A historic building with arched windows and a bell tower, surrounded by palm trees and greenery.

Santa Barbara Hotel Guide. Hotels in Downtown Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, United States of America

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Our top choices for Downtown Santa Barbara hotels

1. Haley Hotel

Haley Hotel
3.5 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (705 reviews)
"Great place and walking distance to fun bars"
United States
Rodney J
The price is €162
includes taxes & fees
26 Oct - 27 Oct
Haley Hotel

2. Hotel Santa Barbara

Hotel Santa Barbara
4.0 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,522 reviews)
"Loved this hotel, staff, location everything was wonderful"
United States
Karri
The price is €252
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Hotel Santa Barbara

3. 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)
"Very nice and clean hotel."
United States
Irina
The price is €208
includes taxes & fees
29 Oct - 30 Oct
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

4. 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, (503 reviews)
"Great hotel"
United States
Emeterio
The price is €228
includes taxes & fees
9 Nov - 10 Nov
Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels

5. 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)
"Excellent hotel and staff. Loved Santa Barbara. We will be back !"
United States
Gavin
The price is €381
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

6. Casa Jardin, a ZenStay Hotel

Casa Jardin, a ZenStay Hotel
3.0 star property
Laguna, 0.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (316 reviews)
"Great location, within walking distance of most things. Parking was easy."
United States
Maria
The price is €183
includes taxes & fees
9 Nov - 10 Nov
Casa Jardin, a ZenStay Hotel

7. Casa Iglesia, a ZenStay Hotel

Casa Iglesia, a ZenStay Hotel
4.5 star property
Oak Park, 1.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (75 reviews)
"Property was very well maintained and was super aesthetic and comfortable! The Downtown area was a 5-10 minute drive and parking was easy at the property too!"
United States
Nimisha
The price is €198
includes taxes & fees
3 Nov - 4 Nov
Casa Iglesia, a ZenStay Hotel

8. Casa Riviera, a ZenStay Hotel

Casa Riviera, a ZenStay Hotel
4.5 star property
Laguna, 0.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (338 reviews)
"Always a great stay. Conveniently located, clean and safe."
United States
Matthew
The price is €230
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Casa Riviera, a ZenStay Hotel

9. Orange Tree Inn

Orange Tree Inn
2.5 star property
Upper East, 1.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
7.8 out of 10, Good, (920 reviews)
"One staff member in particular was amazing, he brought us towels to the pool and was generally great."
United States
Leonardo
The price is €105
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Orange Tree Inn

10. Casa De La Vina, a ZenStay Hotel

Casa De La Vina, a ZenStay Hotel
4.0 star property
0.8 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (220 reviews)
"Great location next to Downtown and waterfront. Spacious and clean room. Quiet and safe neighborhood. Would stay here again next time!"
United States
Jhoana
The price is €221
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Casa De La Vina, a ZenStay Hotel

11. Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
2.5 star property
West Beach, 1.4 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,428 reviews)
"Great location and clean facilities. Staff was very helpful and check in went smoothly"
United States
Anthony
The price is €153
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

12. The Presidio

The Presidio
2.0 star property
1.1 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (873 reviews)
"great location and clean motel"
United States
Bonnie
The price is €152
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
The Presidio

13. Riviera Beach House

Riviera Beach House
3.5 star property
The Funk Zone, 1.3 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,000 reviews)
"Thank you for such a great stay, loved it!"
United States
Trent
The price is €168
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Riviera Beach House

14. 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, (1,006 reviews)
"Nice, we would stay here again."
United States
Wesley
The price is €152
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Castillo Inn at the Beach

15. Casa Castillo, a ZenStay Hotel

Casa Castillo, a ZenStay Hotel
4.0 star property
0.7 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (8 reviews)
"Amazing property!"
United States
David
The price is €218
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Casa Castillo, a ZenStay Hotel

16. The Franciscan Hotel

The Franciscan Hotel
2.5 star property
West Beach, 1.4 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,315 reviews)
"Great staff, excellent breakfast options, easy parking and comfy rooms."
United States
Bob
The price is €141
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
The Franciscan Hotel

17. Ala Mar by the Sea

Ala Mar by the Sea
3.0 star property
West Beach, 1.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
6.2 out of 10, (1,001 reviews)
"I Love this place! They have the coolest pool area with hot tub and you always meet cool people from around the world! Staff is excellent! I always stay here when in Santa Barbara and need a hotel!"
United States
Aaron
The price is €156
includes taxes & fees
13 Oct - 14 Oct
Ala Mar by the Sea

18. Harbor House Inn

Harbor House Inn
3.0 star property
West Beach, 1.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,002 reviews)
"Cozy and cool property just a block away from the harbor. Great location to"
United States
James
The price is €179
includes taxes & fees
9 Nov - 10 Nov
Harbor House Inn

19. Beachside Inn

Beachside Inn
3.0 star property
West Beach, 1.6 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,309 reviews)
"The room was super clean, staff was very helpful and we were in walking distance to everything. I will definitely book here again."
United States
ARKIMBERLEY
The price is €195
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Beachside Inn

20. The Upham Hotel

The Upham Hotel
4.0 star property
Historic Downtown Santa Barbara, 0.8 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Perfect location"
United States
Rana
The price is €245
includes taxes & fees
27 Oct - 28 Oct
The Upham 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.

Compare popular hotels in Downtown Santa Barbara

Property
Property class
Guest rating
Breakfast included
Pool
Spa
Pet-friendly
WiFi included
A spacious interior with high ceilings, wooden beams, and a central column.
Hotel Santa Barbara
4.0 star property
9.4
Exceptional
1,522 reviews
View
An outdoor patio with wooden tables and benches, surrounded by lush tropical plants.
Haley Hotel
3.5 star property
8.8
Excellent
705 reviews
View
A rooftop terrace with outdoor seating, umbrellas, and a pool.
Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG
4.0 star property
8.8
Excellent
1,000 reviews
View
A courtyard with outdoor seating, a fountain, and white buildings with arches.
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
4.0 star property
8.6
Excellent
1,000 reviews
View
A modern kitchen with wooden cabinets, a central island, and large windows.
Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels
3.5 star property
8.4
Very good
503 reviews
View

Where to stay in Downtown Santa Barbara

Find the best Downtown Santa Barbara areas for the activities you enjoy most.

Santa Barbara Beach

Santa Barbara Beach is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights area like Stearns Wharf and West Beach.

Montecito

The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Montecito. A stop by Miramar Beach or Butterfly Beach might round out your trip.

West Beach

If you're spending some time in West Beach, Santa Barbara Harbor and West Beach are top sights worth seeing.

East Beach

East Beach is beloved for its stunning beaches. Take some time to explore sights in the area like East Beach and Santa Barbara Zoo.

Historic Downtown Santa Barbara

The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Historic Downtown Santa Barbara. A stop by Lobero Theater or Arlington Theater might round out your trip.

Top Downtown Santa Barbara Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Downtown Santa Barbara

Top reasons to visit Downtown Santa Barbara

  • Charming Architecture: Explore the historic downtown area, showcasing beautiful Spanish-style buildings and vibrant streets.
  • Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural scene with art galleries, local theatres, and engaging museums.
  • Delightful Shopping: Enjoy a pleasant array of shopping options, from boutique stores to unique local shops.
  • Scenic Beaches: Relax on stunning beaches that provide a perfect backdrop for leisure and outdoor activities.
  • Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a variety of hotels, from charming motels to luxurious retreats, catering to all travellers.

Find great hotels near Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara offers a delightful array of hotel accommodations perfect for every traveller. From charming motels to luxurious hotels, you'll find options that cater to adventure seekers, beach lovers, and even those with pets. Notable choices include Hotel Santa Barbara, Hotel Californian, and Santa Barbara Inn, each providing unique experiences and amenities. Discover the ideal base for your Californian getaway in this picturesque coastal city.

  • The Milo: Nestled just 1.6km from Downtown Santa Barbara, The Milo is a charming 3.5-star hotel that offers a delightful beach getaway. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, this property is an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxed coastal experience. Guests can enjoy direct access to the beach, allowing for sun-kissed days and refreshing ocean breezes. The Milo features a lovely outdoor pool, complementary Wi-Fi, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for beach enthusiasts.
  • Best Western Plus Santa Barbara: This 3.5-star hotel is also located 1.6km from Downtown Santa Barbara and boasts a commendable guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. Best Western Plus Santa Barbara is tailored for the business traveller, featuring a well-equipped business centre and meeting facilities. Guests can unwind in comfortable rooms with modern amenities or take advantage of the complimentary breakfast to start their day right. The property’s convenient location makes it easy to explore local attractions while enjoying a productive stay.
  • Hotel Californian: A luxurious 5-star accommodation, Hotel Californian stands 1.6km from Downtown Santa Barbara and has an impressive guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. This hotel embodies the elegance of coastal living, with direct beach access and stunning views. Guests can indulge in exquisite dining options, a lavish spa, and beautifully appointed rooms that reflect the charm of the area. Ideal for those pursuing a sophisticated beach holiday, the Hotel Californian promises a memorable experience with its upscale amenities and attentive service.

Where to stay near Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara offers a delightful blend of vibrant city life and scenic beauty, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Stroll through the charming streets, where friendly locals welcome you to explore historical landmarks and enjoy picturesque city views. Don't miss the opportunity to visit nearby attractions, where you can immerse yourself in the region's rich culture and stunning landscapes, creating unforgettable memories in this urban oasis.

  • Historic Downtown Santa Barbara: Nestled a mere 322m from Downtown Santa Barbara, Historic Downtown Santa Barbara is a vibrant neighbourhood that showcases the city’s rich heritage. The area is renowned for its charming architecture and tree-lined streets, making it perfect for leisurely strolls. Visitors flock here for its family-friendly atmosphere, outdoor experiences, and vibrant city life. Highlights include an array of theatres, shopping areas, and educational venues, alongside local landmarks such as the beach and family beach. The peak travel months of March to April and July see a lively influx of tourists, creating a dynamic environment for exploration.
  • Santa Barbara: As the city that encompasses Downtown Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara itself is a captivating destination with plenty to offer. Its welcoming ambience and diverse activities attract families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The city boasts a variety of entertainment options, including theatres and arena facilities, alongside educational attractions. With its beautiful beaches and family-friendly precincts, Santa Barbara is a fantastic place to experience Californian coastal life. The peak season from June to August brings a bustling crowd, perfect for soaking up the sun and engaging in local events.
  • Santa Barbara Beach: Located approximately 1.6km from Downtown Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Beach is a picturesque neighbourhood ideal for beach lovers. Renowned for its outdoor activities and family-oriented experiences, the beach offers a delightful escape. Visitors can enjoy shopping, educational opportunities, and even theme park rides in nearby areas. With a peak travel season from June to August, the beach area buzzes with energy and excitement, making it an excellent spot for relaxation and fun in the sun. The local tourist precinct and stunning coastal views add to the charm of this beachside retreat.

Things to do in Downtown Santa Barbara

Shopping

Downtown Santa Barbara offers a delightful shopping experience, featuring the Paseo Nuevo Shopping Centre with its array of shops and dining options. Visit the Santa Barbara Public Market for local artisanal goods and unique souvenirs, creating a memorable shopping adventure in this charming coastal city.

Recreation

Yoga Soup offers a tranquil space for yoga and meditation classes, promoting relaxation and mindfulness. For a rejuvenating experience, visit the D’Angelo’s Spa, where you can indulge in therapeutic massages and holistic treatments designed to restore balance and harmony to your body and mind.

Adventure

In Downtown Santa Barbara, explore the beautiful coastline with kayaking adventures around the harbour, or embark on a thrilling bike ride along the scenic waterfront. Experience the vibrant local culture with a visit to the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, showcasing diverse exhibits in a charming setting.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Good Lion on State Street for craft cocktails and a relaxed vibe. For a lively atmosphere with DJs, check out SOhO Restaurant & Music Club, where you can enjoy live performances and a diverse menu of drinks and bites.

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

Find the best attractions in and around Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara is ideal for family-friendly, city-themed, and outdoor holidays. Visitors can explore historic civic buildings, engaging museums, and beautiful beaches. The area offers a rich cultural experience, making it perfect for those interested in history and outdoor activities. A must-see is the historic downtown, which showcases the charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere of this Californian gem.

  • Santa Barbara County Courthouse: This stunning historic Civic Government Building boasts Spanish-Moorish architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens. Visitors can ascend the clock tower for panoramic views of the city and the ocean, while the vibrant murals and intricate tile work reflect the rich cultural heritage of Santa Barbara.
  • Santa Barbara Harbor: A lively marina offering a variety of water activities, including kayaking and sailing. With beautiful views of the coastline, it's an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the beach vibes, watch local wildlife, or savour fresh seafood at nearby eateries.
  • Stearns Wharf: A picturesque pier featuring shops, restaurants, and stunning ocean vistas. Take a leisurely stroll along the wooden walkway, explore the local marine life at the aquarium, or simply relax while enjoying the sea breeze.

Best time to go to Downtown Santa Barbara

The best time to visit Downtown Santa Barbara is dependent 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.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
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

Reaching Downtown Santa Barbara is convenient with several major airports nearby. Hollywood BURbank Airport (BUR) is situated 127.1km away, with excellent hotels like the 5-star 1 Hotel West Hollywood and the 4.5-star Sunset Marquis located just 11.3km from the airport. San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport (SBP) is 123.9km away, offering stays at the 4-star Inn at the Pier Pismo Beach, a mere 11.3km from the airport. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is 130.4km from Downtown Santa Barbara, featuring luxury options such as The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey, only 6.4km away. Each airport provides accessible transport to these hotels, ensuring a seamless journey to your destination.

Frequently asked questions

What's it like in Downtown Santa Barbara?
Travellers love the Downtown Santa Barbara neighbourhood for its beautiful beaches, array of dining options and major shopping area. Make sure that you visit Lobero Theater and Presidio Santa Barbara as part of your Downtown Santa Barbara travel plans.
What's the best place to stay in Downtown Santa Barbara?
Based on our traveller data, Hotel Santa Barbara is one of the top choices for your stay in Downtown Santa Barbara. This hotel is a short 13-minute walk from Santa Barbara County Courthouse, and it offers a 24-hour fitness centre and free WiFi. Other good choices for your stay in the area include Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG and Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels.
How many hotels will I be able to find in Downtown Santa Barbara?
With 17 Expedia hotels and other accommodation options in Downtown Santa Barbara to choose from, this is a good starting point for exploring the greater Santa Barbara area.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Downtown Santa Barbara, will I receive a refund?
Yes, you'll find most hotel reservations are refundable if you cancel before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before the scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable reservation, it might still be possible to cancel it and receive a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Add your dates and click on "Search", then filter by "fully refundable" to review top deals in Downtown Santa Barbara.
What can I see and do in this Santa Barbara neighbourhood?
Presidio Santa Barbara, Hill-Carrillo Adobe and El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park are some local landmarks to explore in Downtown Santa Barbara. As you're discovering the neighbourhood, Lobero Theater and Arlington Theater are some other places worth a visit. A few places to visit in the area around Downtown Santa Barbara include La Arcada, Casa de la Guerra and De la Guerra Plaza. While you're out sightseeing in Santa Barbara, make sure that you visit other sights such as Susan Quinlan Doll and Teddy Bear Museum or Paseo Nuevo Mall.

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