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

Hotel Santa Barbara

Hotel Santa Barbara
4.0 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,433 reviews)
"Beautifully newly renovated upscale hotel in prime central location with convenient parking."
United States
Michelle
The price is ¥44,256
¥51,461 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 10 - Aug 11
Hotel Santa Barbara

Haley Hotel

Haley Hotel
3.5 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (666 reviews)
"Walking distance to great night life and beach"
United States
Alma Gabriela
The price is ¥29,693
¥35,466 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 9 - Aug 10
Haley Hotel

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, (457 reviews)
"Great hotel in the heart of Santa Barbara!"
United States
Matthew
The price is ¥44,963
¥51,345 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 2 - Aug 3
Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels

Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG
4.0 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,004 reviews)
"It’s a great home base in a convenient downtown location"
United States
Lisa Ann
The price is ¥54,810
¥70,753 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 19 - Jul 20
Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

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 ¥50,425
¥57,584 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 19 - Jul 20
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

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, (1,412 reviews)
"Great location, easy parking. Staff was very friendly. Great motel to take the dogs."
United States
Teresa
The price is ¥13,242
¥15,582 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 26 - Jul 27
Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria South

Cliff House Inn On The Ocean

Cliff House Inn On The Ocean
3.0 star property
25.1 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,010 reviews)
"Easy parking excellent restaurant food Awesome staff Clean room"
United States
Raffy
The price is ¥31,119
¥34,954 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 16 - Jul 17
Cliff House Inn On The Ocean

Casa Iglesia

Casa Iglesia
4.5 star property
Oak Park, 1.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (27 reviews)
"Such a beautiful property!! The room was spacious and had everything we could’ve needed, the bed was so comfortable. Super easy check in / check out process. Would definitely stay here again"
United States
Monique
The price is ¥28,818
¥44,832 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 14 - Jul 15
Casa Iglesia

Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria North

Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria North
2.0 star property
15.7 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1,251 reviews)
"Dog friendly and nice staff"
United States
Denice
The price is ¥12,800
¥15,117 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 9 - Aug 10
Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria North

Rose Garden Inn

Rose Garden Inn
1.5 star property
4.3 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
6.6 out of 10, (1,013 reviews)
"Great plaxe to stay"
United States
David
The price is ¥19,906
¥22,693 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 26 - Jul 27
Rose Garden Inn

The Inn at East Beach

The Inn at East Beach
2.5 star property
East Beach, 2.9 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,013 reviews)
"great location!"
United States
Karen
The price is ¥25,783
¥29,392 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 26 - Jul 27
The Inn at East Beach

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, (1,013 reviews)
"Great location and outstanding property"
United States
Alec
The price is ¥50,497
¥57,683 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 27 - Jul 28
Santa Barbara Inn

The Craft House Inn

The Craft House Inn
4.0 star property
0.8 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (28 reviews)
"Home/room felt like home while our short stay away from home. Host was very helpful throughout our stay."
United States
Norma
The price is ¥31,334
¥35,782 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 4 - Aug 5
The Craft House Inn

Beach House Inn

Beach House Inn
2.0 star property
West Beach, 1.3 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
"Great location, steps from the beach and downtown. Newly renovated and everything is perfectly clean and in perfect condition!"
United States
Ugur
The price is ¥47,917
¥54,626 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 26 - Jul 27
Beach House Inn

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, (453 reviews)
"Great place to stay!!"
United States
Viviano
The price is ¥34,013
¥38,776 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 3 - Aug 4
Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection Property

Hotel Californian

Hotel Californian
5.0 star property
The Funk Zone, 1.4 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (975 reviews)
"Loved the location and decoration. Amazing bed and pillows ❤️"
United States
Maria
The price is ¥72,756
¥95,086 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 15 - Jul 16
Hotel Californian

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, (2,307 reviews)
"3 blocks from the beach with an awesome staff and spotless rooms."
United States
Daneka
The price is ¥29,909
¥35,368 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 9 - Aug 10
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
4.0 star property
East Beach, 2.3 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
7.8 out of 10, Good, (350 reviews)
"Very nice and clean facility, but kind of spendy, but I suppose that's what you have to do to stay across from the beach."
United States
Guy
The price is ¥53,102
¥67,903 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 10 - Aug 11
Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara

Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara
3.0 star property
East Beach, 2.8 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,007 reviews)
"Such a cute property. Friendly staff, clean, comfortable room and very short walk to the water. Would definitely stay here again."
United States
Teri
The price is ¥30,540
¥34,875 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 12 - Jul 13
Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara

Montecito Inn

Montecito Inn
4.0 star property
5.6 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,007 reviews)
"Wonderful stay!"
United States
Anthony
The price is ¥44,758
¥57,815 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 10 - Aug 11
Montecito Inn
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.

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 East 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.

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

  • 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 Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels and Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG.
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, 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 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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