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Our top choices for Santa Barbara cheap hotels

Free daily continental breakfast

Sandpiper Lodge

Sandpiper Lodge
2.0 star property
North State
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (2,286 reviews)
"Very helpful staff at front desk and room was quiet and clean. "
United States
Laura
Sandpiper Lodge
Front of property

Castillo Inn at the Beach

Castillo Inn at the Beach
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,004 reviews)
"Great stay!"
United States
Vanessa
The price is £115
includes taxes & fees
22 Mar - 23 Mar
Castillo Inn at the Beach
Fountain

The Franciscan Hotel

The Franciscan Hotel
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,081 reviews)
"A very, very valuable stay. The suite that we’re staying at is perfectly clean."
United States
Anthony
The price is £153
includes taxes & fees
22 Mar - 23 Mar
The Franciscan Hotel
Daily cooked-to-order breakfast for a fee

Best Western Plus Santa Barbara

Best Western Plus Santa Barbara
3.5 star property
Oak Park
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,004 reviews)
"GREAT STAY AS ALWAYS,THI OUR SPOT WHEN VISITING SB"
United States
Ken
The price is £137
includes taxes & fees
22 Mar - 23 Mar
Best Western Plus Santa Barbara
Deluxe Room, Multiple Beds (Deluxe Queen Suite) | Desk, laptop workspace, blackout curtains, iron/ironing board

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,157 reviews)
"Clean, friendly staff, great location."
United States
Jiachang
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
Exterior

Marina Beach Motel

Marina Beach Motel
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,070 reviews)
"Great place for a short stay."
United States
Michael
The price is £172
includes taxes & fees
22 Mar - 23 Mar
Marina Beach Motel
Room amenity

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, (1,277 reviews)
"we absolutely loved our stay "
United States
Jodi
The price is £119
includes taxes & fees
24 Mar - 25 Mar
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach
Lobby sitting area

Beachside Inn

Beachside Inn
3.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,148 reviews)
"Great location and very comfortable room."
Australia
Karen
The price is £144
includes taxes & fees
23 Mar - 24 Mar
Beachside Inn
Property grounds

The Presidio

The Presidio
2.0 star property
Santa Barbara
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (771 reviews)
"Very kind staff, room was clean and spacious. "
United States
Azul
The price is £110
includes taxes & fees
22 Mar - 23 Mar
The Presidio
Exterior

Inn By The Harbor

Inn By The Harbor
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,836 reviews)
"CLose to maina and beach, frendly staffs."
United States
Misun
The price is £176
includes taxes & fees
12 Apr - 13 Apr
Inn By The Harbor
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

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 budget-conscious travellers visiting Santa Barbara, these hotels offer excellent value without compromising on comfort. Each hotel provides essential amenities to ensure a pleasant stay at an affordable price.

Marina Beach Motel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Marina Beach Motel stands out as a top pick for budget-conscious travellers, featuring a remarkable review rating of 9.8. This motel offers a free continental breakfast, ensuring that guests start their day off right without any added expense. The free self-parking and on-site bicycles allow for easy exploration of the scenic Santa Barbara area.
  • Other amenities: Beyond the budget amenities, guests can enjoy the furnished patio and terrace, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. With a kitchenette in some rooms, guests have the option to prepare their own meals. The location near the beach provides easy access to sunbathing and water activities, while nearby winery tours add a touch of local flavour to their stay.
  • 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 is a charming budget option with a solid guest review rating of 9.6, ideal for travellers looking for affordability without sacrificing comfort. The hotel features free Wi-Fi and toiletries, along with free self-parking to make your stay as convenient as possible. Its prime location near Santa Barbara Beach allows guests to enjoy the sun and sand just a short walk away.
  • Other amenities: Guests can relax on the terrace or patio, and the hotel offers air conditioning for added comfort. With a concierge service available, guests can easily plan their local adventures. The hotel also boasts a balcony for those looking to enjoy the ocean breeze right from their room.
  • 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: With a guest review rating of 9.6, Harbor House Inn is an excellent choice for budget travellers looking for comfort and convenience. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi and toiletries, along with complimentary self-parking, making it easy for guests to stay connected and explore the area without any added costs. Its close nearby the beach ensures that guests can enjoy the sun and surf at their leisure.
  • Other amenities: Guests can take advantage of the on-site bicycles for exploring the local area, while the patio provides a perfect spot to unwind. The hotel also features a hot spring and private hot tub for relaxation. With options for kayaking, windsurfing, and other beach activities nearby, this inn is perfect for those seeking adventure without breaking the bank.
  • 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 will appreciate the complimentary breakfast options, including a self-serve breakfast, which makes mornings a breeze. The hotel also features free self-parking, ensuring convenience without extra costs while being located just steps from the beautiful Santa Barbara Beach.
  • Other amenities: In addition to the budget-friendly offerings, guests can unwind on the terrace or take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool. The hotel provides air conditioning for comfort, designer toiletries for a touch of luxury, and easy access to nearby beach locations for sun-soaked days. With features like hot tub access and nearby golf, Avania Inn is well-equipped for a fun-filled 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

How to get cheap hotels in Santa Barbara?

 

✅ The length of stay in Santa Barbara often varies depending on the nature of the trip, but many travellers opt to stay for several days or up to a week to take in Santa Barbara's notable landmarks and points of interest.

✅  If you're looking for cheap hotels in Santa Barbara in 2026, book your hotel well in advance. Reserving your stay at least a few weeks or months ahead of time can help you take advantage of amazing rates on cheap hotels in Santa Barbara, and if your plans change you can find many options of hotels with free cancelation.

✅  To find affordable hotels in Santa Barbara on Expedia, start by entering your travel dates and the number of individuals in your group. Once you've provided this information, you can refine your search results by filtering for budget hotels in Santa Barbara.

✅  Use the filtering tools offered by Expedia to refine your search results by location, price limits, amenities such as breakfast included, and other factors that matter to you. This will help you quickly locate the ideal budget-friendly hotel that fits your specific requirements.

✅  If you're looking to save money on a cheap hotel in Santa Barbara, the ideal time to go is usually during the off-season in Santa Barbara. On Expedia, you can find hotels from £110*.

✅  Santa Barbara offers numerous budget-friendly attractions and activities for travellers, such as art and exhibits at free museums and galleries or exploring Santa Barbara on foot.

✅  One of the best ways to find cheap hotels in Santa Barbara is to search Expedia for properties that provide family-friendly accommodations and features such as activities and complimentary meals, and then sort these by price.

*Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Top Santa Barbara Hotel Reviews

Mar Monte Hotel, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

Mar Monte Hotel, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

10/10 Excellent
"This is such an amazing property in Santa Barbara right across from the beach. The property itself is so easy to walk to and from as you are exploring. They have two restaurants onsite that are amazing! One is a bar with Mexican food and the other Mediterranean food the staff is all top notch from the cleaners, to the front desk, to the bartenders. The only minor thing I would say is that I wish they had umbrellas for the beach. We were there on especially warm days and fly light and no one wants to pack umbrellas. Make sure to get a room that has a balcony facing the ocean. The pink skies are beautiful!!"
Lindsay 3-night trip
Posted 4 hours ago
Mar Monte Hotel, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in Santa Barbara as a budget traveller?
For budget travellers in Santa Barbara, excellent choices include Marina Beach Motel, Harbor House Inn, and Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages.

The 3-star Marina Beach Motel, with an outstanding 9.8 rating, offers great value with free continental breakfast, free WiFi, and complimentary toiletries. Guests consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff, the beautiful and clean rooms, and the excellent location.

Another fantastic option is the 3-star Harbor House Inn, boasting a 9.6 rating. This hotel provides free internet, free WiFi, and free self-parking. Reviewers frequently highlight its great location, clean rooms, and excellent, friendly staff. A popular amenity mentioned is the free bicycles available for guests.

The 3-star Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages, also with a 9.6 rating, is known for its delicious free breakfast, free WiFi, and complimentary self-parking. Guests appreciate the comfortable and clean rooms, the excellent food, and the nice, quiet location.
How much does a budget hotel in Santa Barbara cost?
Budget hotel prices in Santa Barbara vary, but you can find a great deal from £110 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Which area of Santa Barbara is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For travellers seeking cheap hotels in Santa Barbara, areas slightly off the main tourist drags, such as parts of Downtown Santa Barbara or neighbourhoods further east along State Street, often provide more affordable lodging options. While Santa Barbara isn't renowned for its budget accommodation, these areas offer better value than beachfront locations.

Downtown Santa Barbara has a selection of motels and smaller hotels that cater to a more budget-conscious clientele. Solo travellers will find these spots convenient for accessing local buses that can take them to the beach or various attractions, and the area is easily walkable with many cafes and shops.

Couples looking for a good deal might consider areas a little further from the immediate coast, where prices tend to drop. Exploring accommodations close to the Funk Zone but not directly within it, or slightly north of the main State Street corridor, can reveal some hidden gems.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Santa Barbara?
For families seeking top-rated, budget-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara, excellent choices include the Beachside Inn, Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara, and The Eagle Inn.

The 3-star Beachside Inn, with a solid 9.0 rating, offers great value with free wired internet in public areas, complimentary buffet breakfast, and free self-parking. Reviewers often highlight the nice, clean rooms and convenient parking, alongside a great location and friendly staff.

Another excellent option is the 3-star Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara, rated 8.8. This hotel provides free buffet breakfast, including on weekends, and complimentary self-parking, with free parking available for RVs, buses, and trucks, which is ideal for larger family vehicles. Guests frequently praise the friendly and helpful staff, clean rooms, and convenient location.

The 3-star Eagle Inn, boasting an impressive 9.4 rating, provides free cooked breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free self-parking. Families will appreciate the free toiletries and complimentary wired internet in public areas. Its staff are consistently described as friendly and great, with the breakfast receiving praise for being excellent and delicious.
What cheap hotels in Santa Barbara offer complimentary breakfast?
For budget-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara that offer complimentary breakfast, the Marina Beach Motel, West Beach Inn, The Eagle Inn, Avania Inn of Santa Barbara, and Beachside Inn are all excellent choices.

The 3-star Marina Beach Motel, with an outstanding 9.8 rating, provides a complimentary continental breakfast, ensuring a great start to your day. Guests frequently highlight the excellent location and the friendly staff.

Another fantastic option is the 3-star West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel, rated 9.4. This hotel also offers a free continental breakfast and free self-parking, adding to its value. Reviewers often praise its great location and helpful staff.

The 3-star The Eagle Inn, boasting a 9.4 rating, stands out with its complimentary cooked breakfast, a real treat for guests. Its location is frequently described as perfect, and the service receives excellent reviews.

The Avania Inn of Santa Barbara, rated 9.0, includes a complimentary self-serve breakfast and free self-parking. Guests appreciate the spacious, clean rooms and the convenient location.

Finally, the 3-star Beachside Inn, with a 9.0 rating, offers a complimentary buffet breakfast and free self-parking.
When is the most affordable time to visit Santa Barbara?
The most affordable time to visit Santa Barbara is generally during the shoulder seasons, specifically from late autumn to early spring (November to March), excluding holiday periods. During these months, you'll find lower prices on accommodation and potentially fewer crowds, offering a more relaxed experience.

For solo travellers, visiting in January or February can be particularly economical. The weather is still pleasant, often sunny and mild, superb for exploring the city's outdoor attractions without the summer rush. You can enjoy strolls along East Beach, visit the historic Santa Barbara County Courthouse for free, or wander through the Funk Zone's art galleries and boutiques without breaking the bank. Many hotels offer off-season rates, and local restaurants might have special deals.

Families can also benefit from these off-peak times. While school holidays might increase prices slightly, late autumn before Thanksgiving or late winter after the New Year often present good value. You can take advantage of the less crowded Santa Barbara Zoo, explore the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, or simply enjoy a picnic at Shoreline Park with views of the Pacific Ocean without the usual summer crowds.
What are the best cheap hotels in Santa Barbara with a pool?
For cheap hotels in Santa Barbara with a pool, excellent choices include West Beach Inn, Mason Beach Inn, and Avania Inn of Santa Barbara.

The 3-star West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel, rated 9.4, offers fantastic value with a heated outdoor pool. Guests also benefit from complimentary continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking, making it a convenient and budget-friendly option. Its location is frequently praised as perfect.

Another great option is the 3-star Mason Beach Inn, with a 9.2 rating. This hotel features a lovely outdoor pool and provides free WiFi. Reviewers often highlight its great location and clean rooms.

The Avania Inn of Santa Barbara, rated 9.0, also boasts an outdoor pool. Guests appreciate the complimentary self-serve breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking, adding to its value.
Are there any cheap Santa Barbara hotels near Stearns Wharf?
Yes, for affordable hotels near Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara, travellers can consider the Marina Beach Motel, Harbor House Inn, and La Playa Inn.

The 3-star Marina Beach Motel, with an impressive 9.8 rating, is often praised by guests for its excellent location and friendly, helpful staff. It offers great value amenities such as a complimentary continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking, along with free use of bicycles which is great for exploring the area around Stearns Wharf.

Another excellent option is the 3-star Harbor House Inn, rated 9.6. Guests consistently highlight its great location and clean rooms. This inn also provides free internet, free WiFi, and free self-parking, and like the Marina Beach Motel, it offers complimentary bicycles for guests to enjoy.

La Playa Inn, with a 9.6 rating, is known for its spacious and clean rooms, as well as its friendly staff and beautiful location.
Is Santa Barbara a budget-friendly destination?
While Santa Barbara is generally considered more expensive, particularly compared to other parts of California, travellers can absolutely experience its charm on a budget with some smart planning.

For accommodation, consider staying slightly outside the immediate downtown area, perhaps in neighbourhoods like Goleta or Carpinteria, which offer more affordable lodging options and are just a short drive or bus ride from Santa Barbara's main attractions. Solo travellers might find good value in hostels or guesthouses a little further from the beach, which often provide a more community-focused atmosphere.

Couples can enjoy many free activities, such as strolling along the picturesque State Street, exploring the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara, or relaxing on one of the many beautiful beaches like East Beach or Butterfly Beach. Packing a picnic to enjoy at a scenic spot like Shoreline Park or the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is a fantastic way to save on dining costs.

For getting around, the city's bus system is an economical choice, or you could rent bicycles to explore the coastal paths and downtown area.
What cheap hotels in Santa Barbara offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?
For budget-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara that offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes, you have several excellent options, including Marina Beach Motel, Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages, and Casa Jardin.

The 3-star Marina Beach Motel, with an impressive 9.8 rating, is a great choice. While it provides a complimentary continental breakfast, the availability of a kitchenette in some rooms allows for preparing your own meals, offering flexibility and potential savings. Guests frequently praise the friendly and helpful staff, as well as the beautiful and clean rooms.

Another fantastic option is the 3-star Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages, rated 9.6. This charming establishment offers kitchenettes in some accommodations, superb for those who prefer to cook. Reviewers often highlight the delicious breakfast and comfortable, clean rooms, all within a nice, quiet location.

Casa Jardin, with a 9.6 rating, is also an excellent fit. Many rooms include a full kitchen, providing ample opportunity for self-catering.
Which cheap hotels in Santa Barbara have good reviews for customer service?
For affordable hotels in Santa Barbara with great customer service, travellers often praise Marina Beach Motel, La Playa Inn, and Harbor House Inn.

The 3-star Marina Beach Motel, with an impressive 9.8 rating, consistently receives high praise for its service and friendly, helpful staff. Guests particularly appreciate the complimentary breakfast and free WiFi, adding to its excellent value.

La Playa Inn, rated 9.6, is frequently highlighted for its friendly and great staff. This hotel offers free WiFi and free self-parking, and many rooms feature a balcony or patio for enjoying the Santa Barbara weather.

Another excellent option is the 3-star Harbor House Inn, which also boasts a 9.6 rating. Reviewers consistently mention the excellent service and friendly staff.
Are there any cheap hotels in Santa Barbara that allow for late check-out or early check-in?
Yes, several budget-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara are excellent for accommodating non-standard arrival or departure times.

The 3-star Eagle Inn, with an outstanding 9.4 rating, is highly regarded for its flexibility. Guests frequently praise the friendly staff for their willingness to arrange early check-ins or late check-outs. This hotel also offers delicious free cooked breakfast and free Wi-Fi, adding to its great value.

Another excellent option is the 3-star Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara, rated 8.8. Reviewers consistently highlight the helpful staff and the hotel's ability to facilitate early check-ins and late check-outs. You'll also benefit from free Wi-Fi and complimentary self-parking here.

For those travelling with pets, the Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach, with a 9.0 rating, is a solid choice. It offers free Wi-Fi, free self-parking, and allows pets to stay free. The staff are often commended for their friendly service and ability to assist with early arrivals or late departures.

The Palmoro House, a 3-star hotel with a 7.6 rating, also provides flexibility for early check-ins and late check-outs. It offers free Wi-Fi and free self-parking.

Finally, the Rose Garden Inn is another hotel that can often accommodate early check-ins and late check-outs. It includes free Wi-Fi and complimentary self-parking, including space for RVs, buses, or trucks.
How can I save on a budget hotel in Santa Barbara with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Santa Barbara. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on hotel bookings. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
What free activities should we do in Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara offers a delightful array of free activities, great for budget-conscious travellers looking to soak up the Californian sunshine without spending a fortune.

For couples, a romantic stroll along Stearns Wharf is a must, offering stunning ocean views and the chance to watch local fishermen. Afterwards, wander through the historic Presidio State Historic Park, exploring the last remaining vestiges of the original Spanish fort and learning about the city's rich past. You could also pack a picnic and enjoy the beautiful botanical diversity at Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden, a truly tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.

Solo travellers will find plenty to explore too. Spend a morning at East Beach, enjoying the expansive sandy shores, or take a scenic walk or bike ride along the Cabrillo Boulevard Bike Path, which stretches for miles along the coastline. The Santa Barbara County Courthouse, with its iconic clock tower offering panoramic views of the city (check opening times for tower access), is a grand architectural marvel that's completely free to enter and explore.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in Santa Barbara as a package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, 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.
Can I cancel my budget 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 budget hotel in Santa Barbara for you.

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