Hotels in Santa Barbara

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Feb 22 - Feb 23
Tomorrow
Feb 23 - Feb 24
Next weekend
Feb 27 - Mar 1
In two weeks
Mar 6 - Mar 8

Where to stay in Santa Barbara?

Free daily continental breakfast
Sandpiper Lodge
Sandpiper Lodge
2.0 star property
North State
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (2,209 reviews)
The price is CA $134
CA $153 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 25 - Feb 26
Sandpiper Lodge
Sports facility
Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,045 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Stay within 10 minutes of Santa Barbara Harbour with fitness options and dining.
The price is CA $213
CA $252 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 11 - Mar 12
Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
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, (1,261 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Coastal escape with a pool in Santa Barbara, just a short drive to the harbour.
The price is CA $156
CA $178 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 24 - Feb 25
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach
40-inch flat-screen TV with cable channels, TV
Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel
Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,005 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Seaside retreat with outdoor pool just minutes from Santa Barbara Zoo and Harbour.
The price is CA $246
CA $281 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 18 - Mar 19
Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel
Front of property
Castillo Inn at the Beach
Castillo Inn at the Beach
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,005 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Experience the tranquil Santa Barbara Harbour area with comfortable beds and attentive staff.
The price is CA $157
CA $180 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 24 - Feb 25
Castillo Inn at the Beach
Property amenity
Best Western Plus Pepper Tree Inn
Best Western Plus Pepper Tree Inn
3.0 star property
North State
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,109 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Enjoy a peaceful retreat near Santa Barbara Harbour with two sparkling pool areas.
The price is CA $207
CA $236 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 25 - Feb 26
Best Western Plus Pepper Tree Inn
Exterior
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,017 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Scenic Santa Barbara hotel with pool, near harbour and surrounded by tranquil gardens.
The price is CA $231
CA $269 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 25 - Feb 26
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
Deluxe Room, Multiple Beds (Deluxe Queen Suite)
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,133 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Steps from Santa Barbara Harbour, with a refreshing pool and hot tub escape.
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
Property grounds
Oasis Inn & Suites
Oasis Inn & Suites
2.0 star property
San Roque
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,004 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Stay minutes from Santa Barbara Harbour at this clean, outdoor-pool-equipped motel.
The price is CA $125
CA $142 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 25 - Feb 26
Oasis Inn & Suites
Exterior
Marina Beach Motel
Marina Beach Motel
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,040 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Cozy getaway near the harbour with free bicycles and breakfast each morning.
The price is CA $197
CA $225 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 25 - Feb 26
Marina Beach Motel
Terrace/patio
La Playa Inn
La Playa Inn
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,003 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Located in Santa Barbara, this coastal retreat offers peaceful rooms and fresh breakfast.
The price is CA $213
CA $243 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 24 - Feb 25
La Playa Inn
Room, 1 King Bed, Ocean View
Santa Barbara Inn
Santa Barbara Inn
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,009 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Relax on the beachfront with Italian dining and beautiful ocean views in Santa Barbara.
The price is CA $378
CA $432 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 25 - Feb 26
Santa Barbara Inn
Beach nearby, beach umbrellas, beach towels
Harbor House Inn
Harbor House Inn
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,001 reviews)
The price is CA $226
CA $258 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 25 - Feb 26
Harbor House Inn
Front of property
Lemon Tree Inn
Lemon Tree Inn
3.5 star property
North State
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,236 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Splash into the sparkling pool at this Santa Barbara hideaway with a rooftop.
The price is CA $148
CA $169 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 24 - Feb 25
Lemon Tree Inn
Fountain
The Franciscan Hotel
The Franciscan Hotel
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,063 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Relax in a coastal gem with a pool, hot tub, and free bicycles to explore.
The price is CA $172
CA $197 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 24 - Feb 25
The Franciscan Hotel
Deluxe Apartment | Interior
Casa Yano by The Beach
Casa Yano by The Beach
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (4 reviews)
The price is CA $216
CA $387 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 24 - Feb 25
Casa Yano by The Beach
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, (1,140 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Unwind in a beach paradise with walkable access to Santa Barbara Harbour and restaurants.
The price is CA $231
CA $264 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 24 - Feb 25
West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel
Reception
The Inn at East Beach
The Inn at East Beach
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,010 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Serene beach escape with a tranquil pool, just minutes from Santa Barbara's top spots.
The Inn at East Beach
Grand Suite | Private kitchen
Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara
Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,006 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Unwind at a coastal haven that's a short drive to the harbour and East Beach.
The price is CA $150
CA $171 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 24 - Feb 25
Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara
2 restaurants, breakfast, lunch, dinner served; Californian cuisine
El Encanto Santa Barbara
El Encanto Santa Barbara
5.0 star property
Upper Riviera
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (551 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Tranquil Santa Barbara retreat with ocean views and five-star pampering awaits.
The price is CA $814
CA $1,029 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 15 - Mar 16
El Encanto 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.
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Showing deals for:Feb 23 - Feb 24
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, (1,017 reviews)
CA $63 off
The price is CA $251
per night
CA $291 total
includes taxes & fees
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
Showing deals for:Feb 24 - Feb 25
VIP Access
Free daily continental breakfast
Lavender Inn by the Sea

Lavender Inn by the Sea

Lavender Inn by the Sea
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,334 reviews)
CA $57 off
The price is CA $243
per night
CA $277 total
includes taxes & fees
Lavender Inn by the Sea
Showing deals for:Mar 6 - Mar 8
VIP Access
Free daily continental breakfast
Lavender Inn by the Sea

Lavender Inn by the Sea

Lavender Inn by the Sea
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,334 reviews)
CA $104 off
The price is CA $467
per night
CA $1,066 total
includes taxes & fees
Lavender Inn by the Sea

Check out pet-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara

Sports facility
Hyatt Place Santa Barbara

Hyatt Place Santa Barbara

Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1045)
The price is CA $213
CA $252 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 11 - Mar 12
Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
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You may also like hotels with pools in Santa Barbara

40-inch flat-screen TV with cable channels, TV
Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel

Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel

Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1005)
The price is CA $246
CA $281 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 18 - Mar 19
Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel
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You can also stay at hotels with an ocean view in Santa Barbara

40-inch flat-screen TV with cable channels, TV
Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel

Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel

Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1005)
The price is CA $246
CA $281 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 18 - Mar 19
Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel
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 January
Price trends for hotels in Santa Barbara
Pricing is based on two traveller single night rates
View properties in February
Currently viewing crowd sizes and weather for February.
Typical weather for Santa Barbara
February
High 18°C / low 9°C. Sunny most days.
View properties in February
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January, no crowd data, average high temperature 18 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 10 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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Monthly weather averages (˚C)

Top neighborhoods in Santa Barbara

Sunset on the pier beach

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.

Arroyo Burro Beach

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.

Butterfly beach along Channel Drive in Santa Barbara, California., Shutterstock ID 23776711, SF SSA Case with Manager Approval: Case 07151371, Job: Prepay credit, Client/Licensee: , Other:

Montecito

Montecito dazzles with celebrity-level luxury that somehow feels like your secret hideaway. Butterfly Beach serves up postcard-perfect sunset views while the winding streets reveal glimpses of palatial estates hidden behind lush greenery. Nature lovers can wander through Lotusland's botanical wonderland or hike the nearby Santa Ynez foothills when they need a break from all that beachcombing. The dining scene revolves around farm-to-table restaurants where reservations are absolutely essential. Most shops and restaurants in Montecito Village close early, matching the neighborhood's peaceful residential vibe. You'll definitely need a car to explore this exclusive enclave properly.

Santa Barbara Aerial Panorama. Scenic shot of Pier and beach

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.

urban landscape of the city of Santa Barbara, California ; Shutterstock ID 398939668

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

SantaBarbara_SantaBarbaraBowl_6065951_05

Santa Barbara Bowl

4.3/5 (289 reviews)
If you want to see a show while you're in town, try and grab some tickets at Santa Barbara Bowl in Lower Riviera. Hotels.com travelers also say the area is walkable and has lots of nice beaches. If you enjoy the show and want to see another, Lobero Theater, Arlington Theater, and Granada Theatre are not far.
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Giraffe

Santa Barbara Zoo

4.4/5 (660 reviews)
It's feeding time at the zoo! If you want to be reminded of some of the great animals our world is home to, you might want to pay a trip to Santa Barbara Zoo, located 2.2 mi (3.6 km) from central Santa Barbara. Hotels.com travelers also say the area is full of friendly people and has lots of nice beaches. If you have fun at Santa Barbara Zoo, you'll love Santa Barbara Natural History Museum and Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, both located nearby.
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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
aerial view of Shoreline Park and The Mesa, Santa Barbara, California

Check out reviews of Santa Barbara hotels guests love

Hotel Santa Barbara

Hotel Santa Barbara

10/10 Excellent
"The hotel renovations were fantastic. The room was very comfortable and clean. The staff were amazing. This was our second stay and we’ll definitely stay again. "
David 2-night trip
Posted 21 hours ago
Hotel Santa Barbara

Frequently asked questions

How much does a hotel room cost in Santa Barbara?
You can find top hotels in Santa Barbara from CA $142 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 Harbor View Inn in Santa Barbara Beach if you're after a hotel that's near the water. With a beachfront setting plus an outdoor pool and a children's pool, our travelers rate it highly at 9.2 out of 10. West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel is another great choice for a relaxing beach vacation in Santa Barbara Beach. Located near the beach, this hotel has an outdoor pool and a free continental breakfast along with a variety of other amenities to enjoy, and our travelers rate it 9.4. If you're venturing to Santa Barbara Beach, Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel is another ideal choice. Travelers love the beach nearby plus the outdoor pool and free parking, and it has a guest rating of 8.8.
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 Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach, Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara, and El Encanto Santa Barbara. Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach is a kid-friendly hotel in Santa Barbara Beach with a guest score of 9.4 out of 10, offering family-friendly amenities like an outdoor pool and a hot tub, plus free cribs in guestrooms. Check out Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara in Montecito with a guest score of 9.4. This popular hotel has a beach and a free children's club, as well as free cribs in the guestrooms. El Encanto Santa Barbara is another good option with an outdoor pool and children's meals, plus free cribs in the guestrooms. 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 free parking. 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 free continental breakfast. 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 Motel: 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, free parking and a terrace. Stay at one of these hotels for easy access to top sights like Santa Barbara Zoo and Santa Barbara Harbor. Montecito and Santa Barbara Beach 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

Coastal Serenity: Unveiling the Allure of Santa Barbara's Enchanted Shores

Nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara beckons with its enchanting blend of coastal charm and Mediterranean allure. Explore the vibrant downtown, where Spanish colonial architecture meets trendy boutiques and delightful eateries. Stroll along the picturesque waterfront, basking in the sun at pristine beaches or enjoying a serene moment at the Santa Barbara Harbor. Indulge in luxury at upscale hotels and savour exquisite local wines. With its romantic ambiance, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural experiences, Santa Barbara is an idyllic escape for those seeking relaxation and adventure alike. For great 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 in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara offers a variety of hotel accommodations, from charming boutique hotels to luxurious resorts. Visitors can find options for extended stays and unique experiences, all set against stunning coastal views. Whether seeking a romantic getaway or a family-friendly spot, Santa Barbara's hotels cater to diverse preferences and budgets. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Santa Barbara:

  1. Best Western Plus South Coast InnOpens in a new window: This charming 2.5-star hotel is ideal for leisure travelers seeking an adventure-filled beach getaway. With direct access to the beach, it offers amenities such as a Business Center and various adventure sports activities nearby, like surfing and parasailing. The property’s tranquil atmosphere and recreational options ensure a distinctive experience, making it a favourite among those who appreciate a blend of relaxation and excitement during their travels.
  2. Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/GoletaOpens in a new window: The 2.5-star Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta caters to adventurous spirits and business-minded travelers alike, featuring direct beach access and a well-equipped Business Center. Guests can indulge in activities such as kayaking and sailing, ensuring an engaging stay. The hotel's blend of practical amenities and recreational offerings creates a refreshing atmosphere, appealing to those who seek comfortable lodging with ample opportunities for adventure.
  3. The Leta Santa Barbara GoletaOpens in a new window: Elevating the experience for leisure travelers, The Leta Santa Barbara Goleta is a luxurious 4.0-star property that boasts direct beach access and proximity to natural hot springs. With on-site adventure sports like snorkeling and kayaking, this hotel offers a unique blend of relaxation and excitement. The serene environment combined with premium amenities creates an inviting haven for those looking for a refreshing escape, making it a top choice for discerning travelers seeking unforgettable experiences.

Top locations to stay in Santa Barbara

When visiting Santa Barbara, California, great areas to stay in include Lower Village, Hope Ranch, and Montecito. Lower Village offers charming boutiques and eateries, while Hope Ranch features stunning ocean views and exclusive access to beaches. Montecito is renowned for its luxurious atmosphere and beautiful gardens. For first-time visitors, Lower Village is best suited for its vibrant downtown Santa Barbara experience.

  1. MontecitoOpens in a new window: Montecito is a charming coastal community known for its picturesque beaches and upscale vibe. Staying here means you're close to stunning ocean views, luxurious boutiques, and serene gardens. The area boasts beautiful parks like Butterfly Beach, perfect for sunbathing or sunset strolls. Montecito is also home to a variety of cultural attractions, including art galleries and quaint cafés, making it a delightful spot for leisurely exploration.
  2. Hope RanchOpens in a new window: Hope Ranch offers a unique blend of natural beauty and exclusivity. This affluent neighborhood is characterized by its sprawling estates and private beach access, providing a tranquil retreat. The scenic trails are ideal for walking or horseback riding, allowing you to connect with nature. Enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean while soaking in the serene atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for a peaceful getaway.
  3. Lower VillageOpens in a new window: Lower Village is a vibrant area packed with local shops and delightful eateries. It's an excellent spot for shopping lovers, with a variety of boutiques showcasing unique finds. The charming atmosphere makes it easy to explore on foot, and you can enjoy a range of cultural attractions, including art installations and community events. With its friendly vibe and close-knit community feel, Lower Village is a lovely place to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Things to do in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara enchants visitors with its stunning coastline framed by majestic mountains. Enjoy sun-soaked beaches, scenic biking trails, and picturesque parks perfect for leisurely strolls. As you explore, don’t miss the chance to witness breathtaking sunsets over the ocean, making it an unforgettable getaway for all.

  • Santa Barbara HarborOpens in a new window – Kick off your Santa Barbara adventure at this lively marina, where you can stroll along the waterfront, watch the boats come and go, and perhaps even enjoy some fresh seafood at nearby restaurants. The stunning views of the ocean and the distant mountains set the perfect backdrop for your day.
  • Stearns WharfOpens in a new window – Take a leisurely walk down this historic pier, where you can explore charming shops and soak in the ocean breeze. Don’t miss the chance to spot dolphins playing in the water or to relax on the benches overlooking the beach.
  • Butterfly BeachOpens in a new window – Unwind on this beautiful stretch of sand, known for its gentle waves and picturesque sunsets. It's an ideal spot for sunbathing, beachcombing, or enjoying a peaceful stroll along the shoreline. Keep your eyes peeled for the butterflies that occasionally flutter by.
  • Mission Santa BarbaraOpens in a new window – Step into history at this stunning church, often referred to as the Queen of the Missions. Take a guided tour to learn about its rich heritage and admire the beautiful architecture, gardens, and surrounding landscaping that make it a peaceful retreat.
  • Santa Barbara County CourthouseOpens in a new window – Marvel at the striking Spanish-Moorish architecture of this historic civic building. Climb to the top of the clock tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the coastline. The lush gardens surrounding the courthouse provide a lovely spot to relax and take photos.

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 great value for money experience, it’s recommended to stay for at least 2 to 3 days to fully immerse yourself in the city's rich history, stunning landmarks, and cultural attractions. You can explore beautiful beaches, visit local wineries, enjoy scenic seaside walks, shop at quaint boutiques, and savour delightful meals at cafes and restaurants, all while taking in breathtaking sunsets. This way, you can enjoy all that Santa Barbara has to offer without breaking the bank.
  2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals for Santa Barbara, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, enabling email alerts or push notifications can help you stay informed about flash sales and special promotions. Hotels.com will keep you updated on your preferred hotels' prices and availability. You could also use the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available via the app to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're among the first to know if rooms become available or prices drop for your Santa Barbara getaway.
  3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate based on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay in a Santa Barbara hotel. For those in search of unique accommodations, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized experience and may offer better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll suggest more affordable dates, which may help you secure a better deal.
  4. Consider your location: Hotels in proximity to the city centre usually tend to be pricier, but thanks to Santa Barbara's outstanding public transit system, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel located a bit further out that’s still well connected. For those eager to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby cities, there is often excellent value for money available. 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 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 December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and sunny conditions.

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