A coastal town with red-tiled roofs, palm trees, and mountains in the background.

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Our top choices for Historic Downtown Santa Barbara hotels

1. Hotel Santa Barbara

Hotel Santa Barbara
4.0 star property
Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,457 reviews)
"Best place I’ve stayed in Santa Barbara and the location is unmatched!"
United States
Dominique
The price is ₹28,431
₹33,060 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Aug - 11 Aug
Hotel Santa Barbara

2. The Upham Hotel

The Upham Hotel
4.0 star property
Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,029 reviews)
"Great place to stay. Wish we had booked another night or two...property is lovely."
Canada
Michael
The price is ₹21,963
₹25,038 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
The Upham Hotel

3. Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG
4.0 star property
Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"Fantastic hotel in great location. Beautiful roof top pool and walking access to downtown. Really nice hotel."
United States
Paul
The price is ₹33,381
₹42,948 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Aug - 11 Aug
Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

4. Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels

Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels
3.5 star property
Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (469 reviews)
"Great hotel in the heart of Santa Barbara!"
United States
Matthew
The price is ₹27,642
₹31,566 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels

5. Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
4.0 star property
Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,001 reviews)
"Loved this hotel. Great location"
United States
Cayley
The price is ₹26,568
₹30,339 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

6. Haley Hotel

Haley Hotel
3.5 star property
Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (676 reviews)
"awesome stay"
United States
Rey Jacob
The price is ₹17,011
₹20,348 total
includes taxes & fees
26 Aug - 27 Aug
Haley Hotel

7. West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel

West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel
3.0 star property
West Beach, 1.5 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,103 reviews)
"Clean rooms , great breakfast 🍳, nice pool, 🏊‍♀️"
United States
Lorena
The price is ₹26,685
₹30,421 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Aug - 3 Aug
West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel

8. La Playa Inn

La Playa Inn
2.5 star property
West Beach, 1.4 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,002 reviews)
"great place to stay. Excellent location, very helpful staff, will definitely stay here again"
United States
darryl a
The price is ₹25,934
₹29,565 total
includes taxes & fees
26 Aug - 27 Aug
La Playa Inn

9. Inn By The Harbor

Inn By The Harbor
3.5 star property
West Beach, 1.2 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,898 reviews)
"Great location"
United States
Richard
The price is ₹28,862
₹32,959 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Aug - 12 Aug
Inn By The Harbor

10. Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
2.5 star property
West Beach, 1.3 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,348 reviews)
"Great place to stay and great location."
United States
Martin
The price is ₹16,778
₹19,877 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

11. Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach
3.5 star property
West Beach, 1.2 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,408 reviews)
"Great position, friendly staff, property design & appearance great, rooms comfortable"
Australia
David
The price is ₹25,253
₹28,837 total
includes taxes & fees
24 Aug - 25 Aug
Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

12. Casa Riviera

Casa Riviera
4.5 star property
Laguna, 0.6 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (266 reviews)
"Very clean and quiet, great location, easy check-in and out, and extra amenities made the stay very comfortable and enjoyable."
United States
Madelaine
The price is ₹19,646
₹29,484 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Aug - 26 Aug
Casa Riviera

13. Casa Jardin

Casa Jardin
3.0 star property
Laguna, 0.6 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (289 reviews)
"Had a great stay, ideal stay and close to Santa Barbara bowl."
United States
Yessica
The price is ₹14,995
₹24,182 total
includes taxes & fees
26 Aug - 27 Aug
Casa Jardin

14. Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Downtown

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Downtown
3.0 star property
Oak Park, 1.1 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (267 reviews)
"Wonderful place to stay"
United States
Erica
The price is ₹25,729
₹29,331 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Barbara Downtown

15. Best Western Plus Santa Barbara

Best Western Plus Santa Barbara
3.5 star property
Oak Park, 2.1 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,020 reviews)
"Great hotel!"
United States
Yoshiko
The price is ₹15,366
₹17,546 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
Best Western Plus Santa Barbara

16. Marina Beach Hotel

Marina Beach Hotel
3.0 star property
West Beach, 1.4 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,156 reviews)
"Great place to stay!"
United States
Amy
The price is ₹22,906
₹26,113 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
Marina Beach Hotel

17. Lavender Inn by the Sea

Lavender Inn by the Sea
3.5 star property
West Beach, 1.2 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,346 reviews)
"Very nice stay with a great location"
United States
Brian
The price is ₹28,647
₹32,714 total
includes taxes & fees
17 Aug - 18 Aug
Lavender Inn by the Sea

18. Palihouse Santa Barbara

Palihouse Santa Barbara
4.0 star property
0.5 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (429 reviews)
"Wonderful stay - the hotel is unique and centrally located, just a quick walk to the main drag. Room was spacious and very well appointed."
United States
Mary
The price is ₹37,780
₹43,143 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
Palihouse Santa Barbara

19. Hyatt Place Santa Barbara

Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
3.5 star property
5.8 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,133 reviews)
"Super clean and great staff."
United States
Omar
The price is ₹19,431
₹22,864 total
includes taxes & fees
17 Aug - 18 Aug
Hyatt Place Santa Barbara

20. Mason Beach Inn

Mason Beach Inn
3.0 star property
West Beach, 1.4 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,001 reviews)
"Great hotel."
United States
Dayne
The price is ₹30,603
₹35,521 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Aug - 28 Aug
Mason Beach Inn
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 Historic Downtown Santa Barbara

Property
Property class
Guest rating
Breakfast included
Pool
Spa
Pet-friendly
WiFi included
Reception
Hotel Santa Barbara
4.0 star property
9.4
Exceptional
1,457 reviews
View
Lobby
The Upham Hotel
4.0 star property
9.2
Wonderful
1,029 reviews
View
Exterior
Haley Hotel
3.5 star property
8.8
Excellent
676 reviews
View
Outdoor pool, open 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, pool loungers
Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG
4.0 star property
8.8
Excellent
1,000 reviews
View
Shopping centre
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
4.0 star property
8.6
Excellent
1,001 reviews
View

Where to stay in Historic Downtown Santa Barbara

Find the best Historic Downtown Santa Barbara 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 Presidio Santa Barbara or Arlington Theater 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 Santa Barbara Zoo and East Beach.

Top Historic Downtown Santa Barbara Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Historic Downtown Santa Barbara

Exploring Spanish colonial charm in Historic Downtown Santa Barbara

Historic Downtown Santa Barbara, nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara city center, offers a charming blend of history, culture, and entertainment. Stroll through the downtown's picturesque streets and discover a plethora of shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes. Imbibe the lively atmosphere while enjoying live music and dancing at local venues. Don't miss the vibrant festivals that take place throughout the year. With its proximity to the beach, you can also relish in the sun, sand, and surf. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the unique galleries and exhibitions scattered throughout this historic district. Stay in Santa Barbara and immerseyourself in the rich tapestry of its downtown.

Top reasons to visit Historic Downtown Santa Barbara

  • Charming Streets: Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Historic Downtown Santa Barbara and discover a plethora of shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes.
  • Vibrant Atmosphere: Imbibe the lively atmosphere of this area, where you can enjoy live music, dancing, and vibrant festivals throughout the year.
  • Proximity to the Beach: With its close proximity to the beach, you can relish in the sun, sand, and surf while exploring Historic Downtown Santa Barbara.
  • Art Galleries: Art enthusiasts will appreciate the unique galleries and exhibitions scattered throughout this historic district.
  • Rich Cultural Heritage: Immerse yourself in history and culture by visiting attractions such as Presidio Santa Barbara and El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park.

Find your hotel in Historic Downtown Santa Barbara

When it comes to accommodation in Historic Downtown Santa Barbara, you'll find a variety of options to suit your preferences. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly choices, there's something for everyone in this vibrant area.

  • Kimpton Canary Hotel, an IHG Hotel - This 4.0-star rated hotel is known for its proximity to museums, historical sites, theaters, and shopping areas. With beautiful views and access to natural parks, it's a popular choice for those seeking a cultural experience in Santa Barbara.
  • Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton - With a 3.0-star rating, this hotel offers entertainment options, access to natural parks, and is close to the university, museums, and the beach. Its friendly staff and concierge service make it a popular choice for visitors.
  • Haley Hotel - Rated 3.5 stars, this hotel is known for its shopping and dining options, as well as its proximity to the beach and lively music venues. With a vibrant atmosphere and access to art and festivals, it's a great choice for those looking to experience the lively side of Santa Barbara.

Staying in Historic Downtown Santa Barbara offers a unique experience, with its rich history, cultural attractions, and vibrant atmosphere. With a range of hotels to choose from, you'll be able to enjoy the city's museums, theaters, shopping areas, and natural parks with ease. Whether you're interested in history, shopping, or simply enjoying the local culture, Historic Downtown Santa Barbara has something for everyone.

Explore the best places to visit and stay in Historic Downtown Santa Barbara

Historic Downtown Santa Barbara is a vibrant and exciting area with a range of attractions and experiences to offer.

  • Downtown Santa Barbara: This area is a hub of activity, featuring shopping, dining, beaches, bars, live music, cafes, dancing, festivals, and art. It's the perfect place to explore and immerse yourself in the local culture.
  • Presidio Neighborhood: Located just 0.41 km away from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara, this neighborhood offers a similar range of experiences and amenities. It's a great place to shop, dine, enjoy live music, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
  • Laguna: Situated 0.86 km away from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara, Laguna is another fantastic area to visit. With its shopping options, dining establishments, beaches, bars, cafes, festivals, and art scene, there's plenty to see and do here.

Each of these areas provides unique geographic features, landmarks, and local experiences that will make your holiday in Historic Downtown Santa Barbara truly memorable.

Experience the top activities and must-see sights in Historic Downtown Santa Barbara

Historic Downtown Santa Barbara is a vibrant area with a variety of attractions to explore:

  • Presidio Santa Barbara: Immerse yourself in history as you visit this historic fort. Discover the charm of its architecture, explore the surrounding shops and restaurants, or enjoy live music and festivals.
  • El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park: Step back in time and experience the rich history of this tourist precinct. Stroll through beautiful gardens, learn about the area's cultural heritage, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
  • Santa Barbara County Courthouse: Marvel at the stunning architecture of this historic civic government building. Take a guided tour, enjoy panoramic views from the clock tower, or simply relax in the picturesque surroundings.

These attractions offer a unique blend of shopping, dining, beach activities, live music, cafes, dancing, festivals, and art, creating a memorable experience in Historic Downtown Santa Barbara.

How to find great deals and cheap hotels in Historic Downtown Santa Barbara

  • Consider booking your trip during the off-peak season to get better deals on hotels and travel expenses. This is usually between November and March.
  • Look for special packages or promotions that include both accommodation and activities in Historic Downtown Santa Barbara. These can provide additional savings on your overall travel expenses.
  • Take advantage of the search filters on the Expedia website to find hotels that meet your budget requirements. You can filter by price range, amenities, and location to find the best options for your stay.
  • Consider staying in budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels or bed and breakfasts. These can often provide a comfortable stay at a lower cost compared to larger hotels.
  • Consider using public transportation or walking to explore Historic Downtown Santa Barbara. This can save you money on transportation costs and allow you to experience the city on foot.
  • Take advantage of the free or low-cost activities in Historic Downtown Santa Barbara, such as walking along the beach, visiting art galleries, or attending local festivals and live music events.

Discover the flavours of Historic Downtown Santa Barbara

Historic Downtown Santa Barbara offers a delightful dining experience with its local cuisine and unique dishes. Start your culinary journey by visiting Santa Barbara's renowned restaurants, such as Leta Restaurant for its California-inspired dishes and Visit Santa for its innovative and world-class cuisine. Don't miss Taco Tuesday at Sandbar, where you can indulge in delicious tacos.

When it comes to popular restaurants in the neighborhood, Dargan's Irish Pub & Restaurant is a must-visit for its North American fare. Savoy Cafe & Deli also offers delectable North American dishes in a charming setting. For a fusion experience, head to The Blue Owl, which serves Asian and North American cuisines along with mouthwatering sandwiches. Explore Historic Downtown Santa Barbara and satisfy your taste buds with these culinary delights.

Best time to go to Historic Downtown Santa Barbara

Historic Downtown Santa Barbara boasts a year-around average temperature of 15.0°C, peaking at 18.9°C in August, its warmest month, and dipping to an average low of 11.1°C in December, the coolest. Rainfall averages at 36.6mm annually, with February seeing the heaviest showers and June, July, August, September being the driest month.

Monthcalendar iconTemperature (Celcius)temperature iconRainfall (mm)rain icon
January11.288.9
February12.1100.6
March13.180.8
April14.225.4
May15.68.6
June16.90.0
July18.60.0
August18.90.0
September18.30.0
October16.420.6
November13.539.4
December11.174.7

The Historic Downtown Santa Barbara info point: What you need to know

Category
Details
LocationSanta Barbara, California, United States of America
Historical SignificancePreserved Spanish Colonial architecture, historical landmarks, cultural heritage
Main AttractionsState Street, Santa Barbara County Courthouse, Santa Barbara Museum of Art
ShoppingPaseo Nuevo Shopping Center, La Arcada Plaza, Antique shops
DiningFarm-to-table restaurants, wine tasting rooms, international cuisine
Outdoor ActivitiesBeach activities, biking, hiking, whale watching
EventsFiesta, Summer Solstice Parade, Old Spanish Days

Frequently asked questions

What is Historic Downtown Santa Barbara like?
Travellers love the Historic Downtown Santa Barbara neighbourhood for its beautiful beaches, array of dining options and major shopping area. Are you looking for Historic Downtown Santa Barbara travel tips? Make sure that you visit Arlington Theater and Lobero Theater while you're in the neighbourhood.
What's a favourite place to stay in Historic Downtown Santa Barbara?
Based on our traveller data, Hotel Santa Barbara is one of the top choices for your stay in Historic Downtown Santa Barbara. This hotel is a short 13-minute walk from Santa Barbara County Courthouse, and it offers a 24-hour fitness centre and free WiFi. Other good options for your stay in the neighbourhood include The Upham Hotel and Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels.
How many hotels are there in Historic Downtown Santa Barbara?
Expedia has 25 hotels and other accommodation options in Historic Downtown Santa Barbara to choose from, making this an ideal home base for exploring the greater Santa Barbara area.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Historic Downtown Santa Barbara, will I receive a refund?
Yes! You'll find that most hotel bookings are refundable provided that you cancel prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before the scheduled arrival. If you have a reservation that's non-refundable, you might be able to cancel it and be given a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Enter your dates, click on "Search", then use the filter option "fully refundable" to get the top deals on offer in Historic Downtown Santa Barbara.
What is there to do in this Santa Barbara neighbourhood?
Sights like Arlington Theater, Lobero Theater and Santa Barbara Museum of Art can be part of your cultural tour of Historic Downtown Santa Barbara. Paseo Nuevo Mall and La Arcada are also a couple of places to visit in the neighbourhood. A few places to visit in the area around Historic Downtown Santa Barbara include Stearns Wharf, Hill-Carrillo Adobe and Susan Quinlan Doll and Teddy Bear Museum. While you're out sightseeing, Casa de la Guerra and De la Guerra Plaza are a couple of additional sights to visit in Santa Barbara.

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