Where to Stay in Santa Barbara 🇺🇸 -7 Areas & Best Hotels in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara feels like a

Mediterranean dream that somehow landed on the California coast. I’ve spent countless hours exploring this charming city, and I can tell you that choosing the right place to stay makes all the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Santa Barbara offers neighborhoods that fit every style and budget. From beachfront luxury resorts in Montecito to cozy downtown inns near State Street, I’ll guide you through the 10 best areas where you can rest your head in this coastal paradise.

🏠 Best Hotels:

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara
• ✨ 5-Star: Casa De La Vina - Boutique Suites in Downtown Santa Barbara
• 🏨 4-Star: Best Western Plus Santa Barbara
• 🛏️ 3-Star: The Presidio
• 💸 Cheap: ITH Santa Barbara Beach Hostel
• 🏢 Apartment: Casa Jardin - Boutique Suites in Downtown Santa Barbara
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Residence Inn by Marriott Santa Barbara Goleta
• 🏩 For Couples: Bath Street Inn

Quick guide to the best places to stay: 📋

• 🏖️ For Beachfront Living: West Beach Area
• 🏛️ For First-Time Visitors: Downtown Santa Barbara
• 🍷 For Wine & Nightlife: Funk Zone
• 💎 For Luxury Travelling: Montecito
• 🛍️ Shopping & Dining: State Street Corridor
• 🍇 Wine Country Access: Goleta

1. Downtown Santa Barbara – Where to Stay in Santa Barbara for First-Time Visitors

Central Location. Downtown Santa Barbara along State Street offers the perfect base for newcomers to this coastal city. I always recommend this area because you can walk to beaches, restaurants, and attractions without needing a car. The Harbor View Inn sits directly across from Stearns Wharf, while Hotel Santa Barbara places you steps from State Street’s shopping corridor.

Budget-Friendly Options. This neighborhood provides the most accommodation choices across all price ranges. From budget motels like Beachside Inn starting at $146 per night to luxury properties like Kimpton Canary Hotel around $400, downtown gives you flexibility with your travel budget. Thе Franciscan Santa Barbara includes breakfast and averages $200 nightly.

State Street Corridor. The main strip buzzes with energy day and night between Cabrillo Boulevard and Sola Street. You’ll find everything from wine bars in converted warehouses to outdoor cafes serving fresh seafood just steps from your hotel door. Hotel Virginia sits right on State Street, putting you in the heart of the action.

Walking Distance Benefits. Stearns Wharf sits just four blocks from most downtown hotels, while East Beach stretches only two blocks away. The Santa Barbara Harbor and Funk Zone wine tasting rooms are all within a 10-minute walk. Palihouse Santa Barbara guests can reach the pier in five minutes on foot.

Nightlife Access. After exploring during the day, downtown transforms into Santa Barbara’s entertainment hub. Local clubs, craft breweries, and rooftop bars keep the area lively until late hours. The Upham Hotel provides easy access to Arlington Theater and Granada Theatre for evening entertainment.

Accommodation Type	Price Range (USD)	Distance to Beach	Breakfast Included
Budget Motels	$146-180	2-3 blocks	Some properties
Mid-Range Hotels	$200-300	1-2 blocks	Most properties
Boutique Properties	$300-500	1-3 blocks	Premium locations

Best Hotels in Downtown

Luxury Hotels

• Kimpton Canary Hotel – This Spanish-style luxury hotel features a stunning rooftop pool with sunset views and four-post beds in elegantly appointed guest rooms.
• Palihouse Santa Barbara – A sophisticated boutique hotel offering upscale accommodations with modern amenities and personalized service in downtown Santa Barbara.
• Best Western Plus Santa Barbara – Located in a quiet neighborhood just blocks from State Street, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, outdoor pool, and complimentary airport shuttle service.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton – This historic century-old hotel in the heart of downtown features newly renovated guest rooms with exposed brick walls and complimentary bike rentals.
• The Presidio – An urban-contemporary inn located on State Street in the historic Presidio District, offering 16 modern rooms just steps from shopping and dining.
• The Upham Hotel – Santa Barbara’s most historic continuously operating hotel, this Victorian treasure features 50 rooms surrounded by gardens and includes breakfast.

Best Hostels

• Casa Jardin - Boutique Suites in Downtown Santa Barbara – Boutique suites offering spacious accommodations with kitchenettes in a prime downtown location near beaches and attractions.
• Secret Garden Inn & Cottages – A charming inn featuring cottage-style accommodations with garden settings and personalized service in a peaceful Santa Barbara location.
• Bath Street Inn – This Victorian bed and breakfast offers bright rooms with old world charm, full gourmet breakfast, and daily wine and cheese social hour.

2. West Beach Area – Where to Stay in Santa Barbara on the Beach

Oceanfront Access. West Beach puts you directly on Santa Barbara’s most popular stretch of sand. I love staying here because you can literally roll out of bed and onto the beach within seconds. The area runs from Stearns Wharf to the harbor breakwater.

Beach Activities Hub. This location serves as the center for water sports and beach recreation. You’ll find volleyball courts, bike rental shops, and kayak launches right outside your accommodation door. The Cabrillo Arts and Crafts Show happens every weekend along this shoreline.

Family-Friendly Environment. West Beach offers the calmest waters in Santa Barbara due to the harbor’s protection. Children can play safely in the gentle waves while parents relax on the wide sandy beach. The area includes clean restrooms and shower facilities.

Dining Options. Beachfront restaurants line Cabrillo Boulevard, offering everything from casual fish tacos to upscale seafood dining. Many establishments feature outdoor patios where you can eat while watching surfers and sailboats.

Parking Considerations. Beach parking fills up quickly during summer weekends and costs $2 per hour. Staying in this area means you can walk everywhere and avoid the parking hassle that day visitors face.

Beach Amenities Available:

• Volleyball courts (4 courts)
• Bike path access
• Public restrooms
• Outdoor showers
• Picnic areas
• Equipment rentals

Best Hotels in West Beach

Luxury Hotels

• Riviera Beach House – This exclusive beachfront property offers luxurious accommodations with direct beach access and stunning ocean views in Santa Barbara’s prestigious West Beach area.
• The Milo, Santa Barbara – A modern boutique hotel featuring contemporary design and comfortable accommodations just steps from the beach and downtown attractions.
• Brisas Del Mar Inn at the Beach – This charming beachfront inn offers cozy rooms with ocean views and easy access to Santa Barbara’s beautiful coastline and harbor area.

• Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Avania Inn of Santa Barbara – A family-friendly hotel providing comfortable accommodations with modern amenities, outdoor pool, and convenient location near beaches and downtown.
• Lavender Inn by the Sea – This intimate beachside inn features Mediterranean-style architecture and personalized service in a peaceful setting near the ocean.
• La Playa Inn Santa Barbara – A budget-friendly option offering clean, comfortable rooms with easy access to Santa Barbara’s beaches and downtown attractions at affordable rates.

3. Funk Zone – Where to Stay in Santa Barbara for Nightlife and Wine Tasting

Wine Tasting District. The Funk Zone houses over 20 tasting rooms within a six-block area. I discovered this former industrial neighborhood has transformed into Santa Barbara’s coolest district for wine lovers. Most tasting rooms stay open until 8 PM on weekends.

Walkable Wine Trail. You can easily visit 8-10 wineries on foot in one afternoon. The Urban Wine Trail connects all the major tasting rooms with clear signage and maps. Municipal Winemakers and Kunin Wines anchor the northern end of the district.

Art and Culture Scene. Beyond wine, the Funk Zone features art galleries, craft breweries, and unique shops. The area hosts First Thursday art walks monthly, when galleries stay open late and offer special exhibitions. Street murals cover many warehouse walls.

Restaurant Variety. This neighborhood offers some of Santa Barbara’s most innovative dining experiences. From food trucks serving gourmet tacos to upscale farm-to-table restaurants, the Funk Zone satisfies every craving and budget level.

Transportation Benefits. The Funk Zone sits between downtown and the beach, making it easy to explore both areas. Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner stops just two blocks away, connecting you to Los Angeles and San Francisco.

1. Wine Tasting Costs: $15-25 per flight
2. Gallery Admission: Usually free
3. Food Truck Meals: $8-15 per person
4. Craft Beer Pints: $6-9 each
5. Parking: $1-2 per hour

4. Montecito – Where to Stay in Santa Barbara for Luxury

Exclusive Neighborhood. Montecito represents the pinnacle of Santa Barbara luxury living. I’ve found this area attracts celebrities and wealthy travelers seeking privacy and elegance. The community sits just 5 miles southeast of downtown Santa Barbara.

Butterfly Beach Access. This upscale area provides direct access to one of California’s most beautiful beaches. Butterfly Beach offers stunning sunset views and a more secluded atmosphere compared to the busier downtown beaches. The Four Seasons Biltmore sits directly on this pristine coastline.

High-End Shopping. Coast Village Road features boutique shops, gourmet markets, and upscale cafes. You’ll find everything from designer clothing to artisanal chocolates within walking distance of luxury accommodations. Pierre Lafond Wine Bistro anchors the shopping district.

Privacy and Exclusivity. Montecito’s winding roads and gated properties offer maximum privacy for guests. Many accommodations feature private beach access, spa services, and concierge assistance for exclusive experiences like private wine tours.

Premium Pricing. Expect to pay significantly more for the Montecito experience, but the service and amenities justify the cost for luxury travelers.

Best Hotels in Montecito

• Montecito Inn – This historic boutique hotel built by Charlie Chaplin in 1928 features 61 luxury rooms with Italian marble bathrooms, fireplaces, and Mediterranean-style décor in the heart of upscale Montecito.
• Coast Village Inn – Built in 1935, this quaint 28-room inn offers comfortable accommodations with heated outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, and bicycle rentals in the heart of Montecito.

5. State Street Corridor – Where to Stay in Santa Barbara for Shopping and Dining

Shopping Paradise. State Street stretches for 12 blocks through downtown, offering everything from vintage boutiques to major retail chains. I spend hours exploring the unique shops between Canon Perdido and Haley Streets. Paseo Nuevo outdoor mall anchors the shopping district.

Restaurant Density. This corridor features the highest concentration of restaurants in Santa Barbara. You’ll find cuisine from around the world, including authentic Mexican, fresh sushi, and California farm-to-table dining. Many establishments offer outdoor seating year-round.

Entertainment Hub. The Granada Theatre and Arlington Theatre host major concerts and shows throughout the year. Street performers entertain crowds on weekend evenings, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for evening strolls.

Public Transportation. The MTD bus system runs frequently along State Street, connecting you to beaches, UCSB campus, and surrounding areas. The electric shuttle operates every 15 minutes during peak hours and costs just $1.75 per ride.

Walkability Score. State Street ranks as one of California’s most walkable commercial districts. Traffic lights are timed for pedestrians, and wide sidewalks accommodate heavy foot traffic during busy periods.

Shopping Categories:

• Clothing and accessories
• Art galleries and studios
• Bookstores and music shops
• Specialty food markets
• Home decor and gifts
• Vintage and antique stores

Best Hotels on State Street

• Lemon Tree Inn – Set on tropical 4 acres with 95 modern guest rooms featuring private patios or balconies, heated saline swimming pool, and the on-site Crocodile Restaurant serving Italian-inspired California cuisine.
• Sandpiper Lodge – A three-diamond property on Upper State Street offering 74 well-appointed rooms and suites with heated pool, spa, complimentary breakfast, and budget-friendly rates for sophisticated travelers.

6. Harbor Area – Where to Stay in Santa Barbara Near the Waterfront

Marina Views. The Harbor Area offers stunning views of sailboats and yachts bobbing in the protected marina. I love watching the sunset from this vantage point as fishing boats return with their daily catch. The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum sits right in the heart of this district.

Fresh Seafood Access. Local fishing boats dock here daily, supplying restaurants with the freshest catch possible. You can buy fish directly from boats at the harbor or dine at waterfront restaurants serving same-day catches. The Sea Center Aquarium educates visitors about local marine life.

Water Activities Base. This location serves as the launching point for whale watching tours, deep-sea fishing charters, and sailing excursions. Channel Islands National Park boats depart from here twice daily during peak season. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available year-round.

Stearns Wharf Connection. The historic wharf extends directly into the harbor, creating easy access to shops, restaurants, and the Santa Barbara Shellfish Company. Street performers and local artists display their work along the wooden boardwalk.

Peaceful Atmosphere. Despite being close to downtown, the harbor maintains a quieter, more relaxed vibe compared to State Street’s bustling energy. Morning fog often rolls in from the ocean, creating dramatic photography opportunities.

Harbor Activities by Season:

• Spring: Whale watching season begins
• Summer: Peak boating and fishing
• Fall: Ideal sailing conditions
• Winter: Storm watching and quiet walks

Best Hotels Near Santa Barbara Harbor

Luxury Hotels

• Mar Monte Hotel, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt – This historic beachfront hotel offers elegant accommodations with ocean views, featuring Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and direct access to East Beach in downtown Santa Barbara.
• Riviera Beach House – This exclusive beachfront property offers luxurious accommodations with direct beach access and stunning ocean views in Santa Barbara’s prestigious West Beach area.Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
• The Franciscan Hotel – A charming Spanish Colonial-style hotel located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, offering comfortable accommodations with traditional architecture and modern amenities.
• Castillo Inn at the Beach – A Mediterranean-style beachfront inn offering affordable accommodations just steps from East Beach with outdoor pool and complimentary continental breakfast.

7. Goleta – Where to Stay in Santa Barbara Wine Country

Wine Country Access. Goleta serves as the gateway to Santa Barbara’s wine country, with over 200 wineries within a 30-minute drive. The Santa Ynez Valley and Los Olivos wine regions are easily accessible from this location. Many wineries offer complimentary tastings with advance reservations.

University Town Atmosphere. UC Santa Barbara brings youthful energy and diverse dining options to Goleta. The university area features international cuisine, coffee shops, and bookstores that create a vibrant college town environment.

Outdoor Recreation. Goleta Beach County Park offers excellent conditions for surfing, fishing, and picnicking. The area includes barbecue facilities, volleyball courts, and a fishing pier extending into the Pacific Ocean.

Technology Hub. Many tech companies have offices in Goleta, creating a business-friendly environment with modern amenities and reliable internet infrastructure. This makes the area ideal for business travelers and digital nomads.

Value Proposition. Goleta accommodations typically cost 20-30% less than comparable Santa Barbara properties while offering similar amenities and service levels. The area provides excellent value for extended stays.

Best Hotels in Goleta

Luxury Hotels

• The Steward, Santa Barbara, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel – This upscale boutique hotel offers sophisticated accommodations with modern amenities and personalized service in the Goleta area near UC Santa Barbara campus.
• The Leta Santa Barbara Goleta, Tapestry Collection by Hilton – A contemporary luxury hotel featuring stylish guest rooms, premium amenities, and convenient access to both Santa Barbara attractions and wine country.
• Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta – A reliable chain hotel offering comfortable accommodations with complimentary breakfast, fitness center, and outdoor pool in the Goleta area near UCSB campus.
• Motel 6-Goleta, CA - Santa Barbara – A budget-friendly option providing basic but clean accommodations with essential amenities at affordable rates in the Goleta area.
• Best Western Plus South Coast Inn – A well-maintained chain hotel offering comfortable rooms with modern amenities, outdoor pool, and complimentary breakfast in a convenient Goleta location.

FAQ

What are the best hotels in Santa Barbara?

The best hotels in Santa Barbara include luxury properties like Rosewood Miramar Beach and El Encanto, boutique options like Hotel Californian and Drift Santa Barbara, and reliable chains like Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort. These accommodations offer everything from ocean views to swimming pools and are located near the beach or in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara.

Which hotel in Santa Barbara offers ocean views?

Santa Barbara Inn and Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort provide stunning ocean views and direct beach access. Many guest rooms at these properties feature panoramic views of the Pacific, with some suites offering private balconies overlooking the coastline.

Where is the best Santa Barbara hotel near downtown?

Hotel Santa Barbara and Drift Santa Barbara are located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, within walking distance to State Street shopping and dining. These properties place you steps from the beach while keeping you in the center of Santa Barbara’s cultural attractions.

Does Hotel Californian have an outdoor pool?

Hotel Californian features a beautiful outdoor pool along with a fitness center and full-service spa. The hotel offers luxury amenities including wine tasting rooms and is located near Santa Barbara Harbor with easy access to the beach.

Which Santa Barbara inn is best for families?

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara and Best Western Plus South Coast offer family-friendly amenities including swimming pools and spacious guest rooms. These properties provide excellent value while maintaining proximity to Santa Barbara Museum of Art and other family attractions.

What makes Rosewood Miramar Beach special in Montecito?

Rosewood Miramar Beach sits directly on the beach in exclusive Montecito, offering unparalleled luxury and privacy. The resort features lush gardens, world-class dining, and guest rooms with views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Ynez Mountains.

Is there extended stay accommodation in Santa Barbara?

Extended Stay America provides long-term lodging options in the Santa Barbara area with kitchenettes and weekly rates. Many hotels in Santa Barbara also offer extended stay packages for guests planning longer visits to explore the wine country.

Which hotels offer evening wine and cheese?

Several boutique hotels in Santa Barbara host evening wine and cheese receptions featuring local vintages. Properties like El Encanto and Hotel Californian regularly offer wine tastings that showcase the region’s renowned wine country.

How far are Santa Barbara hotels from the airport?

Most hotels in Santa Barbara are located 15-20 minutes from Santa Barbara Municipal Airport by car. Properties in central Santa Barbara and near the beach offer convenient access to both the airport and downtown attractions.

What hotel amenities should I expect in Santa Barbara?

The best Santa Barbara hotels typically offer outdoor pools, fitness centers, and concierge services to help you explore the area. Many properties feature on-site restaurants, spa services, and easy walking distance to the beach or Santa Barbara Mission.