The Golden State has plenty of dreamy destinations. But few shine brighter than Santa Barbara—literally and figuratively. Known as the American Riviera due to its sandy beaches, pleasant Mediterranean climate, and upscale atmosphere, the city on the central coast of California enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine each year.
Besides the picture-perfect weather and idyllic scenery that stretches from the Pacific Ocean to the mountains, Santa Barbara has postcard-worthy white stucco buildings with red-tiled roofs and great shopping. It’s also known as a mecca for seasonal, farm-to-table restaurants. And there’s a notable wine scene with urban wineries in the Funk Zone and vineyards dotted across the surrounding Santa Ynez Valley. Oh, and it should be mentioned that all this awaits less than two hours from Los Angeles.
Whether you’re planning a quick overnight or a week-long vacation, choosing the right accommodation can help set the tone for a fantastic trip. We enlisted the help of Matt Dees and Samra Morris, two Santa Barbara County locals and top winemakers in the region, to get the scoop on the best hotels to book in Santa Barbara, from luxury resorts to smaller boutique stays.
El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel
A luxurious yet laid-back getaway awaits at El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel. The ideal location for a restful and rejuvenating vacation on the American Riviera, the storied overnight exudes a sense of understated elegance that’s enhanced by leafy trees and salty air.
Five-star amenities include a picture-perfect outdoor pool and a swish spa. The Spanish Revival-style bungalows are absolutely stunning and so tranquil (no wonder celebs frequently check in for a discreet weekend away).
“There’s nothing more relaxing than enjoying a bottle of sparkling wine out on the veranda as the sunset covers the city in a beautiful golden glow,” says Dees.
San Ysidro Ranch
Morris calls San Ysidro Ranch, “Central Coast serenity and relaxation at its finest.” Nestled in the foothills of Montecito, the exclusive, easy-going escape counts Groucho Marx, Winston Churchill, and John and Jackie Kennedy (who honeymooned in a vine-covered cottage that’s now named after the famous duo) among its esteemed guests.
Of course, everyone checking into this historic hideaway will enjoy a wonderfully peaceful experience marked by first-class service, spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, and savoring delicious cuisine made with produce from the garden on the lantern-lit patio.
Rosewood Miramar Beach
With a privileged perch in the celeb-favored town of Montecito (right next door to Santa Barbara), the emblematic oceanfront Rosewood Miramar Beach occupies a prime position on one of the most beautiful beaches in the area.
Elegant and refined, the sun-drenched resort feels upscale yet completely unpretentious. It has an enchanting atmosphere, an award-winning spa, and beach house-style rooms with water views. With six restaurants and bars, guests don’t have to leave to savor everything from sushi to a scoop of vanilla at the on-site ice cream parlor.
“It doesn’t get better than dining at Caruso's, the Michelin-starred restaurant, and then walking a few steps to dip your toes in the refreshing Pacific Ocean,” adds Dees.
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The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara
Poised on a glimmering stretch of the American Riviera, The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara provides direct access to two miles of glorious shoreline and views that have undoubtedly inspired works of art. Whether sitting on your balcony or sipping bubbly in the Club Lounge, the beauty of the Pacific Ocean steals the show. And you’ll be hard-pressed to discover a scene more deserving of a frame than the sun rising over the windswept bluffs. (We promise, you won’t regret the early morning wakeup.)
While the magnificent views encourage endless lounging and gazing from the Mediterranean-inspired suites, the 42,000-square-foot spa, trio of infinity pools, and wonderful dining options make a case for exploring the sprawling property.
Kimpton Canary Santa Barbara
Morris favors the Kimpton Canary Santa Barbara, a Spanish-style hotel that’s home to one of the only rooftop pools in the city “with panoramic views of the oceans and mountains, it’s an idyllic experience right in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara.”
Besides boasting a stunning spot for swimming and a location that puts the iconic Santa Barbara Courthouse, the Funk Zone, and Paseo Nuevo within walking distance, the boutique bolthole supplies enticing accommodations. Rooms and suites flaunt four-post canopy beds, wood floors, and retro art. Guests can also expect thoughtful extras like hosted wine hours, Saturday morning yoga, and complimentary bikes to ride around town.
Hotel Californian
The ideal way to experience downtown Santa Barbara is to stay at Hotel Californian. A legend reborn (the original was destroyed by an earthquake in 1925) with a walkable location right on State Street that offers access to the waterfront, beach, and the tasting rooms in the Funk Zone. Incorporating the original Spanish Colonial Revival façade, the latest iteration of the 121-key property weaves in modern Moroccan influences and glamourous glimmers of nostalgia.
Saturated hues, intricately painted tiles, plush fabrics, and gilded mirrors adorn the guest quarters, which range from luxurious rooms to a 1,700-square-foot presidential suite. There’s also an opulent spa for aromatherapy treatments and salt massages.
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Palihouse Santa Barbara
For an urban retreat in the charming and historic Presidio Neighborhood, look no further than Palihouse Santa Barbara. True to the brand’s ethos, the interiors look ripped from the pages of a glossy magazine.
Centered around a Mediterranean-style courtyard, the generously sized, residential-inspired rooms are outfitted with fireplaces, fine Italian linens, and deep soaking tubs. Some suites even have kitchenettes and private outdoor balconies. The communal spaces—swimming pool for cooling down post sightseeing, café, co*cktail bar, and lobby lounge—encourage socializing and reflect the same well-curated aesthetic.
Drift Santa Barbara
The newest overnight option in downtown, Drift Santa Barbara, which opened its doors in 2023, quickly cemented its status as a standout stay. The contemporary, eco-oriented design puts a fresh twist on all things coastal California. Visually, it’s a treat. But it's the overall vibe that makes this boutique hotel so special; it’s cool but also super chill and breezy.
The aptly named F&B outlets—Dawn, a surf-inspired café for morning coffee and pastries, and Dusk, a craft bar for mezcal co*cktails and Baja-influenced bites—don’t miss a beat. Plus, the central location means easy access to shops, restaurants, and the beach.
Santa Barbara Inn
Travelers looking to stay in the middle of all the action (shopping, dining, sightseeing, and sipping) should consider bunking up at the Santa Barbara Inn. A classic with staying power, the 70-key hotel epitomizes the laid-back Southern California lifestyle. It’s intimate and inviting with heaps of charm. The rooms are warm and comfortable with private balconies that show off stunning vistas of the water or mountains.
While it’s situated steps from many of the best restaurants in town, guests will certainly enjoy the experience of digging into wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta at Convivo. Add to that an outdoor heated swimming pool and a spa.
