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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
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,407 reviews)
"Great hotel!!! "
United States
Jamie
The price is HK$2,022
HK$2,351 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Jul - 7 Jul
Hotel Santa Barbara

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, (450 reviews)
"Excellent, very quaint, beautifully decorated, staff is amazing, convenient to shopping restaurants and beach"
United States
Matthew
The price is HK$1,827
HK$2,086 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Jul - 7 Jul
Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels

Haley Hotel

Haley Hotel
3.5 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (657 reviews)
"Walking distance to the beach and restaurants"
United States
Guillermo
The price is HK$1,515
HK$1,805 total
includes taxes & fees
7 Jul - 8 Jul
Haley Hotel

Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG
4.0 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,002 reviews)
"It’s a great home base in a convenient downtown location"
United States
Lisa Ann
The price is HK$3,033
HK$3,859 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Jun - 30 Jun
Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

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, (1,001 reviews)
"Loved this hotel. Great location"
United States
Cayley
The price is HK$2,345
HK$2,678 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Jul - 7 Jul
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

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, (1,004 reviews)
"Cant wait to return. Very charming and perfect for a romantic getaway"
United States
Megan
The price is HK$1,849
HK$2,076 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Jun - 26 Jun
Cliff House Inn On The Ocean

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carpinteria by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carpinteria by IHG
2.5 star property
17.9 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,005 reviews)
"Great location and clean"
United States
Natalie
The price is HK$1,638
HK$1,887 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Jul - 2 Jul
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carpinteria by IHG

Casa Del Sol

Casa Del Sol
2.5 star property
17.9 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
7.0 out of 10, Good, (678 reviews)
"Sick vibes"
United States
Alex
The price is HK$1,322
HK$1,696 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Jun - 26 Jun
Casa Del Sol

Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria South

Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria South
2.0 star property
17.7 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,347 reviews)
"Great location and wonderful staff"
United States
Stephen
The price is HK$642
HK$755 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Jul - 7 Jul
Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria South

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, (1,538 reviews)
"Clean and well located hotel. Close to the beach. We really enjoyed our stay"
United States
Paulina
The price is HK$1,326
HK$1,527 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Jun - 1 Jul
Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn

Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria North

Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria North
2.0 star property
15.7 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1,208 reviews)
"Great place for staying. "
United States
Yanchao
The price is HK$600
HK$709 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Jul - 7 Jul
Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria North

Inn on Summer Hill

Inn on Summer Hill
3.0 star property
9.9 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (360 reviews)
"Lovely place. Staff was accommodating. "
United States
Dawn
The price is HK$2,658
HK$3,083 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Jun - 26 Jun
Inn on Summer Hill

Rosewood Miramar Beach

Rosewood Miramar Beach
5.0 star property
Montecito, 6.7 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (325 reviews)
"One of the best hotels Ive ever stayed "
United States
AKOP
The price is HK$14,495
HK$17,525 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Jul - 7 Jul
Rosewood Miramar Beach

Montecito Inn

Montecito Inn
4.0 star property
5.6 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,004 reviews)
"Wonderful stay!"
United States
Anthony
The price is HK$1,748
HK$2,321 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Jun - 29 Jun
Montecito 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)
"Clean, great staff, walkable neighborhood"
United States
Sandra
The price is HK$1,513
HK$1,725 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Jun - 30 Jun
Coast Village Inn - Santa Barbara

Mar Monte Hotel, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

Mar Monte Hotel, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
4.0 star property
East Beach, 2.9 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1,004 reviews)
"Very nice stay. Great location."
United States
brian
The price is HK$2,124
HK$2,738 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Jul - 9 Jul
Mar Monte Hotel, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

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, (1,006 reviews)
"great location!"
United States
Karen
The price is HK$1,340
HK$1,528 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Jun - 24 Jun
The Inn at East Beach

Palmoro House

Palmoro House
3.0 star property
East Beach, 2.8 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
7.6 out of 10, Good, (338 reviews)
"Beach is 1 block away the zoo is only 7 min away walking rooms are super comfortable and clean "
United States
Reyna
The price is HK$1,677
HK$2,147 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Jul - 7 Jul
Palmoro House

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, (1,389 reviews)
"A great spot just a stones throw to the beach. Very clean and tidy, just what we needed for a couple of nights."
United Kingdom
Angus
The price is HK$1,545
HK$1,764 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Jul - 7 Jul
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara

Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara
3.0 star property
East Beach, 2.8 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,003 reviews)
"Such a cute property. Friendly staff, clean, comfortable room and very short walk to the water. Would definitely stay here again."
United States
Teri
The price is HK$1,395
HK$1,593 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Jul - 13 Jul
Pacific Crest 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.

Compare popular hotels in Downtown Santa Barbara

Property
Property class
Guest rating
Breakfast included
Pool
Spa
Pet-friendly
WiFi included
Reception
Hotel Santa Barbara
3.0 star property
9.4
Exceptional
1,407 reviews
View
Exterior
Haley Hotel
3.5 star property
8.8
Excellent
657 reviews
View
Outdoor pool, open 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, pool loungers
Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG
4.0 star property
8.8
Excellent
1,002 reviews
View
Shopping centre
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
4.0 star property
8.6
Excellent
1,001 reviews
View
View from room
Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels
3.5 star property
8.4
Very good
450 reviews
View

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 West Beach.

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 West Beach 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

  • Vibrant Shopping Scene: Discover an array of independent shops and inviting cafes throughout the picturesque streets of Downtown Santa Barbara.
  • Cultural Attractions: Engage with the rich cultural offerings, including art galleries, theatres, and historical civic buildings.
  • Delicious Culinary Experiences: Enjoy unique taco tours that showcase the local cuisine and culinary delights.
  • Stunning Beaches: Relax on beautiful beaches, offering perfect spots for sunbathing and scenic views.
  • Charming Accommodations: Choose from a variety of hotels that blend comfort with adventure, catering to every traveller's needs.

Find great hotels near Downtown Santa Barbara

Discover a delightful array of hotel accommodations in Downtown Santa Barbara, where adventure meets relaxation. From the iconic Hotel Californian to the charming Santa Barbara Inn, each lodging option offers unique amenities for a memorable stay. Whether you seek pet-friendly facilities or proximity to the stunning beach, Downtown Santa Barbara caters to every traveller's desires, ensuring a perfect blend of comfort and excitement for your holiday getaway.

  • Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort: Nestled along the stunning coastline, the 4-star Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort offers a luxurious beachside retreat, just 3km from Downtown Santa Barbara. With direct access to the beach, this resort is ideal for those seeking a sun-soaked getaway. The property features elegant rooms with ocean views, multiple dining options, and a large outdoor pool surrounded by lush gardens. Guests can unwind at the spa or explore nearby attractions with ease, making it a splendid choice for a relaxing vacation.
  • Sandpiper Lodge: A budget-friendly option with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Sandpiper Lodge boasts a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. Located 3km from Downtown Santa Barbara, this motel offers essential amenities, including a complimentary continental breakfast and convenient dining options. Guests can enjoy recreational activities nearby, such as cycling and golf, while the hotel provides entertainment options like a flatscreen TV with premium channels. With its affordable rates and comfortable accommodations, it caters well to those looking for value without compromising on quality.
  • The Milo: Just 2km from Downtown Santa Barbara, The Milo is a charming 3.5-star hotel that combines coastal elegance with modern comforts. With its direct access to the beach, this property is perfect for beach enthusiasts. Guests can relish well-appointed rooms that exude a relaxed vibe, complemented by a delightful courtyard and heated pool. The Milo's proximity to local attractions and eateries offers a perfect blend of leisure and convenience, making it an appealing choice for travellers seeking a serene escape.

Where to stay near Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara offers a delightful blend of historical charm and urban vibrancy, making it an ideal destination for families and city enthusiasts alike. Stroll through its picturesque streets, where friendly locals welcome you to explore independent shops and inviting cafes. Don't miss the stunning city views and the nearby scenic excursions, which highlight the area's natural beauty and rich heritage. Experience the unique atmosphere that makes Santa Barbara a must-visit location in California.

  • Santa Barbara: Nestled between the majestic mountains and the shimmering Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara is a vibrant city renowned for its Mediterranean-style architecture and picturesque landscapes. The Downtown area is the heartbeat of the city, where visitors can enjoy a plethora of family-oriented activities, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. Notable attractions include the Santa Barbara Museum of Art and the historic courthouse, alongside the bustling State Street, which is perfect for shopping and dining. With a mild climate year-round, Santa Barbara invites exploration, particularly from June to August when visitors flock to its beautiful beaches and parks.
  • Santa Barbara Beach: Located a mile from Downtown Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Beach is a delightful neighbourhood perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. This popular spot offers a range of activities, from sunbathing on sandy shores to enjoying beachside shopping and dining. The beach is also close to educational attractions and a theme park, making it an ideal destination for families. Visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere and take leisurely strolls along the waterfront, ensuring a memorable beach experience throughout the year, especially in the summer months.
  • East Beach: A mile away from the vibrant Downtown, East Beach is celebrated for its family-friendly environment and stunning coastal views. This neighbourhood boasts a beautiful sandy beach and is perfect for outdoor activities such as volleyball and picnics. With a variety of shopping areas and close proximity to a national state park, East Beach offers an exceptional blend of relaxation and adventure. Like its counterparts, it sees a peak in visitors during the summer, providing ample opportunities for beachside fun and exploration.

Things to do in Downtown Santa Barbara

Shopping

In Downtown Santa Barbara, visit the Paseo Nuevo, an open-air shopping centre featuring popular brands and local boutiques. For a more unique experience, explore the Santa Barbara Public Market, where you can discover artisanal goods and gourmet treats, perfect for memorable gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

In Downtown Santa Barbara, indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the tranquil Spa del Sol, where skilled therapists utilise organic products. Nearby, the Lotusland offers serene gardens for mindful strolls, enhancing your relaxation amidst nature's beauty. Explore yoga classes at the Santa Barbara Yoga Centre for a refreshing experience.

Adventure

Explore the vibrant Funk Zone, known for its art galleries, wine-tasting rooms, and eclectic shops. Experience thrill at the Santa Barbara Adventure Company, offering kayaking and guided tours to discover the stunning coastline and wildlife. For hiking enthusiasts, the nearby Santa Ynez Mountains provide breathtaking views and diverse trails.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Good Lion for craft cocktails and a lively atmosphere. For a more relaxed vibe, visit The Funk Zone, where you can explore various wine tasting rooms and art galleries, all within walking distance and brimming with local charm.

*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 near Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures, making it an ideal destination for a city-themed holiday. Visitors can explore historical civic buildings, engaging museums, and beautiful beaches, all enriching their cultural experience. Notably, the historic downtown area is a must-see, showcasing the charm and heritage of this Californian gem.

  • Santa Barbara Harbor: This picturesque marina offers a blend of adventure and relaxation, where you can indulge in water sports, stroll along the promenade, or savour fresh seafood at local eateries. The vibrant atmosphere and stunning coastal views make it a delightful spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Mission Santa Barbara: Known as the Queen of the Missions, this historic church showcases Spanish colonial architecture and lush gardens. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of California, exploring its art, history, and serene surroundings.
  • Reagan Ranch Center: This engaging museum provides insight into the life and legacy of President Ronald Reagan. Featuring exhibits that highlight his influence on American history, the centre invites guests to reflect on political culture in a thoughtful setting.

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.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
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

Flying into Downtown Santa Barbara offers a few convenient options. Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is merely 13km away, with excellent hotels nearby, such as The Ritz-Carlton Bacara and El Encanto, both 5-star rated. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is located 130km from downtown, with luxurious accommodation options like the Fairmont Miramar and The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey, both within 13km of the airport. Alternatively, Hollywood BURbank Airport (BUR) is 127km away, featuring hotels like The Sun Rose West Hollywood and The London West Hollywood, both 7 to 13km from the airport. Each airport provides accessible transport options to these hotels.

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 Presidio Santa Barbara 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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