Santa Barbara Historic Hotels, California: Santa Barbara Hotel Guide

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

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Our top choices for Santa Barbara historic hotels

1. Affordable Beach Penthouse — 2 blocks to Beach and Funk Zone

Santa Barbara Beach

Matt T.

€476

includes taxes & fees

31 Aug - 1 Sept

2. Historic West Beach Apartment — 2 blocks to the Beach

Santa Barbara Beach

Ashley I.

€384

includes taxes & fees

25 Aug - 26 Aug

3. Mariposa- One Bedroom Flat; sweet getaway by the Beach! newly renovated beauty

Santa Barbara Beach

Lisa T.

€478

includes taxes & fees

24 Aug - 25 Aug

4. Luxury Seaside Getaway — 2 blocks to the Beach and Funk Zone

Santa Barbara Beach

Josh D.

€428

includes taxes & fees

24 Aug - 25 Aug

5. Perfect cozy and comfortable getaway two blocks from Oldtown State Street!

Lower State

Dawnette R.

€451

includes taxes & fees

31 Aug - 1 Sept

6. Rare Beach Penthouse — blocks to the Beach and Funk Zone

Santa Barbara Beach

Marlis G.

€426

includes taxes & fees

24 Aug - 25 Aug

7. Exceptional Ocean Getaway — blocks to Beach and Funk Zone

Santa Barbara Beach

Linda V.

€647

includes taxes & fees

24 Aug - 25 Aug

A dining room with a round table, six upholstered chairs, a chandelier, a large abstract painting, and a view of the outdoors through large windows.

8. Upscale Downtown home. Walk to Beach, Bars, and Shops

Historic Downtown Santa Barbara

Allen M.

€852

includes taxes & fees

24 Aug - 25 Aug

View all properties

Top Santa Barbara Hotel Reviews

Sandpiper Lodge

10/10 Excellent

"The room was very nice and clean. Loved the coffee and breakfast."

Inn By The Harbor

10/10 Excellent

"The location is excellent — walking distance to both the town and the beach. The room was perfect: clean, with a nice kitchenette. The air conditioner was quiet, so we slept really well!"

Hotel Santa Barbara

10/10 Excellent

"NA"

Beachside Inn

10/10 Excellent

"Great location near harbor and beach, helpful staff."

The Franciscan Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"The property is extremely unique—it doesn’t feel like your typical tourist destination or pit stop. We arrived super late, and Ben checked us in with ease. He offered us complimentary water and took the time to explain all the amenities. For the price, this stay is absolutely worth it! It comes with free Wi-Fi, an in-room coffee and tea bar, complimentary continental breakfast each morning, and even free bike rentals. Our room was super clean and a really good size. We had two queen beds, and they were incredibly soft and comfortable. The room had all the essentials you could need, including an iron and ironing board, hair dryer, ice bucket, extra blankets, and a small refrigerator. The bathroom was also stocked with shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and even lotion. One of my favorite little touches was the makeup towel! I often leave a face towel pretty messy after removing my makeup, so I really appreciated that detail. Parking is free, and you can park right next to your room, which is extremely convenient. As far as location, the wharf, restaurants, and shops are all within walking distance. It’s the perfect spot to stay—no traffic, no noise, and very quaint and relaxing. We really enjoyed our stay and will definitely be back!"

The Upham Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"Great location"

The Milo

10/10 Excellent

"Across the street from the beach, which in the area is called beachfront. Beautiful older hotel with the Wharf and restaurants within walking distance. The room was very small and the had no closet to hang our clothes. Overall great stay."

Mar Monte Hotel, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

10/10 Excellent

"The Mar Monte Hotel was a lovely place to stay for a girls getaway... it was right across the street from the beach; the restaurants on site were fantastic, we loved the free bikes and beach chairs, and the pool was great. We had a noisy air conditioner the first night and got moved to a new room with a balcony which was lovely. Great stay!"

Frequently asked questions

What should I expect on my historical trip to Santa Barbara?

Tourists love the rich history they discover on a trip to Santa Barbara. And while you're here, you can visit the major shopping area and popular beaches. And also relish a stop at the charming cafes in this walkable area.

How many historical hotels are there in Santa Barbara?

In Santa Barbara, you'll find 1179 hotels bookable on Expedia though not many historic hotels to choose from.

What are the top historical sites and other places to visit in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is notable for landmarks like Mission Santa Barbara, Presidio Santa Barbara and El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park. Cultural venues include Arlington Theater, Santa Barbara Bowl and MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation. A couple of additional sights to add to your itinerary are Stearns Wharf and Santa Barbara Harbor.

What is a historic hotel like in Santa Barbara?

By booking a historic hotel, guests can sleep someplace that has an official historic designation. A palace, castle, grand home or even an old police station, pub, lodge or skyscraper can be considered a historic hotel as long as it has special significance. Traditional architecture and period features are often found within the guestrooms or public spaces of these historic hotels in Santa Barbara, giving a sense of history.

What is the difference between a historic hotel and a heritage hotel?

"Heritage hotel" is more common in Asia and Europe, wheareas the term "historic hotel" is more commonly used in the U.S. overall though the terms are similar. The architecture and building of historic hotels are generally the most important aspect. For a heritage hotel, mainly, it's cultural value along with how it shaped the community.

Do historic hotels in Santa Barbara have modern facilities?

Hotel interiors feature the modern conveniences and safety features you expect to find, but every effort is made to preserve the historic aspects and traditions. Smart TVs, WiFi, updated bathroom facilities and the popular amenities found at a contemporary hotel will also be available in a historic hotel. Rest assured that when you select a historic hotel in Santa Barbara, you won't find yourself staying at a place that's uncomfortable or rundown.

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Change your mind

Treat yourself

Be picky

Check availability on Santa Barbara Historic Hotels

Our top choices for Santa Barbara historic hotels

1. Affordable Beach Penthouse — 2 blocks to Beach and Funk Zone

2. Historic West Beach Apartment — 2 blocks to the Beach

3. Mariposa- One Bedroom Flat; sweet getaway by the Beach! newly renovated beauty

4. Luxury Seaside Getaway — 2 blocks to the Beach and Funk Zone

5. Perfect cozy and comfortable getaway two blocks from Oldtown State Street!

6. Rare Beach Penthouse — blocks to the Beach and Funk Zone

7. Exceptional Ocean Getaway — blocks to Beach and Funk Zone

8. Upscale Downtown home. Walk to Beach, Bars, and Shops

9. Ojai Valley Inn