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Top Trending Hotels Near Downtown Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara

Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn

3.5 star property
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1181)
"Nice location clean rooms quiet. Would stay there again"
The price is £123
includes taxes & fees
17 Aug - 18 Aug
Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn

Motel 6 Carpinteria, CA - Santa Barbara - North

2.0 star property
7.2 out of 10, Good, (1008)
"Nice clean rooms. Enjoyed the visit "
The price is £69
includes taxes & fees
17 Aug - 18 Aug
Motel 6 Carpinteria, CA - Santa Barbara - North

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

2.0 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1018)
"Fantastic motel, great location and extremly friendly staff. "
The price is £152
includes taxes & fees
29 Jul - 30 Jul
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

Haley Hotel

3.5 star property
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (532)
"All around great spot. Location is prime. Room had a great vibe. "
The price is £175
includes taxes & fees
4 Aug - 5 Aug
Haley Hotel

Hotel Santa Barbara

3.0 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1005)
"great stay"
The price is £214
includes taxes & fees
4 Aug - 5 Aug
Hotel Santa Barbara

Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

4.0 star property
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1001)
"Good service and rooms very nice "
The price is £253
includes taxes & fees
28 Jul - 29 Jul
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

4.0 star property
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1002)
"Great hotel! "
The price is £370
includes taxes & fees
11 Aug - 12 Aug
Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels

3.5 star property
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (361)
"The Drift Hotel was so amazing! It was the perfect location to walk around State St, and explore around Santa Barbara"
The price is £240
includes taxes & fees
4 Aug - 5 Aug
Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels

Social Stays

1.0 star property
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (16)
"It's a hostel, but it was very nice, and very clean. "
The price is £102
includes taxes & fees
17 Aug - 18 Aug
Social Stays

Cliff House Inn On The Ocean

3.0 star property
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1005)
"The view was amazing !!!!"
The price is £142
includes taxes & fees
21 Aug - 22 Aug
Cliff House Inn On The Ocean

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carpinteria by IHG

2.5 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1005)
"Clean friendly staff"
The price is £130
includes taxes & fees
17 Aug - 18 Aug
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carpinteria by IHG

Motel 6 Carpinteria, CA - Santa Barbara - South

2.0 star property
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1173)
"Easy location.. plenty of parking.. safe area.."
The price is £93
includes taxes & fees
27 Jul - 28 Jul
Motel 6 Carpinteria, CA - Santa Barbara - South

Casa Riviera

4.0 star property
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (6)
"The best place to stay in SB!!!"
The price is £263
includes taxes & fees
27 Jul - 28 Jul
Casa Riviera

Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara

3.0 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1001)
"It was our first time visiting Santa Barbara and first stay at Pacific Crest Hotel. This was a last minute trip and we were pleasantly surprised on how nice and welcoming this hotel was to our family and how close it was to the beach. We will definitely visit again with more time to spend. "
The price is £144
includes taxes & fees
19 Aug - 20 Aug
Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara

Orange Tree Inn

2.5 star property
7.6 out of 10, Good, (656)
"A simple place to stay with a pool and fairly close to things to do!"
The price is £94
includes taxes & fees
28 Jul - 29 Jul
Orange Tree Inn

Lemon Tree Inn

3.5 star property
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1004)
"I love this hotel,thanks so much "
The price is £101
includes taxes & fees
17 Aug - 18 Aug
Lemon Tree Inn

Casa Del Sol

2.5 star property
6.8 out of 10, (580)
"We had a wonderful stay at Casa del Sol, a boutique-like small motel. It was our first time there. The staff was responsive to our needs and provided a quiet, charming environment. We look forward to our next visit! "
The price is £105
includes taxes & fees
27 Jul - 28 Jul
Casa Del Sol

Studio 6 Suites Carpinteria, CA–Santa Barbara - South

2.0 star property
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (187)
"Great stay ! "
The price is £98
includes taxes & fees
3 Aug - 4 Aug
Studio 6 Suites Carpinteria, CA–Santa Barbara - South

Casa De La Vina

2.0 star property
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (97)
"The location was conveniently near the train station and felt very safe. "
The price is £236
includes taxes & fees
18 Aug - 19 Aug
Casa De La Vina

Montecito Inn

4.0 star property
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1000)
"The property is thoughtfully designed. I love the walkability of the area. I always enjoy staying here."
The price is £244
includes taxes & fees
11 Aug - 12 Aug
Montecito Inn
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.

Where to stay in Downtown Santa Barbara

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

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.

Santa Barbara Beach map

Santa Barbara Beach

Santa Barbara Beach is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights area like Stearns Wharf and MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation.

East Beach map

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.

West Beach map

West Beach

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

The Mesa map

The Mesa

While visiting The Mesa, you might make a stop by sights like Leadbetter Beach and Arroyo Burro Beach.

Top Downtown Santa Barbara Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Downtown Santa Barbara

Find out more about Downtown Santa Barbara

Top reasons to visit Downtown Santa Barbara

  • Historic Charm: Discover the captivating history of Santa Barbara through its well-preserved architecture and landmarks.
  • Vibrant Shopping: Explore local boutiques and unique shops that offer a delightful shopping experience.
  • Scenic Waterfront: Enjoy picturesque views and relaxing strolls along the stunning Santa Barbara waterfront.
  • Cultural Attractions: Visit fascinating museums and catch performances at local theatres for a taste of the arts.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Engage in various outdoor activities in urban parks and the beautiful marina.

Find great hotels near Downtown Santa Barbara

Explore a range of hotel accommodations in Downtown Santa Barbara, where you can enjoy a delightful blend of beachside adventure and pet-friendly options. From charming motels to upscale hotels, this vibrant area offers something for every traveller. Whether you're seeking the best downtown Santa Barbara hotels or a cosy hotel Santa Barbara experience, you'll find the perfect base for your Californian getaway.

  • Hotel Milo Santa Barbara: Nestled just 1.6km from Downtown Santa Barbara, Hotel Milo Santa Barbara offers a charming family-friendly atmosphere with an adventurous twist. This 3.5-star hotel is ideal for those seeking a blend of city exploration and outdoor activities. Guests can indulge in various adventure sports such as swimming, parasailing, and horse riding, all conveniently located nearby. Families will appreciate the thoughtful amenities for children, including beach toys and safety features like pool gates. With its central location, Hotel Milo serves as a perfect base for your Santa Barbara adventures.
  • Sandpiper Lodge: Located 1.2km from Downtown Santa Barbara, Sandpiper Lodge is a welcoming motel that provides a cosy retreat for travellers. With complimentary continental breakfast served daily, guests can start their day with ease. The lodge offers excellent recreational options such as bicycle rentals and nearby golfing opportunities, catering to fitness enthusiasts. Entertainment is at your fingertips with premium TV channels and flat-screen TVs in every room. The convenient proximity to the city centre means you can explore local attractions with minimal hassle, making it a practical choice for your stay.
  • Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort: This 4-star resort is situated 1.2km from Downtown Santa Barbara and is designed for visitors seeking a dynamic mix of adventure, family fun, and business convenience. With an array of business facilities including accessible meeting rooms and conference spaces, it’s perfect for corporate travellers. Adventure seekers can enjoy nearby sailing, hiking, and kayaking. The resort also features thoughtful amenities for children, ensuring a family-friendly experience. Enjoy the stunning beachfront location while relaxing in comfort and style at the Hilton Santa Barbara.

Where to stay near Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara offers a delightful blend of historical charm and stunning scenery, perfect for family outings or leisurely strolls. Explore the vibrant city centre, where friendly locals and unique boutiques await. Don’t miss the picturesque Santa Barbara waterfront, ideal for relaxing excursions. Nearby destinations provide further opportunities for adventure, making it an unforgettable vacation spot in California.

  • Santa Barbara: Nestled along the stunning California coastline, Santa Barbara is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Located a mere 50m from Downtown Santa Barbara, it boasts a delightful atmosphere year-round, with peak visitor numbers during the summer months. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the picturesque beaches, explore local shopping areas, or take in a captivating performance at one of the many theatres. Notable landmarks include the scenic beach and family beach, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and exploration.
  • Santa Barbara Beach: Just 621m from Downtown Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Beach is a lovely neighbourhood perfect for families and beach enthusiasts. With a consistent influx of visitors throughout the year, this area shines brightest during the summer. Experience the thrill of outdoor activities, unwind on the sandy shores, or indulge in shopping and dining options nearby. The beach, family beach, and tourist precinct are all within reach, ensuring a delightful seaside experience where relaxation meets fun.
  • Historic Downtown Santa Barbara: Located a short 124m from Downtown Santa Barbara, Historic Downtown Santa Barbara is a charming neighbourhood steeped in history and culture. Attracting families and urban explorers alike, this area is particularly lively from March to April and July. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local arts scene, shop in unique boutiques, or catch a show at a local theatre. With easy access to the beach and family-friendly attractions, this neighbourhood provides a perfect balance of city life and coastal charm.

Things to do in and around Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara offers a delightful mix of family-friendly activities and urban charm. Visitors can enjoy shopping at local boutiques, exploring educational attractions, and catching a show at the theatre. The vibrant atmosphere and picturesque surroundings make it an ideal destination for outdoor adventures as well. Whether you're looking to relax or engage in exciting activities, Downtown Santa Barbara has something for everyone.

Shopping

Paseo Nuevo Mall, located 249m from Downtown Santa Barbara, offers a vibrant shopping experience with various shops and entertainment. Just 311m away, Rafael Gonzalez House provides unique gifts, while the Santa Barbara Public Market showcases local flavours and artisan goods right in the heart of the city.

Recreation

The Santa Barbara Bowl offers a vibrant atmosphere for music lovers, hosting concerts that uplift and entertain. For sports enthusiasts, the Santa Barbara Golf Club provides a challenging course amidst stunning scenery. For relaxation, Elings Park is perfect, with expansive green spaces ideal for unwinding and enjoying nature.

Adventure

Experience the Cabrillo Bikeway in Downtown Santa Barbara, where you can enjoy scenic cycling along the coast. For a more challenging adventure, hike the Rattlesnake Canyon Trail, offering stunning views and lush scenery, or improve your skills at the Municipal Tennis Center, perfect for tennis enthusiasts.

Nightlife

For a unique night out, visit Cold Spring Tavern for a romantic atmosphere and refreshing drinks. If you're in the mood for culture, catch a show at the Arlington Theater. For a fun-filled adventure, head to Zodo's - Bowling and Beyond for bowling and arcade games.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Downtown Santa Barbara

To save money during your visit to Downtown Santa Barbara, consider travelling in the off-peak months of January to February or November when accommodation prices drop. Tuesdays are the most economical days to book stays, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Utilise Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly hotels and combine your stay with flights and activities for additional savings. Explore free attractions and make use of local public transport options to keep costs down while enjoying all that Santa Barbara has to offer.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Downtown Santa Barbara 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 Downtown Santa Barbara is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Downtown Santa Barbara is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, chosen location, and additional preferences. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel category; 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 potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel stay in Downtown Santa Barbara with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a blend of culture and leisure. Visitors can explore urban parks, the picturesque marina, and fascinating museums. Notable attractions include historic landmarks and various points of interest that highlight the city's charm. For those seeking an enriching experience, wandering through historic downtown Santa Barbara and discovering its local attractions is a must.

  • Stearns Wharf: This historic pier offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Barbara coastline. Enjoy fresh seafood at local eateries, browse unique shops, and take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk while watching the sea life below.
  • Mission Santa Barbara: Known as the Queen of the Missions, this beautiful church showcases exquisite Spanish colonial architecture. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the area, and explore the serene gardens that surround the mission.
  • Santa Barbara Harbor: A vibrant marina perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy various water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun, surrounded by breathtaking coastal scenery.

Best time to go to Downtown Santa Barbara

The best time to visit Downtown Santa Barbara is dependant 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 (dry). February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
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 Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
May63.1°F (17.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June68.2°F (20.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July72.1°F (22.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August72.9°F (22.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September71.6°F (22.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October66.7°F (19.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
November60.4°F (15.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Downtown Santa Barbara

Flying into Downtown Santa Barbara is convenient with several nearby airports. Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is situated 5.0km away, with luxurious options like The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara, a 5-star hotel just 3.1km from the airport. Santa Ynez Airport (SQA), located 23.1km away, offers hotels such as Chumash Casino Resort, a 4-star resort only 435m from the airport. Oxnard Airport (OXR) is 19.9km from Downtown, with Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach, a 4-star hotel 1.2km from OXR. Each airport has accessible transportation options for a smooth journey to your accommodation.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best hotels in Downtown Santa Barbara that travellers recommend?
Hotel Santa Barbara stands out as a top choice with an impressive traveller rating of 9.0. Guests appreciate its charming ambiance and convenient location near the beach and local shopping districts. The hotel offers a range of amenities including valet parking, room service, and premium bedding, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors. With nearby winery tours and a fitness centre available 24/7, adventure and relaxation are just moments away.

For couples seeking a romantic getaway, the Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG, rated 8.8, is an excellent option. This hotel features an inviting outdoor pool with sun loungers, a rooftop terrace, and elegant rooms adorned with designer toiletries and deep soaking bathtubs. The picturesque setting and luxurious amenities make it great for those looking to unwind together while enjoying a cocktail at the poolside bar.

Families will find the Haley Hotel, also rated 8.8, a fantastic choice. With a focus on convenience and fun, this hotel is close to white sand beaches and ocean activities, making it great for kids. The property features beach toys and ample outdoor space for family gatherings, ensuring that both parents and children have a delightful time.

Business travellers can appreciate the Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, with a review score of 8.4. This hotel offers early check-in, valet parking, and proximity to the historical district, making it an excellent base for meetings and events. After work, guests can relax with winery tours nearby or enjoy a stroll along the beach.

Lastly, Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels, is another appealing option, rated 8.4. With its stylish design and mountain views, this hotel provides a special environment. Families will appreciate its child-friendly window design and the spacious, premium rooms that make for a cozy retreat after a day of exploring.
What are the best spa hotels in Downtown Santa Barbara?
For a rejuvenating escape, the Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG is a great choice in Downtown Santa Barbara, boasting an excellent guest review rating of 8.8/10. This hotel offers a serene onsite spa that provides a variety of treatments designed to help guests unwind and recharge.
What are the best budget hotels in Downtown Santa Barbara?
Hotel Santa Barbara is a charming option for budget-conscious travellers seeking comfort and convenience in the heart of Downtown Santa Barbara. Rated 9.0 by guests, this hotel boasts a range of amenities designed to enhance your stay. Guests appreciate the complimentary WiFi, premium bedding for restful nights, and convenient room service options. For those who enjoy exploring, the hotel offers free onsite bicycles, allowing families to embark on exciting adventures around the beautiful city.

Another excellent choice is the Haley Hotel, which has earned an impressive review score of 8.8. This hotel is great for families, featuring beach toys and being just a stone's throw away from the sandy shores. The property also provides a variety of amenities including free WiFi and onsite bicycles, making it easy to venture out and explore nearby mountain biking trails or simply enjoy the stunning coastline.

For couples seeking a romantic getaway, Drift Santa Barbara, rated 8.4, offers beautifully designed rooms with mountain views and furnished balconies, providing a cozy retreat after a day of adventure. The hotel's fireplace and child-friendly window designs also make it a versatile option for families looking for a touch of elegance during their stay.

In Downtown Santa Barbara, both family-friendly hotels and romantic retreats promise to deliver memorable experiences that cater to diverse traveller needs.
Can I cancel my 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. If you have a non-refundable booking, it might still be possible to receive a refund if you cancel it within 24 hours of booking. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use our "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right Downtown Santa Barbara hotel for you.
How can I save on a Downtown Santa Barbara hotel booking with Expedia?
With Expedia, you'll unlock our lowest prices by becoming a 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 Downtown Santa Barbara hotels. Another way to save is by booking your hotel and flights together on Expedia, where bundling can lead to significant savings.
How much is the nightly rate at a Downtown Santa Barbara hotel?
Hotel prices in Downtown Santa Barbara often vary, but you can find a great deal from £69 on Expedia. Different factors affect nightly hotel rates, such as the time of year or the days of the week you want to book. To find the best deals for your stay, be flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.