The Best Hotels Closest to Santa Barbara Zoo in Santa Barbara - 2026 Updated Prices

A giraffe with a patterned coat and a brown mane, set against a backdrop of lush greenery and a clear blue sky.

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Our top choices for Santa Barbara Zoo hotels

A traditional building with a white facade, arched windows, and a balcony with a railing.

A modern entrance with a glass door, a potted plant, and a number '8' on the wall.

A modern hotel bathroom with a large mirror, vanity, and a vase of flowers.

A modern kitchen with wooden cabinets, a central island with stools, a grey sofa, and a painting of a wave on the wall.

1. Casa De La Vina, a ZenStay Hotel

3.1 km from Santa Barbara Zoo

Jhoana

฿5,313

฿8,550 total

includes taxes & fees

2 Nov - 3 Nov

A sunny outdoor seating area with tables and chairs, surrounded by lush tropical plants and flowers.

A hotel with a patio area, outdoor seating, and a well-maintained garden with flowers and palm trees.

A hotel room with a bed, a round table with a pair of sunglasses and a book, a chair with a denim jacket, and a window with white blinds.

A marina with numerous boats docked, calm water, and clear skies.

2. Marina Beach Hotel

West Beach, 2.9 km from Santa Barbara Zoo

Lori

฿6,639

฿7,568 total

includes taxes & fees

3 Nov - 4 Nov

A compact kitchen with a microwave, coffee maker, and a sink.

A door with a glass panel reflecting a building and a number '1' on the wall.

A parking lot with white buildings and trees in the background.

3. Casa Jardin, a ZenStay Hotel

Laguna, 3.2 km from Santa Barbara Zoo

Maria

฿3,818

฿6,845 total

includes taxes & fees

9 Nov - 10 Nov

A living room with a sofa, a coffee table, and a view through a glass door to the outdoors.

A modern bedroom with a large window, a bedside table, a chair, and a built-in kitchen area.

A hallway leading to a living area with a sofa, a small table, and a view of greenery outside.

A spacious living area with a modern staircase, a dining table, and a sofa.

4. Casa Riviera, a ZenStay Hotel

Laguna, 2.9 km from Santa Barbara Zoo

Matthew

฿6,385

฿9,771 total

includes taxes & fees

1 Nov - 2 Nov

A coastal house with a red roof, surrounded by palm trees and a mountain backdrop.

A bathroom with white tiled walls, a showerhead, and a shelf with toiletries.

A coastal road with palm trees, a beach, and a parking lot with vehicles.

A house with a patio area featuring wicker furniture and potted plants.

5. Harbor House Inn

West Beach, 2.9 km from Santa Barbara Zoo

James

฿5,915

฿6,743 total

includes taxes & fees

9 Nov - 10 Nov

A beige sofa with multiple cushions, a white vase with greenery, and a window with blinds.

A modern living room with a sofa, a coffee table, and a patterned rug.

A hallway leading to a dining area with a wooden floor, white walls, and a black railing.

A dining area with a wooden table and chairs, a vase with flowers, and a view of the outdoors through the windows.

6. Casa Yano by The Beach

West Beach, 2.9 km from Santa Barbara Zoo

Jacob

฿7,128

฿11,578 total

includes taxes & fees

3 Nov - 4 Nov

An outdoor patio area with stone flooring, wooden chairs, and tables. There are palm trees and a decorative stone wall with a statue.

A spacious living area with a high ceiling, a sofa, a coffee table, and a dining table with chairs. There is a kitchen in the background with white cabinets and a television mounted on the wall.

An aerial view of a rectangular swimming pool surrounded by white lounge chairs and umbrellas, with palm trees and a tiled roof in the background.

A dining area with a wooden table, grey chairs, a black floor lamp, and a cityscape painting on the wall.

7. The Franciscan Hotel

West Beach, 2.9 km from Santa Barbara Zoo

Bob

฿5,540

฿6,316 total

includes taxes & fees

26 Oct - 27 Oct

A bedroom with a bed, bedside lamps, a mirror, and a window with curtains.

A cozy living room with a bar area, comfortable seating, and a large window with plants.

A covered outdoor seating area with wicker furniture, potted plants, and a small pool.

A hallway with a checkered curtain, a framed artwork, a bench, a potted plant, and a wooden cabinet with handles.

8. Palihouse Santa Barbara

3.1 km from Santa Barbara Zoo

Maria

฿13,456

฿15,366 total

includes taxes & fees

29 Oct - 30 Oct

A spacious interior with high ceilings, wooden beams, and a central column.

A spacious dining area with a central island, round tables, and comfortable seating.

A room with a wooden floor, two brown armchairs, a round table with a book and a plant, a framed painting on the wall, and a wooden door with intricate carvings.

A bar area with a high ceiling and skylight, wooden flooring, and a bar counter with stools.

9. Hotel Santa Barbara

Lower State, 3 km from Santa Barbara Zoo

Karri

฿8,153

฿9,480 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Oct - 19 Oct

A marina with boats docked, palm trees, and a building labeled "Sea Landing."

A hotel room with two beds, a desk, a chair, and a TV. There is a view of palm trees and a marina through the windows.

A hot tub area with lounge chairs and umbrellas, a pool, and palm trees in the background.

A breakfast bar with various food items, beverages, and a coffee machine.

10. West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel

West Beach, 2.9 km from Santa Barbara Zoo

Amanda

฿8,277

฿9,436 total

includes taxes & fees

9 Nov - 10 Nov

A white building with a sign reading "Mason Beach Inn" and a balcony with a railing.

A hotel lobby with a reception desk, a framed quote on the wall, and a large potted plant.

A covered outdoor area with a pergola, steps leading to a door labeled "Office," and lush greenery including large plants and flowering bushes.

A living room with a large window, a sofa, a coffee table, and a patterned armchair.

11. Mason Beach Inn

West Beach, 3 km from Santa Barbara Zoo

Rachita

฿8,750

฿10,194 total

includes taxes & fees

12 Oct - 13 Oct

A beach with clear blue water, a sandy shore, and a backdrop of buildings and trees.

A living room with a fireplace, a sofa, a coffee table, and a patterned rug.

A bedroom with a fireplace, a bed, a TV, and a window with curtains.

12. The Eagle Inn

West Beach, 2.9 km from Santa Barbara Zoo

Michele

฿8,343

฿9,511 total

includes taxes & fees

2 Nov - 3 Nov

A two-story building with a balcony, palm trees, and a sign that reads "Castillo Inn."

A living room with a TV, a painting, and a red chair with a patterned pillow.

A room with a sliding glass door leading to a patio area with a yellow fence and a table with chairs.

A hotel reception desk with a computer monitor, a newspaper, and a sign stating "NO PETS - NO CHECKS - NO LATE CHECK-OUTS".

13. Castillo Inn at the Beach

West Beach, 3 km from Santa Barbara Zoo

Wesley

฿5,012

฿5,724 total

includes taxes & fees

2 Nov - 3 Nov

Two Adirondack chairs facing a small table on a balcony with a view of the ocean and palm trees.

A beach view with palm trees and a clear sky.

A swimming pool with lounge chairs and palm trees.

A motel sign with a large number '6' and the word 'Motel' on a wooden board.

14. Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

East Beach, 0.6 km from Santa Barbara Zoo

Tammy

฿3,609

฿4,121 total

includes taxes & fees

9 Nov - 10 Nov

A bright kitchen with a large island, white cabinetry, and a view through glass doors to an outdoor patio.

A table with a pitcher of dark liquid, a clear pitcher, and glasses, along with small bowls of pretzels and nuts.

A spacious living area with a fireplace, white cabinetry, wicker furniture, and a large window.

A hotel with a red roof, multiple balconies, and a parking lot.

15. Lavender Inn by the Sea

West Beach, 3.1 km from Santa Barbara Zoo

Brandon

฿7,717

฿8,813 total

includes taxes & fees

4 Nov - 5 Nov

A hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a desk, and a nightstand.

A modern kitchen with a central island, wooden flooring, and a dining area with orange chairs and a table.

A hotel room with a bed, a desk, and a chair. There is a large window with a view of palm trees and a balcony.

A building entrance with a set of stairs leading up to a door marked with the number 128.

16. Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

West Beach, 3 km from Santa Barbara Zoo

Anthony

฿4,814

฿5,749 total

includes taxes & fees

9 Nov - 10 Nov

A coastal road leading to a pier with a view of the ocean and beach.

A modern kitchen with a wooden countertop, a blue chair, and a television mounted on the wall.

A building with a central courtyard, surrounded by palm trees and a clear blue sky.

A spacious indoor area with large windows, wooden benches, a sofa, and a coffee table.

17. ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel

Lower State, 2.6 km from Santa Barbara Zoo

Kerri

฿4,469

฿5,094 total

includes taxes & fees

9 Nov - 10 Nov

A modern living room with two grey sofas, a small woven stool, and a large wall clock.

A spacious lobby with large windows, comfortable seating, a reception desk, and a bookshelf.

A hotel room with a bed, two armchairs, a small table with a lamp, and a large window offering a view of the beach and palm trees.

A marina with parked cars and boats, palm trees, and a clear blue sky.

18. Beachside Inn

West Beach, 3 km from Santa Barbara Zoo

ARKIMBERLEY

฿7,248

฿8,277 total

includes taxes & fees

20 Oct - 21 Oct

An outdoor patio with wooden tables and benches, surrounded by lush tropical plants.

A street with a pedestrian crossing, palm trees, and a building with a tiled roof.

A building with a sign reading "26 EAST HAY".

A cozy living room with a fireplace, comfortable seating, and large windows.

19. Haley Hotel

Lower State, 2.7 km from Santa Barbara Zoo

Rodney J

฿5,050

฿6,093 total

includes taxes & fees

26 Oct - 27 Oct

A patio with a sofa and a small table, surrounded by potted plants and a wooden deck.

A spacious living room with a fireplace, large windows, and a comfortable seating area.

A hotel room with a large bed, a bedside table, a TV, and a bookshelf.

A spacious living area with a fireplace, a sofa, and a coffee table. There is a staircase leading to an upper level.

20. Montecito Inn

2.2 km from Santa Barbara Zoo

Cindy

฿6,835

฿9,204 total

includes taxes & fees

9 Nov - 10 Nov

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Compare popular hotels close to Santa Barbara Zoo

Property	Property class	Guest rating
Casa De La Vina, a ZenStay Hotel	9.8 Exceptional 220 reviews	View
Marina Beach Hotel	9.8 Exceptional 1,190 reviews	View
Casa Jardin, a ZenStay Hotel	9.8 Exceptional 315 reviews	View
Casa Riviera, a ZenStay Hotel	9.8 Exceptional 336 reviews	View
Harbor House Inn	9.8 Exceptional 1,002 reviews	View

Top Santa Barbara Zoo Hotel Reviews

Casa Riviera, a ZenStay Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"The room was spotless and had everything we needed."

The Inn at East Beach

8/10 Good

"Well..the picture of the lobby shows OJ and milk out and more but was not the case. So I did expect a bit more than what was really offered. The rooms do not have air-conditioning and of course I was there on one of the rare 90+ degree days. What I didn't realize was there was a fan it was just tucked away in the closet. The bed was SUPER COMFY!!!!!"

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

8/10 Good

"The property was as described, clean, very nice rooms. Was it worth over $400 per night- no, but that’s pretty typical of SB. Great location near the harbor, walkable to west beach, downtown, funk zone, etc. Hot tub was a great bonus."

Ala Mar by the Sea

10/10 Excellent

"Jacuzzi in room!"

Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

10/10 Excellent

"Fantastic location near beach and harbor areas. Great continental breakfast , super friendly and helpful staff . We rode the complimentary bikes all over , had a wonderful stay, highly recommend"

Hotel Californian

8/10 Good

"Beautiful property and location. Helpful and friendly staff. What a beautiful city! 2 minor gripes: Could not stream with their chrome cast platform. Staff tried to help but didn’t know what iPhone settings need to be changed. Hot tub out of order."

Beachside Inn

10/10 Excellent

"We had a wonderful stay at the Beach Day Inn! The hotel looks even better in person than it does in the photos. The location is great, and the staff were very friendly and welcoming throughout our visit. The upgraded rooms are beautiful, comfortable, and well worth it. We loved our stay and would definitely come back!"

Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara

8/10 Good

"Staff was great,location not but a block or so from beach but a bit of a walk to the wharf, older property but clean but pretty out dated, could have had a better continental breakfast. Parking is on-site but tight. Great place to stay if your looking for a full kitchen"

Palmoro House

10/10 Excellent

"It’s cool annex spot w access to all amenities in main hotel. Would recommend"

Other attractions near Santa Barbara Zoo

A beach with a large cruise ship in the distance, palm trees, and mountains in the background.

East Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at East Beach during your trip to Santa Barbara? Stroll along the waterfront or seek out the cycling trails.

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A pier extending into calm waters, palm trees, and a mountainous backdrop.

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center

9.6/10 (8 reviews)

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center during your trip to Santa Barbara. Discover the top-notch restaurants in this walkable area or seek out the cycling trails.

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Municipal Tennis Center

Catch an event at Municipal Tennis Center during your trip to Santa Barbara. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

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Cabrillo Bike Path

9.6/10 (11 reviews)

You can take time to visit Cabrillo Bike Path during your travels to Santa Barbara. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.

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Andree Clark Bird Refuge

10.0/10 (1 review)

You can take time to visit Andree Clark Bird Refuge during your travels to Santa Barbara. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

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Cabrillo Pavillion

10.0/10 (1 review)

Cabrillo Pavillion is just one of the places to see in Santa Barbara, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Stroll along the waterfront or seek out the cycling trails.

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Chase Palm Park

9.6/10 (5 reviews)

Chase Palm Park is just one of the places to see in Santa Barbara, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Discover the top-notch restaurants in this walkable area or seek out the cycling trails.

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Santa Barbara Channel

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Santa Barbara Channel during your travels in Santa Barbara. Stroll along the area's waterfront or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.

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Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around Santa Barbara Zoo?

Santa Barbara Zoo is located in a walkable area of Santa Barbara known for its beautiful beaches and popular zoo. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, take a look at the 85 hotels and other accommodation options you'll find within a mile.

What's the best place to stay near Santa Barbara Zoo?

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveller data, and this resort offers a full-service spa and 2 restaurants. It's located just a short 0.7 mi (1.2 km) from Santa Barbara Zoo. Other good choices within a short distance include Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach and Santa Barbara Inn.

How many hotels are there close to Santa Barbara Zoo?

Expedia has 85 hotels and other accommodation options within a mile from Santa Barbara Zoo.

If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Santa Barbara Zoo, will I receive a refund?

Yes! You'll find that most hotel room reservations are refundable provided that you cancel before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of your arrival date. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, you may still be able to cancel and be given a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Enter your dates, click on "Search", then filter by "fully refundable" to view top deals close to Santa Barbara Zoo.

What can I see and do near Santa Barbara Zoo?

You'll want to browse the collections at Presidio Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center and MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation. Explore notable local landmarks like Mission Santa Barbara, Casa Del Herrero and El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park. You can catch a show at Santa Barbara Bowl, Lobero Theater and Arlington Theater.

How can I get to Santa Barbara Zoo?

With so many choices for transport, seeing all of the area near Santa Barbara Zoo is a breeze. If you want to explore the larger area, hop aboard a train at Santa Barbara Station. You can learn about water transport options at the local port.

Search Hotels Near Santa Barbara Zoo, Santa Barbara

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Treat yourself

Be picky

Check prices for these dates

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Star rating

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Our top choices for Santa Barbara Zoo hotels

1. Casa De La Vina, a ZenStay Hotel

2. Marina Beach Hotel

3. Casa Jardin, a ZenStay Hotel

4. Casa Riviera, a ZenStay Hotel

5. Harbor House Inn

6. Casa Yano by The Beach

7. The Franciscan Hotel

8. Palihouse Santa Barbara

9. Hotel Santa Barbara

10. West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel

11. Mason Beach Inn

12. The Eagle Inn

13. Castillo Inn at the Beach

14. Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

15. Lavender Inn by the Sea

16. Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

17. ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel

18. Beachside Inn

19. Haley Hotel

20. Montecito Inn

Compare popular hotels close to Santa Barbara Zoo

Top Santa Barbara Zoo Hotel Reviews

Casa Riviera, a ZenStay Hotel

The Inn at East Beach

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

Ala Mar by the Sea

Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

Hotel Californian

Beachside Inn

Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara

Palmoro House

Other attractions near Santa Barbara Zoo

East Beach

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center

Municipal Tennis Center

Cabrillo Bike Path

Andree Clark Bird Refuge

Cabrillo Pavillion

Chase Palm Park

Santa Barbara Channel

Frequently asked questions