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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, (1,442 reviews)
"Best place I’ve stayed in Santa Barbara and the location is unmatched!"
United States
Dominique
The price is ฿9,231
฿10,734 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Aug - 11 Aug
Hotel Santa Barbara

2. Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG
4.0 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,001 reviews)
"Staff was great, valet was super nice and helpful and friendly. Room was clean and great - except maybe to have better brand of toiletries."
United States
Noel
The price is ฿11,770
฿15,144 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Jul - 28 Jul
Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

3. 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, (465 reviews)
"Great hotel in the heart of Santa Barbara!"
United States
Matthew
The price is ฿9,659
฿11,030 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Aug - 11 Aug
Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels

4. 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)
"Loved this hotel. Great location"
United States
Cayley
The price is ฿10,495
฿11,985 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Aug - 4 Aug
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

5. Haley Hotel

Haley Hotel
3.5 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (674 reviews)
"awesome stay"
United States
Rey Jacob
The price is ฿6,753
฿8,034 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Aug - 4 Aug
Haley Hotel

6. 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, (1,009 reviews)
"Great place to stay. Wish we had booked another night or two...property is lovely."
Canada
Michael
The price is ฿7,744
฿8,829 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Aug - 3 Aug
The Upham Hotel

7. 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, (1,120 reviews)
"Clean rooms , great breakfast 🍳, nice pool, 🏊‍♀️"
United States
Lorena
The price is ฿11,096
฿12,649 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Jul - 28 Jul
West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel

8. 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, (1,000 reviews)
"great place to stay. Excellent location, very helpful staff, will definitely stay here again"
United States
darryl a
The price is ฿9,694
฿11,051 total
includes taxes & fees
26 Jul - 27 Jul
La Playa Inn

9. 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, (1,449 reviews)
"Great location, easy parking. Staff was very friendly. Great motel to take the dogs."
United States
Teresa
The price is ฿2,853
฿3,355 total
includes taxes & fees
5 Aug - 6 Aug
Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria South

10. 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, (265 reviews)
"I like the location"
United States
chen Min
The price is ฿9,983
฿11,380 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Aug - 3 Aug
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Downtown

11. Best Western Plus Santa Barbara

Best Western Plus Santa Barbara
3.5 star property
Oak Park, 2 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,007 reviews)
"Facilities were clean and the restaurant was great."
United States
Gloria
The price is ฿6,565
฿7,496 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Jul - 28 Jul
Best Western Plus Santa Barbara

12. 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, (1,893 reviews)
"Breakfast was excellent, room exceeded expectations"
United States
Thomas
The price is ฿9,814
฿11,207 total
includes taxes & fees
26 Jul - 27 Jul
Inn By The Harbor

13. Hyatt Place Santa Barbara

Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
3.5 star property
5.8 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,125 reviews)
"Really nice place to stay!"
United States
Kristine
The price is ฿7,138
฿8,395 total
includes taxes & fees
17 Aug - 18 Aug
Hyatt Place Santa Barbara

14. 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, (1,415 reviews)
"Great position, friendly staff, property design & appearance great, rooms comfortable"
Australia
David
The price is ฿9,383
฿10,714 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Aug - 13 Aug
Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

15. Casa Jardin

Casa Jardin
3.0 star property
Laguna, 0.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (285 reviews)
"Had a great stay, ideal stay and close to Santa Barbara bowl."
United States
Yessica
The price is ฿5,761
฿9,067 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Jul - 28 Jul
Casa Jardin

16. Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
2.5 star property
West Beach, 1.4 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,311 reviews)
"Great place to stay and great location."
United States
Martin
The price is ฿7,254
฿8,537 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Jul - 29 Jul
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

17. Beachside Inn

Beachside Inn
3.0 star property
West Beach, 1.6 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,227 reviews)
"Stay went great would definitely be stopping in again on the next trip out…"
United States
Oscar
The price is ฿8,157
฿9,315 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Aug - 11 Aug
Beachside Inn

18. 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, (1,000 reviews)
"Great hotel."
United States
Dayne
The price is ฿10,910
฿12,661 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Aug - 14 Aug
Mason Beach Inn

19. Casa Riviera

Casa Riviera
4.5 star property
Laguna, 0.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (250 reviews)
"Amazing stay! We stayed at the Casa De La Vina previously, and this stay was just as good! Communication was smooth, and the stay is always clean!"
United States
John Christopher
The price is ฿8,418
฿12,095 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Aug - 19 Aug
Casa Riviera

20. FOUND Hotels, Santa Barbara, Series by Marriott

FOUND Hotels, Santa Barbara, Series by Marriott
3.0 star property
4.9 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,197 reviews)
"Great location! Nice staff and room was clean"
United States
Adriana
The price is ฿7,401
฿8,452 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Aug - 17 Aug
FOUND Hotels, Santa Barbara, Series by Marriott
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
4.0 star property
9.4
Exceptional
1,442 reviews
View
Exterior
Haley Hotel
3.5 star property
8.8
Excellent
674 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
1,001 reviews
View
Shopping centre
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
4.0 star property
8.6
Excellent
1,000 reviews
View
View from room
Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels
3.5 star property
8.4
Very good
465 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 Santa Barbara Harbor.

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 Santa Barbara Zoo and East Beach.

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 Presidio Santa Barbara and Granada Theatre 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 Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels and Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG.
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, Granada Theatre and Arlington Theater are some other places worth a visit. A few places to visit in the area around Downtown Santa Barbara include Lobero Theater, La Arcada and Casa de la Guerra. While you're out sightseeing in Santa Barbara, make sure that you visit other sights such as De la Guerra Plaza or Susan Quinlan Doll and Teddy Bear Museum.