Hotels in Downtown Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara

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Our top choices for Downtown Santa Barbara hotels

Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels

Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels
3.5 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (415 reviews)
"Great location!"
United States
Wesley
The price is CA $282
CA $322 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 10 - Mar 11
Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels

Haley Hotel

Haley Hotel
3.5 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (604 reviews)
"Great central location, staff were all very friendly, felt safe! "
United States
Margarita
The price is CA $167
CA $205 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 25 - Feb 26
Haley Hotel

Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
4.0 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"Great location!"
United States
June
The price is CA $313
CA $357 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 1 - Mar 2
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG
4.0 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"This pet friendly hotel was beautifully "
United States
Martin
The price is CA $477
CA $614 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
4.0 star property
East Beach, 2.3 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
7.8 out of 10, Good, (214 reviews)
"Great room and staff"
United States
JEFFREY
The price is CA $335
CA $445 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 15 - Mar 16
Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

Cliff House Inn On The Ocean

Cliff House Inn On The Ocean
3.0 star property
25.1 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,008 reviews)
"Had an awesome restaurant right on property and all staff very friendly"
United States
cathy
The price is CA $225
CA $253 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 23 - Feb 24
Cliff House Inn On The Ocean

Montecito Inn

Montecito Inn
4.0 star property
5.6 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"The hotel is older architecture and had that classic feel. The rooms are small but comfortable. The hotel is at the beginning of a very nice street with restaurants and shopping. The staff is great !"
United States
Joseph
The price is CA $227
CA $316 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 15 - Mar 16
Montecito Inn

Coast Village Inn - Santa Barbara

Coast Village Inn - Santa Barbara
2.5 star property
5.2 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"Beautiful room.staff was lovely."
United States
Jeanine
Coast Village Inn - Santa Barbara

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach
2.0 star property
East Beach, 2.8 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,257 reviews)
"Nice Rooms great location "
United States
Erika
The price is CA $156
CA $178 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 24 - Feb 25
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

The Inn at East Beach

The Inn at East Beach
2.5 star property
East Beach, 2.9 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,008 reviews)
"Our stay was quick, efficient, and most importantly customer service was excellent!"
United States
jAvier
The price is CA $131
CA $150 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 25 - Feb 26
The Inn at East Beach

The Craft House Inn

The Craft House Inn
4.0 star property
0.8 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (16 reviews)
"Home/room felt like home while our short stay away from home. Host was very helpful throughout our stay."
United States
Norma
The price is CA $244
CA $669 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 23 - Feb 24
The Craft House Inn

Castillo Inn at the Beach

Castillo Inn at the Beach
2.5 star property
West Beach, 1.6 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,003 reviews)
"Nice place."
Canada
Thomas
The price is CA $157
CA $180 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Castillo Inn at the Beach

Santa Barbara Inn

Santa Barbara Inn
4.0 star property
East Beach, 2.7 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,007 reviews)
"Great room, great location, loved this spot. "
United States
Susan
The price is CA $367
CA $420 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 25 - Feb 26
Santa Barbara Inn

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carpinteria by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carpinteria by IHG
2.5 star property
17.9 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,004 reviews)
"Nice stay, good location"
United States
Richard
The price is CA $207
CA $238 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 26 - Feb 27
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carpinteria by IHG

El Encanto Santa Barbara

El Encanto Santa Barbara
5.0 star property
1.9 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (550 reviews)
"Great room and nice facility."
United States
John
The price is CA $814
CA $1,029 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 15 - Mar 16
El Encanto Santa Barbara

Casa Riviera

Casa Riviera
4.0 star property
Laguna, 0.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (124 reviews)
"Check in was easy, room is incredibly comfortable and love the location!"
United States
Jennifer
The price is CA $201
CA $330 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 25 - Feb 26
Casa Riviera

Casa Del Sol

Casa Del Sol
2.5 star property
17.9 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
7.0 out of 10, Good, (641 reviews)
"Nice place "
United States
Everardo
Casa Del Sol

La Playa Inn

La Playa Inn
2.5 star property
West Beach, 1.4 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,002 reviews)
"This hotel is so cute, super friendly staffs and location is perfect. "
United States
Vivian
The price is CA $213
CA $243 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 23 - Feb 24
La Playa Inn

Motel 6 Carpinteria, CA - Santa Barbara - North

Motel 6 Carpinteria, CA - Santa Barbara - North
2.0 star property
15.7 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1,074 reviews)
"Clean room, quiet, good location, great staff."
United States
Gary
The price is CA $91
CA $108 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 2 - Mar 3
Motel 6 Carpinteria, CA - Santa Barbara - North

Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection Property

Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection Property
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach, 1.3 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (378 reviews)
"Room was really clean and dog friendly. Staff was great and very helpful. "
United States
Ver
The price is CA $175
CA $200 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection Property
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.

Where to stay in Downtown Santa Barbara

Find the best Downtown Santa Barbara areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Downtown Santa Barbara
Learn more about Downtown Santa Barbara

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 is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights in the area like Stearns Wharf and MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation.

West Beach

While visiting West Beach, you might make a stop by sights like Santa Barbara Harbor and Carriage and Western Art Museum.

East Beach

East Beach is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights in the area like East Beach and Santa Barbara Zoo.

The Mesa

While visiting The Mesa, you might make a stop by sights like Leadbetter Beach and Arroyo Burro Beach.

Top Downtown Santa Barbara Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Downtown Santa Barbara

Top reasons to visit Downtown Santa Barbara

  • Vibrant Shopping Areas: Downtown Santa Barbara features unique shops and boutiques, offering a delightful shopping experience.
  • Beautiful Beaches: Enjoy the stunning sandy shores and scenic waterfront, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
  • Cultural Attractions: Explore museums, theatres, and historical sites that showcase the region's rich heritage.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Engage in various attractions suitable for all ages, making it ideal for family outings.
  • Diverse Accommodation Options: Choose from luxurious hotels to charming bed & breakfasts, catering to every traveler's needs.

Find great hotels near Downtown Santa Barbara

Explore a variety of hotel accommodations in Downtown Santa Barbara, California, catering to every traveller's needs. From luxurious hotels to charming bed & breakfasts, this vibrant area offers unique lodging options for adventure seekers and beach lovers alike. Whether you're searching for pet-friendly stays or the best hotels like Hotel Californian, Downtown Santa Barbara promises a memorable vacation experience in a picturesque coastal setting.

  • The Milo: Embrace the spirit of adventure at The Milo, a charming 3.5-star hotel located a mere mile from Downtown Santa Barbara. This property is perfect for those seeking a vibrant beach vacation experience, featuring direct access to the sandy shores. Guests can indulge in a variety of thrilling activities such as surfing, motorboating, and fishing, ensuring an action-packed stay. The Milo's laid-back atmosphere, combined with its proximity to the beach, makes it an ideal choice for adventure seekers and beach lovers alike.
  • Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort: Experience luxury and inclusivity at the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort, a 4-star resort located 3.2km from Downtown. This LGBTQIA-friendly property welcomes all and features direct beach access, making it a perfect getaway for those travelling with pets. With amenities such as food and water bowls for furry companions and a pet-friendly policy, guests can relax knowing their pets are welcome. The resort's commitment to diversity and comfort ensures a memorable stay for every visitor.
  • Sandpiper Lodge: Kick off your day with a complimentary continental breakfast at Sandpiper Lodge, a cozy motel located 3.2km from Downtown Santa Barbara. This property offers a range of dining options and recreational activities, including nearby bicycle rentals and fitness facilities. Guests can unwind in rooms equipped with flat-screen TVs and premium channels for entertainment. Sandpiper Lodge’s affordable rates and convenient amenities make it a great choice for budget-conscious travellers looking to explore the vibrant city and its surroundings.

Where to stay near Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara is a vibrant hub that perfectly blends historical charm with modern amenities. Visitors can stroll through picturesque streets, explore unique shopping options, and enjoy the friendly atmosphere. With its central location, it's ideal for family outings and outdoor adventures, offering a mix of scenic beauty and cultural experiences. Whether you're enjoying the local cuisine or discovering nearby attractions, Downtown Santa Barbara promises an unforgettable vacation experience.

  • Santa Barbara: Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara is a vibrant city renowned for its stunning landscapes and year-round pleasant climate. As you explore Downtown, you'll find an array of shopping, dining, and entertainment options that cater to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Visitors flock to the beautiful beaches and family-friendly attractions, ensuring a memorable experience. Don't miss the iconic Mission Santa Barbara and the picturesque Stearns Wharf, both offering unique glimpses into the city's rich history.
  • Santa Barbara Beach: Located just 1.6km from Downtown Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Beach is a delightful neighbourhood that promises a classic beach experience. Families and outdoor lovers are drawn to its sandy shores and inviting waves, making it a perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming. In addition to the beach, you'll find excellent shopping and educational opportunities nearby, as well as fun activities such as theme park rides. The vibrant atmosphere and scenic coastline make it an ideal place to unwind and enjoy the Californian sun.
  • Historic Downtown Santa Barbara: A mere 322m from Downtown, Historic Downtown Santa Barbara boasts charming architecture and a rich cultural heritage. This area is perfect for families seeking both outdoor activities and a taste of the city's history. With a variety of shopping, theatre, and educational venues, visitors can immerse themselves in local art and culture. Be sure to explore the famous State Street and the stunning Courthouse, where you can admire panoramic views of the city and coastline.

Things to do in and around Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara is perfect for family adventures and outdoor fun, featuring vibrant shopping areas, educational attractions, and engaging theatres. Visitors can explore cultural spots and enjoy beach time on the beautiful sandy shores. With its array of downtown activities and best attractions, Santa Barbara offers an inviting blend of relaxation and entertainment for everyone.

Shopping

Experience shopping in Downtown Santa Barbara at Paseo Nuevo Mall, just 644m away, offering a vibrant mix of entertainment and shops. Don’t miss the Santa Barbara Public Market in the heart of downtown, where you can find local goods and delicious bites, creating a unique shopping atmosphere.

Recreation

Enjoy a concert at Santa Barbara Bowl, where the vibrant atmosphere enhances your musical experience. For some outdoor activity, head to Santa Barbara Golf Club for a round of golf, or unwind at Elings Park, where you can relax amidst nature and enjoy scenic views.

Adventure

Experience the scenic Cabrillo Bikeway in Downtown Santa Barbara, perfect for cycling along the coastline. For a more adventurous outing, hike the Rattlesnake Canyon Trail, located 3.2km away, where breathtaking views await. Alternatively, the Cabrillo Bike Path, 4.8km from downtown, offers a delightful outdoor biking experience.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Downtown Santa Barbara at the historic Arlington Theater for a romantic show. For a fun night, grab drinks at Cold Spring Tavern, or enjoy some adventure at Zodo's - Bowling and Beyond, where you can bowl and play arcade games with friends.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Downtown Santa Barbara

To save money on your trip to Downtown Santa Barbara, consider visiting between January to February or November, when accommodation prices are lower compared to the peak summer months. Tuesdays offer the best rates for stays, while Saturdays are the priciest. Utilize Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly options, and consider eco-certified hotels for sustainable choices. Walking is a great way to explore the compact downtown area, and you can save further by booking package deals that combine your hotel, flights, and activities for better rates.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Downtown Santa Barbara are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Downtown Santa Barbara is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Downtown Santa Barbara is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your options based on your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your Downtown Santa Barbara hotel reservation with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and urban charm, making it ideal for outdoor vacations. Visitors can explore attractions like the urban park, museums, and the marina, while also enjoying the scenic Santa Barbara waterfront, downtown centre, and beautiful beaches. The Santa Barbara Harbour adds to the coastal experience, providing opportunities for cultural immersion and family fun in this vibrant Californian locale.

  • Santa Barbara Harbor: Experience vibrant beach vibes at Santa Barbara Harbor, a picturesque marina just 1.6km from Downtown. Enjoy outdoor adventures like kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply lounging on the sand while taking in stunning coastal views.
  • Santa Barbara County Courthouse: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Santa Barbara at the historic County Courthouse, located in the heart of Downtown. Marvel at its stunning Spanish-Moorish architecture and take a stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens.
  • Stearns Wharf: Explore the scenic Stearns Wharf, a charming jetty located a mile from Downtown. Enjoy fresh seafood, unique shops, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, perfect for a leisurely day by the water.

Best time to go to Downtown Santa Barbara

The best time to visit Downtown Santa Barbara is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
April60.3°F (15.7°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
May63.1°F (17.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June68.2°F (20.1°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July72.1°F (22.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August72.9°F (22.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September71.6°F (22.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October66.7°F (19.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
November60.4°F (15.8°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
December55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Downtown Santa Barbara

When visiting Downtown Santa Barbara, you have several airport options. Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is located 12.9km away and offers nearby luxury hotels such as The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara and El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel. Santa Ynez Airport (SQA) is 40.2km away, with hotel options like Hotel Corque and Chumash Casino Resort. Lastly, Oxnard Airport (OXR) is situated 51.5km from downtown, with accommodations like Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach. Each airport provides accessible transportation services from these hotels, making your travel seamless and convenient.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best hotels in Downtown Santa Barbara that travellers recommend?
Hotel Santa Barbara stands out as a top choice with an impressive traveller rating of 9.0. Guests appreciate its charming ambiance and convenient location near the beach and local shopping districts. The hotel offers a range of amenities including valet parking, room service, and premium bedding, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors. With nearby winery tours and a fitness centre available 24/7, adventure and relaxation are just moments away.

For couples seeking a romantic getaway, the Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG, rated 8.8, is an excellent option. This hotel features an inviting outdoor pool with sun loungers, a rooftop terrace, and elegant rooms adorned with designer toiletries and deep soaking bathtubs. The picturesque setting and luxurious amenities make it great for those looking to unwind together while enjoying a cocktail at the poolside bar.

Families will find the Haley Hotel, also rated 8.8, a fantastic choice. With a focus on convenience and fun, this hotel is close to white sand beaches and ocean activities, making it great for kids. The property features beach toys and ample outdoor space for family gatherings, ensuring that both parents and children have a delightful time.

Business travellers can appreciate the Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, with a review score of 8.4. This hotel offers early check-in, valet parking, and proximity to the historical district, making it an excellent base for meetings and events. After work, guests can relax with winery tours nearby or enjoy a stroll along the beach.

Lastly, Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels, is another appealing option, rated 8.4. With its stylish design and mountain views, this hotel provides a special environment. Families will appreciate its child-friendly window design and the spacious, premium rooms that make for a cozy retreat after a day of exploring.
What are the best spa hotels in Downtown Santa Barbara?
For a rejuvenating escape, the Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG is a great choice in Downtown Santa Barbara, boasting an excellent guest review rating of 8.8/10. This hotel offers a serene onsite spa that provides a variety of treatments designed to help guests unwind and recharge.
What are the best budget hotels in Downtown Santa Barbara?
Hotel Santa Barbara is a charming option for budget-conscious travellers seeking comfort and convenience in the heart of Downtown Santa Barbara. Rated 9.0 by guests, this hotel boasts a range of amenities designed to enhance your stay. Guests appreciate the complimentary WiFi, premium bedding for restful nights, and convenient room service options. For those who enjoy exploring, the hotel offers free onsite bicycles, allowing families to embark on exciting adventures around the beautiful city.

Another excellent choice is the Haley Hotel, which has earned an impressive review score of 8.8. This hotel is great for families, featuring beach toys and being just a stone's throw away from the sandy shores. The property also provides a variety of amenities including free WiFi and onsite bicycles, making it easy to venture out and explore nearby mountain biking trails or simply enjoy the stunning coastline.

For couples seeking a romantic getaway, Drift Santa Barbara, rated 8.4, offers beautifully designed rooms with mountain views and furnished balconies, providing a cozy retreat after a day of adventure. The hotel's fireplace and child-friendly window designs also make it a versatile option for families looking for a touch of elegance during their stay.

In Downtown Santa Barbara, both family-friendly hotels and romantic retreats promise to deliver memorable experiences that cater to diverse traveller needs.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Downtown Santa Barbara.
How can I save on a Downtown Santa Barbara hotel booking with Expedia?
With Expedia, you'll unlock our lowest prices by becoming a member. It's free and easy to join, and you can even access member perks too. Just remember to sign in to get our best prices on Downtown Santa Barbara hotels. Another way to save is by booking your hotel and flights together on Expedia, where bundling can lead to significant savings.
How much is the nightly rate at a Downtown Santa Barbara hotel?
Hotel prices in Downtown Santa Barbara often vary, but you can find a great deal on Expedia. Different factors affect nightly hotel rates, such as the time of year or the days of the week you want to book. To find the best deals for your stay, be flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.

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