Santa Barbara Hotels

Top reasons to visit Santa Barbara

• Stunning Beaches: Santa Barbara boasts beautiful sandy shores and picturesque coastal views, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
• Vibrant Downtown: Explore boutique shops and delightful eateries in the heart of the city, offering a lively atmosphere.
• Cultural Experiences: Visit historic churches and local attractions, immersing yourself in the unique heritage of the region.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy scenic excursions that showcase the natural beauty of the area, ideal for adventure enthusiasts.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Santa Barbara offers a variety of entertainment options suitable for visitors of all ages.

Find great hotels near Santa Barbara

Discover the charm of Santa Barbara with a variety of accommodation options, from inviting hotels to cosy motels. Whether you're seeking adventure, a relaxing beach getaway, or a pet-friendly experience, you'll find the perfect place to stay. Explore our selection of Santa Barbara hotels, including the renowned Hotel Santa Barbara and Santa Barbara Inn, all backed by excellent reviews to ensure a memorable visit.

• Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn: This 3.5-star hotel offers a delightful blend of adventure and relaxation, ideal for travellers seeking a beach-themed getaway. Located 16km from Santa Barbara, it features direct beach access and a variety of recreational activities. Guests can indulge in golf experiences on-site or nearby, with options for adventure sports such as kayaking, mountain biking, and parasailing. The property is also well-equipped for leisure, providing a comfortable base to explore the scenic coastline and engage in outdoor pursuits, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to embrace the Californian sun.
• Amanzi Hotel, an Ascend Collection Hotel: A budget-friendly option, the Amanzi Hotel is situated 42km from Santa Barbara and enjoys a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This hotel caters to both leisure and business travellers, with direct access to the beach. Guests can partake in various adventure sports, including windsurfing and fishing, as well as hiking and biking in the surrounding areas. The hotel's welcoming atmosphere and commitment to comfort ensure that visitors can unwind after a day of exploration, making it a suitable choice for those seeking both relaxation and activity.
• Motel 6 Carpinteria, CA - Santa Barbara - South: Located 18km from Santa Barbara, this budget-friendly motel offers pet-friendly accommodation, welcoming dogs and cats alike. With a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, it presents a practical choice for travellers accompanied by their furry friends. The motel maintains a straightforward and comfortable environment, with essential amenities to ensure a pleasant stay. Its proximity to local attractions and beaches allows guests to enjoy the beauty of the area without compromising on comfort or convenience.

Where to stay in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, a picturesque city in Southern California, invites travellers to bask in its historical charm and friendly atmosphere. Explore the vibrant Downtown Santa Barbara, where boutique shops and delightful eateries await. Stroll along the scenic Santa Barbara waterfront, perfect for romantic outings or family adventures. Nearby, the serene landscape offers opportunities for excursions that showcase the region's natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration.

• Santa Barbara Beach: Nestled along the stunning coastline of Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Beach is a vibrant neighbourhood that offers a delightful outdoor experience for families and beach enthusiasts. With a year-round moderate influx of visitors, the peak season runs from June to August, providing ample opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and beach activities. The area is home to a variety of attractions including shopping areas and educational venues, ensuring there's something for everyone. Local landmarks such as the picturesque beach and family-friendly tourist precinct enhance the charm of this coastal gem.
• Montecito: A short distance from Santa Barbara, Montecito is an upscale neighbourhood renowned for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. This area experiences a seasonal influx of visitors, with peak times in January, March, and July. Montecito is perfect for outdoor adventurers and families alike, offering access to scenic beaches, state parks, and shopping centres. The neighbourhood's picturesque surroundings and elegant charm make it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls and high-end dining experiences, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and sophistication.
• Downtown Santa Barbara: The bustling heart of Santa Barbara, Downtown Santa Barbara is a vibrant city area that attracts visitors throughout the year, particularly during the summer months from June to August. Renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor experiences, this neighbourhood boasts a rich array of shopping areas, theatres, and educational venues. Visitors can explore local landmarks, including beautiful beaches and the lively tourist precinct, making it a great base for discovering the cultural and historical offerings of Santa Barbara.

Things to do in Santa Barbara

Shopping

For a charming local experience, visit the Santa Barbara Public Market, where you can find artisanal goods and unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, the Camino Real Marketplace offers a wider selection of retail stores and dining options to explore.

Recreation

In Santa Barbara, the Four Seasons Resort offers rejuvenating spa treatments amidst breathtaking ocean views. The Santa Barbara Yoga Centre features diverse classes in a tranquil environment, ideal for relaxation and mindfulness. Explore the local beaches for invigorating walks and serene moments by the sea.

Adventure

In Santa Barbara, explore the rugged beauty of the Channel Islands National Park, where kayaking and hiking unveil stunning coastal views and diverse wildlife. For a thrill, try zip-lining through the treetops at Santa Barbara Adventure Company, offering an exhilarating perspective of the surrounding landscape.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Santa Barbara offers a vibrant mix of experiences. Enjoy live music at SOhO, or sip craft cocktails at The Good Lion. For a lively dance scene, head to the Wildcat Lounge, while the Funk Zone provides trendy bars and art galleries for a unique evening out.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Barbara

To save money on your Santa Barbara vacation, consider visiting during the off-peak months of January to February and November, when accommodation prices are lower. Opt for free attractions like Santa Barbara Harbor and Stearns Wharf, and use public transport options like bikes or trolleys for cost-effective travel. Booking through Expedia can help you find the best hotel deals, especially if you combine your accommodation with flights and activities. Remember that Tuesdays typically offer the best rates, while Saturdays tend to be the most expensive.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Santa Barbara are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Santa Barbara is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Santa Barbara is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you view the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Santa Barbara with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is an ideal destination for family, outdoor, and city-themed vacations, offering a variety of attractions such as beautiful beaches, urban parks, and historic churches. Visitors can immerse themselves in cultural experiences while enjoying the stunning Santa Barbara Harbour and relaxing on the sandy shores. With its blend of outdoor activities and family-friendly experiences, Santa Barbara promises a delightful getaway for travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

• Santa Barbara County Courthouse: A stunning example of Spanish-Moorish architecture, this historic civic building is adorned with beautiful murals and lush gardens. Visitors can ascend the clock tower for panoramic views of the city and coastline, immersing themselves in the rich cultural history of Santa Barbara.
• Upper State Street: This vibrant thoroughfare is the heart of Santa Barbara's shopping and dining scene. Lined with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, it offers a lively city atmosphere where you can explore local flavours and unique shops, perfect for an afternoon stroll.
• Stearns Wharf: As the oldest working wharf in California, Stearns Wharf provides a picturesque seaside experience. Enjoy fresh seafood, visit quaint shops, and take in stunning ocean views, making it a delightful spot for relaxation and exploration.

Best time to go to Santa Barbara

The best time to visit 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 Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	55.0°F (12.8°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
April	60.3°F (15.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
May	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
June	68.2°F (20.1°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	72.1°F (22.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	72.9°F (22.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	71.6°F (22.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
November	60.4°F (15.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Barbara

Reaching Santa Barbara, California, can be conveniently done via its major airports. Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is merely 13km from the city centre, with luxurious hotel options like The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara, and El Encanto Santa Barbara, both around 5 to 13km away. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), located 130km away, offers upscale accommodations such as Fairmont Miramar Hotel and Casa Del Mar, approximately 13km from the airport. Burbank Airport (BUR) is 127km from Santa Barbara, with notable hotels like The Sun Rose West Hollywood nearby. Each airport provides accessible transportation services to ensure a smooth arrival.