Find beach hotels in Santa Barbara, CA from CA $185

  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation

  • Treat yourself

    Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
    Sign in

  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check availability on Santa Barbara Beach Hotel

Next weekend
May 29 - May 31
In two weeks
Jun 5 - Jun 7

Our top choices for Santa Barbara beach hotels

Executive Room, 1 King Bed with Sofa bed, Courtyard View

FOUND Hotels, Santa Barbara, Series by Marriott

FOUND Hotels, Santa Barbara, Series by Marriott
3.0 star property
North State
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,178 reviews)
"Excellent location, helpful and kind staff. Free parking and breakfast with awesome coffee machine. Bonus heated pool and jacuzzi"
United States
Elaina
The price is CA $232
CA $265 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 1 - Jun 2
FOUND Hotels, Santa Barbara, Series by Marriott
Exterior

Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara

Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,148 reviews)
"Beautiful, quiet place to stay with kids. Staff are so friendly and nice, pool and pond area are amazing."
United States
Inna
The price is CA $247
CA $288 total
includes taxes & fees
May 25 - May 26
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
Exterior

Marina Beach Hotel

Marina Beach Hotel
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,124 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Bask in seaside tranquility at this coastal motel, where golden sands await just minutes away, with free bicycles to explore the shoreline.
"The location is perfect for walking along the beach and on the wharf."
United States
Yujun
The price is CA $190
CA $216 total
includes taxes & fees
May 25 - May 26
Marina Beach Hotel
Lobby sitting area

Beachside Inn

Beachside Inn
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,186 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Sun, sand, and seaside serenity await at this waterfront retreat just minutes from Leadbetter Beach and Santa Barbara's coastal gems.
"Cozy rooms and we appreciated the extensive hot breakfast. Front desk staff was great! Pool was small but nice and clean."
United States
Lisa
The price is CA $192
CA $219 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 1 - Jun 2
Beachside Inn
Free daily continental breakfast

Sandpiper Lodge

Sandpiper Lodge
2.0 star property
North State
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (2,443 reviews)
"The rooms are very comfortable and clean. The pool is clean and heated at night. The WiFi works good. There is a lot of shopping center walking distance around the area and also food places to eat too. "
United States
Maria
The price is CA $162
CA $185 total
includes taxes & fees
May 28 - May 29
Sandpiper Lodge
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, (2,244 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Soak up the Santa Barbara sunshine at this inviting beach getaway, where the shore beckons and comfort awaits after sandy adventures.
"This was a great stay. The only downfall was the hot tub was not hot. The heated pool was nice though. "
United States
Simone
The price is CA $200
CA $239 total
includes taxes & fees
May 28 - May 29
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
Lobby

Montecito Inn

Montecito Inn
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,001 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Dive into Mediterranean elegance just 8 minutes from Butterfly Beach, where coastal charm meets boutique luxury and ocean adventures await.
"Really fun 8 day stay here for spring break. Friendly staff, great food and drinks at the restaurants, free bikes for cruising the beach, great location. Pool and jacuzzi were lovely. Bring earplugs if you are sound sensitive because it's near a busy road. "
United States
Aviva
The price is CA $228
CA $318 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 2 - Jun 3
Montecito Inn
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, (1,002 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Discover seaside tranquility just steps from East Beach, where heated outdoor pools and picnic areas create the perfect coastal retreat.
"we were able to walk to the beach"
United States
Ashley
The price is CA $200
CA $228 total
includes taxes & fees
May 31 - Jun 1
Blue Sands Inn, A Kirkwood Collection Hotel
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, (1,003 reviews)
"We upgraded to the beachfront view and it was so worth it."
United States
Isabel
The price is CA $368
CA $420 total
includes taxes & fees
May 31 - Jun 1
Santa Barbara Inn
Fountain

The Franciscan Hotel

The Franciscan Hotel
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,146 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Beach retreat a stroll away from West Beach, with pool oasis and complimentary towels.
"The inn is in a great location - a short walk to the beach and Sterns Wharf, but far enough away from the Main Street that it was really quiet."
United States
Emily
The price is CA $275
CA $314 total
includes taxes & fees
May 31 - Jun 1
The Franciscan 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

Choose what matters most at beach hotels in Santa Barbara

Pool
4 stars

Beach hotels with pools in Santa Barbara

View from property
West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel

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, (1117)
The price is CA $275
CA $313 total
includes taxes & fees
May 25 - May 26
West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel
View all properties

4-star beach hotels in Santa Barbara

Terrace/patio
Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
7.8 out of 10, Good, (286)
The price is CA $386
CA $503 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 8 - Jun 9
Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
View all properties

Beach hotels with free breakfast in Santa Barbara

Exterior
Marina Beach Hotel

Marina Beach Hotel

Marina Beach Hotel
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (1124)
The price is CA $190
CA $216 total
includes taxes & fees
May 25 - May 26
Marina Beach 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

Find out more about Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara and its attractions for beach lovers

Santa Barbara, a coastal gem in California, offers a wealth of beachside activities that are perfect for families seeking adventure and relaxation. Start your day at the world-renowned Santa Barbara Zoo, where you can wander among lush gardens and see exotic animals, all while enjoying stunning views of the ocean. Next, head to East Beach, famous for its sandy shores and volleyball courts, where both kids and adults can join in on the fun. For a more serene experience, the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden features not only native plants but also picturesque trails that lead to breathtaking vistas of the coastline. Don’t miss the chance to stroll along Stearns Wharf, where you can enjoy fresh seafood dining and local shops as you take in the salty sea air. Finally, a visit to the historic Mission Santa Barbara provides a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage, set against the backdrop of the beautiful Santa Ynez Mountains. For accommodation, consider staying in the beachfront neighbourhood of Montecito, where luxury hotels like the Four Seasons Resort offer exquisite amenities and attentive service, ensuring a pampered experience after a day of exploration. Enjoy the convenience of walking to the beach, taking in the stunning sunsets, and creating lasting family memories.

Find the best beach hotels and resorts in Santa Barbara

For travelers seeking the perfect beach getaway in Santa Barbara, these top hotels provide an excellent blend of comfort and easy access to the sun and surf.

Marina Beach Motel

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: With an outstanding review rating of 9.8, Marina Beach Motel is a fantastic choice for beachgoers looking for comfort and convenience. Located near the beach, guests can enjoy quick access to sand and surf, as well as complimentary breakfast to start the day. The motel’s outdoor terrace is a great spot to unwind after a day of sun-soaked adventures.
  • Other amenities: Guests can take advantage of kitchenettes available in rooms, free parking, and pet-friendly accommodations. Additional features include air conditioning, daily housekeeping, and opportunities for nearby mountain biking and hiking. The motel also provides beach towels and bicycles for rent, ensuring guests have everything they need for a perfect beach day.
  • 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

Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: With an impressive review rating of 9.6, Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach is perfect for those who crave beach adventures. Located just steps from the sandy beach, guests can indulge in activities such as kayaking and parasailing. The hotel’s outdoor pool and hot tub offer a refreshing retreat, while the complimentary breakfast fuels your beach days.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features a terrace with sun loungers, electric car charging stations, and a concierge service to assist with local plans. Guests can enjoy in-room kitchen facilities, including a stovetop and refrigerator, making it convenient for families. The hotel also provides free off-street parking, massage services, and easy access to nearby wineries for added leisure.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: Leadbetter Beach - 1.1 km, MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.9 km

Lavender Inn by the Sea

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: Lavender Inn by the Sea is a charming retreat with a review rating of 9.4, perfectly situated for beach lovers. Located close to Santa Barbara Beach, this inn offers guests easy access to the ocean as well as complimentary breakfast to fuel their day by the sea. The outdoor pool adds an extra layer of relaxation for travelers looking to unwind after beach activities.
  • Other amenities: The inn features a lovely garden, free off-street parking, and self-parking options. Guests can enjoy a range of fitness facilities nearby and access to wine tours in the area. Each room is equipped with bathrobes and toiletries, and families will appreciate the free amenities for children. The concierge service is available to help plan local excursions and activities.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: Leadbetter Beach - 1.1 km, MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.9 km

Inn By The Harbor

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: Inn By The Harbor offers a charming beachside experience with a review rating of 9.2. Just a short walk from Santa Barbara Beach, this hotel is perfect for sun-seekers and ocean lovers. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool and hot tub, ensuring relaxation after a day spent on the sand.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features a delightful garden, fitness facilities nearby, and complimentary breakfast served daily. Each room includes a full-size refrigerator for convenience, and families will appreciate the free amenities for children. Other perks include housekeeping services, off-street parking, and a concierge to help plan your beach outings.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: Leadbetter Beach - 1.4 km, MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.9 km

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: The Avania Inn of Santa Barbara is an ideal choice for beach enthusiasts, a stellar review rating of 9.2. Located near the beautiful Santa Barbara Beach, guests can take advantage of easy access to the sandy shores and scenic boardwalk. The hotel features an inviting outdoor pool, perfect for relaxing after a day at the beach, and complimentary breakfast to start your mornings right.
  • Other amenities: Guests can enjoy a spacious terrace with comfortable seating, free parking, and air-conditioned rooms for added comfort. The hotel also provides designer toiletries, a hot tub for unwinding, and nearby golf options. Families will appreciate the free amenities for children and the accessibility features throughout the hotel, ensuring a pleasant stay for everyone.
  • 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

Best Western Plus Santa Barbara

Best Western Plus Santa Barbara

4/10 Poor
"Bad hotel ,very expensive."
FERNANDO 2-night trip
Posted 8 hours ago
Best Western Plus Santa Barbara

Frequently asked questions

What are the best beach hotels in Santa Barbara?
Some of the best beach hotels in Santa Barbara include the Marina Beach Motel, Harbor House Inn, and Palihouse Santa Barbara.

The 3-star Marina Beach Motel, with a 9.8 rating, is frequently praised for its friendly and helpful staff, as well as its beautiful and clean rooms. Guests also appreciate the complimentary continental breakfast and free self-parking.

For excellent location and service, consider the 3-star Harbor House Inn, rated 9.6. Reviewers highlight its superb location near the sea and ocean, and guests can also take advantage of free bicycle rentals.

The 4-star Palihouse Santa Barbara, with a 9.6 rating, offers a resort-inclusive outdoor pool with sun loungers, which is a great feature for relaxation. Visitors often comment on the fantastic location and the friendly, helpful staff.
How much does a beach hotel in Santa Barbara cost?
Prices for beach hotels in Santa Barbara vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $185 on Expedia. You're likely to find lower rates if you're travelling during the off-peak season or mid-week. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.
Which Santa Barbara hotels are near the best beaches?
For hotels near the best beaches in Santa Barbara, consider the Marina Beach Motel, Harbor House Inn, or Palihouse Santa Barbara.

The 3-star Marina Beach Motel, with a 9.8 rating, is located very close to the beach, and guests frequently highlight its excellent location. It also offers complimentary breakfast.

Harbor House Inn, a 3-star property with a 9.6 rating, is also situated near the sea and ocean. Reviewers often mention its great location and the availability of free bikes for guests.

The 4-star Palihouse Santa Barbara, rated 9.6 by guests, is located near the beach and features an outdoor pool with sun loungers. Customers frequently praise its fantastic location and beautiful rooms.
Which beach hotels in Santa Barbara are good for families?
For a family holiday in Santa Barbara, several much-loved beach hotels offer excellent options.

The 3-star Marina Beach Motel, with a 9.8 rating, is known for its friendly and helpful staff and beautiful, clean rooms. It is located very near the beach and offers free breakfast, making it convenient for families.

Another great choice is the 3-star Harbor House Inn, rated 9.6. Guests frequently praise its great location near the sea and ocean, and it provides free internet and free bicycles, which can be a fun activity for families.

The 4-star Palihouse Santa Barbara, with a 9.6 rating, features an outdoor pool with sun loungers, which is a lovely amenity for families to relax by. Reviewers often highlight its fantastic and convenient location near the beach.

The 3.5-star Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach, rated 9.4, offers spacious and clean rooms, along with a free continental breakfast. Families will appreciate its location near the beach and the availability of free cribs.

Finally, the 3.5-star Lavender Inn by the Sea, with a 9.4 rating, also provides a complimentary continental breakfast and is much-loved for its comfortable and clean rooms. It is located near the beach and offers a nice, clean pool.
What are the best Santa Barbara hotels with ocean views?
For hotels in Santa Barbara offering ocean views, consider the Rosewood Miramar Beach, El Encanto Santa Barbara, Hotel Californian, or Santa Barbara Inn.

The 5-star Rosewood Miramar Beach, with a 9.4 rating, provides both ocean and beach views, and features an outdoor pool with sun loungers and a poolside bar. Guests frequently mention the exceptional service and amazing staff.

El Encanto Santa Barbara, a 5-star hotel rated 9.4, offers ocean views and is located near the beach. It includes amenities such as a restaurant with ocean views, a poolside bar, and rooms with rainfall showerheads and deep soaking bathtubs. Reviewers often highlight the exceptional service and excellent food.

The 5-star Hotel Californian, with a 9.2 rating, provides ocean views and is near the beach. It features a poolside bar and rooms with designer toiletries and premium bedding. Guests frequently praise the beautiful rooms and superb location.

The Santa Barbara Inn, a 4-star hotel with a 9.4 rating, offers partial ocean views and is located near the beach. It has an outdoor pool with sun loungers. Customers often comment on the excellent and friendly staff, as well as the comfortable and clean rooms.
What are the top-rated beach hotels in Santa Barbara with a pool?
For top-rated beach hotels in Santa Barbara with a pool, consider the Rosewood Miramar Beach, El Encanto Santa Barbara, and Hotel Californian.

The 5-star Rosewood Miramar Beach, with a 9.4 rating, offers direct beach views and multiple pools, including one specifically for children. Guests often comment on the exceptional service and amazing staff.

El Encanto Santa Barbara, a 5-star hotel with a 9.4 rating, is located near the beach and provides stunning ocean views. It features an outdoor pool and offers amenities like massage services and a restaurant with alfresco and ocean-view dining.

The 5-star Hotel Californian, rated 9.2, is also near the beach and boasts an outdoor pool. Reviewers frequently praise its beautiful rooms, comfortable beds, and superb location.
Which beach hotels in Santa Barbara are good for couples?
For couples looking for a beach hotel in Santa Barbara, excellent choices include El Encanto Santa Barbara, Rosewood Miramar Beach, and Hotel Californian.

The 5-star El Encanto Santa Barbara, with a 9.4 rating, offers ocean views from many rooms and features amenities like a massage service, deep soaking bathtubs, and a restaurant with ocean views. Guests frequently mention the exceptional service and amazing location.

Rosewood Miramar Beach, also a 5-star hotel with a 9.4 rating, provides various ocean and beach views, along with an outdoor pool, sun loungers, and a poolside bar. Reviewers consistently highlight the exceptional and absolutely amazing staff.

The 5-star Hotel Californian, rated 9.2, is located very near the beach and offers ocean views. It provides amenities such as a poolside bar, champagne service, and designer toiletries. Guests often praise the beautiful rooms, comfortable beds, and great location.
Which area of Santa Barbara is best to stay in for beaches?
The best area of Santa Barbara to stay in for beaches is the beachfront area, particularly around East Beach and West Beach.

This stretch of coastline offers direct access to the Pacific Ocean, with the Santa Barbara Pier (Stearns Wharf) centrally located between the two main beaches. The Cabrillo Boulevard promenade runs parallel to the sand, superb for walks, cycling, or rollerblading, and you'll find plenty of hotels right across from the beach.

Families often find this area ideal due to the easy beach access and nearby recreational activities. East Beach, for instance, has volleyball courts and a playground, while West Beach is calmer and great for paddleboarding or kayaking. Many hotels here offer family-friendly amenities, and you're just a short walk from the Santa Barbara Zoo.

Couples looking for a relaxing coastal escape will also appreciate this area. You can enjoy sunbathing, romantic strolls along the shore, and beautiful sunsets over the ocean.
Which top beach hotels in Santa Barbara offer water sport activities?
For top beach hotels in Santa Barbara offering water sport activities, consider the Harbor House Inn, Lavender Inn by the Sea, Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach, The Eagle Inn, and El Encanto Santa Barbara.

The 3-star Harbor House Inn, with a 9.6 rating, is located near the beach and offers access to a wide range of water sports, including windsurfing, kayaking, sailing, surfing, bodyboarding, snorkeling, scuba diving, and parasailing. Guests frequently praise its superb location and excellent staff.

The 3.5-star Lavender Inn by the Sea, rated 9.4, is also near the beach and provides access to kayaking and sailing. Reviewers highlight its friendly staff and comfortable rooms.

Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach, a 3.5-star hotel with a 9.4 rating, is close to the beach and allows for kayaking, sailing, parasailing, surfing, and bodyboarding. Many guests appreciate its spacious rooms and great breakfast.

The 3-star The Eagle Inn, rated 9.4, is located near the ocean and offers activities such as motorboating, kayaking, personal motor watercraft, snorkeling, surfing, bodyboarding, parasailing, sailing, and scuba diving. Guests often comment on the excellent breakfast and beautiful rooms.

El Encanto Santa Barbara, a 5-star hotel with a 9.4 rating, offers ocean views and is near the beach, with activities like kayaking, surfing, bodyboarding, and sailing available. Customers frequently mention the exceptional service and excellent food.
What is the best time of year to stay in a beach hotel in Santa Barbara?
The most popular time to stay in a beach hotel in Santa Barbara is during the summer months, particularly from July to August. This period offers consistently warm and sunny weather, with average temperatures hovering around 24°C, creating ideal conditions for enjoying the coastline and water activities.

During this high season, the beaches are bustling with activity, and the ocean is at its most inviting for swimming, surfing, and paddleboarding. It's a fantastic time for families looking to make the most of the extensive beach facilities and for anyone keen on soaking up the Californian sun. You'll find a lively option along the waterfront, with plenty of opportunities for beachfront dining and strolling along Stearns Wharf.

For a delightful alternative, consider visiting in May. This shoulder month still offers beautiful weather, with pleasant temperatures around 20°C, great for beach walks and enjoying the ocean breeze without the peak summer crowds.
How can I save on a beach hotel in Santa Barbara with Expedia?
With Expedia, you'll unlock our lowest prices by becoming a One Key™ 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 Santa Barbara beach hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel. If you're feeling spontaneous, check out the last-minute deals.
What beach activities should we do in Santa Barbara?
The best beach activities in Santa Barbara revolve around its iconic Stearns Wharf and the adjacent beaches.

Stearns Wharf, a historic pier, is a central point for many beach activities. From here, you can take a boat tour of the coastline, offering views of the Santa Ynez Mountains and potentially spotting marine life like dolphins. There are also several casual dining options on the wharf, providing a relaxed spot for a meal with ocean views. Families often enjoy the Sea Centre, an interactive marine education facility located directly on the pier.

East Beach, located just east of Stearns Wharf, is a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming. The wide, sandy expanse is well-maintained and offers plenty of space for relaxation. You can also find courts for beach volleyball here,

which are often busy with local games. This beach is particularly good for families due to its calm waters and the presence of lifeguards during peak season.

For those looking for a more active experience, renting kayaks or stand-up paddleboards is a popular choice. Several rental shops are located near Stearns Wharf, making it easy to get out on the water and explore the coastline at your own pace.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a beach hotel in Santa Barbara as a package?
Booking a beach 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 a beach vacation package 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 beach 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 beach hotel in Santa Barbara for you.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia