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Our top choices for Downtown Santa Barbara hotels

1. Hotel Santa Barbara

Hotel Santa Barbara
4.0 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,548 reviews)
"We loved it here!"
United States
Morgan
The price is ฿8,183
฿9,515 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Oct - 28 Oct
Hotel Santa Barbara

2. 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, (506 reviews)
"Great hotel"
United States
Emeterio
The price is ฿8,478
฿9,682 total
includes taxes & fees
17 Nov - 18 Nov
Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels

3. 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)
"Great location. Great staff at desk and valet. Very nice room. We’ll want to stay there again."
United States
John
The price is ฿7,170
฿8,188 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Nov - 10 Nov
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

4. 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)
"Excellent hotel and staff. Loved Santa Barbara. We will be back !"
United States
Gavin
The price is ฿11,277
฿14,583 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Nov - 19 Nov
Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

5. Haley Hotel

Haley Hotel
3.5 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (715 reviews)
"Great place and walking distance to fun bars"
United States
Rodney J
The price is ฿5,433
฿6,531 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Haley Hotel

6. Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Downtown

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Downtown
3.0 star property
Oak Park, 1 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (290 reviews)
"To expensive for a motel like room"
Canada
Mariola
The price is ฿7,870
฿8,972 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Nov - 10 Nov
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Downtown

7. The Upham Hotel

The Upham Hotel
4.0 star property
Historic Downtown Santa Barbara, 0.8 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,015 reviews)
"Super cute place!"
United States
Luan
The price is ฿8,233
฿9,385 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Oct - 29 Oct
The Upham Hotel

8. Palihouse Santa Barbara

Palihouse Santa Barbara
4.0 star property
0.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (443 reviews)
"Location. The Hotel is so beautiful, chic and close to everything. Very friendly staff."
United States
Maria
The price is ฿13,168
฿15,037 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Palihouse Santa Barbara

9. Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach
3.5 star property
West Beach, 1.3 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,470 reviews)
"Very clean , staff was great.loved the room. We would stay there again."
United States
David
The price is ฿7,904
฿9,026 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Oct - 29 Oct
Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

10. West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel

West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel
3.0 star property
West Beach, 1.6 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,123 reviews)
"Amazing place to stay!"
United States
Amanda
The price is ฿6,572
฿7,492 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Nov - 19 Nov
West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel

11. Inn By The Harbor

Inn By The Harbor
3.5 star property
West Beach, 1.3 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,966 reviews)
"Really enjoyed my stay. Lovely helpful staff. Great location to walk to the Beach and restaurants."
United Kingdom
Tricia
The price is ฿7,630
฿8,713 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Oct - 28 Oct
Inn By The Harbor

12. Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
2.5 star property
West Beach, 1.4 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (2,451 reviews)
"Excellent location, clean and comfortable room."
United States
Anne
The price is ฿4,832
฿5,771 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Oct - 28 Oct
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

13. Lavender Inn by the Sea

Lavender Inn by the Sea
3.5 star property
West Beach, 1.3 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,360 reviews)
"Great location, close to beach, grounds well kept and very clean rooms. Stayed here multiple times and will continue."
United States
Brandon
The price is ฿6,267
฿7,157 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Lavender Inn by the Sea

14. Casa Riviera, a ZenStay Hotel

Casa Riviera, a ZenStay Hotel
4.5 star property
Laguna, 0.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (350 reviews)
"Great place to stay in Santa Barbara!"
United States
Melissa
The price is ฿5,662
฿8,957 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Casa Riviera, a ZenStay Hotel

15. Harbor View Inn

Harbor View Inn
3.5 star property
West Beach, 1.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,006 reviews)
"The location was great"
United States
Mario
The price is ฿9,623
฿10,970 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Oct - 28 Oct
Harbor View Inn

16. La Playa Inn

La Playa Inn
2.5 star property
West Beach, 1.4 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,003 reviews)
"Amazing stay and great location!"
United States
Nick
The price is ฿6,690
฿7,626 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
La Playa Inn

17. The Presidio

The Presidio
2.0 star property
1.1 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (881 reviews)
"Well located and clean room. Easy to park."
United States
Rhea
The price is ฿4,356
฿4,965 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Oct - 28 Oct
The Presidio

18. Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages

Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages
3.0 star property
Oak Park, 1.1 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (711 reviews)
"Marvelous staff!! We felt right at home from the moment we walked through the door. Beautiful accommodations and all food was deliciously prepared. Can’t wait for our next stay."
United States
Cheryl
The price is ฿9,251
฿10,564 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages

19. Mason Beach Inn

Mason Beach Inn
3.0 star property
West Beach, 1.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,005 reviews)
"We had a great stay!"
Canada
Sandy Lyne
The price is ฿7,870
฿9,190 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Oct - 28 Oct
Mason Beach Inn

20. Casa Jardin, a ZenStay Hotel

Casa Jardin, a ZenStay Hotel
3.0 star property
Laguna, 0.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (318 reviews)
"Great location, within walking distance of most things. Parking was easy."
United States
Maria
The price is ฿3,634
฿6,645 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Nov - 19 Nov
Casa Jardin, a ZenStay Hotel
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
A spacious interior with high ceilings, wooden beams, and a central column.
Hotel Santa Barbara
4.0 star property
9.4
Exceptional
1,548 reviews
View
An outdoor patio with wooden tables and benches, surrounded by lush tropical plants.
Haley Hotel
3.5 star property
8.8
Excellent
715 reviews
View
A rooftop terrace with outdoor seating, umbrellas, and a pool.
Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG
4.0 star property
8.8
Excellent
1,002 reviews
View
A courtyard with outdoor seating, a fountain, and white buildings with arches.
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
4.0 star property
8.6
Excellent
1,001 reviews
View
A modern kitchen with wooden cabinets, a central island, and large windows.
Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels
3.5 star property
8.4
Very good
506 reviews
View

Hotels recommended for families in Downtown Santa Barbara

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.

Lower State

While visiting Lower State, you might make a stop by sights like Reagan Ranch Center and Moreton Bay Fig Tree.

Top Downtown Santa Barbara Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Downtown Santa Barbara

Top reasons to visit Downtown Santa Barbara

  • Historic Charm: Stroll through the picturesque streets and admire stunning architecture, reflecting the rich history of Santa Barbara.
  • Cultural Experiences: Engage with local art galleries, theatres, and museums that showcase the vibrant culture of the area.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy family-friendly activities in beautiful parks and along the stunning beaches.
  • Shopping and Dining: Discover vibrant shopping areas and indulge in delightful culinary experiences, including popular taco tours.
  • Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a variety of charming hotels and bed and breakfasts to suit every traveller's needs.

Find great hotels near Downtown Santa Barbara

Explore a diverse range of hotel accommodations in Downtown Santa Barbara, where you can enjoy the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. From charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels like the Hotel Californian and Santa Barbara Inn, there’s something to suit every traveller’s needs. Whether you seek pet-friendly options or beachfront access, Downtown Santa Barbara offers an inviting atmosphere for a memorable getaway.

  • Sandpiper Lodge: A budget-friendly motel option that provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for travellers. Located 3km from Downtown Santa Barbara, Sandpiper Lodge boasts a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast options including continental selections served daily. The lodge offers various recreational activities nearby, such as bicycle rentals, golf, and fitness facilities, ensuring that active guests have plenty to do. For entertainment, rooms are equipped with flat-screen televisions and premium cable channels. With its proximity to the city centre, Sandpiper Lodge serves as a convenient base for exploring local attractions while enjoying a comfortable stay.
  • The Milo: This charming 3.5-star hotel captures the essence of a beachside retreat, located merely 2km from Downtown Santa Barbara. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, The Milo is an excellent choice for those seeking a true beach vacation experience. The property offers direct access to the beach, allowing guests to soak up the sun and enjoy coastal activities. The appealing design and welcoming atmosphere make it a delightful place to unwind after a day of exploration. The Milo’s focus on providing a relaxed, beachy vibe ensures that guests leave with fond memories of their coastal getaway.
  • Avania Inn of Santa Barbara: With a remarkable guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, Avania Inn offers a unique blend of beach, city, and nature-themed experiences. Situated 2km from Downtown Santa Barbara, this budget-friendly motel features direct beach access and is conveniently located in the city centre. The property emphasises wellness, providing outdoor amenities such as a terrace where guests can enjoy the natural surroundings. With its focus on relaxation and rejuvenation, Avania Inn is an ideal choice for travellers looking to connect with nature while enjoying the vibrant city life.

Where to stay near Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara is a vibrant urban destination that offers an enchanting blend of historical charm and modern attractions. As you explore the city centre, you'll be captivated by the stunning architecture, friendly locals, and picturesque scenery. Ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts, this area boasts an array of attractions, from delightful cafés to scenic parks, ensuring a memorable vacation experience in this beautiful Californian locale.

  • Santa Barbara: Nestled along California's stunning coastline, Santa Barbara is a vibrant city known for its Mediterranean charm and beautiful landscapes. Downtown Santa Barbara serves as its cultural heart, where visitors can immerse themselves in family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and city-themed experiences. The area boasts a variety of theatres and entertainment venues, making it an ideal destination for art lovers. With nearby attractions like the picturesque beaches and bustling tourist precinct, Santa Barbara offers a delightful blend of relaxation and exploration throughout the year, particularly peaking in the summer months.
  • Santa Barbara Beach: Just a mile from Downtown Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Beach is a delightful neighbourhood that epitomises the Californian beach experience. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, this area attracts visitors year-round, with a notable surge in the warmer months. Here, you can enjoy various outdoor activities, from beachside shopping to thrilling theme park rides. The local landmarks, including the stunning beach itself, provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and fun, making it an excellent spot for families seeking a memorable day by the ocean.
  • Historic Downtown Santa Barbara: A mere 322m from Downtown Santa Barbara, Historic Downtown Santa Barbara is rich in culture and history. This charming neighbourhood invites families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, with its vibrant theatre scene and numerous shopping opportunities. Visitors can explore the local educational institutions and enjoy attractions that reflect the city’s heritage. With the beach and tourist precinct within close reach, Historic Downtown Santa Barbara offers a seamless blend of history and modern amenities, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to delve into the local culture.

Things to do in Downtown Santa Barbara

Shopping

In Downtown Santa Barbara, visit the Paseo Nuevo for a mix of popular retailers and unique shops. The Santa Barbara Public Market offers local artisanal goods, perfect for distinctive souvenirs. Don’t miss State Street, lined with charming boutiques and galleries showcasing local art and crafts.

Recreation

The Yoga Centre in Downtown Santa Barbara offers calming classes in a tranquil setting, allowing you to unwind and rejuvenate your mind and body. Nearby, the Santa Barbara Spa provides a range of treatments, including massages and facials, ensuring a delightful experience of relaxation and self-care.

Adventure

In Downtown Santa Barbara, explore the vibrant State Street, lined with shops and cafes, or embark on a thrilling kayak adventure along the coastline. Experience the beauty of the Santa Barbara Mission, a historic site showcasing stunning architecture and gardens, ideal for a leisurely stroll.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Good Lion, where inventive cocktails await. For a lively atmosphere, visit The Funk Zone's wine tasting rooms. If you're in the mood for dancing, head to SOhO, where live music and a bustling crowd create an electric vibe.

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

Find the best attractions in and around Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore historic civic and government buildings, intriguing museums, and beautiful beaches. This vibrant area is perfect for those seeking a rich cultural experience, with a focus on its historic charm. Don't miss the opportunity to stroll through the historic downtown and soak in the local atmosphere while enjoying the stunning Californian scenery.

  • West Beach: Located a mile from Downtown Santa Barbara, West Beach offers a serene coastal experience with its golden sands and gentle waves, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or leisurely strolls along the shore, providing a quintessential beach vibe.
  • Santa Barbara County Courthouse: Nestled in Downtown Santa Barbara, this historic Civic Government Building showcases stunning Spanish-Moorish architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the area, making it a picturesque spot for exploration.
  • Santa Barbara Harbor: Also a mile from Downtown, Santa Barbara Harbor is a vibrant marina where visitors can partake in various outdoor activities, from sailing to whale watching, amidst a lively atmosphere that embodies adventure and beach life.

Best time to go to Downtown Santa Barbara

The best time to visit Downtown 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 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

Accessing Downtown Santa Barbara is convenient with several major airports nearby. Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is merely 13km away and offers excellent hotels like The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, just 8km from the airport. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is situated 130km from Downtown, with luxurious options such as the Fairmont Miramar Hotel and Casa Del Mar, both within 13km. Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) is 127km away, featuring high-end accommodations like The Sun Rose West Hollywood, only 11km from the airport. All these locations provide easy access to transportation services for seamless travel to Downtown Santa Barbara.

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, Hill-Carrillo Adobe and El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park are some local landmarks to explore in Downtown Santa Barbara. As you're discovering the neighbourhood, Lobero Theater and Arlington Theater 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 Paseo Nuevo Mall.