A beach with the sun low on the horizon, casting a warm glow on the sand and water.

The Mesa Hotels, Santa Barbara

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Our top choices for The Mesa hotels

1. Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
2.5 star property
West Beach, 2.2 km from The Mesa
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (2,463 reviews)
"Excellent location, clean and comfortable room."
United States
Anne
The price is AU$208
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

2. Beachside Inn

Beachside Inn
3.0 star property
West Beach, 2.2 km from The Mesa
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,312 reviews)
"Would stay again"
United States
Jose
The price is AU$230
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Beachside Inn

3. Marina Beach Hotel

Marina Beach Hotel
3.0 star property
West Beach, 2.3 km from The Mesa
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,197 reviews)
"Stay was great, love the place"
United States
Lori
The price is AU$252
includes taxes & fees
3 Nov - 4 Nov
Marina Beach Hotel

4. The Franciscan Hotel

The Franciscan Hotel
2.5 star property
West Beach, 2.3 km from The Mesa
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,331 reviews)
"It was a super cute and spacious hotel room felt like a mini apartment I loved it"
United States
Carlos
The price is AU$230
includes taxes & fees
29 Nov - 30 Nov
The Franciscan Hotel

5. Castillo Inn at the Beach

Castillo Inn at the Beach
2.5 star property
West Beach, 2.2 km from The Mesa
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,002 reviews)
"Nice, we would stay here again."
United States
Wesley
The price is AU$225
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Castillo Inn at the Beach

6. Lavender Inn by the Sea

Lavender Inn by the Sea
3.5 star property
West Beach, 2.1 km from The Mesa
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,365 reviews)
"Great location, close to beach, grounds well kept and very clean rooms. Stayed here multiple times and will continue."
United States
Brandon
The price is AU$253
includes taxes & fees
3 Nov - 4 Nov
Lavender Inn by the Sea

7. Harbor House Inn

Harbor House Inn
3.0 star property
West Beach, 2.3 km from The Mesa
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,001 reviews)
"Cozy and cool property just a block away from the harbor. Great location to"
United States
James
The price is AU$260
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Harbor House Inn

8. Casa De La Vina, a ZenStay Hotel

Casa De La Vina, a ZenStay Hotel
4.0 star property
2.2 km from The Mesa
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (233 reviews)
"This property was exactly as advertised. Very clean, very private, in a perfect location for everything Santa Barbara has to offer"
United States
Ryan
The price is AU$329
includes taxes & fees
29 Nov - 30 Nov
Casa De La Vina, a ZenStay Hotel

9. Inn By The Harbor

Inn By The Harbor
3.5 star property
West Beach, 1.9 km from The Mesa
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,959 reviews)
"Really enjoyed my stay. Lovely helpful staff. Great location to walk to the Beach and restaurants."
United Kingdom
Tricia
The price is AU$354
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Inn By The Harbor

10. La Playa Inn

La Playa Inn
2.5 star property
West Beach, 2.2 km from The Mesa
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,001 reviews)
"Amazing stay and great location!"
United States
Nick
The price is AU$297
includes taxes & fees
29 Nov - 30 Nov
La Playa Inn

11. Casa Del Mar Inn

Casa Del Mar Inn
3.0 star property
West Beach, 2.4 km from The Mesa
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,001 reviews)
"Amazing place and wonderful staff!"
United States
Tzu-ying
The price is AU$242
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Casa Del Mar Inn

12. West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel

West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel
3.0 star property
West Beach, 2.3 km from The Mesa
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,121 reviews)
"Amazing place to stay!"
United States
Amanda
The price is AU$329
includes taxes & fees
18 Nov - 19 Nov
West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel

13. Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
4.0 star property
Lower State, 2.5 km from The Mesa
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"Great location. Great staff at desk and valet. Very nice room. We’ll want to stay there again."
United States
John
The price is AU$345
includes taxes & fees
9 Nov - 10 Nov
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

14. The Eagle Inn

The Eagle Inn
3.0 star property
West Beach, 2.3 km from The Mesa
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,001 reviews)
"Great location. Comfortable areas to sit and visit both inside and outside. Excellent breakfast."
United States
Elizabeth
The price is AU$354
includes taxes & fees
30 Nov - 1 Dec
The Eagle Inn

15. Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach
3.5 star property
West Beach, 2.1 km from The Mesa
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,467 reviews)
"Very clean , staff was great.loved the room. We would stay there again."
United States
David
The price is AU$398
includes taxes & fees
9 Nov - 10 Nov
Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

16. Haley Hotel

Haley Hotel
3.5 star property
Lower State, 2.7 km from The Mesa
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (716 reviews)
"Great place and walking distance to fun bars"
United States
Rodney J
The price is AU$222
includes taxes & fees
30 Nov - 1 Dec
Haley Hotel

17. Mason Beach Inn

Mason Beach Inn
3.0 star property
West Beach, 2.2 km from The Mesa
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,003 reviews)
"We had a great stay!"
Canada
Sandy Lyne
The price is AU$320
includes taxes & fees
29 Nov - 30 Nov
Mason Beach Inn

18. Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach
2.0 star property
East Beach, 4.6 km from The Mesa
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,525 reviews)
"Great location and cute decor"
United States
Kellie
The price is AU$194
includes taxes & fees
16 Nov - 17 Nov
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

19. Casa Jardin, a ZenStay Hotel

Casa Jardin, a ZenStay Hotel
3.0 star property
Laguna, 3.1 km from The Mesa
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (321 reviews)
"Very clean and neat room for a few nights stay and convenience to a lot of places within walking distance."
United States
Isaac
The price is AU$284
includes taxes & fees
30 Nov - 1 Dec
Casa Jardin, a ZenStay Hotel

20. Casa Iglesia, a ZenStay Hotel

Casa Iglesia, a ZenStay Hotel
4.5 star property
Oak Park, 3 km from The Mesa
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (85 reviews)
"We loved our stay! The aesthetics were on point, and we really appreciated all the name-brand touches, from the Crate & Barrel sofa and CB2 dishes to the TOTO toilet. Everything had a beautiful, high-end feel. The location was nice and quiet, and free parking was a huge plus!"
United States
Mia
The price is AU$295
includes taxes & fees
30 Nov - 1 Dec
Casa Iglesia, a ZenStay Hotel
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.

Compare popular hotels in The Mesa

Property
Property class
Guest rating
Breakfast included
Pool
Spa
Pet-friendly
WiFi included
A marina with boats docked, palm trees, and a building labeled "Sea Landing."
West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel
3.0 star property
9.4
Exceptional
1,121 reviews
View
A multi-story hotel with a sign reading "LA PLAYA INN Santa Barbara, California".
La Playa Inn
2.5 star property
9.6
Exceptional
1,001 reviews
View
A multi-story building with a curved entrance, palm trees, and a staircase leading to the entrance.
Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach
3.5 star property
9.4
Exceptional
1,467 reviews
View
A large, two-story building with a tiled roof, surrounded by palm trees and a well-maintained garden.
Inn By The Harbor
3.5 star property
9.2
Wonderful
1,959 reviews
View
A spacious interior with high ceilings, wooden beams, and a central column.
Hotel Santa Barbara
4.0 star property
9.4
Exceptional
1,553 reviews
View

Our guide on where to stay in The Mesa

Find the best The Mesa areas for the activities you enjoy most.

Santa Barbara Beach

Santa Barbara Beach is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights area like Stearns Wharf and West Beach.

Montecito

The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Montecito. A stop by Miramar Beach or Butterfly Beach might round out your trip.

Downtown Santa Barbara

The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Downtown Santa Barbara. A stop by Lobero Theater or Presidio Santa Barbara might round out your trip.

West Beach

If you're spending some time in West Beach, Santa Barbara Harbor and West Beach are top sights worth seeing.

East Beach

East Beach is beloved for its stunning beaches. Take some time to explore sights in the area like East Beach and Santa Barbara Zoo.

Top The Mesa Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in The Mesa

Frequently asked questions

What other neighbourhoods are similar to The Mesa?
While The Mesa offers a unique blend of quiet residential living with stunning views, for a similar experience, you might consider the Upper East or Upper West areas in Santa Barbara.

The Upper East is particularly comparable, known for its grand, historic homes and tree-lined streets. It's a very quiet and established residential area, offering a tranquil retreat while still being conveniently close to the city centre. The Santa Barbara Mission, a key landmark, is situated in this neighbourhood, and its surrounding grounds provide lovely spaces for a stroll. Couples looking for a peaceful and elegant stay will find the Upper East appealing, with its beautiful architecture and proximity to refined dining options.

The Upper West also provides a relaxed residential feel, though with a slightly more lively mix of homes and a less formal atmosphere than the Upper East. It's known for its proximity to the Douglas Family Preserve, a large open space offering expansive ocean views and walking trails, great for those who enjoy outdoor activities.
What are the best hotels in The Mesa that travellers recommend?
For excellent hotels in The Mesa that travellers frequently recommend, consider the Simpson House Inn, Palihouse Santa Barbara, and Hotel Californian.

The Simpson House Inn, with an exceptional 9.8 rating, is often praised for its wonderful breakfast and delicious food. Guests also highlight the excellent and friendly staff, and the cosy rooms. Amenities include designer toiletries, massage services, climate control cooling, and fireplaces, with some minibars offering a selection of complimentary items. It is conveniently located near the Alice Keck Memorial Garden, just 0.2 km away, and the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, 0.7 km away.

Another highly recommended option is the Palihouse Santa Barbara, which boasts an impressive 9.6 rating. Travellers frequently praise the fantastic and friendly staff, the absolutely beautiful and spacious rooms, and the convenient location. The hotel provides amenities such as Frette Italian Sheets, fireplaces, and designer toiletries. It is situated 0.7 km from the Susan Quinlan Doll and Teddy Bear Museum and 0.5 km from De la Guerra Plaza.

The Hotel Californian, with a strong 9.2 rating, is also a superb choice. Guests consistently mention the superb location, amazing service, and friendly staff. The beautiful and great rooms feature comfortable beds, designer toiletries, and premium bedding. This hotel offers a winery with a tasting room and private tours, as well as a poolside bar and champagne service. It is located 0.9 km from the Santa Barbara Carriage Museum and 1.1 km from De la Guerra Plaza.
What are the best family hotels in The Mesa?
For a family-friendly stay in The Mesa, consider The Milo, Hotel Californian, or Inn By The Harbor.

The Milo, with an 8.4 rating, is an excellent choice for families. It offers amenities such as free cribs, a pool, a playpen for children, and beach toys. The hotel is conveniently located near the ocean and beach, with many rooms offering an ocean view or direct beach access. Guests frequently praise its superb location, friendly staff, and comfortable rooms. Leadbetter Beach is just 1.3 km away.

Another highly-rated option is the Hotel Californian, which boasts an impressive 9.2 rating. This hotel provides a children's club, complimentary cribs, and games for children. Families will appreciate the pool and the option of valet parking. Its location is perfect, and guests consistently highlight the beautiful rooms, comfortable beds, and amazing service.

The Inn By The Harbor, rated 9.2, is also a great option for families. It offers free cribs, rollaway extra beds, and a pool. A complimentary continental breakfast is included, and guests often comment on the spacious, clean rooms and friendly staff. It is conveniently located just 0.1 km from the Santa Barbara Carriage Museum and 1.0 km from Leadbetter Beach.
What are the best rated hotels in The Mesa?
For hotels in The Mesa, consider the Hotel Californian and the Simpson House Inn.

The Hotel Californian, with a 9.2 rating, is highly praised for its beautiful rooms and comfortable beds. Guests frequently mention the amazing service and friendly staff, as well as its great location. Key amenities include air conditioning, designer toiletries, premium bedding, and a poolside bar. It is also conveniently located near attractions such as the Susan Quinlan Doll and Teddy Bear Museum and Leadbetter Beach.

Another excellent choice is the Simpson House Inn, which holds an outstanding 9.8 rating. Guests consistently highlight the excellent and friendly staff, along with the great and wonderful breakfast and delicious food. The rooms are often described as cosy. This hotel offers amenities such as designer toiletries, massage services, and a fireplace. It is also close to points of interest like the Santa Barbara County Courthouse and the Alice Keck Memorial Garden.
What are the best spa hotels in The Mesa?
For excellent spa hotels in The Mesa, consider the Hotel Californian, The Craft House Inn, Harbor View Inn, Simpson House Inn, and Secret Garden Inn and Cottages.

The Hotel Californian, with a 9.2 rating, offers a range of spa treatments including aromatherapy, deep tissue massage, body wraps, and facials. Guests can enjoy the full-service spa with accessible treatment rooms and a steam room. Its convenient location places it just 0.7 km from Santa Barbara Harbor and 1.1 km from De la Guerra Plaza.

The Craft House Inn, rated 9.2, provides an onsite spa with massage services that require advance notice. This hotel also features premium bedding, rainfall showerheads, and fireplaces in the rooms, along with a private chef and champagne service. It is well-situated, being only 0.4 km from Arlington Theater and 0.7 km from Santa Barbara County Courthouse.

The Harbor View Inn, with a 9.2 rating, offers an onsite spa with accessible treatment rooms. Guests can also enjoy the outdoor pool, which includes a poolside bar and a pool hoist. The hotel is conveniently located 0.5 km from Santa Barbara Harbor and 1.3 km from De la Guerra Plaza.

The Simpson House Inn, boasting an outstanding 9.8 rating, provides onsite massage services and complimentary full breakfast. Guests appreciate the free WiFi and free self-parking. This hotel is located 0.6 km from Arlington Theater and 0.7 km from Santa Barbara County Courthouse.

The Secret Garden Inn and Cottages, rated 8.4, features an onsite spa with massage services and complimentary full breakfast. Free WiFi and free self-parking are also provided for guests. It is situated 0.5 km from Santa Barbara Symphony Orchestra and 1.0 km from Arlington Theater.
What hotels in The Mesa offer free breakfast?
In The Mesa, several highly-rated hotels offer complimentary breakfast, including the Marina Beach Motel, Simpson House Inn, Bath Street Inn, Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach, and West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel.

The Marina Beach Motel, with an excellent 9.8 rating, provides a free continental breakfast daily. Guests consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff, as well as the beautiful and clean rooms. It is conveniently located near Leadbetter Beach, just 1.2 km away, and the Santa Barbara Carriage Museum is a short 0.3 km stroll.

For a more luxurious stay, the Simpson House Inn, also rated 9.8, offers a free full breakfast. Guests frequently praise the excellent and friendly staff, and the delicious food. This hotel is well-situated, being only 0.2 km from the Alice Keck Memorial Garden and 0.7 km from the Santa Barbara County Courthouse.

The Bath Street Inn, rated 9.6, also provides a complimentary full breakfast, which guests describe as excellent and delicious. The staff here are often highlighted as amazing. It's located 0.9 km from the Alice Keck Memorial Garden and 1.1 km from the Santa Barbara County Courthouse.

Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach, a property with a 9.4 rating, includes a free continental breakfast. Travellers appreciate the friendly and helpful staff, along with the spacious and clean rooms. This inn is very close to the Santa Barbara Carriage Museum (0.2 km) and 1.1 km from Leadbetter Beach.

Finally, the West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel, with a 9.4 rating, offers a free continental breakfast daily. Its superb location is often mentioned, along with the friendly and helpful staff. It's just 0.4 km from the Santa Barbara Carriage Museum and 1.1 km from Leadbetter Beach.
What are the top pet-friendly hotels in The Mesa?
For top pet-friendly hotels in The Mesa, consider the Palihouse Santa Barbara, Haley Hotel, Riviera Beach House, The Franciscan Hotel, or Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG.

The Palihouse Santa Barbara, with an outstanding 9.6 rating, is an excellent choice for pet owners. It permits pets, provides food and water bowls, and even offers pet-sitting services and a dog exercise area. Guests frequently praise the fantastic staff, the absolutely beautiful and big rooms, and the convenient location, which is just 0.7 km from the Susan Quinlan Doll and Teddy Bear Museum.

Another great option is the Haley Hotel, rated 8.8. This hotel welcomes both dogs and cats and features a dedicated dog exercise area. Its location is highly rated, being only 0.7 km from the Susan Quinlan Doll and Teddy Bear Museum and 0.5 km from De la Guerra Plaza.

The Riviera Beach House, with an 8.4 rating, is also a good choice for pet owners. It permits dogs only and provides food and water bowls. It is conveniently located 1.7 km from Leadbetter Beach and 0.8 km from the Santa Barbara Carriage Museum.

The Franciscan Hotel, with a 9.4 rating, is another highly recommended pet-friendly hotel. It permits dogs only and offers food and water bowls, free toiletries, and free self-parking. Guests often highlight the spacious and clean rooms and the great location, being just 0.3 km from the Santa Barbara Carriage Museum.

Finally, the Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG, rated 8.8, is also a fantastic pet-friendly option. It permits pets and offers food and water bowls, with the added benefit of pets staying for free. This hotel is very close to the Susan Quinlan Doll and Teddy Bear Museum, only 0.2 km away.
What are the top boutique hotels in The Mesa?
For a top boutique hotel in The Mesa, consider the Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Downtown, which has an 8.8 rating.

Guests frequently highlight the hotel's great location and the excellent, friendly staff. The rooms are often described as nice and clean, with good water pressure in the showers. Key amenities include an outdoor pool, a poolside bar, and accessible parking options, including an electric car charging station. The hotel is conveniently close to several points of interest, such as the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, just 0.8 km away, and the Arlington Theater, only 0.4 km distant.
What are the most romantic hotels in The Mesa for couples?
For couples seeking a romantic getaway in The Mesa, highly-rated options include the Simpson House Inn, Harbor House Inn, and Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages.

The Simpson House Inn, with an exceptional 9.8 rating, offers a luxurious and intimate experience. Guests consistently praise the excellent and friendly staff, the great and wonderful breakfast, and the delicious food. The rooms are described as cosy, and some even feature a furnished balcony with mountain views, superb for a romantic evening. The hotel is conveniently located near the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, just 0.7 km away, and the Arlington Theater, 0.6 km away.

Another excellent choice for couples is the Harbor House Inn, boasting a 9.6 rating. This inn is ideally situated near the ocean and beach, with Santa Barbara Harbor only 0.4 km away. Guests frequently praise the superb and great location, the clean and good rooms, and the excellent and friendly staff. The hotel also provides free bicycles, ideal for exploring the scenic surroundings. Some rooms even include a private indoor hot tub for added indulgence.

The Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages, also with a 9.6 rating, provides a delightful setting for couples. Guests frequently highlight the great and delicious breakfast, the comfortable and clean rooms, and the excellent food. The location is described as nice and quiet, and the staff are consistently noted as great and amazing. Many rooms feature a furnished balcony or patio, offering a private space to relax. The hotel is located 0.9 km from the Santa Barbara County Courthouse and 0.6 km from the Arlington Theater.
What are the best hotels in The Mesa near Stearns Wharf?
When looking for hotels in The Mesa near Stearns Wharf, the Beachside Inn and the Haley Hotel are both highly rated options for travellers.

The Beachside Inn, with an excellent 9.0 rating, is a great choice, especially for families. It offers a variety of pool amenities, including an outdoor heated pool and sun loungers. Guests frequently mention the nice, clean rooms and the great breakfast. The hotel is conveniently located near Leadbetter Beach and just a short distance from the Santa Barbara Carriage Museum.

Another highly-rated option is the Haley Hotel, which has an 8.8 rating. This hotel provides toys for children, including beach toys, and offers accessible and self-parking options. Visitors often highlight its excellent location and the quiet, comfortable rooms.
When is the best time to go to The Mesa?
The best time to go to The Mesa is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) months.

These periods offer pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures and less chance of the summer crowds, making it ideal for exploring the area's natural beauty and attractions. You'll find it easier to book your preferred accommodation and dining experiences without as much competition.

For those looking to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the coastline, spring is particularly appealing when the wildflowers are in bloom and the air is clear. Couples often find this a romantic time to visit, with opportunities for scenic drives and relaxed evenings.

Families might prefer the early autumn when the ocean temperatures are still warm enough for swimming, and the summer rush has subsided, offering a more relaxed beach experience.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline − this is often within 24 to 48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable booking, it might still be possible to receive a refund if you cancel it within 24 hours of booking. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use our 'Fully refundable property' filter during your search to find the right The Mesa hotel for you.
How can I save on a hotel booking in The Mesa with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia's free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on The Mesa hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in The Mesa?
Hotel prices in The Mesa often vary, but you can find a great deal on Expedia. Different factors affect nightly hotel rates, such as the time of year or the days of the week you want to book. To find the best deals for your stay, be flexible with your dates and sort search results by 'Price: low to high' for our cheapest rates.

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