Aerial view of Santa Barbara historic city center with Santa Ynez Mountains at the background, from top of the clock tower of Santa Barbara County Courthouse, California CA, USA.

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Our top choices for Historic Downtown Santa Barbara hotels

Hotel Santa Barbara

Hotel Santa Barbara
3.0 star property
Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,406 reviews)
"Great hotel!!! "
United States
Jamie
The price is ₹24,543
₹28,538 total
includes taxes & fees
6 Jul - 7 Jul
Hotel Santa Barbara

The Upham Hotel

The Upham Hotel
4.0 star property
Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,016 reviews)
"Good location in downtown SB, good value! Parking available! Very friendly and helpful front desk staff. Will certainly stay again!"
United States
David
The price is ₹18,296
₹20,857 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Jul - 3 Jul
The Upham Hotel

Haley Hotel

Haley Hotel
3.5 star property
Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (649 reviews)
"Walking distance to the beach and restaurants"
United States
Guillermo
The price is ₹15,450
₹18,564 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Jun - 24 Jun
Haley Hotel

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, (449 reviews)
"Excellent, very quaint, beautifully decorated, staff is amazing, convenient to shopping restaurants and beach"
United States
Matthew
The price is ₹29,019
₹33,138 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Jun - 30 Jun
Drift Santa Barbara, a Member of Design Hotels

Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG
4.0 star property
Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,002 reviews)
"It’s a great home base in a convenient downtown location"
United States
Lisa Ann
The price is ₹37,760
₹47,921 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Jul - 2 Jul
Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG

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, (1,003 reviews)
"Loved this hotel. Great location"
United States
Cayley
The price is ₹29,629
₹33,835 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Jul - 2 Jul
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria South

Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria South
2.0 star property
17.7 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,330 reviews)
"Great location and wonderful staff"
United States
Stephen
The price is ₹7,533
₹8,871 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Jun - 30 Jun
Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria South

Cliff House Inn On The Ocean

Cliff House Inn On The Ocean
3.0 star property
25.1 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,013 reviews)
"Cant wait to return. Very charming and perfect for a romantic getaway"
United States
Megan
The price is ₹15,709
₹17,644 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Jun - 23 Jun
Cliff House Inn On The Ocean

Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria North

Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria North
2.0 star property
15.7 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1,208 reviews)
"Great place for staying. "
United States
Yanchao
The price is ₹7,034
₹8,321 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Jun - 1 Jul
Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria North

Casa Iglesia

Casa Iglesia
4.5 star property
Oak Park, 1.5 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (14 reviews)
"Such a beautiful property!! The room was spacious and had everything we could’ve needed, the bed was so comfortable. Super easy check in / check out process. Would definitely stay here again"
United States
Monique
The price is ₹15,190
₹24,364 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Jul - 14 Jul
Casa Iglesia

Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn

Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn
3.5 star property
16.3 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,542 reviews)
"Clean and well located hotel. Close to the beach. We really enjoyed our stay"
United States
Paulina
The price is ₹16,088
₹18,533 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Jun - 30 Jun
Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn

Casa Del Sol

Casa Del Sol
2.5 star property
17.9 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
7.0 out of 10, Good, (676 reviews)
"Sick vibes"
United States
Alex
The price is ₹16,050
₹20,580 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Jun - 19 Jun
Casa Del Sol

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carpinteria by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carpinteria by IHG
2.5 star property
17.9 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,012 reviews)
"Great location and clean"
United States
Natalie
The price is ₹18,927
₹21,804 total
includes taxes & fees
17 Jun - 18 Jun
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carpinteria by IHG

Santa Barbara Inn

Santa Barbara Inn
4.0 star property
East Beach, 2.7 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,016 reviews)
"Amazing property and great service."
United States
jelica
The price is ₹25,026
₹28,587 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Jun - 19 Jun
Santa Barbara Inn

The Inn at East Beach

The Inn at East Beach
2.5 star property
East Beach, 2.9 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,019 reviews)
"great location!"
United States
Karen
The price is ₹12,523
₹14,276 total
includes taxes & fees
21 Jun - 22 Jun
The Inn at East Beach

Montecito Inn

Montecito Inn
4.0 star property
5.6 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,005 reviews)
"Wonderful stay!"
United States
Anthony
The price is ₹21,210
₹28,174 total
includes taxes & fees
28 Jun - 29 Jun
Montecito Inn

Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara

Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara
2.0 star property
4.1 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1,017 reviews)
"Had a great nights stay and the receptionist was extremely helpful. Will be staying again when I come for my next fishing excursion"
United States
Phillip
The price is ₹10,957
₹13,250 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Jun - 30 Jun
Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara

Coast Village Inn - Santa Barbara

Coast Village Inn - Santa Barbara
2.5 star property
5.2 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,008 reviews)
"Clean, great staff, walkable neighborhood"
United States
Sandra
The price is ₹17,811
₹20,304 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Jun - 30 Jun
Coast Village Inn - Santa Barbara

Casa Riviera

Casa Riviera
4.5 star property
Laguna, 0.6 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (226 reviews)
"Love this place, always a great stay."
United States
Teresa Gayle Dumas
The price is ₹17,434
₹26,923 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Jun - 17 Jun
Casa Riviera

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach
2.0 star property
East Beach, 2.8 km from Historic Downtown Santa Barbara
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,393 reviews)
"A great spot just a stones throw to the beach. Very clean and tidy, just what we needed for a couple of nights."
United Kingdom
Angus
The price is ₹15,751
₹17,986 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Jun - 1 Jul
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach
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
3.0 star property
9.4
Exceptional
1,406 reviews
View
Lobby
The Upham Hotel
4.0 star property
9.0
Wonderful
1,016 reviews
View
Exterior
Haley Hotel
3.5 star property
8.8
Excellent
649 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
1,002 reviews
View
Shopping centre
Hotel Virginia Santa Barbara, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
4.0 star property
8.6
Excellent
1,003 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 Lobero Theater or Presidio Santa Barbara 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 East Beach and Santa Barbara Zoo.

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 Lobero Theater and Granada Theatre 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 Kimpton Canary Hotel by IHG.
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 Lobero Theater, Granada Theatre and Arlington Theater 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 Hill-Carrillo Adobe, Susan Quinlan Doll and Teddy Bear Museum and Casa de la Guerra. While you're out sightseeing, De la Guerra Plaza and Presidio Santa Barbara are a couple of additional sights to visit in Santa Barbara.

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