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. 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)
"Fantastic hotel in great location. Beautiful roof top pool and walking access to downtown. Really nice hotel."
United States
Paul
The price is NT$11,047
NT$14,213 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

2. Hotel Santa Barbara

Hotel Santa Barbara
4.0 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,490 reviews)
"Thoroughly enjoyed our 3 night stay at the"
United States
Mark
The price is NT$7,192
NT$8,363 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 9 - Sep 10
Hotel Santa Barbara

3. 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, (487 reviews)
"The location of the Drift was fantastic and it was a darling place to stay."
United States
Shari
The price is NT$8,803
NT$10,052 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 13 - Sep 14
Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels

4. 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, (1,000 reviews)
"Very nice and clean hotel."
United States
Irina
The price is NT$7,518
NT$8,585 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 9 - Sep 10
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

5. Haley Hotel

Haley Hotel
3.5 star property
Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (690 reviews)
"We had complimentary coffee and oatmeal. Fridge in our room and microwave were a plus! Very charming decor and close to the main downtown area."
United States
Diana
The price is NT$4,814
NT$5,805 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Haley Hotel

6. 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, (1,015 reviews)
"Strongly recommend if you go to Santa barbara- very nice hotel with nice garden and lounge."
United States
JONATHAN CHARLES
The price is NT$6,850
NT$7,809 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 7 - Sep 8
The Upham Hotel

7. Best Western Plus Santa Barbara

Best Western Plus Santa Barbara
3.5 star property
Oak Park, 2 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,005 reviews)
"Great place to stay for a show at the Bowl!"
United States
Patty
The price is NT$5,369
NT$6,131 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 27 - Sep 28
Best Western Plus Santa Barbara

8. 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, (1,114 reviews)
"Great place"
United Kingdom
Richard
The price is NT$6,615
NT$7,542 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 7 - Sep 8
West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel

9. 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, (1,941 reviews)
"Great location, clean and pleasant environment."
United States
Heidi
The price is NT$7,217
NT$8,242 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 27 - Sep 28
Inn By The Harbor

10. 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, (1,001 reviews)
"Perfect location! Great room. Great continental breakfast."
United States
Greer
The price is NT$7,528
NT$8,581 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 7 - Sep 8
La Playa Inn

11. Hyatt Place Santa Barbara

Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
3.5 star property
5.8 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,174 reviews)
"Great breakfast, clean rooms, nice."
United States
Robert
The price is NT$6,161
NT$7,254 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 8 - Sep 9
Hyatt Place Santa Barbara

12. 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, (273 reviews)
"Wonderful place to stay"
United States
Erica
The price is NT$8,539
NT$9,734 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 4 - Oct 5
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Downtown

13. 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, (1,445 reviews)
"Great location Very nice staff"
United States
Liad
The price is NT$7,879
NT$8,997 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 30 - Oct 1
Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

14. 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, (2,380 reviews)
"Great comfortable stay and nice breakfast"
Canada
Julia
The price is NT$5,114
NT$6,077 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 8 - Sep 9
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

15. Palihouse Santa Barbara

Palihouse Santa Barbara
4.0 star property
0.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (437 reviews)
"This is my new favorite place to stay in Santa Barbara. The decor is outstanding, the rooms quiet, the pool a nice size, the staff helpful, the location perfect to walk to downtown destinations. They even have bikes which I rode to the bike path that goes along the beach. The parking is very convenient downstairs."
United States
sonia
The price is NT$12,697
NT$14,499 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 13 - Sep 14
Palihouse Santa Barbara

16. 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, (1,340 reviews)
"Great Coffee! Super Tidy and Clean Great Staff !!!!"
United States
Mike
The price is NT$7,426
NT$8,480 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 27 - Sep 28
Lavender Inn by the Sea

17. 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, (1,003 reviews)
"Great hotel and location!"
United States
Rachita
The price is NT$7,810
NT$9,109 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Mason Beach Inn

18. Casa Riviera

Casa Riviera
4.5 star property
Laguna, 0.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (301 reviews)
"Amazing Stay"
United States
Monica
The price is NT$6,520
NT$9,785 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 28 - Sep 29
Casa Riviera

19. Casa Jardin

Casa Jardin
3.0 star property
Laguna, 0.5 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (301 reviews)
"Had a great stay, ideal stay and close to Santa Barbara bowl."
United States
Yessica
The price is NT$4,717
NT$7,729 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 29 - Sep 30
Casa Jardin

20. Beachside Inn

Beachside Inn
3.0 star property
West Beach, 1.6 km from Downtown Santa Barbara
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,269 reviews)
"Great stay! Loved the workers so nice, so clean and loved the breakfast"
United States
Rosslyn
The price is NT$5,178
NT$5,913 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 7 - Sep 8
Beachside 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 MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation.

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 Santa Barbara Zoo and East Beach.

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 Downtown Area: Explore the charming streets filled with beautiful architecture and rich history, offering insights into Santa Barbara's heritage.
  • Vibrant Shopping and Dining: Enjoy a variety of local shops and restaurants, including delightful taco tours and unique culinary experiences.
  • Art and Culture: Discover local art galleries and catch a live performance at one of the city's theaters for a taste of Santa Barbara's vibrant cultural scene.
  • Beautiful Beaches: Relax on stunning beaches, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying picturesque coastal views.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Engage in numerous outdoor activities and attractions suitable for all ages, making it an ideal destination for families.

Find great hotels near Downtown Santa Barbara

Discover the charm of Downtown Santa Barbara, where a variety of hotels and motels await to accommodate your every need. Whether you're seeking adventure, a relaxing beach getaway, or a pet-friendly experience, you'll find excellent options like Hotel Santa Barbara, Hotel Californian, and Santa Barbara Inn. Enjoy your stay in this picturesque coastal city, surrounded by stunning views and vibrant culture.

  • Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort: This 4-star resort offers a true beachfront experience just 3km from Downtown Santa Barbara. The Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort is designed for travelers seeking sun, sand, and relaxation. Guests can enjoy direct access to the beach, making it easy to indulge in seaside activities. The property features spacious accommodations with ocean views, a pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options. Whether you want to relax by the beach or explore the local attractions, this resort provides a serene escape with all the necessary amenities.
  • Sandpiper Lodge: A budget-friendly option rated 8.6 out of 10, Sandpiper Lodge is located 3km from Downtown Santa Barbara. This motel-style lodging offers a cozy atmosphere with complimentary continental breakfast daily. Guests can enjoy various recreational activities nearby, including bicycle rentals and golf. Entertainment options feature premium TV channels and flat-screen TVs in the rooms. The Lodge provides a convenient base to explore the city while keeping costs manageable, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers.
  • The Milo: Rated 8.6 out of 10 and situated just 2km from Downtown Santa Barbara, The Milo is a 3.5-star hotel that embodies a relaxed beach vibe. With direct access to the beach, this hotel is tailored for those looking to soak up the sun. The Milo features stylish accommodations, a pool, and a welcoming atmosphere that encourages guests to unwind. Its proximity to downtown makes it easy to explore local shops and restaurants, making it a great choice for both relaxation and adventure.

Where to stay near Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara offers a vibrant urban experience perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Stroll through the charming city center, where you can explore historic sites, enjoy stunning city views, and indulge in local cuisine. The friendly atmosphere, along with picturesque scenery, makes it an ideal destination for memorable excursions. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique culture and beauty of this coastal gem during your visit.

  • Santa Barbara: Nestled along the scenic California coastline, Santa Barbara is a vibrant city known for its stunning Mediterranean architecture and beautiful landscapes. Downtown Santa Barbara serves as the heart of the city, where visitors can enjoy a mix of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and family-friendly attractions. The city boasts a variety of theaters, educational institutions, and entertainment venues, making it a hub for arts and culture. With its picturesque beaches and charming tourist precincts, Santa Barbara is perfect for those looking to explore a lively urban setting while enjoying the natural beauty of the coast.
  • Santa Barbara Beach: Located just 1.6km from Downtown Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Beach is a popular neighborhood that offers a quintessential beach experience for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its sandy shores and inviting ocean, this area is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beachside activities. Visitors can also explore nearby shopping areas and enjoy theme park rides, making it a great destination for a fun-filled day. The beach's proximity to Downtown Santa Barbara allows for easy access to the city's attractions while providing a relaxing coastal atmosphere.
  • Historic Downtown Santa Barbara: Just 322m from Downtown Santa Barbara, Historic Downtown Santa Barbara is a charming neighborhood steeped in history and culture. Visitors flock to this area to experience its unique blend of family-friendly activities, outdoor spaces, and city-themed attractions. The neighborhood features an array of theaters, shopping areas, and educational opportunities, making it a vibrant place to explore. With its close proximity to the beach and other local landmarks, Historic Downtown Santa Barbara offers a perfect balance of relaxation and entertainment for travelers.

Things to do in Downtown Santa Barbara

Shopping

Visit Downtown Santa Barbara for a charming shopping experience, featuring boutiques along State Street and the historic Paseo Nuevo. Explore local artisan shops at Santa Barbara Public Market, where you’ll find unique gifts and souvenirs. Enjoy picturesque surroundings while you shop.

Recreation

In Downtown Santa Barbara, The Spa at Four Seasons Biltmore offers rejuvenating treatments inspired by local botanicals, set amidst lush gardens. Nearby, Yoga Soup provides a serene space for yoga classes and workshops, promoting mindfulness and relaxation in a welcoming atmosphere.

Adventure

Explore Stearns Wharf for stunning ocean views and fresh seafood dining. Engage in water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding along the picturesque coastline. Don’t miss the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum for a glimpse into local maritime history, offering interactive exhibits and beautiful waterfront scenery.

Nightlife

Downtown Santa Barbara's nightlife buzzes with energy. Sip craft cocktails at The Good Lion or enjoy live music at SoHo Restaurant & Music Club. For a laid-back vibe, check out the Santa Barbara Public Market, where you can sample local bites and drinks while mingling with fellow night owls.

*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 trip to Downtown Santa Barbara, consider visiting in the off-peak months of January to February and November, when hotel prices drop. Book your stay on a Tuesday for the best rates, and use Expedia’s search tool to compare hotel prices and filter for eco-friendly options. Look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional discounts. Lastly, explore the area on foot or by using public transportation to minimize travel costs while enjoying free local attractions.

  • 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to tailor your experience by choosing your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can organize your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay in Downtown Santa Barbara with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Downtown Santa Barbara

Downtown Santa Barbara is perfect for family-friendly, city-themed, and outdoor vacations. Visitors can explore historic civic government buildings, museums, and beautiful beaches, providing a rich cultural experience. Notable attractions include the historic downtown area, offering insights into the city's heritage. Whether you're seeking family activities or an outdoor adventure, Downtown Santa Barbara has something for everyone.

  • Santa Barbara County Courthouse: This historic Civic Government Building is an architectural gem featuring Spanish Colonial Revival style. Visitors can explore its stunning murals, lush gardens, and panoramic views from the clock tower, immersing themselves in the local culture and history.
  • Santa Barbara Harbor: Located a mile from downtown, this marina offers a vibrant atmosphere for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy activities like sailing, kayaking, or simply strolling along the waterfront while taking in the picturesque views of the coastline.
  • Stearns Wharf: This historic jetty pier is 1.6km away from downtown and features shops, restaurants, and stunning ocean views. It’s a great spot to relax, enjoy fresh seafood, and watch the sunset over the Pacific.

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.

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 airport options. Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is only 13km away, offering easy access to luxury accommodations like The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, El Encanto Santa Barbara, and Hotel Californian. For those flying into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), located 130km away, upscale hotels such as Fairmont Miramar Hotel, The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey, and Casa Del Mar are available nearby. Alternatively, Hollywood BURbank Airport (BUR) is 127km from Downtown, with notable hotels like The Sun Rose West Hollywood and 1 Hotel West Hollywood within reach. Each airport provides excellent transport options for reaching 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 Arlington Theater 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, 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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