quaint inns or boutique hotels that embody the charm of this coastal village.
  3. Hope RanchOpens in a new window: Hope Ranch is an exclusive residential area that offers a serene retreat away from the hustle and bustle. Known for its stunning ocean views and lush landscapes, it’s ideal for travelers seeking tranquility and relaxation. While accommodations are limited, staying here provides a unique opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the California coastline. The nearby beaches offer a peaceful atmosphere for sunbathing or enjoying a quiet stroll, while the scenic trails are perfect for those who appreciate nature. This upscale area promises a peaceful getaway, making it a desirable option for those looking to escape the crowds.

Things to do in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara enchants with its stunning coastal scenery, where golden beaches meet rolling mountains. Enjoy leisurely walks along the shore, bike through lush parks, or catch breathtaking sunsets over the ocean. With vibrant local markets and charming shops, it’s a delightful destination for every kind of explorer.

  • Stearns WharfOpens in a new window – Stroll along Stearns Wharf, a charming jetty that extends into the Pacific Ocean. Here, you can enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants, browse unique shops, and soak in stunning ocean views. Don’t forget your camera, as the scenery is breathtaking!
  • Santa Barbara County CourthouseOpens in a new window – Visit the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, a historic civic building renowned for its stunning Spanish-Moorish architecture. Climb to the top of the clock tower for panoramic views of the city and the coastline, and explore the beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding the courthouse.
  • Arroyo Burro BeachOpens in a new window – Spend a day at Arroyo Burro Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shore or take a refreshing dip in the ocean. This beach is also perfect for picnicking and offers scenic walking trails, making it a great spot for families and nature lovers alike.
  • Mission Santa BarbaraOpens in a new window – Discover Mission Santa Barbara, a historic church that showcases beautiful architecture and rich history. Take a guided tour to learn about its significance in California’s history, and explore the peaceful gardens that surround the mission.
  • Butterfly BeachOpens in a new window – Head to Butterfly Beach, a picturesque stretch of sand ideal for sunbathing and beachcombing. With gentle waves and stunning sunsets, it’s an excellent location for a relaxing evening stroll or simply unwinding by the ocean.

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

  1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Santa Barbara is during January, February, and November, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For a truly enriching experience, staying for at least 2 to 3 days is ideal for discovering the area's significant landmarks, historical sites, and cultural offerings. While exploring, you can enjoy the local beaches, visit wineries, take leisurely walks along the sea, shop at charming boutiques, savour dining options at delightful cafes, and appreciate stunning sunsets. This trip can provide great value for money, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Santa Barbara without breaking the bank.
  2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To find last-minute deals to Santa Barbara on Hotels.com, begin by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections, where you may discover discounted hotel rates close to your travel date. Enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com could help you stay updated on flash sales and special promotions, ensuring you’re informed about potential savings. Additionally, Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window is a convenient comparison tool available through the app, allowing you to compare hotel prices and amenities, so you're more likely to see the best options. You'll be notified of any price drops or availability changes for your preferred hotels, making it easier to book a last-minute getaway.
  3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so 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 often provide a more personalized experience and can sometimes offer 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 leans toward the higher end, we may suggest more budget-friendly dates to assist you in finding a great option.
  4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but with Santa Barbara's outstanding public transportation options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit farther out that remains well connected. For those interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money. Opting for these alternative destinations 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 tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Santa Barbara are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and sunny conditions.

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