Search Santa Barbara hotels

Top reasons to visit Santa Barbara

• Stunning Beaches: Santa Barbara boasts beautiful, sandy beaches perfect for relaxation and water activities.
• Vibrant Cultural Scene: Enjoy a lively theatre scene and explore historical architecture in the charming downtown area.
• Outdoor Adventures: Discover lush parks, botanical gardens, and picturesque camping spots for nature lovers.
• Family-Friendly Activities: A variety of attractions cater to families, ensuring fun and entertainment for all ages.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: From luxury resorts to charming motels, there's a perfect place for every traveller.

Find great hotels in and around Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara offers a diverse selection of accommodation options, from charming motels to luxurious resorts, catering to every traveller's desire for adventure and relaxation. Whether you prefer a beachside retreat or a pet-friendly hotel, you'll find numerous choices that highlight the region's stunning scenery. Explore the vibrant local culture while enjoying comfortable stays at Santa Barbara hotels, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

• Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn: Nestled 16.1km from Santa Barbara, the Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn caters to adventurous souls and beach enthusiasts alike. This 3.5-star accommodation boasts direct beach access, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing and water sports. Golf lovers can revel in the golf-themed experiences available right at the property. Adventure seekers will find a range of activities, including mountain biking, skydiving, and kayaking nearby, ensuring an action-packed stay in California’s stunning coastal landscape.
• Amanzi Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection: Located 41.8km from Santa Barbara, Amanzi Hotel is perfect for nature lovers and business travellers wanting to blend work with adventure. This property offers essential facilities such as a business centre and meeting rooms, making it suitable for corporate guests. Adventure activities like hiking and windsurfing are readily available nearby, inviting guests to explore the natural beauty of the region while enjoying comfortable lodging that caters to both leisure and business needs.
• Hotel Milo Santa Barbara: Situated in the heart of Santa Barbara, Hotel Milo offers a quintessential beach getaway for sun seekers. This charming 3.5-star hotel provides direct access to the beach, allowing guests to bask in the Californian sun right outside their door. With its relaxed atmosphere and proximity to the ocean, Hotel Milo invites you to unwind and indulge in the serene coastal lifestyle, making it an excellent choice for those looking to indulge in a beach-centric holiday.

Where to stay in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and stunning outdoor experiences. Explore the charming downtown area, with its historical architecture and lively vibe, while enjoying ocean views and calmer beaches. Nearby cities like San Diego provide additional memorable stays and scenic adventures. Whether you're after romantic getaways or simply soaking in the friendly atmosphere, Santa Barbara is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

• Santa Barbara Beach: Nestled along the picturesque coastline, Santa Barbara Beach is a vibrant neighbourhood where visitors can soak up the sun and enjoy the sandy shores year-round. Although traveller arrivals fluctuate, the peak season from June to August attracts families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a beach experience. With a plethora of activities including shopping, educational venues, and theme park rides, this area is perfect for a fun-filled day. Local landmarks such as the family beach and tourist precinct provide a delightful backdrop for your beachside adventures.
• Montecito: A charming neighbourhood known for its upscale vibe, Montecito is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and offers a highly seasonal travel experience, peaking in January, March, and July. Visitors flock here for outdoor activities and family-friendly experiences, with attractions including beautiful beaches and the nearby national state park. Montecito boasts excellent shopping centres and educational venues, making it an inviting spot for those looking to indulge in the finer things while enjoying a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
• Downtown Santa Barbara: The heart of the city, Downtown Santa Barbara buzzes with activity and is a hub for family, city-themed, and outdoor experiences. Although traveller numbers peak in the summer months from June to August, this vibrant area remains attractive throughout the year. Visitors can explore a variety of shopping options, educational institutions, and lively theatres. With the beach and family-friendly attractions just a short stroll away, Downtown Santa Barbara is the perfect base for exploring the rest of this beautiful coastal region.

Things to do in and around Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a blend of entertainment, education, and shopping. Visitors can indulge in rejuvenating spa experiences, explore wonderful attractions, and discover picturesque camping spots. With its vibrant theatre scene and stunning coastal views, Santa Barbara promises a memorable vacation filled with diverse activities for everyone.

Shopping

La Cumbre Plaza offers a vibrant shopping experience with a mix of fashion and dining options. Montecito Village Shopping Center features boutique shops and local eateries. If you're up for a drive, explore the unique finds at Rafael Gonzalez House, a charming store with local flair.

Recreation

At Santa Barbara Golf Club, enjoy a round of golf amidst beautiful landscapes, perfect for both relaxation and sport. Experience live performances at Santa Barbara Bowl, where entertainment meets excitement. Elings Park offers a serene environment, ideal for leisurely strolls and rejuvenating yoga sessions, enhancing your wellness journey.

Adventure

Experience the Cabrillo Bikeway, a scenic outdoor path perfect for cycling along the coast. For a thrilling hike, tackle the Rattlesnake Canyon Trail, where breathtaking views await. If you're keen on sports, head to the Municipal Tennis Center for an exciting match in a vibrant atmosphere.

Nightlife

Experience Santa Barbara's vibrant nightlife at the charming Cold Spring Tavern, perfect for drinks and romantic vibes. For a cultural outing, catch a show at the Arlington Theater. For family fun and adventure, head to Zodo's - Bowling and Beyond, located a short drive away.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a fantastic destination for budget-conscious travellers, offering free attractions like the Santa Barbara Harbor, Stearns Wharf, and the County Courthouse. To save on accommodation, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January to February or November, and aim to stay on a Tuesday for the best rates. For transport, renting a bike or using the trolley can be economical options. Additionally, utilise Expedia to compare hotel deals and package your flights and activities for further savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in 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 in Santa Barbara is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Santa Barbara is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to customise your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and ideal type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase a range of sustainable and eco-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your Santa Barbara hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures. You can explore stunning beaches, lush urban parks, and vibrant botanical gardens. Key attractions include the picturesque Santa Barbara Harbour and other iconic spots that cater to cultural and family experiences. Don't miss the chance to visit Santa Barbara's charming sights and enjoy the beautiful Californian coastal vibe.

• Stearns Wharf: Experience breathtaking ocean views and the charming atmosphere of this historic jetty. Enjoy fresh seafood at local eateries, explore unique shops, and watch the boats come and go, all while soaking in the coastal breeze.
• Upper State Street: Immerse yourself in the vibrant city vibes of Upper State Street, where you’ll find an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Stroll along the tree-lined streets and discover local boutiques, art galleries, and delightful eateries.
• Santa Barbara City College: Visit this historic institution to appreciate its stunning architecture and rich cultural vibe. Take a leisurely walk through the campus, enjoy the views of the coastline, and experience the vibrant student life that contributes to the area's charm.

Best time to go to Santa Barbara

The best time to visit Santa Barbara is dependant 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 (dry). February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	55.0°F (12.8°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
April	60.3°F (15.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
May	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	68.2°F (20.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	72.1°F (22.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	72.9°F (22.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	71.6°F (22.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	60.4°F (15.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, California, can be conveniently accessed through its major airports. Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is located 12.9km from the city centre, with nearby luxury options like The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara, and El Encanto, both offering excellent accommodations. Santa Ynez Airport (SQA), 40.2km away, provides access to quality stays such as Chumash Casino Resort and Hotel Corque. Oxnard Airport (OXR), situated 51.5km from Santa Barbara, features hotels like Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach. Transportation services, including airport shuttles, are typically available from these hotels, ensuring a seamless travel experience.