A historic building with arched windows and a bell tower, surrounded by palm trees and greenery.

Hotels in Downtown Santa Barbara

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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 S$411
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
Hotel Santa Barbara

2. 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 S$269
includes taxes & fees
11 Aug - 12 Aug
Haley Hotel

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, (464 reviews)
"Great hotel in the heart of Santa Barbara!"
United States
Matthew
The price is S$410
includes taxes & fees
2 Aug - 3 Aug
Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels

4. 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 S$580
includes taxes & fees
26 Jul - 27 Jul
Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

5. 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, (1,001 reviews)
"Loved this hotel. Great location"
United States
Cayley
The price is S$459
includes taxes & fees
3 Aug - 4 Aug
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

6. 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, (2,309 reviews)
"Great place to stay and great location."
United States
Martin
The price is S$292
includes taxes & fees
29 Jul - 30 Jul
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

7. 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, (1,008 reviews)
"Great place to stay. Wish we had booked another night or two...property is lovely."
Canada
Michael
The price is S$338
includes taxes & fees
2 Aug - 3 Aug
The Upham Hotel

8. Orange Tree Inn

Orange Tree Inn
2.5 star property
Upper East, 1.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
7.8 out of 10, Good, (842 reviews)
"Amazing staff and property"
United States
joseph
The price is S$178
includes taxes & fees
29 Jul - 30 Jul
Orange Tree Inn

9. 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 S$346
includes taxes & fees
27 Jul - 28 Jul
Casa Jardin

10. Casa Riviera

Casa Riviera
4.5 star property
Laguna, 0.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (250 reviews)
The price is S$444
includes taxes & fees
18 Aug - 19 Aug
Casa Riviera

11. Casa Iglesia

Casa Iglesia
4.5 star property
Oak Park, 1.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (39 reviews)
"Great place to stay had a wonderful stay and met a lot of great people"
United States
Derrick
The price is S$390
includes taxes & fees
18 Aug - 19 Aug
Casa Iglesia

12. 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, (1,445 reviews)
"Great location, easy parking. Staff was very friendly. Great motel to take the dogs."
United States
Teresa
The price is S$128
includes taxes & fees
5 Aug - 6 Aug
Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria South

13. Riviera Beach House

Riviera Beach House
3.5 star property
The Funk Zone, 1.3 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,005 reviews)
"Very cute hotel very clean and friendly staff, walking distance to stearns wharf and many other things, highly recommended"
United States
Marta
The price is S$283
includes taxes & fees
18 Aug - 19 Aug
Riviera Beach House

14. Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection Property

Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection Property
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach, 1.3 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (459 reviews)
"Great place to stay!!"
United States
Viviano
The price is S$310
includes taxes & fees
10 Aug - 11 Aug
Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection Property

15. The Presidio

The Presidio
2.0 star property
1.1 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (822 reviews)
"Reasonable stay downtown."
United States
Henry
The price is S$249
includes taxes & fees
29 Jul - 30 Jul
The Presidio

16. 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 S$436
includes taxes & fees
2 Aug - 3 Aug
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Downtown

17. Bath Street Inn

Bath Street Inn
3.5 star property
Oak Park, 1.3 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (361 reviews)
"Close to restaurants and entertainment. Very charming neighborhood."
United States
Nicolette
The price is S$330
includes taxes & fees
18 Aug - 19 Aug
Bath Street Inn

18. Casa De La Vina

Casa De La Vina
4.0 star property
0.8 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (192 reviews)
"Great location. Very comfortable room; nice amenities. Within walking distance to many great places. Would definitely stay here again."
United States
Jane Hodges
The price is S$459
includes taxes & fees
11 Aug - 12 Aug
Casa De La Vina

19. Casa Castillo

Casa Castillo
4.0 star property
0.7 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (5 reviews)
"Amazing property!"
United States
David
The price is S$403
includes taxes & fees
27 Jul - 28 Jul
Casa Castillo

20. 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, (1,005 reviews)
"Facilities were clean and the restaurant was great."
United States
Gloria
The price is S$287
includes taxes & fees
27 Jul - 28 Jul
Best Western Plus Santa Barbara
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
1,001 reviews
View
View from room
Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels
3.5 star property
8.4
Very good
464 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

  • Charming Historic Atmosphere: Explore the picturesque streets of Downtown Santa Barbara, where historic architecture meets vibrant city life.
  • Diverse Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local art galleries, theatres, and unique culinary delights like taco tours.
  • Beautiful Beaches: Enjoy stunning beach views and outdoor activities perfect for families and adventure seekers alike.
  • Welcoming Local Community: Experience the friendliness of locals as you wander through unique shops and eateries.
  • Variety of Accommodations: Choose from elegant hotels to charming inns, ensuring a memorable stay for every visitor.

Find great hotels near Downtown Santa Barbara

Discover the charm of Downtown Santa Barbara, where a variety of accommodation options await to cater to your every need. From the elegant Hotel Californian to the delightful Santa Barbara Inn, each hotel offers unique amenities for adventure seekers and beach lovers alike. Whether you're travelling with pets or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Downtown Santa Barbara boasts hotels that promise a memorable experience for all visitors.

  • Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort: This 4-star resort offers an idyllic beach retreat, located 3.2km from Downtown Santa Barbara. With direct access to the sandy shores, guests can soak up the sun and enjoy ocean activities right at their doorstep. The hotel features a stunning outdoor pool, lush gardens, and a fitness centre, making it a delightful venue for relaxation and recreation. Dining options include a beachfront restaurant serving locally inspired cuisine, ensuring a memorable culinary experience amidst beautiful coastal views.
  • Sandpiper Lodge: A budget-friendly option, Sandpiper Lodge stands 3.2km away from Downtown Santa Barbara and boasts a commendable guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. This motel offers a complimentary continental breakfast and various recreational activities nearby, including golf and bicycle rentals. Guests can unwind in rooms equipped with premium television channels and modern amenities. Its convenient location near the city centre allows for easy exploration of local attractions, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious travellers.
  • The Milo: Rated at 3.5 stars, The Milo is situated 1.6km from Downtown Santa Barbara and is an appealing choice for those seeking a beach vacation. The property features direct access to the beach, allowing guests to enjoy the scenic coastline. With a contemporary design and comfortable amenities, The Milo provides a relaxed atmosphere. The hotel also offers a charming outdoor area, ideal for socialising or enjoying a peaceful moment by the sea. Its proximity to local attractions enhances the overall experience.

Where to stay near Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara offers a delightful blend of historical charm and vibrant city life, perfect for family outings and outdoor adventures. Wander through the picturesque streets, where friendly locals welcome you to explore unique shops and eateries. Enjoy stunning city views and scenic excursions, while immersing yourself in the rich culture of this urban destination. Nearby attractions further enhance your experience, making every moment in Santa Barbara truly unforgettable.

  • Santa Barbara: Nestled between the stunning Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara is a charming city renowned for its Mediterranean-style architecture and vibrant cultural scene. The city sees consistent visitor numbers year-round, with a peak in summer, attracting families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Explore a plethora of attractions including theatres and entertainment venues, as well as the picturesque beaches and tourist precincts that make this destination so appealing. Whether you’re indulging in local cuisine or enjoying a family day out, Santa Barbara offers a delightful blend of city life and natural beauty.
  • Santa Barbara Beach: Located a mere mile from Downtown, Santa Barbara Beach is a seaside neighbourhood perfect for those seeking sun, sand, and family fun. With consistently high visitor numbers, especially during the summer, it provides an ideal outdoor experience. Families can enjoy the beach, local shopping areas, and even theme park rides in the vicinity. The proximity to the main tourist precinct means you can easily transition from relaxing on the beach to exploring the local shops and eateries, making it a versatile destination for all ages.
  • Historic Downtown Santa Barbara: Just 322m from Downtown, Historic Downtown Santa Barbara exudes charm and character with its rich history and beautiful architecture. This neighbourhood is particularly popular in the spring and summer months, drawing families and city explorers. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture through theatres, shopping areas, and educational venues. The close proximity to the beach and family-friendly attractions ensures that Historic Downtown Santa Barbara is a vibrant hub for both relaxation and exploration, making it a must-visit on your itinerary.

Things to do in Downtown Santa Barbara

Shopping

In Downtown Santa Barbara, visit the vibrant Paseo Nuevo, an outdoor shopping centre featuring a mix of well-known retailers and unique boutiques. The Santa Barbara Marketplace offers local crafts and artisanal goods, ideal for picking up gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of California.

Recreation

Experience tranquillity at the Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara, where you can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments and relax by the serene pool. Explore the scenic Butterfly Beach for a peaceful stroll along the shore, soaking in the natural beauty of the coastline.

Adventure

In Downtown Santa Barbara, explore the thrilling coastline with kayaking adventures, offering stunning views of the Channel Islands. For a unique experience, try zip-lining through the treetops at nearby venues, where you can feel the adrenaline rush while surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

Nightlife

Downtown Santa Barbara offers a lively nightlife scene with venues like The Good Lion for craft cocktails and the bustling Funk Zone filled with wine tasting rooms. For live music, check out Soho Restaurant and Music Club, or enjoy a laid-back evening at the historic Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Downtown Santa Barbara

To save money while visiting Downtown Santa Barbara, consider travelling during the off-peak months of January to February and November when accommodation prices are lower, particularly on Tuesdays. Avoid weekends, especially Saturdays, for the best rates. Use Expedia to find eco-certified hotels and filter options by price to secure the best deals. Additionally, consider booking your hotel, flights, and activities together for further savings. Explore free activities in the area to enhance your experience without straining your budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Downtown 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 around Downtown Santa Barbara is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Downtown Santa Barbara is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the most economical options and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy savings by combining your Downtown Santa Barbara hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a delightful mix of historic sites, museums, and beautiful beaches. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while exploring the charming historic downtown area. With attractions catering to various interests, including civic buildings and outdoor experiences, there's something for everyone in this picturesque Californian destination.

  • West Beach: Located a mere mile from Downtown Santa Barbara, West Beach offers a quintessential beach experience. With its soft sands and gentle waves, it’s an ideal spot for relaxation, sunbathing, and enjoying the coastal breeze.
  • Santa Barbara County Courthouse: Situated within Downtown, this historic Civic Government Building is a marvel of Spanish-Moorish architecture. Its stunning murals and lush gardens provide a glimpse into local culture and history, making it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.
  • Santa Barbara Harbor: Also 1.6km away, this vibrant marina invites adventure seekers to partake in various water activities. Whether it’s sailing, kayaking, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere, the harbour captures the essence of outdoor beach fun.

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 easy via its major airports. Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is a mere 12.9km away, with luxurious hotels like The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara and El Encanto Santa Barbara located nearby. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), situated 130.4km from downtown, offers upscale accommodation options such as the Fairmont Miramar Hotel and Casa Del Mar. Alternatively, Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) is 127.1km away, with excellent hotels like The Sun Rose West Hollywood. Each airport is well connected to its respective hotels, ensuring a smooth journey for visitors.

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.

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