A coastal town with a pier extending into the ocean, a beach, and a mix of residential and commercial buildings.

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

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Our top choices for Santa Barbara Beach hotels

1. Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach
2.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,500 reviews)
"Amazing location, super clean rooms, comfortable beds, highly recommend!!"
United States
Tammy
The price is €121
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

2. Castillo Inn at the Beach

Castillo Inn at the Beach
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,005 reviews)
"Great location, clean room"
United States
Eli James
The price is €151
includes taxes & fees
26 Oct - 27 Oct
Castillo Inn at the Beach

3. Marina Beach Hotel

Marina Beach Hotel
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,184 reviews)
"easy parking, very nice place"
United States
hampton
The price is €195
includes taxes & fees
7 Oct - 8 Oct
Marina Beach Hotel

4. Santa Barbara Inn

Santa Barbara Inn
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,001 reviews)
"Great location and pool and restaurant"
United States
melanie
The price is €293
includes taxes & fees
30 Oct - 31 Oct
Santa Barbara Inn

5. The Franciscan Hotel

The Franciscan Hotel
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,302 reviews)
"Great staff, excellent breakfast options, easy parking and comfy rooms."
United States
Bob
The price is €167
includes taxes & fees
26 Oct - 27 Oct
The Franciscan Hotel

6. Beachside Inn

Beachside Inn
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,304 reviews)
"Great hotel. We always stay here."
United States
Simon
The price is €182
includes taxes & fees
5 Oct - 6 Oct
Beachside Inn

7. Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,410 reviews)
"Great price for location and cute room perfect for a wedding weekend. It was close to everything, and the waffles in the morning were so yummy!"
United States
Joseph
The price is €152
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

8. Riviera Beach House

Riviera Beach House
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,001 reviews)
"The location, amenities, room and staff were all exceptional!!"
United States
Mary
The price is €161
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Riviera Beach House

9. Harbor House Inn

Harbor House Inn
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,001 reviews)
"Great location, clean, great amenities"
United States
Abby
The price is €209
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Harbor House Inn

10. The Inn at East Beach

The Inn at East Beach
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,006 reviews)
"Good place to stay"
United States
Gustavo
The price is €137
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
The Inn at East Beach

11. Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara

Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"parking for guests, clean room, and staff were very friendly"
United States
Reiko
The price is €129
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara

12. Beach House Inn

Beach House Inn
2.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (17 reviews)
"Awesome place to stay! Loved it"
United States
Tim
The price is €169
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Beach House Inn

13. Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection Property

Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection Property
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (495 reviews)
"The staff was excellent and the rooms were extremely cozy. I will be staying with my little Pomeranian again!"
United States
Channah
The price is €158
includes taxes & fees
26 Oct - 27 Oct
Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection Property

14. Casa Del Mar Inn

Casa Del Mar Inn
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,001 reviews)
"Amazing place and wonderful staff!"
United States
Tzu-ying
The price is €163
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Casa Del Mar Inn

15. West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel

West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,113 reviews)
"Amazing place to stay!"
United States
Amanda
The price is €232
includes taxes & fees
28 Oct - 29 Oct
West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel

16. Ala Mar by the Sea

Ala Mar by the Sea
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
6.2 out of 10, (1,002 reviews)
"Beautiful location, great staff, and spacious room"
United States
cinthya
The price is €156
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Ala Mar by the Sea

17. La Playa Inn

La Playa Inn
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,004 reviews)
"Great location right by the beach, walkable there as well as State street which has all the local events (farmers mkt, etc)"
United States
Arlen
The price is €223
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
La Playa Inn

18. Inn By The Harbor

Inn By The Harbor
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,949 reviews)
"Pleasant stay with excellent breakfast."
United States
emiliano
The price is €282
includes taxes & fees
29 Oct - 30 Oct
Inn By The Harbor

19. Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,458 reviews)
"Good location and friendly staff."
United States
Richard
The price is €279
includes taxes & fees
28 Oct - 29 Oct
Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

20. The Milo

The Milo
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,622 reviews)
"The location was amazing. Our room was so clean and the staff was fantastic"
United States
Susan
The price is €274
includes taxes & fees
13 Oct - 14 Oct
The Milo
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 Santa Barbara Beach

Property
Property class
Guest rating
Breakfast included
Pool
Spa
Pet-friendly
WiFi included
An outdoor patio area with stone flooring, wooden chairs, and tables. There are palm trees and a decorative stone wall with a statue.
The Franciscan Hotel
2.5 star property
9.4
Exceptional
1,302 reviews
View
Front of property
The Eagle Inn
3.0 star property
9.4
Exceptional
1,001 reviews
View
A two-story building with a balcony, palm trees, and a sign that reads "Castillo Inn."
Castillo Inn at the Beach
2.5 star property
9.2
Wonderful
1,005 reviews
View
Two Adirondack chairs facing a small table on a balcony with a view of the ocean and palm trees.
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach
2.0 star property
9.0
Wonderful
1,500 reviews
View
A modern living room with two grey sofas, a small woven stool, and a large wall clock.
Beachside Inn
3.0 star property
9.0
Wonderful
1,304 reviews
View

Where to stay in Santa Barbara Beach

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

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.

Downtown Santa Barbara

The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Santa Barbara. A stop by Lobero Theater or Presidio Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara Beach Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Santa Barbara Beach

Top reasons to visit Santa Barbara Beach

  • Stunning Beaches: Santa Barbara Beach boasts pristine sands and beautiful ocean views, making it perfect for relaxation and fun.
  • Outdoor Activities: Engage in a variety of activities, from surf lessons to scenic walks in urban parks.
  • Cultural Experiences: Discover local culture through wine tastings and visits to historic sites.
  • Family-Friendly Attractions: Enjoy iconic spots like Santa Barbara Harbour and East Beach, ideal for family outings.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Choose from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious beachfront hotels for a memorable stay.

Find great hotels in and around Santa Barbara Beach

Santa Barbara Beach offers a delightful array of accommodation options, from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious beachfront hotels. Whether you seek adventure, a pet-friendly environment, or a serene retreat by the sea, you’ll discover a variety of hotels tailored to your desires. Notable choices include the renowned Hotel Californian and other best beach hotels, ensuring a memorable stay in this picturesque Californian paradise.

  • The Milo: A charming 3.5-star hotel nestled right on Santa Barbara Beach, The Milo is an ideal choice for those seeking a quintessential beach holiday. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, this property boasts direct beach access and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for sun-seekers. Guests appreciate the coastal-inspired decor and outdoor pool, while the proximity to local attractions makes it a convenient base for exploring Santa Barbara's vibrant culture and scenic landscapes.
  • Best Western Plus Santa Barbara: Located 4.8km away from Santa Barbara Beach, this 3.5-star hotel is tailored for business travellers and offers a comfortable, professional environment. With a commendable guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, it features modern amenities such as a well-equipped business centre and complimentary breakfast. Guests have praised the friendly staff and convenient location, making it easy to access both business centres and leisure activities in the area.
  • Hotel Californian: A luxurious 5-star property situated along Santa Barbara Beach, the Hotel Californian is where elegance meets beachfront relaxation. With a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, guests enjoy direct beach access, exquisite dining options, and a stunning pool area. The hotel's sophisticated design reflects the rich history of the region, while its spa facilities promise a serene escape. Ideal for those desiring a lavish beach experience, this hotel stands out for its impeccable service and refined ambience.

Where to stay near Santa Barbara Beach

Santa Barbara Beach offers an idyllic coastal getaway, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With its friendly atmosphere and stunning scenery, visitors can explore the charming city of Santa Barbara, rich in history and culture. Enjoy relaxing days by the beach or embark on excursions along the picturesque California coast. A visit to Santa Barbara promises a memorable experience filled with sun, sea, and the warm embrace of local hospitality.

  • Historic Downtown Santa Barbara: Located 1.6km away from Santa Barbara Beach, Historic Downtown Santa Barbara is a vibrant neighbourhood that beautifully showcases the region's history and charm. With a steady flow of visitors year-round, the area sees peaks in March to April and July. It's perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts who wish to explore its theatre, shopping areas, and educational venues. Notable attractions include the stunning beach and a lively tourist precinct, making it an ideal base for your adventures.
  • Santa Barbara: As the city where Santa Barbara Beach is situated, Santa Barbara draws visitors throughout the year. The peak months are from June to August, attracting families and those seeking a city-themed experience. You will find an array of entertainment options, including theatres and an arena, alongside educational facilities. The city's captivating beaches and family-friendly tourist precinct are just a stone's throw away, ensuring that you have plenty of options for fun and relaxation.
  • East Beach: A mere 322m from Santa Barbara Beach, East Beach is a delightful neighbourhood perfect for those seeking an outdoor, family-friendly, beach experience. Visitor numbers remain consistent throughout the year, peaking in the summer months of June to August. The area is home to various educational venues and shopping centres, complemented by its proximity to beautiful beaches and a national state park. East Beach offers a fantastic blend of relaxation and adventure for all ages.

Things to do in Santa Barbara Beach

Shopping

In Santa Barbara, visit the Paseo Nuevo Shopping Mall for a blend of popular brands and unique boutiques. Nearby, the Santa Barbara Public Market offers artisanal goods and local crafts, providing a delightful shopping experience for gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

Experience tranquillity at the Santa Barbara Beach Wellness Centre, featuring yoga classes on the sand and revitalising spa treatments. For outdoor enthusiasts, the scenic beachfront offers opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding, while the nearby Santa Barbara Botanic Garden invites peaceful strolls through lush landscapes.

Adventure

Santa Barbara Beach offers thrilling water sports like surfing and paddleboarding, with rolling waves and stunning coastal views. For a different adventure, explore the nearby Santa Ynez Mountains, where hiking trails lead to breathtaking vistas and encounters with local wildlife.

Nightlife

In Santa Barbara, the Funk Zone is vibrant with its eclectic mix of wine tasting rooms and art galleries. For a lively night out, The Good Lion offers craft cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere, while SOhO provides live music and a diverse dining experience, perfect for a memorable evening.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Barbara Beach

To save money on your trip to Santa Barbara Beach, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January to February and November, with Tuesday being the most affordable day to stay. Avoid Saturdays, which are pricier. Use Expedia to compare hotel prices, focusing on budget-friendly options or eco-certified hotels. Consider booking package deals that combine flights, accommodation, and activities for added savings. Lastly, take advantage of public transport or simply walk to explore the area, as Santa Barbara is pedestrian-friendly and offers plenty of free activities.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Santa Barbara Beach 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 Santa Barbara Beach is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Santa Barbara Beach is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can organise your search results to display prices from the lowest to the highest, allowing you to easily identify the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your Santa Barbara Beach hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Santa Barbara Beach

Santa Barbara Beach is perfect for family beach vacations, offering a variety of attractions such as the iconic Santa Barbara Harbour, East Beach, and scenic urban parks. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying outdoor activities. With its oceanfront properties and rich historic civic buildings, Santa Barbara Beach invites tourists to experience a delightful blend of relaxation and exploration in a picturesque coastal setting.

  • Santa Barbara Harbor: Nestled within Santa Barbara Beach, this vibrant marina offers a delightful mix of adventure and outdoor activities. Enjoy scenic views, watch the boats come and go, or partake in water sports for an exhilarating experience.
  • Santa Barbara County Courthouse: Just a mile from the beach, this historic civic government building showcases stunning Spanish-Moorish architecture. Visitors can explore its beautiful gardens and climb the clock tower for panoramic views of the city and coastline, immersing themselves in the local culture.
  • Stearns Wharf: Located right on Santa Barbara Beach, this charming pier is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Discover shops, restaurants, and picturesque views of the ocean, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and enjoyment.

Best time to go to Santa Barbara Beach

The best time to visit Santa Barbara Beach can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Santa Barbara Beach falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Santa Barbara Beach falls in February, 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 LowAverage
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 LowSlightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Barbara Beach

Accessing Santa Barbara Beach is convenient through several major airports. BURbank Airport (BUR) is approximately 123.9km away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star 1 Hotel West Hollywood and the 4.5-star Sunset Marquis. San Luis Obispo Airport (SBP) is about 127.1km distant, featuring hotels such as the 4-star Inn at the Pier and The Casitas of Arroyo Grande. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is located around 128.7km from Santa Barbara Beach, with luxurious options like The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey and The Huntley Hotel. Each airport offers accessible transport to their respective hotels, ensuring a smooth journey for visitors.

Frequently asked questions

What is Santa Barbara Beach like?
Santa Barbara Beach is a welcoming neighbourhood known for its beautiful beaches and popular zoo. Make sure that you visit Stearns Wharf and West Beach as part of your Santa Barbara Beach travel plans.
What's a favourite hotel to stay in Santa Barbara Beach?
Based on our traveller data, Beachside Inn is one of the top choices for your stay in Santa Barbara Beach. This hotel is a short 1-minute walk from Santa Barbara Harbor, and it offers free breakfast and an outdoor pool. Other good choices for your stay in the neighbourhood include Avania Inn of Santa Barbara and The Milo.
How many hotels are there in Santa Barbara Beach?
If you're searching for places to stay in Santa Barbara, Expedia has something to meet your needs with 175 Santa Barbara Beach hotels and other accommodation options to choose from.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Santa Barbara Beach, will I receive a refund?
Yes, most hotel room reservations are fully refundable as long as you cancel prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which in most cases is within 24 or 48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable reservation, it might still be possible to cancel it and get a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Plug in your dates, click on "Search", then you can use the "fully refundable" filter to review the best deals in Santa Barbara Beach.
What are the top things to see and do in Santa Barbara Beach?
Santa Barbara Zoo, Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center and Santa Barbara Maritime Museum are fun stops for the whole family while you're in Santa Barbara Beach. Stearns Wharf and West Beach are also a couple of places to visit in the neighbourhood. Santa Barbara Art Foundry, MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation and Reagan Ranch Center are just a few of the places to visit in and around Santa Barbara Beach. When you're sightseeing in Santa Barbara, East Beach and Moreton Bay Fig Tree are also worth a stop.
How can I get around Santa Barbara Beach and the greater Santa Barbara area?
If you want to head out of town, you can hop aboard a train at Santa Barbara Station. You can enquire about options for water travel at the port.

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