Cheap Hotels & Resorts in Santa Barbara from NZ$201

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Check availability on Santa Barbara Cheap Hotels

Best Santa Barbara Cheap Hotels

Sandpiper Lodge
Lobby sitting area

Sandpiper Lodge

2.0 star property
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1878)
"Nice place to stay!"
The price is NZ$201
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
Sandpiper Lodge
Castillo Inn at the Beach
Front of property

Castillo Inn at the Beach

2.5 star property
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1011)
"Very clean and quiet and convenient to restaurant and pier"
The price is NZ$272
includes taxes & fees
27 Oct - 28 Oct
Castillo Inn at the Beach
The Franciscan Hotel
Front of property

The Franciscan Hotel

2.5 star property
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (1030)
"Stayed here many times for 10-plus years. Great hotel with everything nearby."
The Franciscan Hotel
Best Western Plus Santa Barbara
View from room

Best Western Plus Santa Barbara

3.5 star property
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1014)
"Good safe area with clean rooms and friendly staff and restaurant on motel premises was very convenient. "
The price is NZ$318
includes taxes & fees
8 Oct - 9 Oct
Best Western Plus Santa Barbara
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed, Balcony (Deluxe King with Balcony)

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

2.5 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1912)
"Amazing staff and very close to the local bars by the beach "
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
Marina Beach Motel
Exterior

Marina Beach Motel

3.0 star property
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (1010)
"Always a great place to stay, so close to everything "
The price is NZ$382
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Marina Beach Motel
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach
Exterior

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

2.0 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1111)
"A refreshing Motel 6! Clean and cute and right across the street from beach!"
The price is NZ$227
includes taxes & fees
28 Oct - 29 Oct
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach
Beachside Inn
View from property

Beachside Inn

3.0 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1059)
"Nice hotel with a beautiful view."
The price is NZ$330
includes taxes & fees
6 Oct - 7 Oct
Beachside Inn
The Presidio
Deluxe Room, 2 Queen Beds

The Presidio

2.0 star property
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (735)
"Good place to stay for a quick trip"
The price is NZ$235
includes taxes & fees
28 Sept - 29 Sept
The Presidio
Inn By The Harbor
Exterior

Inn By The Harbor

3.5 star property
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1736)
"Great location and very hotel."
The price is NZ$415
includes taxes & fees
5 Oct - 6 Oct
Inn By The Harbor
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.
View all properties

Find out more about Santa Barbara

Find out more about Santa Barbara

Discover cheap things to do in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, with its stunning coastal views and vibrant culture, offers plenty for the budget-conscious traveller. Start your adventure at the Santa Barbara Mission, a historical gem known as the 'Queen of the Missions,' where you can explore beautiful gardens and learn about California’s history for just a small donation. Next, take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront at East Beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy a picnic with stunning ocean views—all for free! Don’t miss the bustling Santa Barbara Farmers Market on Tuesdays and Saturdays, where you can taste local produce and grab affordable snacks while supporting local vendors. For those keen on art, the Santa Barbara Contemporary Arts Forum hosts free exhibitions showcasing regional artists. When it comes to accommodation, consider staying in the Funk Zone, a trendy area dotted with budget-friendly hotels and hostels. This vibrant neighbourhood is packed with local eateries and tasting rooms, making it easy to sample the renowned Santa Barbara wine scene without breaking the bank. With easy access to both the beach and local attractions, you can truly enjoy an enriching experience without overspending.

Find the best cheap hotels in Santa Barbara

For travellers seeking budget-friendly options in Santa Barbara, these hotels offer excellent value without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Marina Beach Motel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: For those seeking exceptional value, the Marina Beach Motel shines with a stellar review rating of 9.8. This budget-friendly motel offers free continental breakfast and Wi-Fi, along with free self-parking, making it a convenient choice for beach lovers. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms equipped with kitchenettes, allowing for easy meal preparation during their stay.
  • Other amenities: Beyond the essentials, the Marina Beach Motel features a furnished patio and patio for outdoor enjoyment, as well as complimentary bicycles to explore the coastal area. With nearby access to the beach, winery tours, and various outdoor activities, travelers can immerse themselves in the vibrant Santa Barbara lifestyle without overspending.
  • 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

Harbor House Inn

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Harbor House Inn is a top-rated choice for budget travellers, with a remarkable review rating of 9.6. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, complimentary toiletries, and free self-parking, all while being just a stone's throw from the beach. This charming inn provides a welcoming atmosphere with the added benefit of on-site bicycles for exploring the scenic surroundings.
  • Other amenities: Additional amenities include a hot tub for relaxation, a patio for unwinding outdoors, and convenient access to local attractions such as kayaking and winery tours. The hotel also features beach towels and umbrellas for those sunny days at the beach, ensuring travelers have everything they need for a perfect stay.
  • 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

Harbor House Inn

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Harbour House Inn is a superb pick for budget travellers, receiving an excellent review rating of 9.6. With key amenities like free WiFi and self-parking, guests can enjoy a straightforward stay while being just a stone's throw from the beach.
  • Other amenities: The inn also features a private hot tub for relaxation, as well as patios for enjoying the fresh air. Guests can easily access nearby activities such as kayaking, windsurfing, and winery tours, making it an ideal base for adventure seekers. With comfortable furnishings and a welcoming atmosphere, it's a delightful choice for any traveller.
  • 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

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Avania Inn of Santa Barbara is a fantastic choice for budget travellers, an impressive guest review rating of 9.2. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast options, free WiFi, and self-parking, making it easy to explore the beautiful Santa Barbara Beach without added expenses.
  • Other amenities: The inn features a lovely terrace for relaxation, an outdoor pool to unwind, and nearby access to both the beach and boardwalk. Additional conveniences include air conditioning, designer toiletries, and nearby golf opportunities for those looking to enjoy some leisure activities during their stay.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: Leadbetter Beach - 1 km, MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 1 km, Santa Barbara Harbor - 1.1 km

Top Santa Barbara Hotel Reviews

Sandpiper Lodge

Sandpiper Lodge

10/10 Excellent
"The Sandpiper Lodge exceeded my expectations. The rooms are big and clean and comfortable and it was quieter than I would've thought, considering it was fully booked. Sean the manager was a true gentleman and he gave me many tips and helped me out by booking other nights I had not considered. It's within walking distance of many convenient places, and the bus stop is pratically in front. "
Elisa María 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Sandpiper Lodge

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Frequently asked questions

What is Santa Barbara like for travellers on a budget?
Santa Barbara has cheap accommodation options and a variety of places to visit, making it a great choice for a budget-friendly getaway. You can find ways to save money while getting to know this destination, which is home to attractions such as Santa Barbara County Courthouse, Granada Theatre and Arlington Theater.
What's the best budget-friendly accommodation in Santa Barbara?
Based on reviews, Inn By The Harbor is a popular hotel for our travellers who want a more economical choice, and features free breakfast and free Wi-Fi. Other good options to stay on the cheap include Avania Inn of Santa Barbara and Castillo Inn at the Beach.
How many low-cost hotels will I find in Santa Barbara?
Expedia has 11 hotels in Santa Barbara that are ideal if you are watching your pennies.
When is the best time for a budget trip to Santa Barbara?
Weather will likely play an important role when you plan your trip to Santa Barbara, but bear in mind that cheaper options are usually available when the weather isn't as good. The hottest months are usually August and September, with an average temperature of 22°C, while the coldest months are February and January, with an average of 13°C. Average annual precipitation for Santa Barbara is 392 mm.
What is there to see and do in Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara attracts visitors with its fine wine and fantastic dining options, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the local attractions that interest you most, and then make time for sights and activities that cost little or nothing at all. If you're looking to enjoy the area's natural beauty, you can get outdoors at Leadbetter Beach, East Beach or Arroyo Burro Beach.
How can I get to Santa Barbara and get around on a budget?
Looking at these ways to get around Santa Barbara is a smart way to keep your trip affordable. The nearest airport is Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal), situated 7.6 mi (12.2 km) away. If that doesn't suit your budget, you can arrange flights in and out of Santa Ynez, CA (SQA), which is 24.7 mi (39.7 km) away. To see more of the larger area, hop on a train at Santa Barbara Station.