Downtown Santa Barbara hotels in Santa Barbara

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Our top choices for Downtown Santa Barbara hotels

Hotel Santa Barbara

Hotel Santa Barbara
3.0 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,358 reviews)
"Great hotel!!! "
United States
Jamie
The price is HK$1,898
HK$2,207 total
includes taxes & fees
18 May - 19 May
Hotel Santa Barbara

Haley Hotel

Haley Hotel
3.5 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (640 reviews)
"We enjoyed our stay here. The property was very centrally located and clean. "
United States
Katherine
The price is HK$1,096
HK$1,328 total
includes taxes & fees
25 May - 26 May
Haley Hotel

Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels

Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels
3.5 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (437 reviews)
"Great location - but very pricey for what it is. Tiny tiny rooms"
United States
Andrew
The price is HK$2,185
HK$2,495 total
includes taxes & fees
18 May - 19 May
Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels

Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
4.0 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"Location was the best, close to the town center."
United States
Stanley
The price is HK$2,091
HK$2,388 total
includes taxes & fees
25 May - 26 May
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG
4.0 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"We only stayed one night as we were traveling through but the staff was nice, room was clean"
United States
Anthony
The price is HK$2,655
HK$3,427 total
includes taxes & fees
25 May - 26 May
Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

Vagabond Inn - Carpinteria North

Vagabond Inn - Carpinteria North
2.5 star property
15.7 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
The price is HK$666
HK$765 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Jun - 2 Jun
Vagabond Inn - Carpinteria North

Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection Property

Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection Property
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach, 1.3 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (419 reviews)
"Staff was terrific and room was great size and cleanly and very cozy. As far as bed and breakfasts go this place was a 10/10."
United States
Ryan
The price is HK$1,108
HK$1,263 total
includes taxes & fees
31 May - 1 Jun
Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection Property

Montecito Inn

Montecito Inn
4.0 star property
5.6 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,001 reviews)
"Beautiful hotel, good stuff perfect location."
United States
Anna
The price is HK$1,254
HK$1,759 total
includes taxes & fees
31 May - 1 Jun
Montecito Inn

Cliff House Inn On The Ocean

Cliff House Inn On The Ocean
3.0 star property
25.1 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,015 reviews)
"Was a great time!!"
United States
Amanda
The price is HK$1,454
HK$1,633 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Jun - 2 Jun
Cliff House Inn On The Ocean

Vagabond Inn Studio Carpinteria

Vagabond Inn Studio Carpinteria
2.5 star property
17.8 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
The price is HK$695
HK$799 total
includes taxes & fees
18 May - 19 May
Vagabond Inn Studio Carpinteria

Inn on Summer Hill

Inn on Summer Hill
3.0 star property
9.9 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (357 reviews)
"Lovely place. Staff was accommodating. "
United States
Dawn
The price is HK$1,637
HK$1,899 total
includes taxes & fees
17 May - 18 May
Inn on Summer Hill

Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn

Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn
3.5 star property
16.3 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,513 reviews)
"Great stay!"
United States
Justin
The price is HK$1,191
HK$1,372 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Jun - 2 Jun
Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn

Coast Village Inn - Santa Barbara

Coast Village Inn - Santa Barbara
2.5 star property
5.2 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,002 reviews)
"Everything was awesome and we would definitely stay again."
United States
Joyce Marie
The price is HK$1,214
HK$1,384 total
includes taxes & fees
19 May - 20 May
Coast Village Inn - Santa Barbara

Casa Del Sol

Casa Del Sol
2.5 star property
17.9 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
7.0 out of 10, Good, (666 reviews)
"Very quiet property, probably because this is a single story hotel. No walking heard from the ceiling."
United States
Esther
The price is HK$767
HK$1,041 total
includes taxes & fees
19 May - 20 May
Casa Del Sol

The Inn at East Beach

The Inn at East Beach
2.5 star property
East Beach, 2.9 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,003 reviews)
"Great location with a retro flair."
United States
nathan
The price is HK$1,064
HK$1,213 total
includes taxes & fees
18 May - 19 May
The Inn at East Beach

Beachside Inn

Beachside Inn
3.0 star property
West Beach, 1.6 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,191 reviews)
"The location was very nice, very clean room and the breakfast was delicious! "
United States
Vincent
The price is HK$1,060
HK$1,211 total
includes taxes & fees
19 May - 20 May
Beachside Inn

Vagabond Inn - Santa Barbara

Vagabond Inn - Santa Barbara
2.5 star property
4 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
"Pool was amazing and staff was really helpful"
United States
Demian
The price is HK$884
HK$1,007 total
includes taxes & fees
24 May - 25 May
Vagabond Inn - Santa Barbara

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach
2.0 star property
East Beach, 2.8 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,368 reviews)
"One of the best motels and super close to the beach, zoo, and everything else."
United States
Olga
The price is HK$1,156
HK$1,320 total
includes taxes & fees
31 May - 1 Jun
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
4.0 star property
East Beach, 2.3 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
7.8 out of 10, Good, (284 reviews)
"We had a very pleasant visit and will be returning"
United States
Simon
The price is HK$2,370
HK$3,058 total
includes taxes & fees
31 May - 1 Jun
Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

Casa Riviera

Casa Riviera
4.0 star property
Laguna, 0.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (193 reviews)
"The location was great and room is lovely "
United States
Nancy
The price is HK$1,323
HK$2,089 total
includes taxes & fees
20 May - 21 May
Casa Riviera
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.

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.

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.

West Beach

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

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.

Historic Downtown Santa Barbara

The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Historic Downtown Santa Barbara. A stop by Lobero Theater or Paseo Nuevo Mall might round out your trip.

Top Downtown Santa Barbara Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Downtown Santa Barbara

Top reasons to visit Downtown Santa Barbara

  • Historic Charm: Discover iconic adobe buildings and structures that showcase Santa Barbara's unique architectural heritage.
  • Vibrant Atmosphere: Stroll through lively streets filled with friendly locals, independent shops, and delightful eateries.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy a range of family-friendly activities at urban parks, museums, and marinas.
  • Cultural Experiences: Explore art galleries and partake in local art festivals that celebrate the region's creativity.
  • Convenient Accommodation: Choose from diverse lodging options, including pet-friendly motels and hotels with beach access.

Find great hotels near Downtown Santa Barbara

Discover a variety of accommodation options in Downtown Santa Barbara, where comfort meets convenience. Whether you seek a pet-friendly motel or a hotel with easy beach access, you'll find the perfect spot for your stay. Many establishments offer accessible rooms and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring a delightful experience for all travellers. Embrace the charm of adobe residences while enjoying the vibrant local culture and stunning coastal views.

  • Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort: This luxurious 4-star resort embodies a serene beach-themed experience, perfect for those seeking relaxation by the ocean. Located a mere 3.2km from Downtown Santa Barbara, the resort boasts direct beach access, allowing guests to enjoy sun-soaked days by the shore. The full-service spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments, including massage, aromatherapy, and manicures, while the outdoor pool provides a refreshing escape. The resort's blend of coastal elegance and pampering amenities ensures a memorable beach vacation for all visitors.
  • The Milo: A vibrant 3.5-star hotel, The Milo caters to adventurous souls and city explorers alike, situated just 1.6km from Downtown Santa Barbara. This pet-friendly property encourages travellers to indulge in various thrilling activities, including horse riding, surfing, and fishing, all available nearby. With a focus on adventure and recreation, The Milo provides a welcoming atmosphere for families and pet owners. Guests particularly appreciate the convenient city-centre location, making it easy to access local attractions while enjoying the comforts of home.
  • Sandpiper Lodge: A charming motel located 3.2km from Downtown Santa Barbara, Sandpiper Lodge offers a delightful blend of comfort and convenience. Guests can start their day with a complimentary continental breakfast before heading off to explore the nearby city centre. With various recreational options, including bicycle rentals and golf, there’s plenty to keep visitors entertained. In-room amenities such as premium TV channels and flat-screen televisions provide a touch of home, making it an ideal choice for both relaxation and adventure seekers.

Where to stay near Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara, known as the American Riviera, offers a delightful blend of historic charm and scenic beauty. Explore its iconic adobe buildings and structures that reflect the region’s unique architectural heritage. Stroll through vibrant streets filled with friendly locals, independent shops, and delightful eateries. Nearby attractions and excursions abound, ensuring a memorable experience for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, all set against a stunning coastal backdrop.

  • Santa Barbara: Nestled between the mountains and the ocean, Santa Barbara is a vibrant city that embodies the charm of California's coastal lifestyle. Downtown Santa Barbara serves as the heart of the city, offering a delightful mix of cultural attractions, entertainment venues, and family-friendly activities. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque beaches, explore educational sites, or attend theatrical performances. The peak tourist season from June to August brings a lively atmosphere, while the quieter months provide a more relaxed experience. With its beautiful architecture and stunning scenery, Santa Barbara is a must-visit destination.
  • Santa Barbara Beach: Located a mile from Downtown Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Beach is a tranquil neighbourhood perfect for family outings and outdoor adventures. The beach area boasts a scenic shoreline, ideal for sunbathing and swimming, while nearby shopping areas and attractions add to the experience. Visitors flock here during the summer months, but the beach maintains a welcoming vibe throughout the year. With family-friendly amenities and easy access to the tourist precinct, Santa Barbara Beach is an excellent spot for a leisurely day by the sea.
  • East Beach: Just 1.6km away from Downtown Santa Barbara, East Beach is another splendid neighbourhood that offers a quintessential Californian beach experience. Renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor activities, East Beach is perfect for picnics, beach volleyball, and leisurely strolls along the oceanfront. Visitors can explore educational facilities and enjoy nearby entertainment options, such as theatres and arenas. The picturesque marina and vibrant beach scene make East Beach an inviting choice for those looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the coastal lifestyle.

Things to do in and around Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and city adventures, making it perfect for outdoor vacations. Explore educational attractions, vibrant art galleries, and enjoy the local art festival. The area boasts a range of shopping options and a charming theatre scene, all easily accessible on foot, ensuring a fulfilling day of excursions and exploration for visitors.

Shopping

Your shopping experience in Downtown Santa Barbara includes La Cumbre Plaza, a vibrant shopping centre three miles away, offering diverse shops and entertainment. Closer to the heart, the Rafael Gonzalez House is a charming store half 1.6km away, while the Santa Barbara Public Market showcases local delicacies and artisanal goods.

Recreation

At the Santa Barbara Bowl, immerse yourself in vibrant music concerts that elevate your spirits. The Santa Barbara Golf Club offers a serene golfing experience amid beautiful landscapes, while Elings Park invites you to relax and rejuvenate in its tranquil outdoor environment, perfect for wellness seekers.

Adventure

The Cabrillo Bikeway offers a scenic cycling route along the coast, perfect for those seeking outdoor thrills. For a more challenging experience, tackle the Rattlesnake Canyon Trail, renowned for its breathtaking vistas. Alternatively, the Municipal Tennis Center is ideal for adventurous spirits keen on a competitive game.

Nightlife

Experience the enchanting ambiance at Granada Theatre in Downtown Santa Barbara, where romance and culture blend seamlessly. For a lively adventure, head to Zodo's - Bowling and Beyond, just 11.3km away, or enjoy a charming evening at Cold Spring Tavern, 16.1km distant, offering a delightful pub atmosphere.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

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 and November, when prices are generally lower. Tuesdays are the most affordable days to stay, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter hotels by budget and eco-certification, ensuring you find the best deals. Additionally, combining flights, accommodation, and activities into a package can yield significant savings. Don’t forget to look for additional rewards that could enhance your travel experience.

  • 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, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you can refine your choices by hotel type—selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel accommodation in Downtown Santa Barbara with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara is an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, offering a delightful blend of cultural and recreational experiences. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including museums, marinas, and urban parks, which cater to those seeking family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures. With its vibrant atmosphere, Downtown Santa Barbara promises a memorable holiday for travellers of all interests.

  • Santa Barbara Harbor: Embrace the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Barbara Harbor, a delightful marina located a mile from Downtown. Enjoy beach activities, outdoor adventures, and stunning views of the ocean. It's an excellent spot for leisurely strolls or indulging in fresh seafood at nearby restaurants.
  • Mission Santa Barbara: Experience the rich cultural heritage at Mission Santa Barbara, situated a mile from Downtown. This historic church, often referred to as the Queen of the Missions, offers insight into California’s Spanish colonial era, with beautifully preserved architecture and serene gardens.
  • Santa Barbara Historical Museum: Located within Downtown, the Santa Barbara Historical Museum showcases the region's fascinating history. Explore captivating exhibits that highlight local culture, art, and historical artefacts, making it a perfect stop for history enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Downtown Santa Barbara

The best time to visit Downtown Santa Barbara can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Downtown Santa Barbara falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Downtown Santa Barbara falls in February, 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 RainSunnyAverageAverage
May63.1°F (17.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June68.2°F (20.1°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July72.1°F (22.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August72.9°F (22.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September71.6°F (22.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October66.7°F (19.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
November60.4°F (15.8°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
December55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Downtown Santa Barbara

Travelling to Downtown Santa Barbara is convenient with several nearby airports. Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is situated 12.9km from the city centre, with luxurious options like The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, just 8.0km away. El Encanto and Hotel Californian are also excellent 5-star choices at the same distance. Oxnard Airport (OXR), located 51.5km away, offers nearby hotels such as Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach, 3.2km from the airport, and Ventura Beach Marriott, 9.7km away. Lastly, Santa Ynez Airport (SQA) lies 28.0km from Downtown Santa Barbara, with the Chumash Casino Resort being just 1.1km away, providing a variety of accommodation choices.

Frequently asked questions

What's it like in Downtown Santa Barbara?
Travellers love the Downtown Santa Barbara neighbourhood for its beautiful beaches, array of dining options and major shopping area. Make sure that you visit Lobero Theater and Paseo Nuevo Mall as part of your Downtown Santa Barbara travel plans.
What's the best place to stay in Downtown Santa Barbara?
Based on our traveller data, Hotel Santa Barbara is one of the top choices for your stay in Downtown Santa Barbara. This hotel is a short 13-minute walk from Santa Barbara County Courthouse, and it offers a 24-hour fitness centre and free WiFi. Other good choices for your stay in the area include Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG and Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels.
How many hotels will I be able to find in Downtown Santa Barbara?
With 17 Expedia hotels and other accommodation options in Downtown Santa Barbara to choose from, this is a good starting point for exploring the greater Santa Barbara area.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Downtown Santa Barbara, will I receive a refund?
Yes, you'll find most hotel reservations are refundable if you cancel before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before the scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable reservation, it might still be possible to cancel it and receive a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Add your dates and click on "Search", then filter by "fully refundable" to review top deals in Downtown Santa Barbara.
What can I see and do in this Santa Barbara neighbourhood?
Presidio Santa Barbara, El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park and Hill-Carrillo Adobe are some local landmarks to explore in Downtown Santa Barbara. As you're discovering the neighbourhood, Lobero Theater and Paseo Nuevo Mall are some other places worth a visit. A few places to visit in the area around Downtown Santa Barbara include La Arcada, Casa de la Guerra and De la Guerra Plaza. While you're out sightseeing in Santa Barbara, make sure that you visit other sights such as Susan Quinlan Doll and Teddy Bear Museum or Santa Barbara Museum of Art.

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