Santa Barbara is less than 100 miles from Los Angeles, but with its great swathes of sandy beach, lush wineries and gorgeous Spanish colonial-style architecture, it has a totally different vibe. Glitzy and glamorous, this stretch of the American Riviera has long been popular with elegant holidaymakers, and many of the best places to stay of the best places to stay in Santa Barbara are luxurious, super-chic and wonderfully indulgent — just made for romance. Many are pet friendly too! Our recommendations also include some charming inns, perfect for hiding away in tranquil surroundings after exploring the city.
If you're eager to be in the heart of the action, base yourself in downtown Santa Barbara, with the city's top sights right on your doorstep. Highlights include the Museum of Art, the Santa Barbara Museum, the County Courthouse and Stearns Wharf — the oldest continuously operating wharf on the West Coast. Most famous, however, is the fascinating Santa Barbara Mission, a parish church founded in 1786, which features striking architecture and an intriguing insight into the region's past.
Head to The Waterfront for sweeping ocean views and gorgeous beaches, or to the laid-back residential Riviera neighbourhood, where the buzzy centre remains within easy reach. Outdoor adventurers, on the other hand, can pick a spot to stay in Eastside, close to the stunning Los Padres National Forest, brilliant for hiking and exploring. The Botanical Gardens, benefitting from the city's sub-tropical climate, are also well worth visiting, whilst family days out at the Santa Barbara Zoo come highly recommended.
There is excellent food and wine to be enjoyed in the city's trendy bars and spectacular seafood restaurants, too, as well as ample opportunities for terrific shopping. Don't forget to look out for the city's annual culture and history festivals — Santa Barbara celebrates its heritage in epic style. Much of the city's appeal lies in its wonderful climate, which makes it hugely popular with both local and international visitors. The best places in Santa Barbara fill up fast, so book your stay well in advance to avoid missing out!
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Santa Barbara (California)
A charming family-owned hotel set in a quiet residential area but only a moments walk from downtown, the harbour and the beach. Romantic and cosy rooms feature Spanish style decor, whirlpool spa tubs, fireplaces and balconies. Delicious homemade breakfasts are served on the patio. A convivial stay.
Santa Barbara (California)
Close to downtown Santa Barbara, this quaint B&B has a cosy, homely feel with ditsy decor, cute furniture and a library with lovely mountain views. Treats in store include complimentary afternoon tea with homemade cakes and cookies, plus a daily wine and cheese social hour. Charm with a capital C!
Santa Barbara (California)
A modern and creative hotel located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, in the trendy Funk Zone. Rooms have a fun, eclectic vibe with faux fur throws and mermaid wallpaper. Bask under the sun beside the outdoor pool. Perfectly located for exploring downtown Santa Babara. A laidback stay.
Santa Barbara (California)
Victorian B&B welcomes guests with crackling fireplaces, a flower filled garden and private terraces. Natural light floods the comfortable rooms, some have whirlpool tubs. Breakfast in bed, on the terrace or in the garden. A fantastic find in the heart of Santa Barbara. Sea or spa, be sure to visit.
Santa Barbara (California)
Built in 1871, the Upham is the oldest continuously operating hotel in Southern California. This downtown Santa Barbara hotel comes with every modern convenience - while staying true to its historic roots. Rooms are simple, extremely comfortable and elegant. A timeless hotel, in a vibrant city.
Santa Barbara (California)
Nautical-themed 3* hotel located in downtown Santa Barbara, walking distance from the city's beaches and attractions. 17 spacious but simple rooms all face onto a communal yard with outdoor furniture and a relaxed sociable vibe. There is no restaurant but many great options in the neighbourhood.
Santa Barbara (California)
Boutique beach hotel perfection located in Santa Barbara's West Beach. Many of the beautifully decorated and elegant rooms have sea views and there are two swimming pools, a hot tub and cabanas. The neighbourhood is vibrant; sample local wine, explore the local art scene or shop till you drop.
Santa Barbara (California)
An elegant Mediterranean style boutique hotel situated just two minutes from the beach. Rooms are light and spacious with tropical/floral themes and balconies with stunning views of the Pacific or Santa Ynez mountains. Enjoy innovative cocktails and delicious Italian fare on the oceanfront terrace.
Santa Barbara (California)
1874 Victorian Mansion turned B&B amid lush gardens and daily wine hour. Rooms are Victorian, with fireplace, four poster bed, hardwood floors and classic bathtubs. Location is perfect for beach life or relaxing in the garden with a book. Restaurants and galleries are walking distance.
Santa Barbara (California)
Serene hotel with stylish bungalows dotted around the lush 7-acre gardens, minutes from Santa Barbara and the Pacific beaches. The refined rooms are furnished with rich fabrics, and all feature a private balcony or patio. The infinity-pool, spa, and restaurant all boast spectacular ocean views
Santa Barbara (California)
A charming B&B near the beach in Santa Barbara. Craftsman-style architecture makes the property feel unique and homely; relax in the welcoming fireside living room with books and games. 16 beautiful and cosy rooms and suites have distinct wooden ceilings, fireplaces and either sea or garden views.
Santa Barbara (California)
Sun drenched and perfect beachfront site with stunning views, rooftop pool and generously sized rooms. Finch & Fork is all about farmer's market produce, seafood and local wines. Rooftop Perch is ideal for sundowners and light bites. Location is on point with Pacific a bike ride away!
Santa Barbara (California)
A stunning ocean-facing resort 15 minutes from Santa Barbara. Spanish style white washed buildings give a village feel. There are various dining options from fine dining steak to sushi. Rooms and suites are luxuriously appointed plus there's a brilliant spa and activities galore.
Santa Barbara (California)
Boutique hotel with all the trimmings in downtown Santa Barbara. The Spanish colonial mansion provides a perfect setting, think cobbled courtyards, pastel walls & palm-facing balconies. The Garden Cafe, cocktail bar, outdoor courtyard & beautiful pool tick all the boxes. Equal parts cool and cozy.
Santa Barbara (California)
Stylish B&B located walking distance from Santa Barbara's West Beach. 9 elegant rooms have been designed with impeccable taste; nautical hues, working fireplaces, spacious marble bathrooms and plenty of light. Home-made cookies are served daily, as well as breakfast in this home-away-from-home.
Santa Barbara (California)
This exclusive bolt-hole sits on the Santa Barbara coast, a stone's throw from the Pacific Ocean. The hotel's interiors ooze American Riviera style, with monochrome textiles and Mediterranean-style tiles in the urban seaside rooms. A celebrated spa and restaurant complete this VIP escape.
Santa Barbara (California)
The 20 acres of lush garden on the oceanfront give a Mediterranean feel and beautiful Pacific views. The spacious are Spanish-esqe, with fabulous views of garden, sea or pool. Bella Vista offers organic Italian food or seafood at Tydes, with cocktails at Ty Lounge. Loads to do and a brilliant spa.
Santa Barbara (California)
This romantic ranch sits in 500 acres with Pacific Ocean views, a pool and private hot tubs. Cottages and suites are luxurious, intimate and with outdoor rain showers. The Stonehouse uses locally sourced produce. Family and pets are welcome to this adventure haven.
Santa Barbara (California)
A luxury family-friendly hotel situated right on Miramar beach. Rooms are elegant and light with incredible marble bathrooms. Spend a day relaxing by the beach, spa or pool. A choice of three bars serve innovative cocktails and the cuisine is farm-to-table. Beach perfection.
