Cheap Hotels & Resorts in Santa Barbara from AU$201

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Check availability on Santa Barbara Cheap Hotels

Best Santa Barbara Cheap Hotels

Our top choices for Santa Barbara cheap hotels

Sandpiper Lodge

2.0 star property
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1855)
"Nice place to stay!"
The price is AU$201
includes taxes & fees
23 Sept - 24 Sept
Sandpiper Lodge

Castillo Inn at the Beach

2.5 star property
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1007)
"Very clean and quiet and convenient to restaurant and pier"
The price is AU$237
includes taxes & fees
7 Oct - 8 Oct
Castillo Inn at the Beach

The Franciscan Hotel

2.5 star property
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1024)
"Property was very beautiful and had excellent staff. "
The Franciscan Hotel

Best Western Plus Santa Barbara

3.5 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1008)
"Very nice property will stay again "
The price is AU$293
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Best Western Plus Santa Barbara

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

2.5 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1883)
"Amazing staff and very close to the local bars by the beach "
The price is AU$641
includes taxes & fees
27 Sept - 28 Sept
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

Marina Beach Motel

3.0 star property
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (1005)
"Always a great place to stay, so close to everything "
The price is AU$341
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Marina Beach Motel

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

2.0 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1102)
"Love the location."
The price is AU$221
includes taxes & fees
24 Sept - 25 Sept
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

Beachside Inn

3.0 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1054)
"Nice hotel with a beautiful view."
The price is AU$306
includes taxes & fees
6 Oct - 7 Oct
Beachside Inn

The Presidio

2.0 star property
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (733)
"Perfect place to sleep! Walkable from the Bowl & State Street! "
The price is AU$240
includes taxes & fees
30 Sept - 1 Oct
The Presidio

Inn By The Harbor

3.5 star property
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1725)
"Great location and very hotel."
The price is AU$414
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Inn By The Harbor
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.

Find out more about Santa Barbara

Find out more about Santa Barbara

Discover cheap things to do in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a paradise of affordable activities and experiences perfect for the quality-seeking traveller. Start your adventure at the stunning Santa Barbara Mission, where you can explore the beautiful gardens and fascinating history at no cost. Next, head to Stearns Wharf, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll while taking in the picturesque coastal views – it's free and a great spot for family photos. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden offers an affordable entry fee and showcases California's diverse plant life across 78 acres of stunning landscapes. Don't miss the chance to visit the vibrant Santa Barbara Farmers Market on a Tuesday or Saturday, where you can sample fresh local produce and grab a few budget-friendly bites. For a truly local experience, make your way to the Funk Zone, a trendy neighbourhood filled with art galleries, wine tasting rooms, and street art – perfect for an afternoon of exploration. When it comes to lodging, consider staying in the downtown area, where you’ll find a range of budget-friendly hotels that provide convenient access to these attractions. This way, you can enjoy Santa Barbara’s charm without stretching your wallet, all while being just a short walk from the beach and local eateries offering delicious, affordable meals. With a little planning, your family’s trip can be both enjoyable and economically savvy.

Find the best cheap hotels in Santa Barbara

For travellers seeking budget-friendly options in Santa Barbara, these hotels offer excellent value without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Marina Beach Motel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: For those seeking exceptional value, the Marina Beach Motel shines with a stellar review rating of 9.8. This budget-friendly motel offers free continental breakfast and Wi-Fi, along with free self-parking, making it a convenient choice for beach lovers. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms equipped with kitchenettes, allowing for easy meal preparation during their stay.
  • Other amenities: Beyond the essentials, the Marina Beach Motel features a furnished patio and patio for outdoor enjoyment, as well as complimentary bicycles to explore the coastal area. With nearby access to the beach, winery tours, and various outdoor activities, travelers can immerse themselves in the vibrant Santa Barbara lifestyle without overspending.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.7 km, Santa Barbara Harbor - 0.2 km, Stearns Wharf - 0.9 km

Harbor House Inn

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Harbor House Inn is a top-rated choice for budget travellers, with a remarkable review rating of 9.6. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, complimentary toiletries, and free self-parking, all while being just a stone's throw from the beach. This charming inn provides a welcoming atmosphere with the added benefit of on-site bicycles for exploring the scenic surroundings.
  • Other amenities: Additional amenities include a hot tub for relaxation, a patio for unwinding outdoors, and convenient access to local attractions such as kayaking and winery tours. The hotel also features beach towels and umbrellas for those sunny days at the beach, ensuring travelers have everything they need for a perfect stay.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.7 km, Santa Barbara Harbor - 0.2 km, Stearns Wharf - 0.9 km

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Avania Inn of Santa Barbara is an ideal choice for budget-conscious travellers looking for comfort and convenience. With an impressive review rating of 9.2, travelers can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and a delicious free breakfast daily, ensuring a pleasant start to each day. The hotel also features free self-parking, making it easy for travelers to explore the stunning nearby beaches without the hassle of parking fees.
  • Other amenities: In addition to its budget-friendly amenities, the Avania Inn boasts a terrace for relaxation, an outdoor pool perfect for a refreshing dip, and easy access to the beach and boardwalk. Guests will appreciate the thoughtful touches, such as designer toiletries and air conditioning, ensuring a comfortable stay. With golf nearby and a scenic ocean location, this inn is a fantastic base for Santa Barbara adventures.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 1 km, Leadbetter Beach - 1 km, Santa Barbara Harbor - 1.1 km

Top Santa Barbara Hotel Reviews

Frequently asked questions

What is Santa Barbara like for travellers 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 such as Santa Barbara County Courthouse, Granada Theatre and Arlington Theater.
What's the best budget-friendly accommodation in Santa Barbara?
Based on reviews, Inn By The Harbor is a popular hotel for our travellers who want a more economical choice, and features free breakfast and free Wi-Fi. Other good options to stay on the cheap include Avania Inn of Santa Barbara and Castillo Inn at the Beach.
How many low-cost hotels will I find in Santa Barbara?
Expedia has 11 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, but bear 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 temperature of 22°C, while the coldest months are February and January, with an average of 13°C. Average annual precipitation for Santa Barbara is 392 mm.
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 make time for sights and activities that cost little or nothing at all. If you're looking to enjoy the area's natural beauty, you can get outdoors at Leadbetter Beach, East Beach or Arroyo Burro Beach.
How can I get to Santa Barbara and get around on a budget?
Looking at these ways to get around Santa Barbara is a smart way to keep your trip affordable. The nearest airport is Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal), situated 7.6 mi (12.2 km) away. If that doesn't suit your budget, you can arrange flights in and out of Santa Ynez, CA (SQA), which is 24.7 mi (39.7 km) away. To see more of the larger area, hop on a train at Santa Barbara Station.

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