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

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Check availability on Santa Barbara Beach Resorts & Hotels

This weekend
30 Oct - 1 Nov
Next weekend
6 Nov - 8 Nov

Our top choices for Santa Barbara beach hotels

A sunny outdoor seating area with tables and chairs, surrounded by lush tropical plants and flowers.

1. Marina Beach Hotel

Marina Beach Hotel
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,202 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Bask in seaside tranquility at this coastal motel, where golden sands await just minutes away, with free bicycles to explore the shoreline.
The price is £133
includes taxes & fees
3 Nov - 4 Nov
Marina Beach Hotel
A hotel room with two beds, a nightstand, a lamp, and a view of the marina through a glass door.

2. Beachside Inn

Beachside Inn
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,313 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Sun, sand, and seaside serenity await at this waterfront retreat just minutes from Leadbetter Beach and Santa Barbara's coastal gems.
The price is £121
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Beachside Inn
A green double door with a keypad lock and a small window.

3. Casa Jardin, a ZenStay Hotel

Casa Jardin, a ZenStay Hotel
3.0 star property
Laguna
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (320 reviews)
The price is £146
includes taxes & fees
18 Nov - 19 Nov
Casa Jardin, a ZenStay Hotel
An outdoor patio area with stone flooring, wooden chairs, and tables. There are palm trees and a decorative stone wall with a statue.

4. The Franciscan Hotel

The Franciscan Hotel
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,328 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Beach retreat a stroll away from West Beach, with pool oasis and complimentary towels.
The price is £123
includes taxes & fees
3 Nov - 4 Nov
The Franciscan Hotel
A two-story building with a balcony, palm trees, and a sign that reads "Castillo Inn."

5. Castillo Inn at the Beach

Castillo Inn at the Beach
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,003 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    A seaside sanctuary minutes from Santa Barbara's Leadbetter Beach, with comfy beds and peaceful outdoor patios for after-surf relaxation.
The price is £119
includes taxes & fees
17 Nov - 18 Nov
Castillo Inn at the Beach
A coastal view with a beach, palm trees, and a white building with a red roof.

6. Santa Barbara Inn

Santa Barbara Inn
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,003 reviews)
The price is £230
includes taxes & fees
30 Oct - 31 Oct
Santa Barbara Inn
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.

7. Sandpiper Lodge

Sandpiper Lodge
2.0 star property
North State
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (2,789 reviews)
The price is £96
includes taxes & fees
28 Oct - 29 Oct
Sandpiper Lodge
A hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a desk, and a nightstand.

8. Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (2,457 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Soak up the Santa Barbara sunshine at this inviting beach getaway, where the shore beckons and comfort awaits after sandy adventures.
The price is £117
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
An outdoor patio with wooden tables and benches, surrounded by lush tropical plants.

9. Haley Hotel

Haley Hotel
3.5 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (716 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Sun, surf, and sandy shores await just minutes from this coastal retreat with complimentary beach toys and nearby adventure options.
The price is £142
includes taxes & fees
17 Nov - 18 Nov
Haley Hotel
An outdoor patio area with stone walls, a fire pit, and seating arrangements.

10. Hyatt Place Santa Barbara

Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,214 reviews)
The price is £150
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
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.
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Choose what matters most at beach hotels in Santa Barbara

Pool
Breakfast included

Beach hotels with pools in Santa Barbara

A marina with boats docked, palm trees, and a building labeled "Sea Landing."
West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel

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, (1124)
The price is £166
includes taxes & fees
19 Nov - 20 Nov
West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel
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Beach hotels with free breakfast in Santa Barbara

A sunny outdoor seating area with tables and chairs, surrounded by lush tropical plants and flowers.
Marina Beach Hotel

Marina Beach Hotel

Marina Beach Hotel
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (1202)
The price is £133
includes taxes & fees
3 Nov - 4 Nov
Marina Beach Hotel
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4-star beach hotels in Santa Barbara

A spacious interior with high ceilings, wooden beams, and a central column.
Hotel Santa Barbara

Hotel Santa Barbara

Hotel Santa Barbara
4.0 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1551)
The price is £211
includes taxes & fees
22 Nov - 23 Nov
Hotel Santa Barbara
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.
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Find out more about Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara and its attractions for beach lovers

Santa Barbara is a coastal gem that beckons beach lovers with its sun-kissed shores and vibrant atmosphere. One must-see highlight is the stunning coastline, where visitors can stroll along the sandy beaches or enjoy a leisurely bike ride with the ocean breeze in their hair. For those who appreciate art and history, the picturesque Spanish architecture of the local mission offers a glimpse into the city’s rich heritage, set against a backdrop of lush gardens. Adventurous spirits can embrace the thrill of kayaking along the coastline, providing a unique perspective of the marine life and stunning cliffs. Families will delight in the expansive parks, perfect for picnics and playtime, all within walking distance of the beach. To top it off, the bustling waterfront promenade teems with shops and eateries, inviting you to savor local flavors while soaking up the sun. Choose a hotel nearby to immerse yourself in this vibrant scene, where you can unwind in style and enjoy the attentive service that makes your stay truly memorable.

Find the best beach hotels and resorts in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara's stunning coastline beckons beach enthusiasts, and these top hotels provide the perfect base for sun-soaked adventures. Each hotel offers exceptional amenities to enhance your seaside escape.

Marina Beach Motel

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: Marina Beach Motel stands out as an exceptional choice for beach-goers, with an outstanding review rating of 9.8. Located just steps from the sand, this motel offers guests the chance to truly embrace the beach lifestyle, complete with beach towels and easy access to the nearby boardwalk. Guests can enjoy a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool or relax on the terrace after a day in the sun.
  • Other amenities: The motel also features free breakfast options, accessible parking, and a communal kitchenette for those looking to prepare their own meals. With amenities such as air conditioning, daily housekeeping, and a variety of nearby outdoor activities like hiking and biking, Marina Beach Motel ensures a comfortable and engaging stay for all beach enthusiasts.
  • 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

Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach is a perfect retreat for beach enthusiasts, an impressive review rating of 9.6. This charming inn allows guests to immerse themselves in the coastal lifestyle, with nearby access to sandy beaches and a host of water sports like surfing and parasailing. The inviting outdoor pool and hot tub provide the ideal spot for relaxation after a day on the waves.
  • Other amenities: Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast options and a well-appointed terrace. The inn features electric car charging stations, fitness facilities, and secured pool access, ensuring a comfortable stay. With amenities such as kitchenettes and bathrobes, Brisas del Mar combines practicality with comfort for an unforgettable beach holiday.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: Leadbetter Beach - 1.1 km, MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.9 km

Lavender Inn by the Sea

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: Lavender Inn by the Sea offers a serene escape for beach lovers, an excellent review rating of 9.4. Guests can easily access the nearby beach, ideal for kayaking and sailing adventures. The outdoor pool and sun loungers provide a relaxing atmosphere for unwinding after a day of seaside fun.
  • Other amenities: In addition to the beach proximity, the inn features complimentary breakfast, fitness facilities, and a lovely garden space. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms equipped with convenient amenities such as kitchenettes and air conditioning. With concierge services available to assist in planning local activities, Lavender Inn by the Sea promises a memorable beach getaway.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: Leadbetter Beach - 1.1 km, MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.9 km

Inn By The Harbor

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: Inn By The Harbor is a delightful option for those seeking a beach-centric experience, with an excellent guest review rating of 9.2. This hotel is ideally located near the beach, providing guests with easy access to the ocean's allure and activities such as sailing and kayaking. The outdoor pool and hot tub add to the relaxation, making it easy to unwind after a day of exploration.
  • Other amenities: Additional highlights include a complimentary breakfast, a garden area, and convenient parking options. Guests can enjoy the comfort of air-conditioned rooms and the luxury of in-room massages. With a charming atmosphere and nearby local wineries, this inn offers everything needed for a delightful beach retreat.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: Leadbetter Beach - 1.4 km, MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.9 km

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: For beach lovers seeking convenience and comfort, Avania Inn of Santa Barbara is an excellent choice. With a remarkable guest review rating of 9.2, this hotel is perfect for guests looking to enjoy nearby beach activities. Visitors can take advantage of the outdoor pool and relax in the hot tub after a day spent soaking up the sun on the beach, just moments away.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include a lovely terrace for unwinding, free breakfast served daily, and accessible parking options. Guests will appreciate the air-conditioned rooms, designer toiletries, and the nearby stunning ocean vistas. Enjoy the nearby boardwalk and a variety of water activities like kayaking and sailing to make the most of your beach getaway.
  • 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

Sandpiper Lodge

Sandpiper Lodge

8/10 Good
"Good place to stay. Arrived late so parking was an issue, but that's to be expected."
Tim 1-night trip
Posted 1 hour ago
Sandpiper Lodge

Frequently asked questions

What are the best beach hotels in Santa Barbara?
For those seeking an enjoyable stay near the beach in Santa Barbara, the 3-star Harbor House Inn, with an outstanding guest rating of 9.8, is a superb choice. Guests particularly appreciate its great location, friendly staff, and the convenience of complimentary internet and free use of bicycles to explore the nearby Santa Barbara Maritime Museum or Chase Palm Park.

Another excellent option close to the beach is the 3-star Marina Beach Hotel, also boasting a 9.8 rating. It offers a delightful start to your day with a free continental breakfast and provides complimentary self-parking. Guests consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff, the beautiful and clean rooms, and its excellent location, great for visiting Stearns Wharf.

The La Playa Inn, rated 9.6 by our guests, provides spacious and clean rooms, with many featuring a balcony, patio, or terrace for a relaxing outdoor space. Free self-parking and accessible parking options are available, and the hotel's location is beautiful, making it a great base for exploring Chase Palm Park.

For a more luxurious experience, the 4-star Palihouse Santa Barbara, with a 9.6 rating, offers absolutely beautiful and spacious rooms. Its fantastic and convenient location is highlighted by guests, as is the friendly and fantastic staff. Covered and secured self-parking, along with electric car charging stations, add to the convenience.

The 4-star Hotel Santa Barbara, with a 9.4 rating, is another fantastic choice situated near the beach. It offers comfortable and clean rooms, and guests consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff. Complimentary WiFi and free bicycles are available, and it's also a pet-friendly option, allowing pets to stay free.
How much does a beach hotel in Santa Barbara cost?
Prices for beach hotels in Santa Barbara vary, but you can find a great deal from £96 on Expedia. You're likely to find lower rates if you're travelling during the off-peak season or mid-week. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.
What is the best time of year to stay in a beach hotel in Santa Barbara, California, United States of America?
The most popular time to stay in a beach hotel in Santa Barbara is July and August. These months bring the warmest sun and ocean temperatures, typically ranging from 20°C to 24°C, which is ideal for classic beach activities like swimming, sunbathing, and watersports.

During this peak summer period, the city buzzes with activity, and you'll find the beaches and popular attractions quite busy. For families and couples looking for a lively option and guaranteed sunshine for their beach holiday, this is an excellent choice. However, it's worth noting that hotel prices and crowds are at their highest during these months, so booking well in advance is essential to secure your preferred accommodation.

For those seeking a more relaxed experience with good value, late spring (April to May) or early autumn (September to early November) are fantastic alternatives. The weather remains pleasantly warm, often between 18°C and 22°C, superb for enjoying the beach and exploring the local area without the intense summer crowds.
Which Santa Barbara hotels are near the best beaches?
For beach lovers visiting Santa Barbara, the 3-star Harbor House Inn, with an outstanding guest rating of 9.8, is an excellent choice, offering easy access to the ocean and nearby beaches. You'll also appreciate the complimentary internet and free bicycle hire, superb for exploring the coastal paths.

Another superb option is the 3-star Marina Beach Hotel, also rated 9.8 by our customers. This hotel is conveniently located near the beach and offers a complimentary continental breakfast and free self-parking, along with free Wi-Fi and bicycles for guests to use.

The La Playa Inn, with a 9.6 guest rating, is another fantastic choice for those wanting to be close to the beach. Many rooms feature a balcony, patio, or terrace, providing lovely outdoor spaces to relax after a day by the sea, and free self-parking is available.

The 4-star Palihouse Santa Barbara, rated 9.6, is also situated near the beach and offers covered and secured self-parking options, including accessible parking and an electric car charging station, making it convenient for those travelling by car.

Finally, the 4-star Hotel Santa Barbara, with a 9.4 guest rating, is another great option close to the beach.
Which beach hotels in Santa Barbara are good for families?
For families seeking a lovely beachside holiday in Santa Barbara, the 3-star Marina Beach Hotel, with an excellent guest rating of 9.8, is a fantastic option. It's conveniently located near the beach and offers complimentary continental breakfast to start your day right, alongside free WiFi and free parking. Guests consistently praise its friendly and helpful staff, beautiful and clean rooms, and excellent location near attractions like Stearns Wharf and Chase Palm Park.

Another great choice for families is the 3-star Harbor House Inn, also rated 9.8 by guests. Situated close to the ocean and beach, this hotel provides free WiFi, complimentary toiletries, and free self-parking. A unique perk is the availability of free bicycles, great for exploring the area with the kids. Guests frequently highlight its great location and clean rooms.

The 4-star Palihouse Santa Barbara, with a guest rating of 9.6, offers a more upscale experience while still being conveniently located near the beach. It provides covered and secured self-parking, including accessible and van parking options, along with electric car charging stations. Families appreciate the friendly staff, the beautiful and spacious rooms, and the fantastic, convenient location close to attractions like Paseo Nuevo Mall.

Families might also consider the 4-star Hotel Santa Barbara, rated 9.4 by our customers, which is well-situated near the beach and offers free WiFi and complimentary toiletries. This hotel welcomes pets for free, which is a bonus for families travelling with their furry friends. Guests love its great location, comfortable and clean rooms, and friendly staff.

Finally, the 3.5-star Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach, with a guest rating of 9.4, is another excellent family-friendly option. It's located near the beach and provides a complimentary continental breakfast, free self-parking, and free WiFi. Families will appreciate the availability of free cribs, making travel with little ones easier.
What beach activities should we do in Santa Barbara, California, United States of America?
Santa Barbara, California, offers an exceptional array of beach activities, superb for those seeking adventure and relaxation by the sea. The city's waterfront and beautiful beaches are ideal for a dynamic mix of surfing, swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, ensuring there's always something exciting to do. For those who prefer to stay on land, beach volleyball and biking along the scenic paths are popular choices, and the thrill of whale watching adds a unique dimension to your coastal experience.

For couples looking for a memorable beach day, consider a leisurely stroll along Stearns Wharf as the sun sets, followed by a romantic dinner with ocean views. Butterfly Beach is particularly renowned for its tranquil waters and breathtaking sunset vistas, offering a superb backdrop for cherished moments together. Alternatively, a tandem kayak adventure from Leadbetter Beach provides a wonderful opportunity to explore the coastline hand-in-hand.

Families will find a wealth of options to keep everyone entertained. East Beach, with its lively volleyball courts and convenient bike paths, is excellent for active fun, while Leadbetter Beach offers calmer waters ideal for teaching children how to paddleboard or kayak. For a more relaxed outing, Arroyo Burro (Hendry's) Beach is a fantastic choice for swimming and building sandcastles, providing a laid-back atmosphere that parents and children alike will appreciate. The opportunity for tidepooling at rocky spots like Coal Oil Point also offers an engaging educational experience for curious young minds.
What are the best Santa Barbara hotels with ocean views?
For travellers seeking Santa Barbara hotels with ocean views, the 5-star El Encanto Santa Barbara, with a superb guest rating of 9.4, offers stunning vistas and an extensive full-service spa where you can indulge in body treatments, aromatherapy, and deep tissue massages.

Another excellent choice is the 5-star Rosewood Miramar Beach, also rated 9.4, which boasts beautiful beach and ocean views, complemented by multiple outdoor pools, comfortable sun loungers, and private cabanas for a truly relaxing experience.

The 5-star Hotel Californian, rated 9.2 by our guests, provides elegant accommodation with ocean views, featuring designer toiletries, premium bedding, and the unique addition of a winery tasting room for an exclusive experience.

For a more budget-friendly option, the Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach, with a guest rating of 9.0, offers partial ocean views and a convenient location close to the beach, superb for those who want to wake up to the sea breeze without breaking the bank.

Finally, the 4-star Santa Barbara Inn, rated 9.4, offers partial ocean views and is conveniently located near the beach.
What are the top-rated beach hotels in Santa Barbara with a pool?
For travellers seeking a relaxing stay by the beach in Santa Barbara with the added convenience of a pool, Palihouse Santa Barbara, Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach, The Franciscan Hotel, Santa Barbara Inn, and West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel are all highly-rated options.

The 4-star Palihouse Santa Barbara, with an excellent guest rating of 9.6, offers an outdoor pool and is conveniently located near the beach. Guests consistently praise the friendly and fantastic staff, the absolutely beautiful and big rooms, and the great ambiance.

Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach, a 3.5-star property with a 9.4 rating, features a lovely outdoor pool and is situated near the beach. Guests appreciate the friendly and helpful staff, spacious and clean rooms, and the great location, along with a free continental breakfast.

The Franciscan Hotel, rated 9.4 by guests, boasts an outdoor pool and is a short distance from the beach. Reviewers frequently highlight the spacious and clean rooms, superb location, and friendly and helpful staff.

The 4-star Santa Barbara Inn, with a guest rating of 9.4, offers an outdoor pool and is ideally located near the beach, providing easy access to the Santa Barbara Channel. Guests consistently praise the excellent and friendly staff, comfortable and clean rooms, and the beautiful location.

West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel, a 3-star hotel with a 9.4 rating, features a heated outdoor pool and direct access to the beach.
Which beach hotels in Santa Barbara are good for couples?
For couples seeking a romantic beach getaway in Santa Barbara, El Encanto Santa Barbara and Rosewood Miramar Beach are excellent choices.

The 5-star El Encanto Santa Barbara, with an outstanding guest rating of 9.4, offers a luxurious experience with ocean and sea views. Couples can indulge in a full-service spa offering deep tissue massages, body wraps, aromatherapy, and couples' treatment rooms, ensuring a truly relaxing escape.

Another superb option is the 5-star Rosewood Miramar Beach, also rated 9.4 by guests. This hotel boasts beautiful beach, partial ocean, and ocean views, and features an outdoor pool with sun loungers and cabanas, superb for unwinding together.
Which top beach hotels in Santa Barbara offer water sport activities?
For those keen on enjoying water sports, a few excellent beach hotels in Santa Barbara offer easy access to various aquatic adventures.

The 3-star Harbor House Inn, with an outstanding guest rating of 9.8, places you conveniently near opportunities for surfing, bodyboarding, windsurfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, sailing, and kayaking. It's an ideal spot for guests who want to be active in the water.

The 3.5-star Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach, rated 9.4 by our guests, provides nearby access to thrilling activities such as parasailing, kayaking, sailing, surfing, and bodyboarding, ensuring a fun-filled beach holiday.

The 3-star The Eagle Inn, also highly rated at 9.4, is perfectly situated for guests looking to try parasailing, personal motor watercraft, sailing, scuba diving, motorboating, surfing, bodyboarding, snorkeling, and kayaking.

The 5-star El Encanto Santa Barbara, boasting a 9.4 guest rating, allows its visitors to easily partake in surfing, bodyboarding, kayaking, and sailing, adding an adventurous touch to a luxurious stay.
Can I cancel my beach 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. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right beach hotel in Santa Barbara for you.
How can I save on a beach hotel in Santa Barbara with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a beach hotel in Santa Barbara. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a beach hotel in Santa Barbara as a package?
Booking a beach hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package. *Savings vary and are not available on all flight and hotel bookings.

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