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

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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, (1,529 reviews)
"Loved this hotel, staff, location everything was wonderful"
United States
Karri
The price is AED 890
AED 1,035 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Hotel Santa Barbara

2. Haley Hotel

Haley Hotel
3.5 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (706 reviews)
"Great place and walking distance to fun bars"
United States
Rodney J
The price is AED 518
AED 628 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Oct - 29 Oct
Haley Hotel

3. 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)
"Very nice and clean hotel."
United States
Irina
The price is AED 750
AED 856 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Oct - 30 Oct
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

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)
"Excellent hotel and staff. Loved Santa Barbara. We will be back !"
United States
Gavin
The price is AED 1,282
AED 1,649 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Oct - 15 Oct
Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

5. 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, (503 reviews)
"Great hotel"
United States
Emeterio
The price is AED 823
AED 940 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Nov - 10 Nov
Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels

6. Casa Iglesia, a ZenStay Hotel

Casa Iglesia, a ZenStay Hotel
4.5 star property
Oak Park, 1.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (75 reviews)
"Property was very well maintained and was super aesthetic and comfortable! The Downtown area was a 5-10 minute drive and parking was easy at the property too!"
United States
Nimisha
The price is AED 468
AED 806 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Nov - 4 Nov
Casa Iglesia, a ZenStay Hotel

7. Casa Riviera, a ZenStay Hotel

Casa Riviera, a ZenStay Hotel
4.5 star property
Laguna, 0.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (339 reviews)
"Always a great stay. Conveniently located, clean and safe."
United States
Matthew
The price is AED 626
AED 985 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Casa Riviera, a ZenStay Hotel

8. Casa De La Vina, a ZenStay Hotel

Casa De La Vina, a ZenStay Hotel
4.0 star property
0.8 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (220 reviews)
"Great location next to Downtown and waterfront. Spacious and clean room. Quiet and safe neighborhood. Would stay here again next time!"
United States
Jhoana
The price is AED 507
AED 850 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Casa De La Vina, a ZenStay Hotel

9. Casa Jardin, a ZenStay Hotel

Casa Jardin, a ZenStay Hotel
3.0 star property
Laguna, 0.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (317 reviews)
"Great location, within walking distance of most things. Parking was easy."
United States
Maria
The price is AED 395
AED 723 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Casa Jardin, a ZenStay Hotel

10. Simpson House Inn

Simpson House Inn
5.0 star property
Upper East, 1 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (734 reviews)
"One of the best places we have stayed in."
United States
Victor
The price is AED 1,297
AED 1,728 total
includes taxes & fees
26 Oct - 27 Oct
Simpson House Inn

11. Casa Yano by The Beach

Casa Yano by The Beach
4.0 star property
West Beach, 1.3 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (18 reviews)
"Great stay. Comfortable bed, well-equipped kitchen, and a walkable location. Dedicated parking made it easy. Clean and well done. Would book again."
United States
Jacob
The price is AED 707
AED 1,182 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Nov - 4 Nov
Casa Yano by The Beach

12. Harbor House Inn

Harbor House Inn
3.0 star property
West Beach, 1.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,000 reviews)
"Cozy and cool property just a block away from the harbor. Great location to"
United States
James
The price is AED 555
AED 633 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Nov - 10 Nov
Harbor House Inn

13. Marina Beach Hotel

Marina Beach Hotel
3.0 star property
West Beach, 1.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,199 reviews)
"Stay was great, love the place"
United States
Lori
The price is AED 609
AED 694 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
Marina Beach Hotel

14. 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, (389 reviews)
"Friendly staff, delicious afternoon snacks, wonderful breakfast, nice location"
United States
Joanne
The price is AED 825
AED 959 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Nov - 12 Nov
Bath Street Inn

15. Santa Barbara Inn

Santa Barbara Inn
4.0 star property
East Beach, 2.7 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,007 reviews)
"Great location and pool and restaurant"
United States
melanie
The price is AED 987
AED 1,128 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Santa Barbara Inn

16. 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, (1,003 reviews)
"Perfect location"
United States
Rana
The price is AED 883
AED 1,006 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Oct - 28 Oct
The Upham Hotel

17. Casa Castillo, a ZenStay Hotel

Casa Castillo, a ZenStay Hotel
4.0 star property
0.7 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (8 reviews)
"Amazing property!"
United States
David
The price is AED 525
AED 871 total
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Casa Castillo, a ZenStay Hotel

18. Hotel Californian

Hotel Californian
5.0 star property
The Funk Zone, 1.4 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Very clean best service, beautiful location"
United States
Karen
The price is AED 1,686
AED 2,198 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Nov - 10 Nov
Hotel Californian

19. Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach
3.5 star property
West Beach, 1.3 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,464 reviews)
"Good location and friendly staff."
United States
Richard
The price is AED 925
AED 1,056 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

20. Lavender Inn by the Sea

Lavender Inn by the Sea
3.5 star property
West Beach, 1.3 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,353 reviews)
"Great location, close to beach, grounds well kept and very clean rooms. Stayed here multiple times and will continue."
United States
Brandon
The price is AED 775
AED 885 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Lavender Inn by the Sea
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
A spacious interior with high ceilings, wooden beams, and a central column.
Hotel Santa Barbara
4.0 star property
9.4
Exceptional
1,529 reviews
View
An outdoor patio with wooden tables and benches, surrounded by lush tropical plants.
Haley Hotel
3.5 star property
8.8
Excellent
706 reviews
View
A courtyard with outdoor seating, a fountain, and white buildings with arches.
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
4.0 star property
8.6
Excellent
1,001 reviews
View
A rooftop terrace with outdoor seating, umbrellas, and a pool.
Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG
4.0 star property
8.8
Excellent
1,001 reviews
View
A modern kitchen with wooden cabinets, a central island, and large windows.
Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels
3.5 star property
8.4
Very good
503 reviews
View

Where to stay in Downtown Santa Barbara

Find the best Downtown Santa Barbara areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.

Santa Barbara Beach

Santa Barbara Beach is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights in the area like Stearns Wharf and West Beach.

Montecito

Celebrity-favored Montecito offers backcountry hiking trails and attractions like Lotusland and El Fureidis. Easily accessible via State Route 192 and the U.S. 101 Freeway, it's well-connected to Santa Barbara County.

West Beach

While visiting West Beach, you might make a stop by sights like Santa Barbara Harbor and West Beach.

East Beach

East Beach is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights in the area like East Beach and Santa Barbara Zoo.

Historic Downtown Santa Barbara

The beaches and abundant dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Historic Downtown Santa Barbara. A stop by Lobero Theater or Arlington Theater might round out your trip.

Top Downtown Santa Barbara Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Downtown Santa Barbara

Top reasons to visit Downtown Santa Barbara

  • Charming Waterfront: Stroll along the picturesque waterfront, enjoying stunning views and a vibrant marina atmosphere.
  • Cultural Attractions: Explore local museums, theaters, and historical sites that showcase Santa Barbara's rich heritage.
  • Shopping and Dining: Discover a variety of shops and restaurants, offering unique local flavors and products.
  • Outdoor Activities: Enjoy family-friendly parks and scenic excursions, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Choose from luxurious hotels to charming boutiques, catering to every traveler's needs.

Find great hotels near Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara offers a diverse selection of hotels and motels that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you're seeking adventure, a relaxing beach getaway, or a pet-friendly experience, you'll find accommodations that meet your needs. From the luxurious Hotel Californian to charming boutique options, there's something for everyone in this vibrant coastal city.

  • Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort: Nestled along the stunning coastline, this 4-star resort is perfect for adventurers and business travelers alike. Located 3.2km from Downtown Santa Barbara, the Hilton offers direct beach access, inviting guests to explore a variety of water sports and recreational activities. From sailing and kayaking to windsurfing and biking, there’s no shortage of excitement. The property also features modern amenities and comfortable accommodations, making it an excellent choice for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
  • The Milo: This charming 3.5-star hotel, located just 1.6km from Downtown Santa Barbara, welcomes both beach lovers and pet owners. With direct access to the beach, The Milo offers a host of thrilling activities such as parasailing, surfing, and fishing. The hotel prides itself on being pet-friendly, providing amenities for your furry companions while ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests. With a relaxed atmosphere and a focus on adventure, The Milo is a delightful choice for your next getaway.
  • Sandpiper Lodge: A cozy motel situated 3.2km from Downtown Santa Barbara, Sandpiper Lodge offers a more laid-back experience with essential amenities and a friendly atmosphere. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast options to start their day off right, along with nearby recreational activities such as golf and bike rentals. The lodge features entertainment options like premium TV channels, ensuring a comfortable stay for all. Perfect for budget-conscious travelers, Sandpiper Lodge provides an inviting base to explore the charm of Santa Barbara.

Where to stay near Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara offers a delightful blend of historical charm and modern amenities, making it perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Stroll along the picturesque waterfront, explore the vibrant shopping area, and soak in the friendly atmosphere at the city center. With its scenic excursions and captivating sights, Downtown Santa Barbara promises an unforgettable vacation experience for every traveler.

  • Santa Barbara: Nestled between the mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara is a vibrant city known for its Mediterranean climate and stunning coastal views. Travelers flock here year-round, particularly during the summer months from June to August, to enjoy outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions. The city offers a range of experiences, from educational venues to lively theaters and entertainment arenas. Don't miss the local landmarks, including picturesque beaches and the bustling tourist precinct, ideal for soaking up the sun or indulging in local cuisine.
  • Santa Barbara Beach: just 1.6km from Downtown Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Beach is a family-friendly neighborhood perfect for sun-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its beautiful sandy shores, this area sees peak visitor numbers during the summer months. Here, you can enjoy a variety of activities, including shopping and theme park rides, making it an excellent destination for families. The beach's proximity to the tourist precinct and family beach offers a laid-back atmosphere where you can unwind and create lasting memories.
  • Historic Downtown Santa Barbara: A mere 322m from Downtown Santa Barbara, this charming neighborhood is rich in culture and history. Visitors are drawn to its unique blend of outdoor experiences and family-oriented activities, especially during peak seasons like March to April and July. Historic Downtown Santa Barbara boasts a lively theater scene and various shopping options, all set against the backdrop of stunning architecture. Nearby landmarks, including the marina and beautiful beaches, enhance the cultural experience, making it a must-visit during your stay.

Things to do in and around Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara offers a vibrant mix of family-friendly activities, shopping, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore a variety of shopping options, enjoy local theater performances, and participate in daily excursions that highlight the area's rich history and natural beauty. With its charming streets and outdoor spaces, Downtown Santa Barbara is an ideal destination for those looking to experience the best of California's coastal lifestyle.

Shopping

In Downtown Santa Barbara, visit Paseo Nuevo Mall, just 644m away, featuring a blend of shops and entertainment. Explore Rafael Gonzalez House, located 805m away for unique gifts, and enjoy the vibrant Santa Barbara Public Market right in the heart of downtown for local flavors and artisanal products.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Santa Barbara Bowl, where concerts create unforgettable memories. Play a round of golf at Santa Barbara Golf Club, surrounded by scenic landscapes. For relaxation, unwind at Elings Park, enjoying nature trails and serene views, perfect for rejuvenation and wellness.

Adventure

Explore the Cabrillo Bikeway in Downtown Santa Barbara for a scenic outdoor ride. Venture 3.2km to Rattlesnake Canyon Trail, where hiking enthusiasts can enjoy breathtaking views and adventure. Alternatively, the Cabrillo Bike Path, located 4.8km away, offers a wonderful outdoor experience along the coastline.

Nightlife

Experience the enchanting vibes at the Granada Theatre in Downtown Santa Barbara for a cultural night out. For a cozy drink with a hint of romance, visit Cold Spring Tavern, just 16.1km away. If you're up for some family fun, Zodo's offers bowling and arcade adventures only 11.3km from downtown.

*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 during your visit to Downtown Santa Barbara, plan your trip between January and February or in November, when hotel prices are lowest. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to book accommodations, while Saturdays tend to be the most expensive. Use Expedia to find the best deals, filtering for eco-friendly hotels and sorting prices from low to high. Consider package deals that bundle hotels, flights, and activities for additional savings. Explore the area on foot, as it's compact and offers plenty of free activities to enjoy.

  • 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: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Downtown Santa Barbara hotel reservations with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara is perfect for family vacations and outdoor adventures, offering a blend of cultural and urban experiences. Visitors can explore local attractions like the Santa Barbara Harbor, historic downtown, and various museums and parks. With its charming marina and vibrant atmosphere, Downtown Santa Barbara provides a delightful mix of activities for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration.

  • Santa Barbara Harbor: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Barbara Harbor, where you can enjoy a variety of water activities, dine at seafood restaurants, and take in stunning ocean views. This marina is perfect for those seeking adventure and beach vibes.
  • Santa Barbara County Courthouse: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Santa Barbara at the County Courthouse. This historic building features stunning Spanish-Moorish architecture and offers breathtaking views from its clock tower, making it a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
  • Stearns Wharf: Stroll along Stearns Wharf, the oldest wharf in California, where you can explore shops, restaurants, and enjoy picturesque views of the coastline. It's a fantastic spot for fishing, dining, and soaking in the ocean breeze.

Best time to go to Downtown Santa Barbara

The best time to visit Downtown Santa Barbara can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Downtown Santa Barbara falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Downtown Santa Barbara falls in February, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
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

Traveling to Downtown Santa Barbara is convenient with several nearby airports. Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is located 12.9km away, with luxurious hotel options like The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, just 8.0km from the airport. Nearby, Hotel Californian and El Encanto Santa Barbara also offer 5-star accommodations. Santa Ynez Airport (SQA), situated 28.0km away, features options like Chumash Casino Resort and The Genevieve, both within 1.6km. Oxnard Airport (OXR) is 51.5km from downtown, with Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach just 3.2km away. Each hotel provides accessible transportation services to their respective airports, ensuring a smooth travel experience.

Frequently asked questions

What's it like in Downtown Santa Barbara?
Travelers love the Downtown Santa Barbara neighborhood for its beautiful beaches, array of dining options, and major shopping area. Be sure to check out Lobero Theater and Presidio Santa Barbara as part of your Downtown Santa Barbara travel plans.
Where is the best place to stay in Downtown Santa Barbara?
Based on our traveler 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 center and free WiFi. Other good choices for your stay in the area include Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG and Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels.
How many hotels are there in Downtown Santa Barbara?
With 17 Expedia hotels and other accommodations 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 that most hotel room reservations are fully refundable if cancelled before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of your check-in date. If you have a reservation that's non-refundable, you might be able to still cancel and get a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Enter your dates, click on "Search", then use the "fully refundable" filter to get the top deals on offer in Downtown Santa Barbara.
Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip to Downtown Santa Barbara?
For more information about picking new dates or cancelling your trip to Downtown Santa Barbara, head over to our customer service page.
What can I see and do in this Santa Barbara neighborhood?
Presidio Santa Barbara, Hill-Carrillo Adobe, and El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park are some local landmarks to explore in Downtown Santa Barbara. As you're discovering the neighborhood, Lobero Theater and Arlington Theater are some other places worth a visit. A few places to visit in the area around Downtown Santa Barbara include La Arcada, Casa de la Guerra, and De la Guerra Plaza. While you're out sightseeing in Santa Barbara, be sure to visit other sights like Susan Quinlan Doll and Teddy Bear Museum or Paseo Nuevo Mall.