Where to Stay in Santa Barbara: Best Hotels, Beachfront Stays, and Budget Alternatives Nearby
- GSS Staff
- Jul 9, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Looking for the best places to stay in Santa Barbara—whether you’re booking a last-minute trip or planning ahead? Hotel prices here can rise quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons, which is why nearby areas like Carpinteria and Goleta are often worth considering for better value without losing access to the coast.
If you’re planning in advance, Santa Barbara offers a strong mix of luxury beachfront resorts, boutique hotels, and well-located downtown stays. The options below focus on properties that are consistently well-reviewed, well-positioned, and worth the price based on location, experience, and overall quality.
La Playa Inn offers an exceptional balance of affordability and convenience. Its pristine property is a mere five-minute stroll from the Pacific Ocean, placing guests within walking distance of the beach and nearby restaurants. Despite its central location, the inn maintains a peaceful ambiance. Guests can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast and free WiFi throughout their stay.
Situated on the serene East Beach, the Santa Barbara Inn boasts 70 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites with stunning ocean or mountain views. The hotel features a pool, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant. Its prime location allows for leisurely walks to the wharf while avoiding the usual tourist crowds.
The newly renovated Kimpton Canary Hotel offers a luxurious retreat in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara. A short five-minute walk from State Street, this hotel features an outdoor rooftop swimming pool and lounge with breathtaking views. Each guest room includes complimentary WiFi, ensuring a seamless blend of comfort and connectivity.
A personal favorite, the Hotel Californian exudes opulence in the vibrant Funk Zone. This Spanish Colonial Revival-style gem is steps away from the beach and offers sumptuous guest rooms and suites. The hotel boasts an outdoor pool, several on-site dining options, and a luxurious spa, making it the quintessential choice for discerning travelers.
For those seeking the pinnacle of luxury, the Ritz Carlton Bacara delivers an unparalleled experience. Nestled adjacent to the Sandpiper Golf Course, this beachfront resort offers breathtaking ocean views, multiple pools, and exquisite on-site dining. The resort’s 358 guest rooms, suites, and luxury cottages each feature private patios with stunning vistas. With a spa and several restaurants, guests will feel like celebrities during their stay.
Perched in the hills overlooking Santa Barbara, the historic Belmond El Encanto provides an idyllic escape with its bungalows and suites, each offering private patios or balconies. The boutique hotel features a spa, an outdoor pool, and fine dining, all set against a backdrop of sweeping ocean views. Located just a five-minute drive from Central Santa Barbara, it offers the perfect blend of seclusion and accessibility.
