Question 1

Which are the best hotels to stay in Santa Barbara as a budget traveller?

Accepted Answer

For budget travellers in Santa Barbara, excellent choices include Marina Beach Motel, Harbor House Inn, and Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages.

The Marina Beach Motel, with an outstanding 9.8 rating, offers great value with free continental breakfast, free WiFi, and complimentary toiletries. Guests consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff, the beautiful and clean rooms, and the excellent location.

Another fantastic option is the Harbor House Inn, boasting a 9.6 rating. This hotel provides free internet, free WiFi, and free self-parking. Reviewers frequently highlight its great location, clean rooms, and excellent, friendly staff. A popular amenity mentioned is the free bicycles available for guests.

The Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages, also with a 9.6 rating, is known for its delicious free breakfast, free WiFi, and complimentary self-parking. Guests appreciate the comfortable and clean rooms, the excellent food, and the nice, quiet location.

Question 2

Which area of Santa Barbara is best to stay in for cheap hotels?

Accepted Answer

For travellers seeking cheap hotels in Santa Barbara, areas slightly off the main tourist drags, such as parts of Downtown Santa Barbara or neighbourhoods further east along State Street, often provide more affordable lodging options. While Santa Barbara isn't renowned for its budget accommodation, these areas offer better value than beachfront locations.

Downtown Santa Barbara has a selection of motels and smaller hotels that cater to a more budget-conscious clientele. Solo travellers will find these spots convenient for accessing local buses that can take them to the beach or various attractions, and the area is easily walkable with many cafes and shops.

Couples looking for a good deal might consider areas a little further from the immediate coast, where prices tend to drop. Exploring accommodations close to the Funk Zone but not directly within it, or slightly north of the main State Street corridor, can reveal some hidden gems.

Question 3

What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Santa Barbara?

Accepted Answer

For families seeking top-rated, budget-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara, excellent choices include the Beachside Inn, Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara, and The Eagle Inn.

The Beachside Inn, with a solid 9.0 rating, offers great value with free wired internet in public areas, complimentary buffet breakfast, and free self-parking. Reviewers often highlight the nice, clean rooms and convenient parking, alongside a great location and friendly staff.

Another excellent option is the Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara, rated 8.8. This hotel provides free buffet breakfast, including on weekends, and complimentary self-parking, with free parking available for RVs, buses, and trucks, which is ideal for larger family vehicles. Guests frequently praise the friendly and helpful staff, clean rooms, and convenient location.

The Eagle Inn, boasting an impressive 9.4 rating, provides free cooked breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free self-parking. Families will appreciate the free toiletries and complimentary wired internet in public areas. Its staff are consistently described as friendly and great, with the breakfast receiving praise for being excellent and delicious.

Question 4

What cheap hotels in Santa Barbara offer complimentary breakfast?

Accepted Answer

For budget-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara that offer complimentary breakfast, the Marina Beach Motel, West Beach Inn, The Eagle Inn, Avania Inn of Santa Barbara, and Beachside Inn are all excellent choices.

The Marina Beach Motel, with an outstanding 9.8 rating, provides a complimentary continental breakfast, ensuring a great start to your day. Guests frequently highlight the excellent location and the friendly staff.

Another fantastic option is the West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel, rated 9.4. This hotel also offers a free continental breakfast and free self-parking, adding to its value. Reviewers often praise its great location and helpful staff.

The Eagle Inn, boasting a 9.4 rating, stands out with its complimentary cooked breakfast, a real treat for guests. Its location is frequently described as perfect, and the service receives excellent reviews.

The Avania Inn of Santa Barbara, rated 9.0, includes a complimentary self-serve breakfast and free self-parking. Guests appreciate the spacious, clean rooms and the convenient location.

Finally, the Beachside Inn, with a 9.0 rating, offers a complimentary buffet breakfast and free self-parking.

Question 5

When is the most affordable time to visit Santa Barbara?

Accepted Answer

The most affordable time to visit Santa Barbara is generally during the shoulder seasons, specifically from late autumn to early spring (November to March), excluding holiday periods. During these months, you'll find lower prices on accommodation and potentially fewer crowds, offering a more relaxed experience.

For solo travellers, visiting in January or February can be particularly economical. The weather is still pleasant, often sunny and mild, superb for exploring the city's outdoor attractions without the summer rush. You can enjoy strolls along East Beach, visit the historic Santa Barbara County Courthouse for free, or wander through the Funk Zone's art galleries and boutiques without breaking the bank. Many hotels offer off-season rates, and local restaurants might have special deals.

Families can also benefit from these off-peak times. While school holidays might increase prices slightly, late autumn before Thanksgiving or late winter after the New Year often present good value. You can take advantage of the less crowded Santa Barbara Zoo, explore the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, or simply enjoy a picnic at Shoreline Park with views of the Pacific Ocean without the usual summer crowds.

Question 6

What are the best cheap hotels in Santa Barbara with a pool?

Accepted Answer

For cheap hotels in Santa Barbara with a pool, excellent choices include West Beach Inn, Mason Beach Inn, and Avania Inn of Santa Barbara.

The West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel, rated 9.4, offers fantastic value with a heated outdoor pool. Guests also benefit from complimentary continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking, making it a convenient and budget-friendly option. Its location is frequently praised as perfect.

Another great option is the Mason Beach Inn, with a 9.2 rating. This hotel features a lovely outdoor pool and provides free WiFi. Reviewers often highlight its great location and clean rooms.

The Avania Inn of Santa Barbara, rated 9.0, also boasts an outdoor pool. Guests appreciate the complimentary self-serve breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking, adding to its value.

Question 7

Are there any cheap Santa Barbara hotels near Stearns Wharf?

Accepted Answer

Yes, for affordable hotels near Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara, travellers can consider the Marina Beach Motel, Harbor House Inn, and La Playa Inn.

The Marina Beach Motel, with an impressive 9.8 rating, is often praised by guests for its excellent location and friendly, helpful staff. It offers great value amenities such as a complimentary continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking, along with free use of bicycles which is great for exploring the area around Stearns Wharf.

Another excellent option is the Harbor House Inn, rated 9.6. Guests consistently highlight its great location and clean rooms. This inn also provides free internet, free WiFi, and free self-parking, and like the Marina Beach Motel, it offers complimentary bicycles for guests to enjoy.

La Playa Inn, with a 9.6 rating, is known for its spacious and clean rooms, as well as its friendly staff and beautiful location.

Question 8

Is Santa Barbara a budget-friendly destination?

Accepted Answer

While Santa Barbara is generally considered more expensive, particularly compared to other parts of California, travellers can absolutely experience its charm on a budget with some smart planning.

For accommodation, consider staying slightly outside the immediate downtown area, perhaps in neighbourhoods like Goleta or Carpinteria, which offer more affordable lodging options and are just a short drive or bus ride from Santa Barbara's main attractions. Solo travellers might find good value in hostels or guesthouses a little further from the beach, which often provide a more community-focused atmosphere.

Couples can enjoy many free activities, such as strolling along the picturesque State Street, exploring the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara, or relaxing on one of the many beautiful beaches like East Beach or Butterfly Beach. Packing a picnic to enjoy at a scenic spot like Shoreline Park or the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is a fantastic way to save on dining costs.

For getting around, the city's bus system is an economical choice, or you could rent bicycles to explore the coastal paths and downtown area.

Question 9

What cheap hotels in Santa Barbara offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?

Accepted Answer

For budget-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara that offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes, you have several excellent options, including Marina Beach Motel, Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages, and Casa Jardin.

The Marina Beach Motel, with an impressive 9.8 rating, is a great choice. While it provides a complimentary continental breakfast, the availability of a kitchenette in some rooms allows for preparing your own meals, offering flexibility and potential savings. Guests frequently praise the friendly and helpful staff, as well as the beautiful and clean rooms.

Another fantastic option is the Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages, rated 9.6. This charming establishment offers kitchenettes in some accommodations, superb for those who prefer to cook. Reviewers often highlight the delicious breakfast and comfortable, clean rooms, all within a nice, quiet location.

Casa Jardin, with a 9.6 rating, is also an excellent fit. Many rooms include a full kitchen, providing ample opportunity for self-catering.

Question 10

Which cheap hotels in Santa Barbara have good reviews for customer service?

Accepted Answer

For affordable hotels in Santa Barbara with great customer service, travellers often praise Marina Beach Motel, La Playa Inn, and Harbor House Inn.

The Marina Beach Motel, with an impressive 9.8 rating, consistently receives high praise for its service and friendly, helpful staff. Guests particularly appreciate the complimentary breakfast and free WiFi, adding to its excellent value.

La Playa Inn, rated 9.6, is frequently highlighted for its friendly and great staff. This hotel offers free WiFi and free self-parking, and many rooms feature a balcony or patio for enjoying the Santa Barbara weather.

Another excellent option is the Harbor House Inn, which also boasts a 9.6 rating. Reviewers consistently mention the excellent service and friendly staff.

Question 11

Are there any cheap hotels in Santa Barbara that allow for late check-out or early check-in?

Accepted Answer

Yes, several budget-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara are excellent for accommodating non-standard arrival or departure times.

The Eagle Inn, with an outstanding 9.4 rating, is highly regarded for its flexibility. Guests frequently praise the friendly staff for their willingness to arrange early check-ins or late check-outs. This hotel also offers delicious free cooked breakfast and free Wi-Fi, adding to its great value.

Another excellent option is the Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara, rated 8.8. Reviewers consistently highlight the helpful staff and the hotel's ability to facilitate early check-ins and late check-outs. You'll also benefit from free Wi-Fi and complimentary self-parking here.

For those travelling with pets, the Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach, with a 9.0 rating, is a solid choice. It offers free Wi-Fi, free self-parking, and allows pets to stay free. The staff are often commended for their friendly service and ability to assist with early arrivals or late departures.

The Palmoro House, a hotel with a 7.6 rating, also provides flexibility for early check-ins and late check-outs. It offers free Wi-Fi and free self-parking.

Finally, the Rose Garden Inn is another hotel that can often accommodate early check-ins and late check-outs. It includes free Wi-Fi and complimentary self-parking, including space for RVs, buses, or trucks.

Question 12

What free activities should we do in Santa Barbara?

Accepted Answer

Santa Barbara offers a delightful array of free activities, great for budget-conscious travellers looking to soak up the Californian sunshine without spending a fortune.

For couples, a romantic stroll along Stearns Wharf is a must, offering stunning ocean views and the chance to watch local fishermen. Afterwards, wander through the historic Presidio State Historic Park, exploring the last remaining vestiges of the original Spanish fort and learning about the city's rich past. You could also pack a picnic and enjoy the beautiful botanical diversity at Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden, a truly tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.

Solo travellers will find plenty to explore too. Spend a morning at East Beach, enjoying the expansive sandy shores, or take a scenic walk or bike ride along the Cabrillo Boulevard Bike Path, which stretches for kilometres along the coastline. The Santa Barbara County Courthouse, with its iconic clock tower offering panoramic views of the city (check opening times for tower access), is a grand architectural marvel that's completely free to enter and explore.

Question 13

Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?

Accepted Answer

Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in Santa Barbara for you.

Question 14

How can I save on a budget hotel in Santa Barbara with Expedia?

Accepted Answer

There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Santa Barbara. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on hotel bookings. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.

Question 15

How much does a budget hotel in Santa Barbara cost?

Accepted Answer

Budget hotel prices in Santa Barbara vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$225 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.

Question 16

Is it cheaper to book a Santa Barbara hotel and flight package?

Accepted Answer

Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it’s wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.

Room 1

Change your mind

Treat yourself

Be picky

Check availability on Santa Barbara Cheap Hotels

Our top choices for Santa Barbara cheap hotels

1. Harbor House Inn

2. Casa Iglesia, a ZenStay Hotel

3. Casa Jardin, a ZenStay Hotel

4. Casa De La Vina, a ZenStay Hotel

5. Casa Riviera, a ZenStay Hotel

6. Marina Beach Hotel

7. La Playa Inn

8. Casa Castillo, a ZenStay Hotel

9. Simpson House Inn

10. Palihouse Santa Barbara

11. Bath Street Inn

12. Casa Yano by The Beach

13. Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages

14. West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel

15. The Franciscan Hotel

16. Santa Barbara Inn

17. Hotel Santa Barbara

18. Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

19. Mason Beach Inn

20. El Encanto Santa Barbara

Find out more about Santa Barbara

Discover cheap things to do in Santa Barbara

Find the best cheap hotels in Santa Barbara

Top Santa Barbara Hotel Reviews

Beachside Inn

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

The Milo

Hotel Santa Barbara

Sandpiper Lodge

Montecito Inn

Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel

Frequently asked questions

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Cheap Hotels & Resorts in Santa Barbara from NZ$225