Find Cheap Hotels in Santa Barbara, CA from CA $150

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Check availability on Santa Barbara Cheap Hotels

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Apr 29 - Apr 30
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Apr 30 - May 1
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May 1 - May 3
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May 8 - May 10

Our top choices for Santa Barbara cheap hotels

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, (2,221 reviews)
"We absolutely loved our stay and ate planning our next trip to stay there!"
United States
Nuria
The price is CA $187
CA $223 total
includes taxes & fees
May 3 - May 4
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
Exterior

Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara

Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,095 reviews)
"Absolutely beautiful hotel! Beautiful views, wonderful staff. And an excellent continental breakfast. It was an amazing time."
United States
Maria
The price is CA $231
CA $269 total
includes taxes & fees
May 13 - May 14
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
Fountain

The Franciscan Hotel

The Franciscan Hotel
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,113 reviews)
"We loved our stay. Nice room, friendly staff, close to beach. "
United States
JEN
The price is CA $258
CA $294 total
includes taxes & fees
May 3 - May 4
The Franciscan Hotel
Courtyard

Oasis Inn & Suites

Oasis Inn & Suites
2.0 star property
San Roque
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,004 reviews)
"Sweet little motel! "
United States
Tera
The price is CA $147
CA $168 total
includes taxes & fees
May 7 - May 8
Oasis Inn & Suites
Lobby sitting area

Sandpiper Lodge

Sandpiper Lodge
2.0 star property
North State
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (2,399 reviews)
"Everything was great I really like the breakfast and the rooms for a good night's sleep it is a great place to go and close the door and just chill! "
United States
Timothy
The price is CA $176
CA $200 total
includes taxes & fees
May 11 - May 12
Sandpiper Lodge
Lobby sitting area

Beachside Inn

Beachside Inn
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,174 reviews)
"Nice hotel close to beach and good restaurants."
United States
Baogang
The price is CA $185
CA $212 total
includes taxes & fees
May 5 - May 6
Beachside Inn
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, (1,000 reviews)
"Good place to stay"
United States
Debojyoti
The price is CA $210
CA $240 total
includes taxes & fees
May 7 - May 8
The Inn at East Beach
Reception

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, (1,000 reviews)
"Very nice alternative to the very expensive hotels in the area."
United States
geoffrey
The price is CA $204
CA $232 total
includes taxes & fees
May 17 - May 18
Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel
Room, 2 Double Beds, Garden View

Riviera Beach House

Riviera Beach House
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,006 reviews)
"Amazing resort. Would stay again."
United States
Jake
The price is CA $261
CA $298 total
includes taxes & fees
May 11 - May 12
Riviera Beach House
Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds

Rose Garden Inn

Rose Garden Inn
1.5 star property
North State
6.6 out of 10, (1,007 reviews)
"Nice hotel, great value option compared to the really expensive hotels downtown "
United States
Brian
The price is CA $132
CA $150 total
includes taxes & fees
May 11 - May 12
Rose Garden 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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Find out more about Santa Barbara

Discover cheap things to do in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, with its sun-kissed beaches and stunning Spanish architecture, offers a wealth of exciting yet affordable activities for budget-conscious travellers. Start your adventure at Stearns Wharf, where you can stroll along the historic pier, enjoy free views of the ocean, and visit the Sea Center, which often has discounted admission for families. Next, explore the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, known for its breathtaking murals and a free rooftop view that showcases the city's beauty. For a taste of local culture, head to the Santa Barbara Farmers Market, which operates on Tuesdays and Saturdays, offering a variety of fresh produce and artisanal goods—perfect for a budget-friendly picnic on the beach. Don't miss the chance to hike the scenic trails of the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, where affordable entry fees allow you to immerse yourself in the region's native flora. Finally, the Funk Zone is a vibrant area filled with art galleries, wine tasting rooms, and street art, offering a lively atmosphere and plenty of opportunities to indulge in local flavours without breaking the bank. For accommodation, consider staying in the downtown area, where you'll find several budget hotels that provide both comfort and convenience, allowing easy access to these attractions while giving you the chance to unwind after a day of exploration. Immerse yourself in the laid-back coastal lifestyle of Santa Barbara while enjoying the best experiences this beautiful city has to offer.

Find the best cheap hotels in Santa Barbara

For budget-conscious travellers seeking an affordable yet enjoyable stay in Santa Barbara, here are five excellent hotel options. Each hotel offers comfortable accommodations and essential amenities to make your visit memorable without breaking the bank.

Marina Beach Motel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: With a stellar review rating of 9.8, Marina Beach Motel is perfect for budget-conscious guests who value comfort and convenience. This motel offers free continental breakfast, WiFi, and self-parking, ensuring that guests can enjoy their stay while keeping costs low.
  • Other amenities: Guests will appreciate the onsite bicycle rentals, as well as the lovely terrace and furnished patio areas. The motel is also conveniently located near the beach and boardwalk, with opportunities for nearby winery tours, hiking, and biking. Each room comes equipped with kitchenettes, making it easy to prepare simple meals during your stay.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.7 km, Santa Barbara Harbor - 0.2 km, Stearns Wharf - 0.9 km

La Playa Inn

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: La Playa Inn stands out with its excellent guest review rating of 9.6, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious travellers. The hotel offers essential amenities including free WiFi and self-parking, ensuring a pleasant and affordable stay.
  • Other amenities: Guests can unwind on the terrace or patio, and enjoy the hotel's close nearby the stunning beach. With air conditioning, designer toiletries, and convenient off-street parking, La Playa Inn combines comfort with budget-friendly options for a relaxing getaway.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: Leadbetter Beach - 0.9 km, MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 1 km, Santa Barbara Harbor - 1 km

Harbor House Inn

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Harbour House Inn is a superb pick for budget travellers, receiving an excellent review rating of 9.6. With key amenities like free WiFi and self-parking, guests can enjoy a straightforward stay while being just a stone's throw from the beach.
  • Other amenities: The inn also features a private hot tub for relaxation, as well as patios for enjoying the fresh air. Guests can easily access nearby activities such as kayaking, windsurfing, and winery tours, making it an ideal base for adventure seekers. With comfortable furnishings and a welcoming atmosphere, it's a delightful choice for any traveller.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.7 km, Santa Barbara Harbor - 0.2 km, Stearns Wharf - 0.9 km

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Avania Inn of Santa Barbara is a fantastic choice for budget travellers, an impressive guest review rating of 9.2. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast options, free WiFi, and self-parking, making it easy to explore the beautiful Santa Barbara Beach without added expenses.
  • Other amenities: The inn features a lovely terrace for relaxation, an outdoor pool to unwind, and nearby access to both the beach and boardwalk. Additional conveniences include air conditioning, designer toiletries, and nearby golf opportunities for those looking to enjoy some leisure activities during their stay.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: Leadbetter Beach - 1 km, MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 1 km, Santa Barbara Harbor - 1.1 km

Top Santa Barbara Hotel Reviews

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

10/10 Excellent
"Easy to get to and close to everything. well worth the price and the staff was excellent."
deborah 1-night trip
Posted 2 hours ago
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in Santa Barbara as a budget traveler?
For budget travellers in Santa Barbara, excellent choices include Marina Beach Motel, Harbor House Inn, and Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages.

The 3-star Marina Beach Motel, with an outstanding 9.8 rating, offers great value with free continental breakfast, free WiFi, and complimentary toiletries. Guests consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff, the beautiful and clean rooms, and the excellent location.

Another fantastic option is the 3-star Harbor House Inn, boasting a 9.6 rating. This hotel provides free internet, free WiFi, and free self-parking. Reviewers frequently highlight its great location, clean rooms, and excellent, friendly staff. A popular amenity mentioned is the free bicycles available for guests.

The 3-star Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages, also with a 9.6 rating, is known for its delicious free breakfast, free WiFi, and complimentary self-parking. Guests appreciate the comfortable and clean rooms, the excellent food, and the nice, quiet location.
How much does a budget hotel in Santa Barbara cost?
Budget hotel prices in Santa Barbara vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $150 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Which area of Santa Barbara is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For travellers seeking cheap hotels in Santa Barbara, areas slightly off the main tourist drags, such as parts of Downtown Santa Barbara or neighbourhoods further east along State Street, often provide more affordable lodging options. While Santa Barbara isn't renowned for its budget accommodation, these areas offer better value than beachfront locations.

Downtown Santa Barbara has a selection of motels and smaller hotels that cater to a more budget-conscious clientele. Solo travellers will find these spots convenient for accessing local buses that can take them to the beach or various attractions, and the area is easily walkable with many cafes and shops.

Couples looking for a good deal might consider areas a little further from the immediate coast, where prices tend to drop. Exploring accommodations close to the Funk Zone but not directly within it, or slightly north of the main State Street corridor, can reveal some hidden gems.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Santa Barbara?
For families seeking top-rated, budget-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara, excellent choices include the Beachside Inn, Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara, and The Eagle Inn.

The 3-star Beachside Inn, with a solid 9.0 rating, offers great value with free wired internet in public areas, complimentary buffet breakfast, and free self-parking. Reviewers often highlight the nice, clean rooms and convenient parking, alongside a great location and friendly staff.

Another excellent option is the 3-star Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara, rated 8.8. This hotel provides free buffet breakfast, including on weekends, and complimentary self-parking, with free parking available for RVs, buses, and trucks, which is ideal for larger family vehicles. Guests frequently praise the friendly and helpful staff, clean rooms, and convenient location.

The 3-star Eagle Inn, boasting an impressive 9.4 rating, provides free cooked breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free self-parking. Families will appreciate the free toiletries and complimentary wired internet in public areas. Its staff are consistently described as friendly and great, with the breakfast receiving praise for being excellent and delicious.
What cheap hotels in Santa Barbara offer complimentary breakfast?
For budget-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara that offer complimentary breakfast, the Marina Beach Motel, West Beach Inn, The Eagle Inn, Avania Inn of Santa Barbara, and Beachside Inn are all excellent choices.

The 3-star Marina Beach Motel, with an outstanding 9.8 rating, provides a complimentary continental breakfast, ensuring a great start to your day. Guests frequently highlight the excellent location and the friendly staff.

Another fantastic option is the 3-star West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel, rated 9.4. This hotel also offers a free continental breakfast and free self-parking, adding to its value. Reviewers often praise its great location and helpful staff.

The 3-star The Eagle Inn, boasting a 9.4 rating, stands out with its complimentary cooked breakfast, a real treat for guests. Its location is frequently described as perfect, and the service receives excellent reviews.

The Avania Inn of Santa Barbara, rated 9.0, includes a complimentary self-serve breakfast and free self-parking. Guests appreciate the spacious, clean rooms and the convenient location.

Finally, the 3-star Beachside Inn, with a 9.0 rating, offers a complimentary buffet breakfast and free self-parking.
When is the most affordable time to visit Santa Barbara?
The most affordable time to visit Santa Barbara is generally during the shoulder seasons, specifically from late autumn to early spring (November to March), excluding holiday periods. During these months, you'll find lower prices on accommodation and potentially fewer crowds, offering a more relaxed experience.

For solo travellers, visiting in January or February can be particularly economical. The weather is still pleasant, often sunny and mild, superb for exploring the city's outdoor attractions without the summer rush. You can enjoy strolls along East Beach, visit the historic Santa Barbara County Courthouse for free, or wander through the Funk Zone's art galleries and boutiques without breaking the bank. Many hotels offer off-season rates, and local restaurants might have special deals.

Families can also benefit from these off-peak times. While school holidays might increase prices slightly, late autumn before Thanksgiving or late winter after the New Year often present good value. You can take advantage of the less crowded Santa Barbara Zoo, explore the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, or simply enjoy a picnic at Shoreline Park with views of the Pacific Ocean without the usual summer crowds.
What are the best cheap hotels in Santa Barbara with a pool?
For cheap hotels in Santa Barbara with a pool, excellent choices include West Beach Inn, Mason Beach Inn, and Avania Inn of Santa Barbara.

The 3-star West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel, rated 9.4, offers fantastic value with a heated outdoor pool. Guests also benefit from complimentary continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking, making it a convenient and budget-friendly option. Its location is frequently praised as perfect.

Another great option is the 3-star Mason Beach Inn, with a 9.2 rating. This hotel features a lovely outdoor pool and provides free WiFi. Reviewers often highlight its great location and clean rooms.

The Avania Inn of Santa Barbara, rated 9.0, also boasts an outdoor pool. Guests appreciate the complimentary self-serve breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking, adding to its value.
Are there any cheap Santa Barbara hotels near Stearns Wharf?
Yes, for affordable hotels near Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara, travellers can consider the Marina Beach Motel, Harbor House Inn, and La Playa Inn.

The 3-star Marina Beach Motel, with an impressive 9.8 rating, is often praised by guests for its excellent location and friendly, helpful staff. It offers great value amenities such as a complimentary continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking, along with free use of bicycles which is great for exploring the area around Stearns Wharf.

Another excellent option is the 3-star Harbor House Inn, rated 9.6. Guests consistently highlight its great location and clean rooms. This inn also provides free internet, free WiFi, and free self-parking, and like the Marina Beach Motel, it offers complimentary bicycles for guests to enjoy.

La Playa Inn, with a 9.6 rating, is known for its spacious and clean rooms, as well as its friendly staff and beautiful location.
Is Santa Barbara a budget-friendly destination?
While Santa Barbara is generally considered more expensive, particularly compared to other parts of California, travellers can absolutely experience its charm on a budget with some smart planning.

For accommodation, consider staying slightly outside the immediate downtown area, perhaps in neighbourhoods like Goleta or Carpinteria, which offer more affordable lodging options and are just a short drive or bus ride from Santa Barbara's main attractions. Solo travellers might find good value in hostels or guesthouses a little further from the beach, which often provide a more community-focused atmosphere.

Couples can enjoy many free activities, such as strolling along the picturesque State Street, exploring the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara, or relaxing on one of the many beautiful beaches like East Beach or Butterfly Beach. Packing a picnic to enjoy at a scenic spot like Shoreline Park or the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is a fantastic way to save on dining costs.

For getting around, the city's bus system is an economical choice, or you could rent bicycles to explore the coastal paths and downtown area.
What cheap hotels in Santa Barbara offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?
For budget-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara that offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes, you have several excellent options, including Marina Beach Motel, Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages, and Casa Jardin.

The 3-star Marina Beach Motel, with an impressive 9.8 rating, is a great choice. While it provides a complimentary continental breakfast, the availability of a kitchenette in some rooms allows for preparing your own meals, offering flexibility and potential savings. Guests frequently praise the friendly and helpful staff, as well as the beautiful and clean rooms.

Another fantastic option is the 3-star Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages, rated 9.6. This charming establishment offers kitchenettes in some accommodations, superb for those who prefer to cook. Reviewers often highlight the delicious breakfast and comfortable, clean rooms, all within a nice, quiet location.

Casa Jardin, with a 9.6 rating, is also an excellent fit. Many rooms include a full kitchen, providing ample opportunity for self-catering.
Which cheap hotels in Santa Barbara have good reviews for customer service?
For affordable hotels in Santa Barbara with great customer service, travellers often praise Marina Beach Motel, La Playa Inn, and Harbor House Inn.

The 3-star Marina Beach Motel, with an impressive 9.8 rating, consistently receives high praise for its service and friendly, helpful staff. Guests particularly appreciate the complimentary breakfast and free WiFi, adding to its excellent value.

La Playa Inn, rated 9.6, is frequently highlighted for its friendly and great staff. This hotel offers free WiFi and free self-parking, and many rooms feature a balcony or patio for enjoying the Santa Barbara weather.

Another excellent option is the 3-star Harbor House Inn, which also boasts a 9.6 rating. Reviewers consistently mention the excellent service and friendly staff.
Are there any cheap hotels in Santa Barbara that allow for late check-out or early check-in?
Yes, several budget-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara are excellent for accommodating non-standard arrival or departure times.

The 3-star Eagle Inn, with an outstanding 9.4 rating, is highly regarded for its flexibility. Guests frequently praise the friendly staff for their willingness to arrange early check-ins or late check-outs. This hotel also offers delicious free cooked breakfast and free Wi-Fi, adding to its great value.

Another excellent option is the 3-star Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara, rated 8.8. Reviewers consistently highlight the helpful staff and the hotel's ability to facilitate early check-ins and late check-outs. You'll also benefit from free Wi-Fi and complimentary self-parking here.

For those travelling with pets, the Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach, with a 9.0 rating, is a solid choice. It offers free Wi-Fi, free self-parking, and allows pets to stay free. The staff are often commended for their friendly service and ability to assist with early arrivals or late departures.

The Palmoro House, a 3-star hotel with a 7.6 rating, also provides flexibility for early check-ins and late check-outs. It offers free Wi-Fi and free self-parking.

Finally, the Rose Garden Inn is another hotel that can often accommodate early check-ins and late check-outs. It includes free Wi-Fi and complimentary self-parking, including space for RVs, buses, or trucks.
How can I save on a budget hotel in Santa Barbara with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Santa Barbara. Unlock our lowest prices by joining One Key™, Expedia's travel rewards program. It's free and easy to sign up, and you can access member perks too. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel booking. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
What free activities should we do in Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara offers a delightful array of free activities, great for budget-conscious travellers looking to soak up the Californian sunshine without spending a fortune.

For couples, a romantic stroll along Stearns Wharf is a must, offering stunning ocean views and the chance to watch local fishermen. Afterwards, wander through the historic Presidio State Historic Park, exploring the last remaining vestiges of the original Spanish fort and learning about the city's rich past. You could also pack a picnic and enjoy the beautiful botanical diversity at Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden, a truly tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.

Solo travellers will find plenty to explore too. Spend a morning at East Beach, enjoying the expansive sandy shores, or take a scenic walk or bike ride along the Cabrillo Boulevard Bike Path, which stretches for miles along the coastline. The Santa Barbara County Courthouse, with its iconic clock tower offering panoramic views of the city (check opening times for tower access), is a grand architectural marvel that's completely free to enter and explore.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in Santa Barbara as a package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.
Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in Santa Barbara for you.

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