The Best Places to Stay in Santa Barbara

Whether you’re jetting across the country or just enjoying a staycation close to home, we’ve scouted a list of Santa Barbara’s best accommodations. No matter the traveler, we’ve got you covered with the perfect retreat for you.

Santa Barbara

Hotel Californian (36 State Street). If you want to feel like a VIP, this is the place to stay. With only 121 rooms, it feels super intimate, with the highest level of hospitality. It’s a favorite among Hollywood elite, international travelers, and locals love it too. Instagram

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara (8301 Hollister Avenue). A coastal resort spread across 78 acres of Pacific-facing property, The Ritz-Carlton Bacara is a little slice of heaven. Two pristine beaches, three infinity-edge pools, and a 42,000-square-foot spa–this dreamy escape is peak luxury. Instagram

San Ysidro Ranch (900 San Ysidro Lane). San Ysidro Ranch is the ultimate peaceful getaway. It has 38 charming cottages surrounded by beautiful gardens, majestic trees, and flowers. It’s the perfect place to disconnect from the outside world, which we could all use sometimes. Instagram

Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore (1260 Channel Drive). This iconic resort is a gem on the Southern California coast. Spanning 22 acres and filled with secluded courtyards, fountains, and charming red-brick pathways lit by gas lanterns. You can relax on Butterfly Beach, lounge poolside, or unwind at the award-winning Spa. It’s all about laid-back sophistication here. Instagram

El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel (800 Alvarado Place). A historic property restored to become one of the most revered West Coast resorts, it takes the cake for some seriously breathtaking ocean views. With 90 luxurious suites, bungalows, and rooms, this tranquil oasis is the ideal escape from city living. Instagram

The Canary Hotel Kimpton (31 West Carrillo). A Spanish-style beauty with a rooftop pool and stunning views. The dedicated staff here is committed to providing you with an unforgettable experience, if you’re in need of some pampering, you will not be disappointed. Instagram

Montecito Inn (1295 Coast Village Road). The Montecito Inn is a surefire option if you’re seeking a luxurious getaway. World-class service, award-winning dining, and exquisite accommodations—what could be better? If you’re a sushi lover, their Michelin Star rated omakase sushi at Sushi Bar is a hit, or enjoy elevated Californian cuisine at Coast & Olive. Instagram

Hilton Beachfront Resort (633 East Cabrillo Boulevard). This 24-acre beachfront resort offers a range of amenities including a tree-lined pool and tennis courts, on-site wine tastings, salon and spa, and much more. It’s a beautiful spot to relax and make memories in Santa Barbara without ever having to leave the premises. Instagram

El Capitan Canyon (11560 Calle Real). Get ready to glamp! Escape to this stunning Santa Barbara coastal setting for true glamorous camping on the Santa Barbara coast. Enjoy nature lodging with all the creature comforts in a beautiful camp-like environment. Instagram

Wanderlust Luxury Rentals (2429 Bath Street). Offering the best of five-star amenities at affordable prices, each rental comes with a personal concierge who knows the property and surrounding area. Instagram

Montecito

Rosewood Miramar Beach (1759 South Jameson Lane). This Triple Forbes Five-Star Property nestled along the shores of the American Riviera is pure enchantment. Enjoy incomparable service, exquisite culinary offerings, breathtaking ocean views, and unique boutiques, all in one luxurious Santa Barbara getaway. Instagram

Los Olivos

The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern Auberge Resorts (2350 Railway Avenue). The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern is rich in history and charm. Established in 1886, it’s been an integral part of Central Coast folklore. This laid-back version of wine country luxury is perfect for those who appreciate a bit of history to go along with their relaxation. Instagram

Fess Parker Wine Country Inn (2860 Grand Avenue). Great for weekend getaways, romantic retreats, and destination weddings. Luxurious guest rooms, stunning outdoor event space, and lots of amenities, but the cherry on top is its close proximity to the best vineyards of Santa Barbara wine country. Instagram

Santa Ynez

The Genevieve (3627 Sagunto Street). This cute 20 room boutique hotel is close to great restaurants and the town center. Though a smaller scale hotel, the rooms are spacious and the romantic vibes along with cozy fireplaces add a luxurious flair. Instagram

Solvang

The Landsby (1576 Mission Drive). Stylish guest rooms featuring clean Scandinavian design. Right in the heart of Solvang, you can easily walk to the best tasting rooms, bakeries, and shopping in the area. Instagram

Alisal Ranch (1054 Alisal Road). Beautifully located in Santa Barbara Wine Country, Alisal Ranch, offers a unique blend of modern comfort and rustic charm on 10,500 acres of natural beauty, perfect for unforgettable getaways and special events. Instagram

Ballard

The Ballard Inn (2436 Baseline Avenue). A charming retreat in California’s Central Coast wine country. Recently renovated, the earth tones and attention to detail create a cool and calm vibe that will have you unwinding the moment you check in. Instagram

Ojai

Ojai Valley Inn & Spa (905 Country Club Road). Located 90 minutes north of LA, this resort overlooks the mountains and celebrates the relaxed glamor of California’s past. The Farmhouse, a 50,000 square-foot event center, offers world-class food and unforgettable indoor/outdoor experiences. Instagram

For additional recommendations for what to do, see, and experience in Santa Barbara, follow TSG Santa Barbara on Instagram.