Hotels in Santa Barbara

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8 Feb - 9 Feb
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9 Feb - 10 Feb
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13 Feb - 15 Feb
In two weeks
20 Feb - 22 Feb

Where to stay 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
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (997 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Seaside retreat with outdoor pool just minutes from Santa Barbara Zoo and Harbour.
The price is £110
includes taxes & fees
9 Feb - 10 Feb
Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel
Deluxe Room, Multiple Beds (Deluxe Queen Suite) | Desk, laptop workspace, blackout curtains, 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, (2,100 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Steps from Santa Barbara Harbour, with a refreshing pool and hot tub escape.
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
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, (2 reviews)
The price is £202
includes taxes & fees
9 Feb - 10 Feb
Casa Yano by The Beach
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, (1,004 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Experience the tranquil Santa Barbara Harbour area with comfortable beds and attentive staff.
The price is £96
includes taxes & fees
18 Feb - 19 Feb
Castillo Inn at the Beach
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, (1,241 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Coastal escape with a pool in Santa Barbara, just a short drive to the harbour.
The price is £98
includes taxes & fees
10 Feb - 11 Feb
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach
Lobby lounge
Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection Property
Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection Property
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (372 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Elegant Santa Barbara B&B offering cooked-to-order breakfast and charming atmosphere.
The price is £141
includes taxes & fees
10 Feb - 11 Feb
Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection Property
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, (1,127 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Unwind in a beach paradise with walkable access to Santa Barbara Harbour and restaurants.
The price is £142
includes taxes & fees
9 Feb - 10 Feb
West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel
Exterior
Marina Beach Motel
Marina Beach Motel
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,029 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Cosy getaway near the harbour with free bicycles and breakfast each morning.
The price is £122
includes taxes & fees
9 Feb - 10 Feb
Marina Beach Motel
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, (1,339 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Walk to the beach and city centre Santa Barbara from this peaceful garden oasis.
The price is £174
includes taxes & fees
2 Mar - 3 Mar
Lavender Inn by the Sea
Exterior
Casa Jardin
Casa Jardin
3.0 star property
Laguna
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (242 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Serene coastal hideaway near State Street with easy beach access and hiking trails.
The price is £144
includes taxes & fees
9 Mar - 10 Mar
Casa Jardin
Exterior
Inn By The Harbor
Inn By The Harbor
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,865 reviews)
The price is £181
includes taxes & fees
1 Mar - 2 Mar
Inn By The Harbor
Free daily continental breakfast
Sandpiper Lodge
Sandpiper Lodge
2.0 star property
North State
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (2,172 reviews)
The price is £78
includes taxes & fees
10 Feb - 11 Feb
Sandpiper Lodge
Fountain
The Franciscan Hotel
The Franciscan Hotel
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,060 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Relax in a coastal gem with a pool, hot tub, and free bicycles to explore.
The price is £119
includes taxes & fees
24 Feb - 25 Feb
The Franciscan Hotel
Room, 2 Double Beds, Garden View | Premium bedding, pillow-top 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, (1,010 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Relaxing coastal getaway with restaurant and bar just steps from Santa Barbara Harbour.
The price is £116
includes taxes & fees
22 Feb - 23 Feb
Riviera Beach House
Grand Suite | Private kitchen | Fridge, coffee/tea maker
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.
Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara
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 £125
includes taxes & fees
9 Feb - 10 Feb
Harbor House Inn
Reception
Hotel Santa Barbara
Hotel Santa Barbara
3.0 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,178 reviews)
The price is £218
includes taxes & fees
23 Feb - 24 Feb
Hotel Santa Barbara
Comfort Apartment, 1 King Bed | Exterior
Casa De La Vina
Casa De La Vina
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (141 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Stay close to Santa Barbara Harbour in a chic apartment with stylish touches.
The price is £183
includes taxes & fees
2 Mar - 3 Mar
Casa De La Vina
Lobby sitting area
Beachside Inn
Beachside Inn
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,138 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Enjoy the harbour views and beachside tranquility with quick access to Santa Barbara's attractions.
The price is £112
includes taxes & fees
10 Feb - 11 Feb
Beachside 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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Showing deals for:8 Feb - 9 Feb
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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, (1,339 reviews)
£49 off
The price is £127
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
Lavender Inn by the Sea
Showing deals for:9 Feb - 10 Feb
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, (997 reviews)
£16 off
The price is £97
for 1 room
includes taxes & fees
Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel

Check out pet-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara

Deluxe Apartment | Interior
Casa Yano by The Beach

Casa Yano by The Beach

Casa Yano by The Beach
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (2)
The price is £202
includes taxes & fees
9 Feb - 10 Feb
Casa Yano by The Beach
View all properties

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, (997)
The price is £110
includes taxes & fees
9 Feb - 10 Feb
Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel
View all properties

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, (997)
The price is £110
includes taxes & fees
9 Feb - 10 Feb
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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August, no crowd data, average high temperature 27 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 18 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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September, no crowd data, average high temperature 27 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 18 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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October, no crowd data, average high temperature 25 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 15 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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November, no crowd data, average high temperature 21 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 12 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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December, no crowd data, average high temperature 18 degrees Celsius, average low temperature 10 degrees Celsius. Sunny most days.
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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 neighbourhoods in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara Pier

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 accommodation is 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 city centre for restaurants. With primarily holiday 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

City centre 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)
Perched in Santa Barbara's foothills, this intimate amphitheatre offers panoramic ocean views while you enjoy world-class concerts. Arrive 90 minutes early to explore the venue and beat the parking rush.
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Santa Barbara County Courthouse featuring a luxury hotel or resort and heritage architecture

Santa Barbara County Courthouse

4.5/5 (831 reviews)
The Santa Barbara County Courthouse dazzles with Spanish Colonial Revival splendour, hand-painted murals, and a clock tower with 360-degree views. Climb to the top for Instagram-worthy shots or enjoy the sunken garden.
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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.

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aerial view of Shoreline Park and The Mesa, Santa Barbara, California

Check out reviews of Santa Barbara hotels guests love

Sandpiper Lodge

Sandpiper Lodge

10/10 Excellent
"Friendly staff. Clean room "
Sharon 1-night trip
Posted 18 hours ago
Sandpiper Lodge

Frequently asked questions

How much does a hotel room cost in Santa Barbara?
You can find top hotels in Santa Barbara from £78 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 travellers. 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 much does a hotel room cost in Santa Barbara?
You can find top hotels in Santa Barbara from £78 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 travellers. 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". If you're a member, don't forget to sign in to your account to unlock more savings.
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". The majority of 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 travellers, 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 holiday in Santa Barbara, Butterfly Beach, Miramar Beach, and Leadbetter Beach are some of the best places to visit. Pick a well-reviewed Santa Barbara beach hotel to maximise your holiday. Check out Harbor View Inn in Santa Barbara Beach if you're after a hotel that's near the water. With a beach and guestrooms offering balconies/patios, our travellers rate it highly at 9.2 out of 10. West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel is another great choice for a relaxing beach holiday 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 travellers rate it 9.4. If you're venturing to Santa Barbara Beach, Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel is another ideal choice. Travellers 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?
Choose a top-rated Santa Barbara romantic hotel and enjoy your couple's getaway. Our travellers 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. Discover more hotels in Santa Barbara on Hotels.com for couples by using the "Traveller experience" filter in your search and selecting "Adults only" or "Romantic".
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 cots 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 cots in the guestrooms. El Encanto Santa Barbara is another good option with an outdoor pool and children's meals, plus free cots in the guestrooms. Discover more kid-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara by using the Hotels.com "Family friendly" filter in your 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. 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). You can select "Pool" in the "Amenities" filter of your search on Hotels.com to find even more places to stay in Santa Barbara with a pool.
What are some of the best Santa Barbara hotels with free parking?
If you're arriving by car, choosing a great Santa Barbara hotel with free parking is a plus. Our travellers' favourites 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?
Choose a stylish and luxurious boutique hotel in Santa Barbara. El Encanto Santa Barbara is a popular hotel with our travellers, offering guests an outdoor pool as well as individually decorated guestrooms with streaming services. 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.
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. Travellers 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. When you stay at one of these central hotels, you'll be in easy reach of top sights including Santa Barbara Zoo. Montecito and Santa Barbara Beach are some of the most central areas for your Santa Barbara holiday.

Find out more about Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara: A Coastal Canvas of Sun, Sea, and Serenity

Nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the sparkling Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara is a captivating coastal haven known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture. Stroll along the picturesque waterfront, indulge in wine tasting in the nearby vineyards, or explore the historic Spanish mission architecture. Downtown Santa Barbara boasts chic boutiques and delightful eateries, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. With luxurious resorts and charming inns, it’s an ideal romantic getaway. Experience the enchanting sunsets and the Mediterranean climate that make Santa Barbara a quintessential Californian escape, where relaxation meets adventure in a breathtaking setting.

Discover great hotels in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara offers a delightful mix of accommodations, from charming inns to luxurious hotels. Many properties boast stunning ocean views and comfortable amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay. Whether you're seeking affordability or a touch of elegance, you'll find a variety of options to suit your needs. Here are some of the best hotels in Santa Barbara that our travellers love:

  1. Best Western Plus South Coast InnOpens in a new window: Best Western Plus South Coast Inn is a charming 2.5-star hotel perfect for adventure seekers and beach enthusiasts. Located with direct access to the beach, this property caters to leisure travellers looking for a refreshing getaway. The hotel features a Business Centre for those who require it, alongside a range of adventure sports such as mountain climbing, sailing, and windsurfing in nearby locations. With a focus on comfort and unique experiences, visitors appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and easy access to outdoor activities, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy exploring the great outdoors.
  2. Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/GoletaOpens in a new window: Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta, a delightful 2.5-star hotel, offers an inviting environment for travellers seeking adventure and relaxation by the beach. With direct beach access, it’s a perfect spot for those who appreciate the sun and sea. The hotel features amenities such as an accessible Business Centre and meeting rooms, enhancing the convenience for those blending work and leisure. Guests are particularly impressed by the variety of adventure sports available, including kayaking and parasailing, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere that resonates with active holidaymakers. This hotel makes for an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy both relaxation and adventure.
  3. The Leta Santa Barbara GoletaOpens in a new window: The Leta Santa Barbara Goleta is a luxurious 4.0-star hotel that offers a unique blend of beachside relaxation and adventure. With direct access to the beach and a natural hot spring nearby, this property provides a tranquil escape for leisure travellers. Guests can indulge in the soothing hot spring amenities, while also enjoying a range of exciting activities like fishing and snorkelling. The hotel’s elegant design and upscale atmosphere create a sophisticated backdrop for a memorable stay, making it a top pick for those seeking both comfort and distinctive experiences in a stunning coastal setting.

Top locations to stay in Santa Barbara

In Santa Barbara, California, great areas to stay include Lower Village, Hope Ranch, and Montecito. Lower Village offers vibrant shops and dining, while Hope Ranch boasts stunning coastal views and serene landscapes. Montecito is known for its luxurious accommodations and beautiful beaches. For first-time visitors, Lower Village is best suited, providing easy access to downtown Santa Barbara experiences.

  1. MontecitoOpens in a new window: Montecito is a charming coastal village known for its luxurious atmosphere and stunning beaches. This area is perfect for those seeking relaxation with a backdrop of beautiful ocean views and lush gardens. You can enjoy leisurely walks along Butterfly Beach or explore the upscale boutiques and art galleries that line the streets. With its proximity to the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden and the historic Lotusland estate, Montecito offers a delightful blend of nature and culture, making it a desirable stay for those looking to unwind in an elegant setting.
  2. Lower VillageOpens in a new window: Lower Village is a vibrant area filled with a unique mix of shops, galleries, and local eateries. It’s the ideal spot for shopping enthusiasts, offering everything from trendy boutiques to artisanal stores. The area also boasts easy access to beautiful beaches, perfect for sunbathing or a stroll along the shore. Don’t miss the chance to explore the local art scene, with various cultural attractions showcasing the rich heritage of Santa Barbara. Lower Village provides a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for both relaxation and exploration.
  3. Hope RanchOpens in a new window: Hope Ranch is a tranquil and exclusive community known for its stunning landscapes and picturesque surroundings. It offers an escape from the busier tourist areas while still being close to the coastline. Visitors can enjoy walking along the scenic trails and taking in views of the ocean and the nearby mountains. The serene environment is perfect for unwinding, and you can also find access to private beaches that offer a peaceful retreat. Hope Ranch is ideal for those looking for a quieter stay, surrounded by natural beauty.

Things to do in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara entices travellers with its stunning coastal vistas, where golden beaches meet the sparkling sea, framed by majestic mountains. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the shore, exhilarating bike rides through scenic parks, or unforgettable sunsets over the water. With an array of charming shops and delightful dining options, it's a perfect retreat for relaxation and exploration.

  • Santa Barbara County CourthouseOpens in a new window – Step into a slice of history at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, a stunning example of Spanish-Moorish architecture. Wander through the lush gardens and take the elevator up to the clock tower for breathtaking views of the city and coastline.
  • Santa Barbara HarborOpens in a new window – Head to Santa Barbara Harbor for a delightful marina experience. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, watch the boats bobbing in the water, or grab a bite at one of the charming seafood restaurants overlooking the sea.
  • Stearns WharfOpens in a new window – Visit Stearns Wharf, where the ocean meets history. Walk along the pier, explore quaint shops, and don't forget to stop by the Sea Center to learn about the fascinating marine life of the area.
  • Butterfly BeachOpens in a new window – Relax at Butterfly Beach, a picturesque spot that offers soft sand and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. It's the perfect place to unwind, soak up the sun, and watch the sunset paint the sky in vibrant hues.
  • Mission Santa BarbaraOpens in a new window – Discover the rich heritage of California at Mission Santa Barbara. This beautiful church, known as the “Queen of the Missions,” boasts stunning gardens and fascinating exhibits that tell the story of the early Spanish settlers.

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 generally lower. For a budget-friendly getaway, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully appreciate the city’s key landmarks, historical sites, and cultural attractions. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the beach, explore local wineries, dine in charming cafes, and shop for unique souvenirs. Additionally, biking along the scenic coastline and witnessing stunning sunsets adds to the experience, making it a great value for money for those looking to immerse themselves in Santa Barbara's rich history and vibrant culture.
  2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Santa Barbara, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates close to your travel date. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, ensuring you don't miss potential savings. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, increasing your chances of securing the best hotel deal. If prices drop or rooms become available, you'll be among the first to know, making booking a last-minute getaway easier.
  3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay at a Santa Barbara hotel. For those seeking distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised experience and occasionally better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we will inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we will suggest alternative dates that may be more affordable, helping you to secure the best possible deal.
  4. Consider your location: Hotels located near the city centre generally tend to be more expensive; however, with Santa Barbara's superb public transport links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. 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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