A coastal town with a beach, houses, and mountains in the background.

Santa Barbara Hotel Guide - Cheap Hotels in Santa Barbara, California

  • 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 Cheap Hotels

Tonight
11 Oct - 12 Oct
Tomorrow
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Next weekend
16 Oct - 18 Oct
In two weeks
23 Oct - 25 Oct

Our top choices for Santa Barbara cheap hotels

A hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a desk, and a nightstand.
A building entrance with a set of stairs leading up to a door marked with the number 128.
A lobby with a wooden floor, two patterned armchairs, a small table, and a wall with three framed pictures.
A hotel room with a bed, a desk, and a chair. There is a large window with a view of palm trees and a balcony.

1. Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara Beach
United States
Anthony
€153
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
A two-story building with a balcony, palm trees, and a sign that reads "Castillo Inn."
A room with a sliding glass door leading to a patio area with a yellow fence and a table with chairs.
A building with a sign reading "Castillo Inn at the Beach" indicating a hotel.
A hotel reception desk with a computer monitor, a newspaper, and a sign stating "NO PETS - NO CHECKS - NO LATE CHECK-OUTS".

2. Castillo Inn at the Beach

Castillo Inn at the Beach
Santa Barbara Beach
United States
Wesley
€152
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Castillo Inn at the Beach
A hotel room with two beds, a wooden floor, a desk with a chair, and a door leading to a bathroom.
A building with a neon 'Welcome' sign, a 'Garden' sign, and a 'Vacancy' sign.
A bathroom with a white sink, a mirror, a hairdryer, and a towel rack.
A hotel room with a large bed, a chair, a nightstand with a lamp, and a framed picture on the wall.

3. Rose Garden Inn

Rose Garden Inn
North State
United States
K.
€124
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Rose Garden Inn
A spacious living room with a round wooden coffee table, two blue armchairs, and a patterned armchair.
A spacious kitchen with granite countertops, wooden chairs, and a large island. There are multiple dining tables with chairs, a refrigerator, and a TV mounted on the wall.
A spacious living area with a sofa, armchairs, a coffee table, and a reception desk.
A swimming pool with a tiled deck, lounge chairs, and a palm tree.

4. Sandpiper Lodge

Sandpiper Lodge
North State
United States
Greg
€129
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Sandpiper Lodge
A modern living room with two grey sofas, a small woven stool, and a large wall clock.
A marina with parked cars and boats, palm trees, and a clear blue sky.
A hotel room with a bed, two armchairs, a small table with a lamp, and a large window offering a view of the beach and palm trees.
A spacious lobby with large windows, comfortable seating, a reception desk, and a bookshelf.

5. Beachside Inn

Beachside Inn
Santa Barbara Beach
United States
ARKIMBERLEY
€195
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Beachside Inn
A hotel room with two beds, a desk, and a window.
A hotel reception area with a coffee machine, jars, a tray, a mirror, and a certificate on the wall.
A two-story building with a balcony and a staircase leading to the entrance.
A cactus plant in a terracotta pot on a table.

6. The Presidio

The Presidio
Santa Barbara
United States
Bonnie
€152
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
The Presidio
A reception area with a counter, potted plants, a coffee station, and a view through large glass doors.
A hotel room with a bed, bedside table, lamp, and a television on a dresser.
A hotel entrance with a sign reading "The Inn at East Beach," a covered patio area, and bicycles parked outside.
A hotel room with a bed, a TV, a desk, and a view of the street and palm trees outside.

7. The Inn at East Beach

The Inn at East Beach
Santa Barbara Beach
United States
Gustavo
€148
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
The Inn at East Beach
A coastal road leading to a pier with a view of the ocean and beach.
A spacious indoor area with large windows, wooden benches, a sofa, and a coffee table.
A modern building with a glass facade, outdoor seating area with Adirondack chairs, a fire pit, and a school bus parked nearby.
A building with a central courtyard, surrounded by palm trees and a clear blue sky.

8. ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel

ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel
Santa Barbara Beach
United States
NAYA
€137
includes taxes & fees
11 Nov - 12 Nov
ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel
A large, two-story building with a tiled roof, surrounded by palm trees and a well-maintained garden.
An outdoor patio with tables and chairs, a pergola with vines, and a view of greenery.
A table with a pitcher, wine glasses, and snacks by a window with a view of palm trees and a building.
A spacious room with a wooden ceiling, a dining area with chairs and a table, a sofa, and a fireplace.

9. Inn By The Harbor

Inn By The Harbor
Santa Barbara Beach
United States
emiliano
€247
includes taxes & fees
3 Nov - 4 Nov
Inn By The Harbor
A hotel room with two beds, a desk, a chair, a mirror, and a refrigerator.
A laundry facility with stacked washing machines and dryers, control panels, and a view of the outside through a window.
A swimming pool with lounge chairs and palm trees, surrounded by a building with balconies and red awnings.
A compact microwave on a small black stand, a white door, and a wall-mounted microwave.

10. Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria South

Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria South
Carpinteria
United States
Jose
€82
includes taxes & fees
25 Oct - 26 Oct
Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria South
View all properties

Find out more about Santa Barbara

Discover cheap things to do in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, with its stunning coastal views and vibrant culture, offers plenty for the budget-conscious traveller. Start your adventure at the Santa Barbara Mission, a historical gem known as the 'Queen of the Missions,' where you can explore beautiful gardens and learn about California’s history for just a small donation. Next, take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront at East Beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy a picnic with stunning ocean views—all for free! Don’t miss the bustling Santa Barbara Farmers Market on Tuesdays and Saturdays, where you can taste local produce and grab affordable snacks while supporting local vendors. For those keen on art, the Santa Barbara Contemporary Arts Forum hosts free exhibitions showcasing regional artists. When it comes to accommodation, consider staying in the Funk Zone, a trendy area dotted with budget-friendly hotels and hostels. This vibrant neighbourhood is packed with local eateries and tasting rooms, making it easy to sample the renowned Santa Barbara wine scene without breaking the bank. With easy access to both the beach and local attractions, you can truly enjoy an enriching experience without overspending.

Find the best cheap hotels in Santa Barbara

For travellers seeking budget-friendly options in Santa Barbara, these hotels offer excellent value without sacrificing comfort or convenience.Marina Beach Motel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: For those seeking exceptional value, the Marina Beach Motel shines with a stellar review rating of 9.8. This budget-friendly motel offers free continental breakfast and Wi-Fi, along with free self-parking, making it a convenient choice for beach lovers. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms equipped with kitchenettes, allowing for easy meal preparation during their stay.
  • Other amenities: Beyond the essentials, the Marina Beach Motel features a furnished patio and patio for outdoor enjoyment, as well as complimentary bicycles to explore the coastal area. With nearby access to the beach, winery tours, and various outdoor activities, travelers can immerse themselves in the vibrant Santa Barbara lifestyle without overspending.
  • 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

Beachside Inn

Beachside Inn

8/10 Good
"We like it."
Shiao Ping 1-night trip
Posted 3 hours ago
Beachside Inn
Sandpiper Lodge

Sandpiper Lodge

10/10 Excellent
"Nothing to say"
Anthony 5-night trip
Posted 4 hours ago
Sandpiper Lodge
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara

Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara

10/10 Excellent
"Nice stay, pool was a little loud because of all the kids. But not an inconvenience."
Lissette 1-night trip
Posted 5 hours ago
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

10/10 Excellent
"Apparently the original Motel 6!"
Neil 1-night trip
Posted 11 hours ago
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach
Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Amazing hotel. Helpful staff."
Molly 1-night trip
Posted 6 days ago
Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

Frequently asked questions

What is Santa Barbara like for travellers on a budget?
Santa Barbara has cheap accommodation options and a range of things to see and do, making it a budget-friendly holiday choice. You can find ways to save money while getting to know this destination, which is home to attractions such as Arlington Theater, Lobero Theater and Presidio Santa Barbara.
What's the best budget-friendly accommodation in Santa Barbara?
Based on reviews, Inn By The Harbor is a popular hotel for our travellers who want a more economical choice, and features free breakfast and free Wi-Fi. Other good options to stay on the cheap include Avania Inn of Santa Barbara and Sandpiper Lodge.
How many low-cost hotels will I find in Santa Barbara?
Expedia has 10 hotels in Santa Barbara that are ideal if you are watching your pennies.
When is the best time for a budget trip to Santa Barbara?
Weather will likely play an important role when you plan your trip to Santa Barbara, but bear in mind that cheaper options are usually available when the weather isn't as good. The hottest months are usually August and September, with an average temperature of 22°C, while the coldest months are February and January, with an average of 13°C. Average annual precipitation for Santa Barbara is 392 mm.
What is there to see and do in Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara attracts visitors with its fine wine and fantastic dining options, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the local attractions that interest you most, and then make time for sights and activities that cost little or nothing at all. If you're looking to enjoy the area's natural beauty, you can get outdoors at West Beach, Leadbetter Beach or East Beach.
How can I get to Santa Barbara and get around on a budget?
Looking at these ways to get around Santa Barbara is a smart way to keep your trip affordable. The nearest airport is Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal), situated 7.6 mi (12.2 km) away. If that doesn't suit your budget, you can arrange flights in and out of Santa Ynez, CA (SQA), which is 24.7 mi (39.7 km) away. To see more of the larger area, hop on a train at Santa Barbara Station.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia