Search Hotels by Independent in West Beach from £97

Perched across the street from Santa Barbara Harbour, West Beach is one of Santa Barbara's most frequented stretches of sand. Sandwiched between East Beach and Santa Barbara Harbour, it’s a short walk from both historic Stearns Wharf and downtown’s bustling State Street. Like its neighbour, East Beach, West Beach is well-equipped with public showers, volleyball courts and beachfront cafes.

Ocean-Facing Hotels near West Beach

One of the highlights of a trip to Santa Barbara is how near you are to the coast’s best beaches. There is a number of hotels, hostels, inns and resorts which cater to all budgets within easy reach of West Beach. Even at the lower-end of the scale, the standard is high and most properties offer swimming pools and dining facilities.

Things to Do from Your West Beach Hotel

Book a room in a beachfront hotel near West Beach and you'll be within walking distance of many of Santa Barbara's popular family attractions. At the eastern end of West Beach is the famous Stearns Wharf, a historic wooden pier turned shopping, dining and entertainment hub. Kids will love watching the resident sea lions and brown pelicans who splash around the pier. It’s also houses the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center, formerly known as the Ty Warner Sea Center, an interactive marine exhibition. Children and adults can learn all about the ocean and get up close and personal with a variety of sea creatures.

Moments from West Beach is Chase Palm Park, a sprawling beachfront park with a shipwreck-style playground, bike hire and a carousel. It’s also a popular hangout for the city’s skateboarders who come to Skater’s Point, a large popular skateboarding park.

Where to Eat near West Beach

Hanging out on West Beach works up quite an appetite. Famous for its healthy SoCal cuisine and top-notch Mexican staples, dining out in Santa Barbara is a real pleasure. Head to Stearns Wharf for freshly caught fish and chips, or try one of the many modern Californian restaurants which line State Street, in the vibrant downtown district.