Beach Hotels & Resorts in Santa Barbara from NZ$170

Santa Barbara and its attractions for beach lovers

Santa Barbara, nestled between the mountains and the Pacific Ocean, offers a plethora of beachside activities that will delight any beach lover. First up, Stearns Wharf is a must-visit, where you can enjoy fresh seafood at the restaurants, explore quaint shops, and take in stunning views of the coastline. The nearby Santa Barbara Maritime Museum provides an engaging experience for families, showcasing the region's rich naval history. If you're looking for a more relaxed vibe, Butterfly Beach offers a serene escape, perfect for sunbathing and watching the sunset. For the adventurous at heart, kayaking in the calm waters of the harbour allows you to get up close with sea life, while the Channel Islands National Park, accessible by boat, presents an opportunity for hiking and wildlife spotting. Staying in the Funk Zone area will enhance your experience, as it is a vibrant neighbourhood filled with boutique hotels, trendy eateries, and art galleries, all within walking distance of the beach. Here, you can indulge in top hotels that offer attentive service, ensuring a pampered experience after a day of exploration.

Find the best beach hotels and resorts in Santa Barbara

For those seeking a beachside escape in Santa Barbara, these hotels offer the perfect blend of sun, sand, and relaxation. Each hotel provides easy access to the beach and a variety of amenities to enhance your coastal getaway.

Marina Beach Motel

• Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: The Marina Beach Motel stands out as a premier beach destination with an exceptional review rating of 9.8. This motel offers direct access to Santa Barbara's stunning beaches, where travelers can enjoy sunbathing and beach activities. The hotel features a delightful outdoor area with beach towels provided, ensuring travelers have everything they need for a perfect day by the ocean.
• Other amenities: Guests can take advantage of free breakfast options, self-parking, and a kitchenette in each room for added convenience. The motel also offers a terrace and patio, perfect for enjoying the coastal breeze. Additional features include air conditioning, housekeeping services, and nearby hiking and biking trails for the adventurous traveler.
• Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
• Nearby attractions: MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.7 km, Santa Barbara Harbor - 0.2 km, Stearns Wharf - 0.9 km

Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

• Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: With an impressive review rating of 9.6, Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach is a top pick for travelers who crave a beach getaway. The hotel is mere steps from the sand and offers exciting beach activities such as kayaking and surfing. Guests can enjoy a refreshing outdoor pool and hot tub, along with a complimentary breakfast to fuel their adventures along the coast.
• Other amenities: This charming inn features a terrace, concierge services, and a shared pool area with sun loungers. Additional perks include electric car charging stations, free parking, and in-room kitchen facilities for added convenience. Guests can unwind in bathrobes after a day at the beach and take advantage of nearby winery tours to enhance their Santa Barbara experience.
• Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
• Nearby attractions: MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.9 km, Leadbetter Beach - 1.1 km

Lavender Inn by the Sea

• Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: Lavender Inn by the Sea offers a serene escape for beach lovers, an excellent review rating of 9.4. Guests can easily access the nearby beach, ideal for kayaking and sailing adventures. The outdoor pool and sun loungers provide a relaxing atmosphere for unwinding after a day of seaside fun.
• Other amenities: In addition to the beach proximity, the inn features complimentary breakfast, fitness facilities, and a lovely garden space. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms equipped with convenient amenities such as kitchenettes and air conditioning. With concierge services available to assist in planning local activities, Lavender Inn by the Sea promises a memorable beach getaway.
• Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
• Nearby attractions: Leadbetter Beach - 1.1 km, MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.9 km

Inn By The Harbor

• Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: The Inn By The Harbor offers a delightful beach experience, backed by a strong traveler review rating of 9.2. Located close to the sand, this hotel provides easy access to various beach activities, including sailing and kayaking. Guests will appreciate the outdoor pool and hot tub, perfect for relaxation after a day of seaside fun, along with complimentary breakfast offerings available daily.
• Other amenities: This welcoming inn features a garden area, fitness facilities, and a shared secured pool. Guests can enjoy conveniences such as in-room coffee and tea makers, full-size refrigerators, and free parking. With family-friendly amenities and nearby winery tours, this hotel caters to all types of beachgoers looking for comfort and enjoyment.
• Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
• Nearby attractions: MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.9 km, Leadbetter Beach - 1.4 km

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

• Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: The Avania Inn of Santa Barbara is a fantastic choice for beach lovers, with a stellar review rating of 9.2. Guests enjoy easy access to Santa Barbara Beach, along with delightful amenities such as an outdoor pool and a hot tub, perfect for unwinding after a day in the sun. The complimentary breakfast ensures travelers start their day right before heading out to explore the nearby ocean and boardwalk attractions.
• Other amenities: Additional features include a terrace for relaxing, free parking, and designer toiletries in each room. The hotel also offers air conditioning, making it a comfortable retreat after a day of beach activities. Travelers will appreciate the easy access to golf nearby, as well as family-friendly amenities like travel cribs and free stays for children.
• Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
• Nearby attractions: MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 1 km, Leadbetter Beach - 1 km, Santa Barbara Harbor - 1.1 km