Though it has picturesque scenery, ocean views, and plenty of sunshine all year long, Santa Barbara is much more than just another coastal beach town. This Southern California gem boasts historic charm, impressive sights, and a booming food and wine scene that all make it stand out as an idyllic vacation destination. But now for the important part: where to stay in Santa Barbara?

While the top hotels in Santa Barbara each offer a slightly different experience, don’t expect a stay to feel stuffy. The area’s laid-back vibe extends to nearly all of the beautiful hotels in Santa Barbara, where luxury, sophistication, convenience, and “California cool” sensibilities combine for the ultimate coastal getaway. From luxury resorts to boutique hotels, here are the best places to stay in Santa Barbara.

Beachfront Luxury

Want to wake up to the sounds of the Pacific Ocean? Savor a delicious meal just steps from the sand? These luxury hotels in Santa Barbara promise to make your travel experience effortlessly relaxing, with an extra dose of coastal sophistication.

Rosewood Miramar Beach

Just south of Santa Barbara in Montecito is Rosewood Miramar Beach, a beautiful coastal getaway that shines with Gatsby-esque glamour and an upscale, yet relaxed vibe. Here, it’s easy to feel like you’re on vacation, whether lounging beside one of the two pools, playing bocce with cocktail in hand, or enjoying locally-made ice cream with your feet in the sand. In true resort fashion, Rosewood Miramar Beach offers multiple dining options (including the One Michelin Star Caruso’s), as well as a spa, fitness center, and 24-hour in-room dining. But the star of the show? The 26 beachfront rooms with private balconies, where you can fall asleep to the sound of the waves crashing.

Visit: 1759 S. Jameson Lane, Montecito, CA 93108
Contact: (805) 900-8388

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara

Located on 78 acres along a secluded stretch of coastline in Goleta, the recently refreshed The Ritz-Carlton Bacara delights with its oceanfront setting, picturesque pools, multiple restaurants, and Mediterranean charm. Rooms and suites include private patios or balconies (some offering a glimpse of the Pacific), while amenities are designed to ensure a stay feels special. However you choose to fill your days, don’t miss a visit to the spa for luxurious skin and body treatments. Its Eucalyptus steam rooms, saunas, spa pool, and rooftop sun deck only add to the blissful experience.

Visit: 8301 Hollister Avenue, Santa Barbara, CA 93117
Contact: (805) 968-0100

Hillside Retreats

Want the five star treatment, away from the hustle and bustle? Look no further than these elegant resorts tucked into the surrounding hills of Santa Barbara, where you’ll find the perfect blend of luxury and privacy.

San Ysidro Ranch

Don’t be fooled by the rustic nature of this Montecito retreat—San Ysidro Ranch is very much a luxury hotel. A go-to for the Hollywood elite, this storied property has been a top destination for sophisticated travelers for over a century. Today, San Ysidro Ranch charms with its 38 private cottages, each boasting four-poster King beds, fireplaces, and creekside patios—some even with private hot tubs and outdoor showers. On property, you’ll find picturesque gardens, a serene pool, and even a speakeasy-style bar. During a stay, definitely make time to dine at the restaurant, The Stonehouse—not only for the seasonal fare and impressive wine list, but also for the dreamy atmosphere and ocean views.

Visit: 900 San Ysidro Lane, Santa Barbara, CA 93108
Contact: (800) 368-6788

El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel

Timeless luxury is evident at El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, situated on Santa Barbara’s Riviera. While only minutes from downtown Santa Barbara, the secluded location of the hotel promotes an overall feeling of relaxation and ease, with the added bonus of sweeping views of the city below. You’ll love spending your days getting pampered at the spa, lounging beside the pool, noshing on seasonal fare at the restaurant, and meandering around the lushly landscaped property. It all adds up to a tranquil retreat you’re sure to love.

Visit: 800 Alvarado Place, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Contact: (805) 845-5800

Waterfront Getaways

Santa Barbara’s vibrant Waterfront neighborhood is a desirable place to stay, offering easy access to the beach, harbor, Stearns Wharf, and waterfront restaurants. It’s a great home base for soaking up the sun and diving into the area’s many ocean and beachside activities.

Hotel Californian

Celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, the 121-room Hotel Californian is conveniently located across the street from Stearns Wharf and steps from the lively Funk Zone neighborhood. Blending Spanish Colonial Revival architecture with Moroccan-inspired details, this stylish property feels equal parts exotic and glamorous. The vision of celebrity designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard, all of the communal spaces and guest rooms shine with custom furnishings and thoughtful touches. While the hotel’s proximity to downtown and the Waterfront is a major draw, standout amenities—including a Turkish-inspired spa, on-site restaurant, tasting rooms, and a rooftop pool—make the Hotel Californian a destination in its own right.

Visit: 36 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Contact: (805) 882-0100

Harbor View Inn

Ideally located along Cabrillo Boulevard, moments from Stearns Wharf and Santa Barbara’s pristine beaches, the family-friendly Harbor View Inn makes for an easy-breezy coastal escape. The property features 134 guest rooms and 15 spacious suites, many with private balconies and views of the Pacific. In-room perks like Keurig coffeemakers and sunken tubs add homey indulgences, while on-site amenities—including a pool and kiddie pool, poolside bar, sauna, restaurant, and coffee shop—make it easy to relax and stay entertained. Best of all, you’re just a short stroll from beach volleyball, the Sea Center aquarium, and the buzz of the Funk Zone.

Visit: 28 West Cabrillo Boulevard, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Contact: (800) 755-0222 

Downtown Santa Barbara Getaways

Staying in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara puts you just steps from boutique shops, acclaimed restaurants, vibrant art galleries, and the city’s iconic farmers’ market. These downtown escapes overdeliver with their mix of luxury and location.

Palihouse Santa Barbara

Drawing on the contemporary sophistication of other Palihouse properties, Palihouse Santa Barbara is an inviting (and pet-friendly!) retreat in downtown Santa Barbara. Each of the 24 rooms is thoughtfully appointed with luxury details to make a stay feel extra cozy—think fireplaces, Italian linens, and deep soaking tubs. Despite its small size, there are plenty of hotel amenities to enjoy, from complimentary Linus bikes to room service and even a pool with cabanas. This intimate hideaway is a great choice for discerning travelers who prefer boutique charm over sprawling resorts, without feeling like they’re giving up the deluxe treatment.

Visit: 915 Garden Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Contact: (805) 564-4700

Kimpton Canary

Situated right in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, steps from State Street’s shops and restaurants, the Kimpton Canary Hotel stands out with its Spanish architecture and elegant interiors. Here, stylish guest rooms blend comfort and contemporary design, along with pet-friendly perks for your four-legged travel companions. Outside of the rooms, guests can enjoy seasonal cuisine and craft cocktails at the hotel’s restaurant, Finch & Fork, plus a regular lineup of events—from rooftop yoga to pop-ups with local makers. A highlight of a stay is certainly spending time at the rooftop pool, where 360 degree city views provide the perfect backdrop for a sunset swim.

Visit: 31 West Carrillo, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Contact: (805) 884-0300

Historic Appeal

Step back in time at these historic getaways, where vintage charm meets modern comfort. With timeless architecture, central locations, and thoughtful amenities, these properties promise to delight from check-in to check-out.

Montecito Inn

Originally built in 1928 by film legends Charlie Chaplin and Roscoe Arbuckle, the Montecito Inn remains a cherished landmark in the heart of Montecito. Showcasing classic Mediterranean Revival architecture, the Inn pairs elegant yet inviting accommodations with a prime location close to some of the area’s best boutiques and beaches. The Inn is also a draw for discerning diners, as it’s steps from popular Montecito restaurants, including its own on-site spots: Sushi Bar by Scratch and Lion’s Tale cocktail lounge.

Visit: 1295 Coast Village Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Contact: (800) 843-2017

Simpson House Inn

Just two blocks from State Street near Alice Keck Memorial Park, Simpson House Inn is a tranquil retreat moments from downtown Santa Barbara’s shops and restaurants. This adults-only boutique hotel is set on a lush acre of award-winning English gardens, and centered around a beautifully preserved Victorian manor, built in 1874. With just 15 rooms spread across the Manor, Carriage Barn, and English Cottages, expect a stay to feel intimate and personalized. Perks like gourmet breakfast, afternoon wine and hors d’oeuvres, and evening desserts only add to the experience.

Visit: 121 East Arellaga Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Contact: (805) 963-7067

Goleta Charmers

Santa Barbara’s sister city, Goleta, is known for its relaxed pace, bike-friendly streets, and abundance of natural open spaces. Staying here puts you close to the Santa Barbara Airport and UC Santa Barbara, with easy access to downtown Santa Barbara or Wine Country.

The Steward

Just minutes from the Santa Barbara Airport, The Steward Santa Barbara—a Tribute Portfolio Hotel—offers far more than your typical airport stay. Set on 4.67 acres of historic land once home to the Sexton House, a landmark horticulturist estate, this all-suite property in Goleta feels like a true retreat. Here, you can enjoy resort-style amenities, including a heated pool with cabanas, complimentary bikes, a yoga lawn, fire pits, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. Spacious suites feature sitting areas, mini fridges, and coffee makers, making it easy to settle in for a while. The hotel also embraces sustainability, with water refill stations, organic bath products, and food waste recycling integrated into the guest experience.

Visit: 5490 Hollister Avenue, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Contact: (805) 683-6722

The Leta

With its hip, easygoing vibe and accessible price point, The Leta has become a go-to home base for savvy travelers. This boutique roadside inn features stylish, pet-friendly rooms along with amenities such as a fitness center, bar, and restaurant featuring regular live music. At the heart of it all is the inviting outdoor pool—a true centerpiece of the property. Time your visit right and you’ll be sipping cocktails poolside after a long day of exploring (food and beverage service is available from June through September). Of course, there’s nothing wrong with visiting in the winter months, when the lobby fireplace makes for a cozy spot to hang.

Visit: 5650 Calle Real, Goleta, CA 93117
Contact: (805) 964-6241

Honorable Mentions