Downtown Santa Barbara Travel Guide
Santa Barbara
Visit Downtown Santa Barbara
Popular places to visit
Santa Barbara County Courthouse
See the best views of Santa Barbara and enjoy a stunning variety of architectural styles at the city’s historic courthouse.
Paseo Nuevo Mall
You can enjoy retail therapy at Paseo Nuevo Mall during your stay in Santa Barbara. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Presidio Santa Barbara
You can study the exhibits at Presidio Santa Barbara, a museum with a story of its own, during your trip to Santa Barbara. Stroll along the area's seaside or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.
Arlington Theater
Enjoy a show at Arlington Theater, a popular theatre in Santa Barbara. Stroll along the area's seaside or experience its lively festivals.
Lobero Theater
Enjoy a performance at Lobero Theater, a popular theatre in Santa Barbara. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.
Granada Theatre
Enjoy a performance at Granada Theatre, a popular theatre in Santa Barbara. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.
Things to do
Santa Barbara: Full-Day 7-Speed Bike Rental with Area Map
Coastal Cruise on Yacht in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara: Beach and Coastline Helicopter Tour
Kayak or Stand Up Paddle Board Rental
Top hotels in Downtown Santa Barbara
Hotel Santa Barbara
"Great service and location. The only issue was that the “queen” bed is the smallest queen I’ve ever slept in."
Reviewed on 7 Jun 2026
Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG
"It’s a great home base in a convenient downtown location"
Reviewed on 30 May 2026
Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels
"Great little spot for the weekend!"
Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
"Great location. Very walkable and close to shopping and restaurants."
Reviewed on 6 Jun 2026
Haley Hotel
"Cool courtyard but the rooms are noisy."
Reviewed on 1 Jun 2026
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
"There was no parking left at all, not even one spot. The king bed is not the standard size of a king bed. Their kings size is not king size, and no I am not confused with Cal king."
Reviewed on 7 Jun 2026
Where to stay in Downtown Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara Beach
Santa Barbara Beach is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights area like Stearns Wharf and MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation.
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.
