A coastal town with a beach, houses, and mountains in the background.

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Check availability on Santa Barbara Cheap Hotels

Tonight
Sep 26 - Sep 27
Tomorrow
Sep 27 - Sep 28
Next weekend
Oct 2 - Oct 4
In two weeks
Oct 9 - Oct 11

Our top choices for Santa Barbara cheap hotels

A spacious living room with a round wooden coffee table, two blue armchairs, and a patterned armchair.
A swimming pool with a tiled deck, lounge chairs, and a palm tree.
A spacious kitchen with granite countertops, wooden chairs, and a large island. There are multiple dining tables with chairs, a refrigerator, and a TV mounted on the wall.
A spacious living area with a sofa, armchairs, a coffee table, and a reception desk.

1. Sandpiper Lodge

Sandpiper Lodge
North State
United States
Greg
￥17,241
￥19,654 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 5 - Oct 6
Sandpiper Lodge
A hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a desk, and a nightstand.
A lobby with a wooden floor, two patterned armchairs, a small table, and a wall with three framed pictures.
A building entrance with a set of stairs leading up to a door marked with the number 128.
A modern kitchen with a central island, wooden flooring, and a dining area with orange chairs and a table.

2. Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara Beach
Canada
Julia
￥23,810
￥28,371 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 30 - Oct 1
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
A VAGABOND INN sign, a building with a balcony, and palm trees.
A corner room with a round table, a wooden chair, a beige sofa, and a mirror on the wall.
A reception desk with a VAGABOND INN sign, a clock, and framed pictures on the wall.
A bathroom with a white sink, a mirror, and a towel rack with towels.

3. Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara

Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara
North State
United States
chris
￥15,482
￥18,905 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 1 - Oct 2
Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara
A modern living room with two grey sofas, a small woven stool, and a large wall clock.
A balcony with two chairs and a small table, overlooking a marina with boats and palm trees.
A hotel room with a bed, two armchairs, a small table with a lamp, and a large window offering a view of the beach and palm trees.
A spacious lobby with large windows, comfortable seating, a reception desk, and a bookshelf.

4. Beachside Inn

Beachside Inn
Santa Barbara Beach
United States
Simon
￥27,517
￥31,423 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 30 - Oct 1
Beachside Inn
A patio area with a table and chairs, surrounded by vibrant flowers and a pool.
A building with a distinctive wavy facade, a decorative archway, and vibrant pink flowers in the foreground.
A room with two striped chairs, a small round table, and an air conditioning unit on the wall.
A compact kitchen with dark cabinets, a white refrigerator, a microwave, a sink, and patterned floor tiles.

5. Oasis Inn & Suites

Oasis Inn & Suites
San Roque
United States
Dipesh
￥17,173
￥19,577 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 13 - Oct 14
Oasis Inn & Suites
Two Adirondack chairs facing a small table on a balcony with a view of the ocean and palm trees.
A reception area with a wooden reception desk, two surfboards, a 'Welcome' sign, and an orange sofa.
A beach view with palm trees and a clear sky.
A swimming pool with lounge chairs and palm trees.

6. Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach
Santa Barbara Beach
United States
Tammy
￥21,388
￥24,424 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 26 - Oct 27
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach
A beach with palm trees, a pier, and a flag.
A seaside patio with tables and chairs, palm trees, and a view of the beach and ocean.
A well-lit entrance with a decorative archway, a purple door, and potted plants labeled 'VILLA' and 'ROSA'.
A dolphin statue in a garden with cacti and red flowers.

7. Ala Mar by the Sea

Ala Mar by the Sea
Santa Barbara Beach
United States
cinthya
￥17,928
￥25,458 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 12 - Oct 13
Ala Mar by the Sea
A reception area with a counter, potted plants, a coffee station, and a view through large glass doors.
A hotel room with a bed, a TV, a desk, and a view of the street and palm trees outside.
A hotel entrance with a sign reading "The Inn at East Beach," a covered patio area, and bicycles parked outside.
A modern kitchen with a central island, a coffee station, and a view of greenery outside.

8. The Inn at East Beach

The Inn at East Beach
Santa Barbara Beach
United States
Joseph
￥21,588
￥24,610 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 12 - Oct 13
The Inn at East Beach
A building with a tiled entrance, a sign reading "LA ROSA," and a garden with various plants and a palm tree.
An outdoor seating area with a glass table, red cushions, and potted plants.
A poolside area with lounge chairs, a pool, and decorative statues.
A cozy living room with a fireplace, wooden furniture, a television, and a staircase.

9. Villa Rosa Inn

Villa Rosa Inn
Santa Barbara Beach
United States
Elizabeth
￥21,232
￥29,324 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 7 - Oct 8
Villa Rosa Inn
An outdoor patio area with stone walls, a fire pit, and seating arrangements.
A cozy living room with a round coffee table, wooden chairs, a sofa with patterned cushions, and potted plants.
A modern dining area with a long table, multiple chairs, a television, and a plant.
A modern hotel room with a sofa, a bed, a desk, and a TV.

10. Hyatt Place Santa Barbara

Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara
United States
Robert
￥30,361
￥35,754 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 27 - Sep 28
Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
View all properties

Find out more about Santa Barbara

Discover cheap things to do in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara offers a delightful blend of budget-friendly activities and attractions for the discerning traveler. Start your adventure at the picturesque Santa Barbara Mission, a historic site with beautiful gardens that you can explore for free. Next, visit the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, where you can climb the clock tower for stunning panoramic views of the city and coastline at no cost. For a dose of art and culture, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art features free admission on Sundays, showcasing an impressive collection of American and European art. Families will love the Santa Barbara Zoo, where you can enjoy discounted tickets on certain days, making it an affordable outing with the kids. Lastly, head to the Funk Zone, a vibrant arts district filled with local galleries, street art, and wine tasting rooms—many of which offer reasonably priced options. For accommodations, consider the downtown area, where you’ll find various budget-friendly hotels that provide easy access to these attractions, allowing you to explore the charming streets, beautiful beaches, and local eateries without breaking the bank. Enjoy freshly caught seafood at local food trucks or grab a quick bite at one of the many cafes offering delicious meals at wallet-friendly prices.

Find the best cheap hotels in Santa Barbara

For travelers seeking affordable yet comfortable accommodations in Santa Barbara, these five hotels offer great value without compromising on quality. Each provides essential amenities and convenient access to the beautiful Santa Barbara coast.Marina Beach Motel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Marina Beach Motel stands out as a prime budget option with an impressive review rating of 9.8, making it a favorite among travelers. Guests can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast and free self-parking, ensuring a straightforward experience. The motel’s nearby the beach allows travelers to soak up the sun without traveling far.
  • Other amenities: In addition to free Wi-Fi, Marina Beach Motel features onsite bicycles for guests to explore the area. The kitchenette in some rooms allows for easy meal preparation, while the furnished patio offers a relaxing space to unwind. Beach towels and access to nearby wineries add to the enjoyable experience at this budget-friendly motel.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.41 miles, Santa Barbara Harbor - 0.15 miles, Stearns Wharf - 0.57 miles

La Playa Inn

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: La Playa Inn offers travelers a budget-friendly stay with an excellent review rating of 9.6. This inviting inn provides free Wi-Fi and self-parking, ensuring that guests can enjoy their vacation without overspending. The hotel features a lovely terrace and patio area, perfect for guests looking to relax outside after a day of fun in the sun.
  • Other amenities: Guests can also benefit from a convenient location near the beach and boardwalk, allowing for easy access to Santa Barbara's attractions. Other amenities include air conditioning for comfort and designer toiletries for a touch of luxury at an affordable price. With off-street parking and a friendly concierge, La Playa Inn is an excellent choice for budget-minded travelers.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: Leadbetter Beach - 0.58 miles, MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.64 miles, Santa Barbara Harbor - 0.65 miles

Harbor House Inn

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Harbor House Inn is a delightful budget choice with a solid guest review rating of 9.6. This charming inn offers guests free Wi-Fi and self-parking, making it easy to enjoy a comfortable stay affordably. Guests can take advantage of the outdoor hot spring and private hot tub, providing a unique way to relax after a day of sightseeing.
  • Other amenities: Additional amenities include free bicycles for exploring the nearby coastline, various water sports options, and beach towels for beach outings. With a well-equipped kitchenette in select rooms, guests can enjoy home-cooked meals. The inn’s location near the beach and boardwalk enhances the overall experience for travelers looking for budget-friendly accommodations.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.41 miles, Santa Barbara Harbor - 0.11 miles, Stearns Wharf - 0.57 miles

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: A fantastic choice for budget-conscious travelers, Avania Inn of Santa Barbara boasts a high guest review rating of 9.2. This hotel offers free self-parking and a complimentary daily breakfast, ensuring guests can start their day without added expenses. Guests will appreciate the outdoor pool and hot tub, perfect for relaxation after exploring nearby attractions.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include free Wi-Fi, designer toiletries, and air conditioning for a comfortable stay. The hotel is conveniently located near the beach and boardwalk, allowing guests to easily enjoy Santa Barbara's stunning coastline. With nearby golf and various outdoor activities, the Avania Inn makes for a great base to explore the area.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: Leadbetter Beach - 0.62 miles, MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.62 miles, Santa Barbara Harbor - 0.69 miles

Top Santa Barbara Hotel Reviews

Lemon Tree Inn

Lemon Tree Inn

10/10 Excellent
"Great budget hotel clean, and friendly staff! Walking distance to a grocery store and just a tiny distance from Trader Joe’s and downtown"
Sydney 2-night trip
Posted 2 hours ago
Lemon Tree Inn
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

10/10 Excellent
"Nicest most helpful check in staff."
Steven 1-night trip
Posted 3 hours ago
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
Inn By The Harbor

Inn By The Harbor

10/10 Excellent
"My friends and I absolutely loved our stay! The staff we so friendly and helpful, the beds were super comfortable, rooms are spacious and clean. It was great to have a big fridge and kitchen area. We very much enjoyed the pool and hot tub and the daily happy hour, the sangria is delicious! The location is great , with so much in walking distance , and the free parking was a nice bonus too. We will definitely be back!"
Tanya 4-night trip
Posted 5 hours ago
Inn By The Harbor
The Milo

The Milo

10/10 Excellent
"Our trip was amazing from start to finish..the room was beautiful and clean and the private patio with a fire pit that we sat by every night and looked out over the water was truly amazing….this is our first time staying here and hopefully not our last… the staff was very pleasant and helpful.. walking distance to all the great areas …the only downside is that we didn’t stay longer"
Rachel 2-night trip
Posted 8 hours ago
The Milo
Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

10/10 Excellent
"The pool was freezing cold, other than that excellent"
Cory 3-night trip
Posted 11 hours ago
Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach
Beachside Inn

Beachside Inn

10/10 Excellent
"Nice inn in santa barbara. It was close to beach, harbor and restaurants . Very clean and staff very helpful. Breakfast the usual fare and liked the afternoon wine and cheese"
Evelyn 2-night trip
Posted 12 hours ago
Beachside Inn
Sandpiper Lodge

Sandpiper Lodge

10/10 Excellent
"I liked the breakfast!"
Yoshiko 3-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Sandpiper Lodge
Hotel Santa Barbara

Hotel Santa Barbara

10/10 Excellent
"I was thoroughly impressed with the cleanliness, the design, the professional, friendly staff. Everything was just amazing could not be happier."
Michael 1-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Hotel Santa Barbara
Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara

Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara

10/10 Excellent
"Room was clean and ready and staff was very friendly"
chris 1-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara

Frequently asked questions

What is Santa Barbara like for travelers on a budget?
Santa Barbara has cheap accommodation options and a variety of places to visit, making it a great choice for a budget-friendly getaway. You can find ways to save money while getting to know this destination, which is home to attractions like Arlington Theater, Lobero Theater, and Presidio Santa Barbara.
What's the best accommodation for a budget-friendly stay in Santa Barbara?
Based on reviews, Beachside Inn is a popular hotel for our travelers who want a more economical choice, and features free buffet breakfast and free WiFi. Other options to stay on the cheap include Sandpiper Lodge and Avania Inn of Santa Barbara.
How many budget hotels will I be able to find in Santa Barbara?
Expedia has 10 hotels in Santa Barbara that are ideal if you are watching your pennies.
When is the best time for a budget trip to Santa Barbara?
Weather will likely play an important role when you plan your trip to Santa Barbara, and keep in mind that cheaper options are usually available when the weather isn't as good. The hottest months are usually August and September with an average temp of 71°F, while the coldest months are February and January with an average of 56°F. Average annual precipitation for Santa Barbara is 15 inches.
What is there to see and do in Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara attracts visitors with its fine wine and fantastic dining options, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the local attractions that interest you most, and then plan some activities that cost little or nothing at all. If you're looking to enjoy the area's natural beauty, you can get outdoors at West Beach, Leadbetter Beach, or East Beach.
How can I get to Santa Barbara and get around on a budget?
Checking out these ways to get around Santa Barbara is a smart way to keep your trip affordable. The closest airport is 7.6 mi (12.2 km) from the center in Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA). If that doesn't suit your budget, you can look into flights to Santa Ynez, CA (SQA), which is 24.7 mi (39.7 km) away. If you want to explore the larger area, hop aboard a train at Santa Barbara Station.

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