Santa Barbara hotels

Top reasons to visit Santa Barbara

• Stunning Beaches: Santa Barbara boasts beautiful beaches like Santa Barbara Beach, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying picturesque sunsets.
• Vibrant Downtown: The downtown area offers a lively atmosphere with shops, restaurants, and cultural experiences, ideal for exploring local life.
• Historic Sites: Visitors can admire historic churches and landmarks that showcase the city’s rich architectural heritage.
• Outdoor Activities: Santa Barbara's natural beauty invites outdoor enthusiasts to hike, cycle, and enjoy water sports.
• Diverse Accommodation: From charming inns to modern hotels, Santa Barbara provides a range of options for every traveller.

Find great hotels near Santa Barbara

Explore a variety of hotel accommodation options in Santa Barbara, California, catering to adventurous travellers seeking beachside relaxation and pet-friendly experiences. From charming inns to modern hotels, the area offers a range of choices to suit every preference. Whether you’re looking for hotel reviews or specific amenities, Santa Barbara promises a delightful stay amidst its stunning coastal scenery.

• Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn: Located a mere 16km from Santa Barbara, the Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn is a charming 3.5-star hotel, ideal for those seeking a blend of beach and adventure experiences. Rated 8.6 out of 10 by guests, this property offers direct access to the beach, allowing visitors to indulge in various water sports. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the golf-themed activities available on-site, while adventure seekers can explore a range of options nearby, including mountain biking, kayaking, and even skydiving. The hotel’s inviting atmosphere combines comfort with recreational opportunities, making it a delightful choice for an active holiday.
• Amanzi Hotel, an Ascend Collection Hotel: Situated 42km from Santa Barbara, the Amanzi Hotel offers a budget-friendly option with a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This hotel is particularly suited for those who wish to immerse themselves in nature and wellness. With direct access to the beach, guests can engage in a variety of adventure sports, such as windsurfing, hiking, and fishing. The property’s focus on the natural environment creates a serene atmosphere, perfect for relaxation while still being close to exciting outdoor activities. An ideal retreat for nature lovers and wellness seekers alike.
• Motel 6 Carpinteria, CA - Santa Barbara - South: Only 18km from Santa Barbara, Motel 6 Carpinteria offers a budget-friendly stay with a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10. This motel is particularly welcoming to pet owners, with a pet-friendly policy that allows dogs and cats on-site. The property features essential amenities while maintaining a cozy atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for those travelling with furry companions. Guests appreciate the straightforward accommodations in a convenient location, ensuring a comfortable base for exploring the area.

Where to stay in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara offers an enchanting blend of history and natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Explore the vibrant downtown area, relax along the stunning waterfront, and immerse yourself in the region's charming atmosphere. With its friendly locals and romantic excursions, Santa Barbara and its neighbouring areas beckon visitors to experience the best of Southern California's culture and scenery.

• Santa Barbara Beach: Nestled along the stunning coastline of Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Beach is a vibrant neighbourhood perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The area is known for its picturesque beach, where visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and beach sports. With peak visitor numbers from June to August, this locale buzzes with activity during the summer months. Nearby attractions include a lively shopping area and educational venues, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure. The beach itself serves as a local landmark, drawing tourists to its family-friendly precinct.
• Montecito: A charming and affluent neighbourhood, Montecito lies just east of Santa Barbara and is renowned for its lush landscapes and serene beaches. With a highly seasonal influx of visitors, peaking in January, March, and July, Montecito offers a tranquil escape for families and outdoor lovers alike. The area features beautiful national and state parks, perfect for hiking and exploring nature. Shopping enthusiasts will find delightful shopping centres and educational venues nearby, providing a well-rounded experience for all types of travellers. Montecito truly embodies the essence of California coastal living.
• Downtown Santa Barbara: Downtown Santa Barbara is the hub of cultural and urban experiences in the region. Visitors flock to this bustling neighbourhood year-round, particularly in the summer months from June to August. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, it boasts a variety of shopping areas, theatres, and educational attractions. The nearby beach and tourist precinct serve as key highlights, offering entertainment and relaxation just steps away. Downtown Santa Barbara seamlessly blends city life with coastal charm, making it a must-visit for those looking to explore the heart of the area.

Things to do in Santa Barbara

Shopping

In Santa Barbara, visit the Paseo Nuevo Shopping Mall, an open-air complex featuring a mix of shops, dining options, and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, the Camarillo Premium Outlets, located about 48km away, boasts a variety of outlet stores for great deals on brands.

Recreation

Experience the tranquil environment at The Well Spa, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and yoga sessions. Explore the picturesque hiking trails of the Santa Barbara hills, offering scenic views and a refreshing escape into nature.

Adventure

In Santa Barbara, explore the rugged beauty of the Channel Islands National Park, where kayaking and hiking unveil breathtaking coastal views. For a thrilling experience, try paragliding off the scenic bluffs, offering spectacular vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the city below.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Good Lion on State Street, where you can savour inventive cocktails. For a lively atmosphere, visit the Funk Zone, home to various wine tasting rooms and art galleries that come alive after dark, showcasing local talent and creativity.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara presents numerous opportunities for budget-conscious travellers. Enjoy free attractions such as Santa Barbara Harbour, Stearns Wharf, and the County Courthouse. For transport, consider biking or using the trolley for an economical option. To save on accommodation, visit during the off-peak months of January to February and November, with Tuesday being the cheapest day to stay. Use Expedia to find the best deals by sorting prices and combining hotel bookings with flights and activities for additional savings. This way, you can experience the beauty of Santa Barbara without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in 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 in Santa Barbara is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Santa Barbara is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that the most affordable hotels appear first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Santa Barbara hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is an ideal destination for family, outdoor, and city-themed vacations, offering a blend of cultural and recreational experiences. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful beaches, explore the picturesque urban parks, and visit historic churches. Key attractions include Santa Barbara Beach and Santa Barbara Harbour, perfect for those seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure in this charming Californian city.

• Santa Barbara Harbor: This vibrant marina offers a delightful mix of adventure and outdoor activities. Stroll along the waterfront, enjoy fresh seafood at local eateries, or embark on a sailing excursion to explore the stunning coastline. The lively atmosphere is complemented by views of the Santa Ynez Mountains.
• Butterfly Beach: Renowned for its tranquil beauty, Butterfly Beach provides a serene escape. Relax on the soft sands, take a refreshing swim, or watch the sun dip below the horizon. The gentle waves and picturesque surroundings create a perfect beach vibe.
• Upper State Street: A bustling thoroughfare, Upper State Street is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Experience the local culture as you explore unique boutiques and enjoy a meal at one of the many dining options, all while soaking in the vibrant city atmosphere.

Best time to go to Santa Barbara

The best time to visit Santa Barbara is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	55.0°F (12.8°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
April	60.3°F (15.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
May	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
June	68.2°F (20.1°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	72.1°F (22.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	72.9°F (22.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	71.6°F (22.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
November	60.4°F (15.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Barbara

Travelling to Santa Barbara, California, can be done via several major airports. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is 130km away, with nearby luxury hotels such as Fairmont Miramar Hotel and The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey, offering convenient access. Hollywood BURbank Airport (BUR) is 127km distant, featuring excellent accommodations like The Sun Rose West Hollywood. For those considering Long Beach Municipal Airport (LGB), located 159km from Santa Barbara, options include Parkwest Bicycle Casino. Each airport provides various transportation services to facilitate your journey, ensuring a smooth transition to your destination.