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, (1,530 reviews)
"Loved this hotel, staff, location everything was wonderful"
United States
Karri
The price is ¥38,366
¥44,611 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 18 - Oct 19
Hotel Santa Barbara

2. 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 ¥35,551
¥40,598 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 9 - Nov 10
Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels

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 ¥33,692
¥38,475 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 9 - Nov 10
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, (1,000 reviews)
"Excellent hotel and staff. Loved Santa Barbara. We will be back !"
United States
Gavin
The price is ¥55,365
¥71,235 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 14 - Oct 15
Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

5. 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 ¥22,386
¥27,105 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 28 - Oct 29
Haley Hotel

6. 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, (284 reviews)
"Wonderful place to stay"
United States
Erica
The price is ¥36,979
¥42,156 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Downtown

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, (1,003 reviews)
"Perfect location"
United States
Rana
The price is ¥38,125
¥43,463 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 27 - Oct 28
The Upham Hotel

8. 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, (2,437 reviews)
"Great location and clean facilities. Staff was very helpful and check in went smoothly"
United States
Anthony
The price is ¥20,389
¥24,470 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 10 - Nov 11
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

9. Palihouse Santa Barbara

Palihouse Santa Barbara
4.0 star property
0.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (443 reviews)
"Location. The Hotel is so beautiful, chic and close to everything. Very friendly staff."
United States
Maria
The price is ¥63,456
¥72,463 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 9 - Nov 10
Palihouse Santa Barbara

10. West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel

West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel
3.0 star property
West Beach, 1.6 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,123 reviews)
"Amazing place to stay!"
United States
Amanda
The price is ¥39,033
¥44,498 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 10 - Nov 11
West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel

11. 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 ¥39,957
¥45,628 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

12. Inn By The Harbor

Inn By The Harbor
3.5 star property
West Beach, 1.3 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,957 reviews)
"Really enjoyed my stay. Lovely helpful staff. Great location to walk to the Beach and restaurants."
United Kingdom
Tricia
The price is ¥38,478
¥43,940 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 3 - Nov 4
Inn By The Harbor

13. La Playa Inn

La Playa Inn
2.5 star property
West Beach, 1.4 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,006 reviews)
"Amazing stay and great location!"
United States
Nick
The price is ¥31,432
¥35,832 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
La Playa Inn

14. The Presidio

The Presidio
2.0 star property
1.1 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (874 reviews)
"great location and clean motel"
United States
Bonnie
The price is ¥22,051
¥25,138 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 14 - Oct 15
The Presidio

15. 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 ¥33,404
¥38,146 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 2 - Nov 3
Lavender Inn by the Sea

16. 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 ¥27,016
¥42,555 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Casa Riviera, a ZenStay Hotel

17. Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages

Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages
3.0 star property
Oak Park, 1.1 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (709 reviews)
"Very quaint and quiet inn. Highly recommend a stay! Innkeepers were very personable yet discreet. Hope to stay again!"
United States
Raymond
The price is ¥43,467
¥49,637 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages

18. The Franciscan Hotel

The Franciscan Hotel
2.5 star property
West Beach, 1.4 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,316 reviews)
"Great staff, excellent breakfast options, easy parking and comfy rooms."
United States
Bob
The price is ¥21,940
¥25,012 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 10 - Nov 11
The Franciscan Hotel

19. Mason Beach Inn

Mason Beach Inn
3.0 star property
West Beach, 1.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,000 reviews)
"Great hotel and location!"
United States
Rachita
The price is ¥39,835
¥46,442 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 14 - Oct 15
Mason Beach Inn

20. Best Western Plus Santa Barbara

Best Western Plus Santa Barbara
3.5 star property
Oak Park, 2 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,002 reviews)
"The rooms were clean and the location was excellent."
United States
Kirsten
The price is ¥26,834
¥30,643 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 2 - Nov 3
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
Star rating
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
1,530 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 rooftop terrace with outdoor seating, umbrellas, and a pool.
Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG
4.0 star property
8.8
Excellent
1,000 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 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. Learn more about Downtown Santa Barbara
Learn more about Downtown Santa Barbara

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

  • Historic Architecture: Stroll through downtown to admire charming buildings, including the iconic Santa Barbara County Courthouse.
  • Vibrant Shopping: Explore bustling State Street, lined with unique shops, boutiques, and local eateries.
  • Cultural Experiences: Enjoy art galleries and live performances at local theaters, showcasing the region's rich culture.
  • Outdoor Activities: Relax at beautiful waterfront parks or take part in various outdoor adventures along the coast.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a range of hotels, from luxury stays to cozy beachfront motels.

Find great hotels near Downtown Santa Barbara

Experience the charm of Downtown Santa Barbara with a range of hotel accommodations designed for every traveler. From beachfront motels to luxurious hotels like the Hotel Californian and Hotel Santa Barbara, you'll find pet-friendly options and adventure-filled amenities. Whether you're seeking relaxation or excitement, Downtown Santa Barbara offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience for an unforgettable vacation.

  • Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort: This elegant 4-star resort is a beach lover's paradise, located a mere 3km from Downtown Santa Barbara. With direct access to the sandy shores, guests can easily indulge in sunbathing and water activities. The resort features spacious accommodations that blend modern luxury with coastal charm. Amenities include a large outdoor pool, a fitness center, and multiple dining options that offer stunning ocean views. Ideal for those seeking both relaxation and adventure, the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort perfectly captures the essence of a beach vacation.
  • Sandpiper Lodge: A budget-friendly option, Sandpiper Lodge boasts a welcoming atmosphere with a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. Located 3km from Downtown Santa Barbara, this motel offers complimentary breakfast options and a variety of recreational activities such as nearby bicycle rentals and golf. Guests can enjoy entertainment through premium TV channels in comfortable rooms. The property is conveniently located near the city center, making it easy for travelers to explore local attractions while enjoying a relaxed stay at an affordable price.
  • The Milo: This charming 3.5-star hotel, just 2km from Downtown Santa Barbara, is a delightful choice for those seeking a beach getaway. The Milo features direct beach access and a beautifully designed outdoor pool area that invites relaxation. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, it combines modern amenities with a cozy ambiance. Guests appreciate the friendly service and convenient location, making it easy to explore the vibrant downtown area or unwind by the ocean.

Where to stay near Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara offers a vibrant blend of history and modern charm, perfect for families and urban explorers. Visitors can stroll along palm-lined streets, enjoy stunning city views, and savor the friendly atmosphere. Key highlights include the iconic Santa Barbara County Courthouse, bustling State Street, and beautiful waterfront parks. Whether you're interested in cultural excursions or outdoor activities, Downtown Santa Barbara is a delightful urban destination that captures the essence of California's coastal beauty.

  • Santa Barbara: Nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara is a vibrant city renowned for its Mediterranean-style architecture and stunning coastal views. As the heart of the region, Downtown Santa Barbara offers a blend of cultural experiences, including theaters, shopping, and outdoor activities. Visitors flock to the city year-round, with peak months from June to August. Families will enjoy the local beaches, parks, and educational venues, making it a well-rounded destination for all ages.
  • Santa Barbara Beach: Located just 1.6km from Downtown Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Beach is a picturesque neighborhood ideal for those seeking sun and surf. The beach is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, offering activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. With a pleasant climate year-round, visitor traffic peaks in the summer months. Nearby, you'll find a variety of shopping areas and attractions that cater to all tastes, enhancing your beachside experience.
  • Historic Downtown Santa Barbara: A mere 322m from Downtown Santa Barbara, Historic Downtown is a must-visit for those interested in the city's rich history and culture. This charming neighborhood is filled with beautiful architecture, lively shopping areas, and engaging educational venues. With a steady flow of visitors, especially during peak times in March, April, and July, families can explore theaters and enjoy outdoor activities, all while being close to the beach and other attractions, making it a delightful spot for everyone.

Things to do in Downtown Santa Barbara

Shopping

Only a short walk from the waterfront, you'll discover the upscale shops at Paseo Nuevo, featuring brands like Apple and H&M. For unique finds, head to the Santa Barbara Public Market, where local artisans offer handmade gifts and gourmet treats, perfect for souvenirs to take home.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at the Santa Barbara Yoga Center, where you can join classes in a serene atmosphere. Afterward, unwind at the Spa Beaumont, offering rejuvenating treatments using organic products, ensuring a refreshing escape from the everyday hustle.

Adventure

Explore the Santa Barbara Harbor for kayaking or paddleboarding, enjoying the vibrant marine life. Stroll along Stearns Wharf to experience local shops and dining with ocean views. For a thrilling hike, venture up to the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, where you can discover diverse flora and scenic trails.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Good Lion on State Street, known for its artisanal cocktails. For a lively atmosphere, check out The Funk Zone, where you can find various wine tasting rooms and art galleries that come alive in the evening.

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

Find the best attractions in and around Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara offers a perfect blend of family-friendly activities, city exploration, and outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy historic sites, engaging museums, and beautiful beaches. The area is rich in culture, making it ideal for those seeking a memorable experience. Don't miss the chance to stroll through the historic downtown Santa Barbara, where charming architecture and vibrant local life await.

  • Mission Santa Barbara: Located 2km from Downtown, this historic church showcases stunning Spanish architecture and beautiful gardens. It's known as the Queen of the Missions and offers a glimpse into California's rich history and cultural heritage.
  • Santa Barbara Museum of Art: Situated in Downtown, this museum features a diverse collection of American, Asian, and European artworks. Visitors can appreciate various exhibits and attend engaging programs that highlight the region's artistic legacy.
  • Presidio Santa Barbara: This historic fort, located in Downtown, offers insight into the military and colonial history of the area. Explore its restored buildings and learn about its role in California's past through informative displays.

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

Traveling to Downtown Santa Barbara is convenient with several major airports nearby. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is 130km away, with luxurious hotels like Fairmont Miramar Hotel and The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey located within 8 and 6km respectively. Hollywood BURbank Airport (BUR) is 127km away, offering nearby options such as The Sun Rose West Hollywood and 1 Hotel West Hollywood, both 11km from the airport. For the closest access, Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is just 13km away, featuring upscale accommodations like The Ritz-Carlton Bacara and El Encanto, both around 5 to 13km from the airport, ensuring a seamless journey to your destination.

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.

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