15 Best Hotels in Santa Barbara (CA)

Nestled along the stunning Pacific coastline, Santa Barbara, California, boasts a rich history and an inviting blend of Spanish colonial heritage and vibrant modern culture. Known as the “American Riviera” for its Mediterranean climate, this picturesque city has long attracted travelers seeking sunshine, serene landscapes, and an escape from bustling city life. Santa Barbara’s early roots trace back to the Chumash people, and its architectural charm is heavily influenced by the Spanish colonists who arrived in the 18th century. Today, with a population of approximately 91,000 residents, the city remains a small but highly sought-after destination.

Santa Barbara is famous for its stunning beaches, where the mountains meet the sea, creating a breathtaking backdrop for relaxation and adventure. With beaches like East Beach and Butterfly Beach drawing visitors year-round, it’s no wonder this city is popular among beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts alike. The Santa Ynez Mountains provide more than just a stunning view; they offer hiking trails and scenic overlooks that captivate both residents and tourists.

Beyond its natural beauty, Santa Barbara is home to an array of cultural attractions, including the iconic Santa Barbara Mission, the historic Presidio neighborhood, and the lush Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting at one of the many wineries in the Santa Ynez Valley, stroll down State Street for shopping and dining, or explore the vibrant art and music scene that gives the city its dynamic, creative energy. With attractions appealing to a wide range of interests, Santa Barbara is an ideal spot for families, couples, and solo travelers.

Choosing the right place to stay can make a world of difference in experiencing all that Santa Barbara has to offer. From charming boutique inns to luxurious beachfront resorts, the best hotels in Santa Barbara are as diverse as the city itself, offering guests world-class service, comfort, and an unbeatable gateway to the wonders of the American Riviera. Dive into our list of the 15 best hotels in Santa Barbara to find the perfect place to stay for your dream California getaway!

Hotels in Santa Barbara, CA

1. Belmond El Encanto

Perched on the hills with sweeping views of Santa Barbara and the Pacific, Belmond El Encanto has a history dating back to 1918. Originally a series of charming bungalows, this property has hosted everyone from Hollywood stars to honeymooners and maintains a timeless elegance with a strong sense of place. Its architecture is a blend of California craftsman and Spanish colonial styles.

The hotel offers beautifully appointed rooms and suites with luxurious touches, including heated floors and marble baths. The dining experience here is another highlight, with menus inspired by seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The stunning terrace, offering breathtaking views, is a favorite spot for breakfast or sunset cocktails.

Belmond El Encanto’s secluded location, coupled with its exceptional service and amenities, makes it an ideal choice for those seeking privacy, romance, and luxury with a uniquely Santa Barbara charm.

Address:800 Alvarado Pl, Santa Barbara, CA 93103, United States

2. The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

Nestled on 78 acres overlooking the Pacific Ocean, The Ritz-Carlton Bacara blends luxury with the relaxed spirit of the California coast. Originally built as a luxury escape for Hollywood elites, it has evolved into a premier destination for those seeking a blend of opulence and tranquility. With Spanish colonial architecture, manicured gardens, and private beach access, this property immerses guests in both luxury and nature.

The hotel features world-class amenities, including three infinity-edge pools, a renowned 42,000-square-foot spa, and multiple dining options that emphasize local flavors and sustainable ingredients. The Ritz-Carlton Bacara’s spacious rooms and suites offer a mix of ocean, garden, or mountain views, each meticulously designed to provide comfort and style.

Guests often praise the resort for its attentive service, stunning location, and exceptional amenities. Its proximity to the Santa Ynez wine country also makes it a top choice for wine enthusiasts looking for a coastal getaway combined with fine wine experiences.

Address:8301 Hollister Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93117, United States

3. Rosewood Miramar Beach

Rosewood Miramar Beach offers a glamorous beachfront experience in Montecito, a neighborhood known for its upscale vibe and breathtaking coastline. Opened in 2019, the resort is a modern homage to the iconic Miramar by the Sea hotel that once stood here, bringing an updated elegance to the scenic shoreline. Inspired by classic California style, the resort’s chic bungalows and suites open directly to the sand, giving guests a unique opportunity to stay mere steps from the ocean.

This luxurious property has it all: two swimming pools, a full-service spa, high-end boutiques, and an impressive selection of restaurants and bars, including the ever-popular Caruso’s with its stunning ocean views. Rosewood’s commitment to service and attention to detail shines through, creating an atmosphere of refined relaxation.

With its idyllic beachfront location and impeccable accommodations, Rosewood Miramar Beach appeals to travelers seeking the height of coastal luxury and tranquility.

Address:1759 S Jameson Ln, Montecito, CA 93108, United States

4. Hotel Californian

Located in the vibrant Funk Zone, Hotel Californian combines Moorish-inspired architecture with modern luxury, creating a one-of-a-kind experience that captures the essence of Santa Barbara’s art and culture. Originally opened in 1925 and reimagined in recent years, the hotel celebrates its history with a modern twist. Its intricate tilework, distinctive interiors, and Spanish-influenced design pay homage to California’s rich past.

Hotel Californian’s rooms are spacious and stylish, featuring unique touches like Moroccan tiles, high-end linens, and views of either the ocean or Santa Ynez Mountains. Guests can enjoy the rooftop pool with panoramic views, a world-class spa, and on-site dining at Blackbird, a restaurant that focuses on seasonal, local fare.

The hotel’s prime location near the beach and Santa Barbara’s bustling wine and art districts makes it a top choice for travelers seeking both convenience and luxury with an artistic flair.

Address: 36 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

5. Simpson House Inn

Tucked away in a serene residential area, the Simpson House Inn is an elegant Victorian property that offers a uniquely romantic experience. Built in 1874, it is one of the oldest inns in Santa Barbara and has been beautifully preserved to retain its period charm. The inn’s English-style gardens, historic architecture, and cozy yet luxurious rooms create a sense of timelessness and privacy.

The Simpson House Inn offers guests an intimate experience with individually designed rooms featuring antique furnishings and fireplaces. The inn also provides complimentary breakfast, afternoon wine, and hors d’oeuvres, adding a touch of indulgence to each stay. For ultimate relaxation, guests can unwind in the garden or cozy up by the fire on cooler evenings.

Renowned for its attentive service and intimate setting, the Simpson House Inn is ideal for couples and anyone looking for a quiet, luxurious escape from the everyday.

Address: 121 E Arrellaga St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

6. Harbor View Inn

The Harbor View Inn is an elegant waterfront hotel located across from Santa Barbara’s iconic Stearns Wharf. This family-owned hotel combines luxury and accessibility, making it a favorite among families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Established in the 1980s, the inn has evolved with time, maintaining a modern yet classic ambiance with Spanish-inspired design and spacious accommodations.

Each room at Harbor View Inn is designed with relaxation in mind, featuring private balconies with views of the ocean or mountains, plush bedding, and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a heated outdoor pool, spa, and a selection of on-site dining options, including State Street Coffee and Eladio’s Restaurant, known for its local flavors and oceanfront seating.

With its location just steps from the beach and State Street’s shops and eateries, Harbor View Inn offers guests a perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and charm.

Address: 28 W Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

7. Kimpton Canary Hotel

Kimpton Canary Hotel offers a sophisticated stay in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara. Inspired by the area’s Spanish Colonial heritage, the hotel is designed with wrought iron, tiled staircases, and vibrant Mediterranean colors. Known for its stylish interiors and warm atmosphere, the Kimpton Canary is a boutique hotel that blends luxury with an inviting, laid-back vibe.

The hotel features well-appointed rooms, a stunning rooftop pool with 360-degree city and ocean views, and on-site dining at Finch & Fork, a restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table California cuisine. Guests are welcomed with signature Kimpton perks, including evening wine hours, loaner bikes, and pet-friendly accommodations.

Located within walking distance of top attractions, shops, and restaurants, the Kimpton Canary Hotel provides an ideal base for exploring Santa Barbara’s downtown charm.

Address: 31 W Carrillo St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

8. Santa Barbara Inn

Originally opened in the 1950s and later transformed into a Mediterranean-inspired boutique hotel, the Santa Barbara Inn combines old-world charm with contemporary luxury. Overlooking East Beach, this seaside hotel offers guests a refined, yet relaxed atmosphere where ocean breezes and stunning coastal views are the highlights.

Each room at the Santa Barbara Inn is spacious and elegantly decorated, with private balconies, modern furnishings, and beautiful ocean or garden views. Amenities include a heated pool, on-site dining at the popular Convivo restaurant, which features coastal Italian cuisine, and a fitness center.

With its blend of sophisticated design, impeccable service, and scenic beachfront location, the Santa Barbara Inn is an ideal choice for travelers looking for a serene coastal retreat with easy access to downtown Santa Barbara.

Address: 901 E Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA 93103, United States

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9. Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara

Set along Butterfly Beach in Montecito, Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara is a legendary luxury resort with a history dating back to 1927. Designed in the Spanish Colonial style, the resort is a timeless icon known for its lush gardens, ocean views, and architectural beauty. It has long been a favorite among celebrities and dignitaries seeking a luxurious escape on California’s coast.

The resort’s bungalows and suites are elegantly furnished with classic details and modern touches, offering views of either the garden or ocean. Guests can indulge in world-class amenities, including two swimming pools, a full-service spa, and exclusive access to the Coral Casino Beach and Cabana Club. Dining options are diverse and include Tydes, a restaurant specializing in locally sourced seafood.

A stay at Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore offers the ultimate in California luxury, with seamless service and an unbeatable oceanfront location.

Address: 1260 Channel Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93108, United States

10. Palihouse Santa Barbara

Nestled in Santa Barbara’s historic Presidio neighborhood, Palihouse Santa Barbara stands as a testament to the city’s architectural heritage. Originally constructed in the 1920s as the Santa Barbara School of the Arts, this historic building has been thoughtfully transformed into a sophisticated boutique hotel that perfectly balances its historic charm with modern luxury. The Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, with its distinctive white-washed walls, exposed wooden beams, and traditional tilework, creates an immediate sense of place that captures Santa Barbara’s timeless elegance.

The Palihouse Lobby Lounge and Smith & Tait coffee bar offer intimate spaces for guests to gather, while maintaining the feeling of a private residence rather than a traditional hotel.

What truly sets Palihouse Santa Barbara apart is its ability to create an authentic local experience while providing world-class hospitality. Its location in a quiet residential area offers a peaceful retreat, yet remains just steps away from Santa Barbara’s vibrant downtown scene and historic attractions. The hotel’s thoughtful amenities, including complimentary bicycles for exploring the city and pet-friendly accommodations, combined with its intimate scale and personalized service, have quickly established Palihouse as one of Santa Barbara’s most sought-after luxury accommodations since its recent transformation.

Address: 915 Garden St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

11. Mar Monte Hotel – The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

The Mar Monte Hotel, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, graces Santa Barbara’s East Beach at 1111 East Cabrillo Boulevard. Originally opened in 1931 as the Vista Mar Monte, this historic property underwent a stunning multimillion-dollar renovation in 2020, breathing new life into its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture while preserving its historic charm. The oceanfront location and thoughtful redesign perfectly capture Santa Barbara’s reputation as the American Riviera®.

The 200-room hotel showcases a masterful blend of historic elegance and contemporary coastal style, featuring natural textures, maritime influences, and local artwork throughout. Its two distinctive dining venues РCosta Kitchen & Bar and Caf̩ Lido Рoffer Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with breathtaking ocean views, attracting both travelers and locals seeking an elevated dining experience.

With its prime beachfront location, the Mar Monte provides the perfect balance of relaxation and activity. Guests enjoy access to a heated outdoor pool, modern fitness center, and weekly activities like sunset yoga and wine tastings. The property’s seamless combination of historic character, modern luxury, and genuine hospitality has established it as one of Santa Barbara’s most desirable oceanfront destinations, offering easy access to both the beach and downtown attractions.

Address: 1111 E Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA 93103, United States

12. Montecito Inn

Originally built by Charlie Chaplin in 1928, the Montecito Inn is a boutique hotel that brings old Hollywood charm to Santa Barbara’s upscale Montecito neighborhood. This historic hotel combines elegant vintage decor with modern amenities, creating a sophisticated yet nostalgic experience for its guests.

Rooms at the Montecito Inn are classically designed, with plush bedding, sleek furniture, and tasteful artwork. The hotel also features a heated outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site dining at Coast & Olive, which offers Californian cuisine with an international twist. The property’s history and connection to Charlie Chaplin add a special allure for film buffs and history enthusiasts.

With its unique blend of history, charm, and upscale amenities, the Montecito Inn remains a beloved choice for those seeking an elegant escape near the beach.

Address: 1295 Coast Village Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93108, United States

13. Brisas Del Mar, Inn at the Beach

Just a short walk from the Santa Barbara waterfront, Brisas Del Mar, Inn at the Beach offers guests a cozy, Mediterranean-inspired stay with a laid-back vibe. This charming inn has long been a favorite for its welcoming atmosphere, spacious rooms, and convenient location near both the beach and downtown.

Rooms are designed for comfort, with plush beds, kitchenettes, and private balconies or patios. Guests are treated to a range of complimentary amenities, including breakfast, afternoon wine and cheese, and evening milk and cookies. A heated outdoor pool, jacuzzi, and bike rentals add to the inn’s appeal.

For those seeking an intimate, welcoming stay near the ocean, Brisas Del Mar offers all the comforts of home with a touch of Santa Barbara’s coastal charm.

Address: 223 Castillo St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

14. The Upham Hotel

Founded in 1871, The Upham Hotel is one of California’s oldest continuously operating hotels, offering a timeless experience in a historic Victorian setting. Located in downtown Santa Barbara, the hotel has a charming, homey feel with its vintage decor, beautiful gardens, and traditional clapboard architecture.

The rooms at The Upham Hotel range from cozy standard rooms to luxurious suites, each decorated with a blend of classic and modern touches. Guests can enjoy the complimentary wine reception, continental breakfast, and dining at the renowned Louie’s Restaurant, located on-site. The gardens and patio areas provide peaceful spaces for relaxation.

The Upham Hotel is ideal for those who appreciate history, charm, and a central location within walking distance of many of Santa Barbara’s main attractions.

Address: 1404 De La Vina St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, United States

15. Best Western Plus Pepper Tree Inn

Conveniently located near Santa Barbara’s shopping district, Best Western Plus Pepper Tree Inn is a comfortable and budget-friendly option with a distinctively Californian ambiance. This hotel has been serving guests for over 50 years, with its garden-like setting, Spanish-inspired decor, and focus on affordability making it a popular choice.

The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, featuring private balconies or patios with views of the hotel’s lush gardens or pools. Guests have access to two outdoor pools, a hot tub, and the on-site Treehouse Restaurant, which offers classic American fare. The inn’s relaxed vibe and attentive service make it an enjoyable stay for all types of travelers.

Perfect for families, business travelers, or anyone looking for a comfortable stay without breaking the bank, the Best Western Plus Pepper Tree Inn provides a reliable, relaxing experience.

Address: 3850 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, United States

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Conclusion

Santa Barbara’s top 15 hotels exemplify the perfect blend of Spanish Colonial charm, coastal luxury, and world-class hospitality that defines the American Riviera®. From intimate boutique properties to historic beachfront retreats, each establishment offers its own unique interpretation of Santa Barbara’s legendary grace and beauty. These distinguished properties showcase the city’s finest accommodations, whether nestled in the historic downtown district, positioned along the pristine coastline, or tucked into the scenic foothills.