Santa Barbara

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Photo of Santa Barbara
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About Santa Barbara

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.

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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!

The best places to stay in Santa Barbara

For families at the seaside

  • Rosewood Miramar Beach is a striking, family-friendly hotel set right on the beach. With a specially-tailored kids' programme, kids' menus, games and specific spa treatments, this is an absolute family favourite. Expect luxurious contemporary design, innovative cocktails at three bars, an excellent spa and lots of beach activities. Glorious.
  • Santa Barbara Inn is a chic, Mediterranean-style gem just moments from the beach. Interiors are spacious and elegant, with a restful white-and-cream palette. Family suites are ideal for those travelling with little ones, who will adore the two pools. The Italian food is top-notch, and the sea views breathtaking.
  • Hotel Milo is a vibrant beach hotel with heaps of activities for the whole family. The vibe is lovely and laid-back, and the decor fresh and nautical, with splashes of bright blue. A fun pick for active family holidays, with attractive cabanas, two pools and a hot tub. There's a great choice of nearby eateries.

For romance

  • Kimpton Canary Hotel offers lavish suites in a historic downtown property. Generously-proportioned rooms feature chic, classic decor, as well as stunning sea views. Highlights include the rooftop pool and the fantastic Finch & Fork restaurant, specialising in local produce. A sophisticated city centre choice for grown-up glamour.
  • Hideaway Santa Barbara is a chic, blue-painted boutique bolthole with nine impeccably-appointed rooms. Pick this place for its fresh feel, soothing blue-and-white palette, and spacious marble bathrooms. Little balconies are a wonderful addition, as are the homemade cookies. West Beach is within walking distance. Very romantic!
  • Hotel Californian is an opulent designer bolthole, showcasing swish Riviera style through monochrome patterns and appealing attention to detail in sumptuous bedrooms, as well as Moroccan tiles in luxe bathrooms. Moments from the beach and boasting a celebrated spa, this is a super exclusive coastal choice for refined, romantic travellers.

For a downtown stay

  • The Upham is the oldest operating hotel in Southern California. It now offers elegant, well-priced rooms in a pretty Victorian building and collection of cottages. Cosy and ideally location for discovering the downtown area on foot. A charming, historic choice with great family suite options.
  • Haley Hotel offers 17 nautically-themed rooms in a lovely downtown B&B. Stay here for the relaxed, sociable vibe — great for meeting other guests in communal areas. Rooms are simple and stylish, and there are fun board games — including giant chess — to play on the terrace. Very chilled!
  • The Wayfarer is a trendy, modern spot in the city's central Funk Zone. Industrial-style interiors are bold and quirky, there's a lively games room, great communal areas, and adaptable spaces for groups or families. A laid-back, youthful choice for creative-minded travellers.

For a charming inn

  • Simpson House Inn is a Victorian mansion-turned-B&B, set in an acre of glorious English gardens. Accommodation is elegant and classic in style, breakfasts are gourmet and every evening there's wine tasting and hors d'oeuvres for all. An intimate choice for tranquil travellers.
  • Inn on Summerhill promises sixteen comfortable rooms in a quirky, Craftsman property. Think distinctive wooden ceilings, four-poster beds and roaring fireplaces. Contemporary decor in a traditional building. An intimate pick for couples, with sea or garden views.
  • Cheshire Cat is a Victorian B&B with tastefully-decorated rooms — some of which feature whirlpool baths! Cosy beds are topped with patterned quilts, and there are armchairs aplenty for curling up in front of the fire. A charming spot for exploring the city and the coast, both of which are within easy reach.
  • The Eagle Inn is an attractive, family-run base featuring period furnishings in 37 comfortable rooms. Children are welcome, there are stacks of nearby activities, and both the harbour and the city centre are within walking distance. A relaxed inn, tucked inside a gorgeous building. Great for families!

For a luxury resort

  • Four Seasons The Biltmore promises historic glamour in a collection of Spanish Colonial villas and bungalows, set across 22 acres of lush gardens bordering the Pacific. An indulgent American Riviera resort, the hotel features three superb restaurants, a fabulous spa and loads of activities for the whole family. An opulent seafront pick.
  • Bacara Resort & Spa boasts a beautiful oceanfront setting, 15 minutes along the coast from Santa Barbara. Expect wooden beams and stylish blue-and-white interiors in whitewashed buildings, a superb spa, as well as tennis, golf, kayakng and a lovely kids' club. A luxurious family choice, with wellness and style at its heart. The Catalonian restaurant is a highlight!
  • San Ysidro Ranch is nestled amidst 500 acres in the Montecito foothills, with dramatic views over the Pacific. Join a growing list of illustrious past guests — including the likes of JFK and Laurence Olivier — as you unwind in gorgeous rooms with muslin-draped four poster beds, feast on gourmet cuisine and try myriad activities — from golf to trekking, yoga or cycling. The cottages are brilliant for families, and kids will love the range of things to do. An old-school ranch retreat.
  • Belmond El Encanto is an iconic Santa Barbara resort, with elegant suites and bungalows dotted around seven acres of verdant gardens, minutes from the beach and the Pacific Ocean. Live out your swish Riviera dreams in the gorgeous infinity pool, enjoy rejuvenating treaments at the soothing spa, and savour sublime fare at the resort's restaurants. A glittering Hollywood hideaway, perfect for a dream honeymoon.

For an apartment or holiday villa

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

  • Fly to Santa Barbara Airport, just seven miles west of the city centre and easily accessible by bus or taxi. For international arrivals, travel to Los Angeles International Airport, hopping aboard the Airbus shuttle to Santa Barbara.
  • California is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • A year-round destination, Santa Barbara is especially busy during the summer months. Time your trip for the spring (March - May) or autumn (September - November) for fewer crowds, cooler temperatures and great hotel offers.

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The best hotels in Santa Barbara

The Eagle Inn
The Eagle Inn

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.

  • Local exploring - The inn’s proximity to both the harbour and downtown make it perfect for discovering the sights of Santa Barbara
  • Honeymoons - There are various romantic getaway specials for honeymoon couples
  • Sights nearby - Visit the historic Santa Barbara Missions, the oldest Mission in California
  • Sailing - Enjoy a coastal Cruise and sunset cruise from Santa Barbara harbour
from AU$223 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Bath Street Inn
Bath Street Inn

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!

  • Romantic Break - Open air concerts at the intimate Santa Barbara Bowl with balmy nights of music under the stars
  • Beach Life - Stunning sandy beaches and a gorgeous Mediterranean climate make for a relaxing stay
  • Active Holiday - Rock climbing, hiking, biking, surfing, sailing - a haven for outdoor enthusiasts
  • Sights nearby - Santa Barbara's electric shuttle takes you to the waterfront for shopping, whale watching or a sunset cruise
from AU$238 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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The Wayfarer
The Wayfarer

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.

  • Beach Life - Enjoy activities from beach volleyball, kite flying, swimming, fishing, biking, picnicking, and whale-watching on the beaches
  • Local exploring - Nestled in the Funk Zone, just off Lower State Street, this is the perfect spot for checking out the best of Santa Barbara
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor swimming pool
  • Sea Views
from AU$291 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Cheshire Cat
Cheshire Cat

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.

  • Sights nearby - Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is a great place to hear more about the area and nature.
  • Fishing - Head to the pier and let out a line.
  • Great walks - Along the ocean front.
  • Boutique
from AU$308 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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The Upham
The Upham

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.

  • Great walks - 5-minute drive to the beach and Stearns Wharf.
  • Restaurant
  • Sea Views
  • Boutique
from AU$337 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Haley Hotel
Haley Hotel

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.

  • Local exploring - The centrally-located downtown property is walking distance from the city's restaurants, art galleries, markets and beaches
  • Boutique
  • Sights nearby
  • Lively
from AU$366 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Hotel Milo
Hotel Milo

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.

  • Total relaxation - Hit the beach, curl up on a poolside cabana with a good book, relax in the hot tub or enjoy some local wine by the firepit
  • Beach Life - As well as sea views the property is 40m from West Beach and 350m to East Beach, both stretches of beautiful white sand
  • Local markets - Pick up locally sourced food and great wine at one of the city's fantastic farmer's markets
  • Birdwatching - Explore the 42 acre Andree Clark Bird Refuge for birdwatching, hiking and biking
from AU$369 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Santa Barbara Inn
Santa Barbara Inn

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.

  • Families - Spacious suites, family-friendly activites nearby, a pool and the beach on the doorstep — there is something for all the family
  • Local exploring - Perfectly located for discovering the city and the surrounding area from the beach and museums to the vineyards
  • Sights nearby - Santa Barbara Zoo, Stearns Wharf and the Ty Warner Sea Center are all less than two miles away
  • Restaurant - Convivo Restaurant and Bar, specialises in 'Italian nomad' cuisine
from AU$385 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Simpson House Inn
Simpson House Inn

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.

  • Great walks - Check out the extensive gardens of the Santa Barbara Botanical Gardens.
  • Fishing - Go out and do some deep sea fishing with some local experts.
  • Hideaway - A truly quiet and intimate stay.
  • Boutique
from AU$392 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Belmond El Encanto
Belmond El Encanto

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

  • Local exploring - Only 5 minutes' drive from central Santa Barbara, with the Mission, Botanical Gardens and Municipal Golf Course all featuring
  • Beach Life - The hotel has a free shuttle service and electric bikes to reach the Pacific beaches of Santa Barbara
  • Spa breaks
  • Restaurant - Serving seasonal Californian cuisine in a bright dining room or outdoor terrace with unobstructed ocean views
from AU$527 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Inn on Summerhill
Inn on Summerhill

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.

  • Active Holiday - Santa Barbara offers an enormous amount of activites; surfing, kiteboarding, scuba diving, hang-gliding and mountain biking
  • Local exploring - The area has endless things to do for everyone; whale-watch, shop, wine-taste, explore museums, hike or hit the beach
  • Romantic Break - With fireplaces, four poster beds, cosy throws and flat-screen TVs, it may be very difficult to leave the room
  • Sights nearby - Visit Solvang, a quaint Danish village with cobbled streets, indmills, brick sidewalks, and thatched rooftops
from AU$469 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Kimpton Canary Hotel
Kimpton Canary Hotel

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!

  • Great walks - All roads end at State Street and it is worth the stroll through town to get there.
  • Surfing - A popular past time in LA.
  • Fishing - When by the sea.
  • Restaurant
from AU$485 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Ritz Carlton Bacara
Ritz Carlton Bacara

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.

  • Kayaking - Kayaking and Paddle boards are both avaliable to rent.
  • Great walks - Along the coast or through the Med-vibe town Goleta
  • Tennis - Four clay courts to be used by all guests.
  • Restaurant
from AU$539 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Palihouse Santa Barbara
Palihouse Santa Barbara

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.

  • City Style - Blending the comfort of a residence with the cool factor of an on-trend boutique hotel, this is the ultimate home-away-from-home
  • Local exploring - Prime location to walk to Santa Barbara's shops, restaurants, museums & theaters and perfect for wine country day trips
  • Total relaxation - Dreamy little base for sightseeing in the morning and poolside relaxation in the afternoons
  • Restaurant - The property's Garden Cafe is located in the charming courtyard; expect healthy take on brunch classics and fresh lunches
from AU$602 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Hideaway Santa Barbara
Hideaway Santa Barbara

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.

  • Local exploring - Despite feeling wonderful secluded, the excellent location means that all to see and do in Santa Barbara is on your doorstep
  • City Style - The extensive renovation in 2019 means that suites and public areas feel fresh and chic, with the latest technology
  • Sights nearby - Santa Barbara's Funk Zone is known for its vibrant art scene, galleries and cafes; walk just 6 blocks from the property
  • Great walks - Stroll to the harbour to catch a scenic sunset
from AU$608 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Hotel Californian
Hotel Californian

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.

  • Hideaway - With a chic pool, spa and restaurant within the hotel, there is no need to leave this refined beach hideaway
  • Beach Life - Set on one of the most exclusive stretches of seaside in America, this hotel makes a luxury beach break
  • Foodies - Foodies flock to this hotel for its acclaimed Mediterranean-influenced restaurant, Blackbird
  • Surfing - Surf Rincon, one of California's most famous waves; get started with surf lessons, available from a range of local providers
from AU$626 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Four Seasons The Biltmore
Four Seasons The Biltmore

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.

  • Sailing - Santa Barbara Harbour and Waterfront has a lot of sailing opportunities.
  • Great walks - Along Butterfly Beach, or even East Beach just a bit up the coast.
  • Sights nearby - Stearns Wharf nearby for art galleries, restaurants and bars.
  • Fishing - Readily avaliable at the local harbour or ask at reception.
from AU$992 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
San Ysidro Ranch
San Ysidro Ranch

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.

  • Great walks - Explore the grounds.
  • Restaurant
  • Boutique
  • Swimming Pool
from AU$1069 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Rosewood Miramar Beach
Rosewood Miramar Beach

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.

  • Beach Life - Take advantage of the hotel's complimentary chairs & umbrellas, beach butler, beach toys and sports activity equipment
  • Families - From children's spa services, beach games, kids menus and a special tailored program, children will not be kept busy!
  • Total relaxation - Relax in the spa, by the pool or on the beach
  • Spa - Sense spa the only Forbes Five-Star spa in Santa Barbara. Treatments focus on healing traditions and using native plants
from AU$1102 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees