Hotels in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara: Where Sun-Kissed Shores Meet Coastal Elegance

Santa Barbara, California, often dubbed the American Riviera, is a coastal gem where Mediterranean charm meets stunning natural beauty. Stroll down vibrant State Street, the heart of the city, lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and al fresco dining. Enjoy the breathtaking views from Stearns Wharf, where the Pacific Ocean sparkles under the sun. With picturesque beaches, lush gardens, and a backdrop of the Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara is perfect for romantic getaways, cultural exploration, or simply relaxing by the sea. Its unique blend of luxury and laid-back vibes makes it an unforgettable destination. For the best hotel rates in Santa Barbara and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Santa Barbara

Some of the best places to stay in Santa Barbara are Santa Barbara Beach, Montecito and Downtown Santa Barbara. Santa Barbara offers stunning attractions for travelers, with Santa Barbara Beach featuring beautiful coastlines, Montecito known for its upscale ambiance and luxury homes, and Downtown Santa Barbara bustling with shops and dining. Accommodations range from beachfront inns to historic hotels, catering to various budgets. First-time visitors will find Downtown Santa Barbara the most accessible, with a vibrant atmosphere and easy access to attractions, while luxury seekers can explore options in Montecito for a more exclusive experience. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Santa Barbara:

1. Santa Barbara BeachOpens in a new window: Known for its stunning waterfront, Santa Barbara Beach is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy beautiful sandy shores, adventure sports, and local attractions like the Santa Barbara Harbor and Stearns Wharf. The area is also great for entertainment, with the Santa Barbara Bowl hosting various concerts. For accommodations, consider Hotel CalifornianOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel offering direct beach access and business amenities. Another option is Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection PropertyOpens in a new window, a charming 4.0-star Bed & Breakfast that welcomes pets. Lastly, Fess Parkers Doubletree ResortOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel, features a restaurant and provides a comfortable stay.
2. MontecitoOpens in a new window: Montecito is a tranquil retreat ideal for outdoor lovers and families. With its scenic landscapes and proximity to beaches, it’s perfect for relaxing vacations. Key attractions include the Santa Barbara Harbor and the Santa Barbara Bowl. For lodging, Rosewood Miramar BeachOpens in a new window is a 5.0-star hotel providing beach access and child-friendly amenities. Another excellent choice is Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa BarbaraOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel with adventure sports options and 24-hour business services. Montecito InnOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel, also offers direct beach access and various outdoor activities.
3. Downtown Santa BarbaraOpens in a new window: Downtown Santa Barbara is vibrant and family-friendly, surrounded by cultural landmarks like the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. It's an ideal location for exploring shops, restaurants, and waterfront attractions. El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, Santa BarbaraOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel, offers direct beach access and business facilities. Alternatively, Simpson House InnOpens in a new window, also a 5.0-star Bed & Breakfast, is perfect for those seeking adventure within the city. For a beachfront experience, consider The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa BarbaraOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel providing excellent business amenities and outdoor activities.

What to do in Santa Barbara

Three days in Santa Barbara offers a perfect blend of stunning beaches, majestic mountains, and lush parks. Travelers can enjoy biking along scenic paths, relaxing on sandy shores, or hiking through serene forests. With breathtaking sunsets and vibrant shopping areas, it’s an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and leisure seekers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Santa Barbara:

• Day 1: Kick off your Santa Barbara adventure at Goleta Beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy stunning ocean views. After a relaxing time by the beach, head to Lookout County Park for a scenic hike. The park offers breathtaking views of the coastline and is a perfect spot for a picnic. Finally, visit the Center for Urban Agriculture at Fairview Gardens, where you can explore beautiful gardens, learn about sustainable farming, and even participate in a workshop if time permits.
• Day 2: Start your day at Carpinteria State Beach, known for its gentle waves and family-friendly atmosphere. Spend some time swimming or walking along the shore before heading to Seaside Gardens. This beautiful, landscaped area is perfect for a stroll, where you can admire native plants and learn about eco-friendly gardening. Wrap up the day at the Friends of the Library Used Bookstore, where you can browse a vast collection of books and perhaps find a unique souvenir to take home.
• Day 3: Begin your day at Isla Vista Beach, a vibrant spot popular among locals and students alike. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and beautiful scenery before making your way to Rancho La Patera and Stow House. This historic site offers insights into the area’s agricultural history and stunning gardens to explore. End your adventure at Summerland Beach, a serene and picturesque location perfect for unwinding after a busy trip. Take a moment to reflect on your Santa Barbara experience while enjoying the peaceful ocean breeze.

5 tips to find a great Santa Barbara hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Santa Barbara is during January, November, and December, when hotel rates are significantly lower. If you're traveling internationally, it's wise to book your flight at least 8 months in advance to secure the best prices. To fully enjoy the main attractions, plan for at least a 2-3 day stay. Santa Barbara offers budget-friendly experiences, including beautiful beaches and stunning ocean views, making it a great value for money destination.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're seeking last-minute deals to Santa Barbara, explore the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. Here, you could find great savings on hotel rates as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of snagging a deal, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you’re more likely to stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, helping you make the most of your travel budget.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on hotel expenses in Santa Barbara.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Santa Barbara is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further away from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like cars, bikes, or trolleys to explore the area while likely saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next booking in Santa Barbara and sign up to Hotels.com's free One Key program, letting you earn and use reward points on your next stay. Progress through the Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Don't hesitate, sign up today.

What to eat in Santa Barbara

Here are some famous dishes in Santa Barbara, California, United States of America:

• Tacos: In Santa Barbara, tacos are a vibrant representation of local Mexican cuisine, often featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. You might encounter fish tacos made with catch-of-the-day, topped with zesty cabbage slaw and a drizzle of creamy sauce. Street vendors and casual eateries provide a laid-back atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy these handheld delights while soaking in the coastal vibes. Tacos are often enjoyed during social gatherings, making them a perfect choice for spontaneous meals.
• Ceviche: This refreshing dish showcases the bounty of the Pacific Ocean, typically made with freshly caught fish marinated in citrus juices, mixed with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. In Santa Barbara, you may find unique variations, such as avocado or mango additions, that highlight the region's culinary creativity. Ceviche is commonly served as a light appetizer, inviting shared experiences among friends and family around the table.

Best time to go to Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 55.0°F (12.8°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 72.9°F (22.7°C). December tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Santa Barbara are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by dry rainfall. In contrast, January, October, and November are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by dry to light rainfall and sunny conditions.