Cheap Hotels in Santa Barbara, CA from $100

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Our top choices for Santa Barbara cheap hotels

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (2,240 reviews)
"We absolutely loved our stay and ate planning our next trip to stay there!"
United States
Nuria
$156 nightly
The price is $177
Apr 29 - Apr 30
Total with taxes and fees
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

The Inn at East Beach

The Inn at East Beach
2.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,001 reviews)
"Good place to stay"
United States
Debojyoti
$121 nightly
The price is $138
Apr 29 - Apr 30
Total with taxes and fees
The Inn at East Beach

Oasis Inn & Suites

Oasis Inn & Suites
2.0 star property
San Roque
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,007 reviews)
"Sweet little motel! "
United States
Tera
$107 nightly
The price is $122
May 3 - May 4
Total with taxes and fees
Oasis Inn & Suites

Hyatt Place Santa Barbara

Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,094 reviews)
"This is one of the few high quality places to stay in Santa Barbara. It’s a gem, centrally located and very comfy. We loved staying here."
United States
Carol
$198 nightly
The price is $230
May 17 - May 18
Total with taxes and fees
Hyatt Place Santa Barbara

Sandpiper Lodge

Sandpiper Lodge
2.0 star property
North State
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (2,388 reviews)
"Everything was great I really like the breakfast and the rooms for a good night's sleep it is a great place to go and close the door and just chill! "
United States
Timothy
$118 nightly
The price is $134
Apr 26 - Apr 27
Total with taxes and fees
Sandpiper Lodge

Rose Garden Inn

Rose Garden Inn
1.5 star property
North State
6.6 out of 10, (1,001 reviews)
"Nice hotel, great value option compared to the really expensive hotels downtown "
United States
Brian
$88 nightly
The price is $100
May 7 - May 8
Total with taxes and fees
Rose Garden Inn

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach
2.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,338 reviews)
"Nice hotel, super close to the beach. "
United States
Savanah
$145 nightly
The price is $166
Apr 28 - Apr 29
Total with taxes and fees
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection Property

Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection Property
4.0 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (414 reviews)
"When I arrived after midnight after a long, tiring drive, I was greeted by a very friendly manager who was kind to give me a later check out when I asked. The hotel and my ADA king room were beautiful and luxurious, providing the rest and easy morning I needed. I look forward to staying here again."
United States
Jason
$185 nightly
The price is $211
Apr 27 - Apr 28
Total with taxes and fees
Hideaway Santa Barbara, A Kirkwood Collection Property

Agave Inn

Agave Inn
2.0 star property
East San Roque
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (776 reviews)
"Great little place to stay"
United States
Ashley
$125 nightly
The price is $143
Apr 28 - Apr 29
Total with taxes and fees
Agave Inn

Inn By The Harbor

Inn By The Harbor
3.5 star property
Santa Barbara Beach
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,847 reviews)
"Great place to stay! Clean room, good food, friendly and kind staff. "
United States
Zaneta
$199 nightly
The price is $228
May 18 - May 19
Total with taxes and fees
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.

Find out more about Santa Barbara

Discover cheap things to do in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara offers a delightful blend of budget-friendly activities and attractions for the discerning traveler. Start your adventure at the picturesque Santa Barbara Mission, a historic site with beautiful gardens that you can explore for free. Next, visit the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, where you can climb the clock tower for stunning panoramic views of the city and coastline at no cost. For a dose of art and culture, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art features free admission on Sundays, showcasing an impressive collection of American and European art. Families will love the Santa Barbara Zoo, where you can enjoy discounted tickets on certain days, making it an affordable outing with the kids. Lastly, head to the Funk Zone, a vibrant arts district filled with local galleries, street art, and wine tasting rooms—many of which offer reasonably priced options. For accommodations, consider the downtown area, where you’ll find various budget-friendly hotels that provide easy access to these attractions, allowing you to explore the charming streets, beautiful beaches, and local eateries without breaking the bank. Enjoy freshly caught seafood at local food trucks or grab a quick bite at one of the many cafes offering delicious meals at wallet-friendly prices.

Find the best cheap hotels in Santa Barbara

For travelers seeking affordable yet comfortable accommodations in Santa Barbara, these five hotels offer great value without compromising on quality. Each provides essential amenities and convenient access to the beautiful Santa Barbara coast.

Marina Beach Motel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Marina Beach Motel stands out as a prime budget option with an impressive review rating of 9.8, making it a favorite among travelers. Guests can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast and free self-parking, ensuring a straightforward experience. The motel’s nearby the beach allows travelers to soak up the sun without traveling far.
  • Other amenities: In addition to free Wi-Fi, Marina Beach Motel features onsite bicycles for guests to explore the area. The kitchenette in some rooms allows for easy meal preparation, while the furnished patio offers a relaxing space to unwind. Beach towels and access to nearby wineries add to the enjoyable experience at this budget-friendly motel.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.41 miles, Santa Barbara Harbor - 0.15 miles, Stearns Wharf - 0.57 miles

La Playa Inn

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: La Playa Inn offers travelers a budget-friendly stay with an excellent review rating of 9.6. This inviting inn provides free Wi-Fi and self-parking, ensuring that guests can enjoy their vacation without overspending. The hotel features a lovely terrace and patio area, perfect for guests looking to relax outside after a day of fun in the sun.
  • Other amenities: Guests can also benefit from a convenient location near the beach and boardwalk, allowing for easy access to Santa Barbara's attractions. Other amenities include air conditioning for comfort and designer toiletries for a touch of luxury at an affordable price. With off-street parking and a friendly concierge, La Playa Inn is an excellent choice for budget-minded travelers.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: Leadbetter Beach - 0.58 miles, MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.64 miles, Santa Barbara Harbor - 0.65 miles

Harbor House Inn

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Harbor House Inn is a delightful budget choice with a solid guest review rating of 9.6. This charming inn offers guests free Wi-Fi and self-parking, making it easy to enjoy a comfortable stay affordably. Guests can take advantage of the outdoor hot spring and private hot tub, providing a unique way to relax after a day of sightseeing.
  • Other amenities: Additional amenities include free bicycles for exploring the nearby coastline, various water sports options, and beach towels for beach outings. With a well-equipped kitchenette in select rooms, guests can enjoy home-cooked meals. The inn’s location near the beach and boardwalk enhances the overall experience for travelers looking for budget-friendly accommodations.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.41 miles, Santa Barbara Harbor - 0.11 miles, Stearns Wharf - 0.57 miles

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: A fantastic choice for budget-conscious travelers, Avania Inn of Santa Barbara boasts a high guest review rating of 9.2. This hotel offers free self-parking and a complimentary daily breakfast, ensuring guests can start their day without added expenses. Guests will appreciate the outdoor pool and hot tub, perfect for relaxation after exploring nearby attractions.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include free Wi-Fi, designer toiletries, and air conditioning for a comfortable stay. The hotel is conveniently located near the beach and boardwalk, allowing guests to easily enjoy Santa Barbara's stunning coastline. With nearby golf and various outdoor activities, the Avania Inn makes for a great base to explore the area.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: Leadbetter Beach - 0.62 miles, MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.62 miles, Santa Barbara Harbor - 0.69 miles

How can I get cheap hotels in Santa Barbara?

Best tips to find a cheap hotel in Santa Barbara

  1. If you're looking to travel to Santa Barbara on a budget, you'll be happy to know that you can find hotels for as low as $100. Of course, that price is affected by amenities, star rating, and even the time of year you visit. At most, hotel prices can be as high as $230. Staying a short amount of time in Santa Barbara is an effective way to reduce hotel costs.

  2. When you cut your vacation down to just a few days, you don't have to worry as much about hotel prices since you don't have that many nights to stay. For budget hotels in Santa Barbara, 3 to 4 days should be all the nights you need. That's generally enough to enjoy the city's top attractions, though there's certainly enough to do to warrant a week-long trip.

  3. When booking cheap hotel rooms in Santa Barbara, it's typically best to book about 3 weeks in advance. Book further in advance than that and you could be paying too much for your room, as hotels will often overestimate future demand. However, if you wait too long, you might find that the hotel has been completely booked.

  4. When you utilize search filters on Expedia, you'll be able to narrow down your results in a flash. These search filters cover a wide variety of factors you may be interested in when it comes to finding a cheap hotel in Santa Barbara, including amenities such as Free Breakfast, 2-star rating, or proximity to local attractions. You can even set filters for price limits to ensure that all the displayed results are within your budget.

Top Santa Barbara Hotel Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in Santa Barbara as a budget traveler?
For budget travellers seeking excellent value in Santa Barbara, Marina Beach Motel, La Playa Inn, Harbor House Inn, Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages, and Casa Jardin are all highly-rated options.

The 3-star Marina Beach Motel, with an outstanding 9.8 rating, offers fantastic value with free continental breakfast, complimentary WiFi, and free self-parking. Guests consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff, the beautiful and clean rooms, and the excellent location. It is conveniently located near the Susan Quinlan Doll and Teddy Bear Museum and Leadbetter Beach.

La Playa Inn, rated 9.6, provides practical amenities like free WiFi, free toiletries, and free self-parking. Many rooms also feature a balcony or patio, adding to the comfort. Travellers frequently mention the spacious and clean rooms, the friendly staff, and the beautiful location. The inn is close to the Susan Quinlan Doll and Teddy Bear Museum and Leadbetter Beach.

Harbor House Inn, a 3-star property with a 9.6 rating, includes free internet, free WiFi, free toiletries, and free self-parking. Guests appreciate the superb location, the clean rooms, and the excellent staff. Free bicycles are also available, which is a great perk for exploring. It is situated near the Susan Quinlan Doll and Teddy Bear Museum and Leadbetter Beach.

The 3-star Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages, also rated 9.6, offers free WiFi, free toiletries, and free self-parking. Guests can enjoy furnished patios, yards, or balconies. Reviews highlight the great and delicious breakfast, comfortable and clean rooms, and the nice quiet location. It is located close to the Susan Quinlan Doll and Teddy Bear Museum and the Santa Barbara County Courthouse.

Casa Jardin, a 3-star hotel with a 9.6 rating, provides great value with free self-parking, free WiFi, and a kitchen in its accommodations. Some rooms also offer mountain views. Visitors often remark on the great, walkable location, comfortable and clean rooms, and convenient parking.
How much does a budget hotel in Santa Barbara cost?
Budget hotel prices in Santa Barbara vary, but you can find a great deal from $100 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—off-peak and mid-week stays are typically 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.
Which area of Santa Barbara is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For solo travellers seeking cheap hotels in Santa Barbara, areas slightly removed from the immediate beachfront, such as Upper State Street or near the Santa Barbara City College, often present the best value. These locations provide more affordable lodging options while still offering convenient access to the city's main attractions via public transport or a short ride-share.

Upper State Street, a bustling commercial corridor, features a variety of budget-friendly motels and hotels. This area is well-served by local bus routes, making it easy for solo travellers to reach downtown's State Street shopping and dining, or the lively Funk Zone, without incurring high parking fees. Many establishments here also offer complimentary breakfast, further stretching your travel budget.

Alternatively, staying near Santa Barbara City College can be a good option. This neighbourhood is generally quieter and has some smaller, independently owned motels and guesthouses that are more competitively priced. From here, you can enjoy pleasant walks to the harbor and beaches, or utilize the local bus system to explore other parts of the city.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Santa Barbara?
For families seeking top-rated yet affordable accommodations in Santa Barbara, Beachside Inn, Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara, and The Eagle Inn are excellent choices.

The 3-star Beachside Inn, boasting a 9.0 rating, offers a fantastic array of free amenities, including a buffet breakfast, WiFi, and self-parking, ensuring a budget-friendly stay. Guests consistently highlight the nice, clean rooms and the friendly, amazing staff, as well as its great location just 0.2 miles from Leadbetter Beach and 0.4 miles from Santa Barbara County Courthouse.

Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara, a 3-star hotel with an 8.8 rating, is another great option for families. It provides a complimentary buffet breakfast daily, with free breakfast available on weekends, and free self-parking, including spaces for RVs, buses, and trucks. Reviewers frequently praise the helpful staff, clean rooms, and convenient location, which is just 0.7 miles from Kiwanis Meadows.

The Eagle Inn, a charming 3-star establishment rated 9.4, offers exceptional value with a free cooked breakfast, free WiFi, and complimentary self-parking. Customers frequently praise the friendly staff, delicious breakfast, and beautiful, clean rooms. Its superb location places it just 0.2 miles from Leadbetter Beach and 0.4 miles from Santa Barbara County Courthouse.
What cheap hotels in Santa Barbara offer complimentary breakfast?
Several budget-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara offer complimentary breakfast, ensuring a great start to your day without extra cost.

The 3-star Marina Beach Motel, with an impressive 9.8 rating, provides a free continental breakfast and complimentary WiFi. Guests consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff, the beautiful and clean rooms, and the excellent location close to attractions like Leadbetter Beach and the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. Free self-parking is another valuable perk.

Another excellent choice is the 3-star West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel, rated 9.4. This hotel also offers a free continental breakfast and free WiFi, along with complimentary self-parking. Travellers frequently highlight its great location, friendly staff, and great breakfast. It is conveniently located near Leadbetter Beach and the Santa Barbara County Courthouse.

The Eagle Inn, a 3-star property with a 9.4 rating, serves a delicious free cooked breakfast, making it a favorite among guests. Beyond the excellent breakfast, visitors appreciate the friendly staff, beautiful rooms, and great location. Free WiFi and self-parking are also included.

The 3-star Beachside Inn, rated 9.0, offers a complimentary buffet breakfast and free WiFi. Reviewers often mention the great breakfast, nice clean rooms, and friendly staff. Its location is a key highlight, being close to Leadbetter Beach and other points of interest. Free self-parking is also provided.

Finally, the 3-star Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara, with an 8.8 rating, features a free buffet breakfast on both weekdays and weekends. This hotel offers free self-parking and is noted by guests for its friendly staff, clean rooms, and convenient location near Kiwanis Meadows.
When is the most affordable time to visit Santa Barbara?
The most affordable time to visit Santa Barbara is generally during the shoulder seasons, specifically late fall (October to November) and late winter/early spring (February to April), outside of major holidays. During these periods, you'll often find lower prices on accommodations and fewer crowds, making it easier to enjoy the city's offerings without breaking the bank.

For couples looking for a romantic getaway without the peak season price tag, these months offer pleasant weather for exploring. You can enjoy strolls along the uncrowded beaches, explore the Funk Zone's art galleries, or visit the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara at a more relaxed pace. Many wineries in the Santa Ynez Valley also offer tastings at this time, and some may even have special off-season promotions.

Solo travellers will also appreciate the quieter atmosphere and better deals on hotels and guesthouses. The downtown area, with its State Street promenade, becomes more accessible, and you might find more availability for activities like kayaking or paddleboarding at discounted rates.
What are the best cheap hotels in Santa Barbara with a pool?
For travellers seeking budget-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara with a refreshing pool, several excellent options stand out.

The Franciscan Hotel, with an impressive 9.4 review rating, offers an inviting outdoor pool, along with complimentary toiletries, free self-parking, and free WiFi. Guests consistently praise the spacious and clean rooms, the great location, and the friendly, helpful staff. Its convenient location places it near Leadbetter Beach and the Santa Barbara County Courthouse.

West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel, a 3-star property with a 9.4 rating, features both a heated outdoor pool and a complimentary continental breakfast, alongside free self-parking and free WiFi. Reviewers frequently highlight the great location, the friendly and helpful staff, and the great hot tub. It is also close to Leadbetter Beach and the Santa Barbara County Courthouse.

Mason Beach Inn, a 3-star hotel rated 9.2, provides an outdoor pool, free WiFi, and complimentary toiletries. Guests often praise the great location and staff, as well as the beautiful and clean rooms. This hotel is also conveniently situated near Leadbetter Beach and the Santa Barbara County Courthouse.

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara, with a 9.0 rating, offers both an outdoor pool and a regular pool. It includes free self-parking, free WiFi, and complimentary toiletries. Visitors frequently mention the friendly and helpful staff, spacious and clean rooms, and the great breakfast. It is located near Leadbetter Beach and the Santa Barbara County Courthouse.

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach, also rated 9.0, provides both an outdoor pool and a regular pool. This hotel offers great value with complimentary toiletries, free WiFi, and free self-parking, plus pets stay free. Guests often comment on the amazing location, comfortable and clean rooms, and friendly staff.
What cheap hotels in Santa Barbara offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?
For budget-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara offering cooking facilities or kitchenettes, consider Marina Beach Motel, Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages, Casa Jardin, The Eagle Inn, and Oasis Inn & Suites.

The 3-star Marina Beach Motel, with an impressive 9.8 rating, provides kitchenettes, making it easy to prepare your own meals. Guests frequently highlight the friendly and helpful staff, beautiful and clean rooms, and excellent location. It is conveniently situated near Leadbetter Beach and the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. Additionally, you'll enjoy free continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking.

Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages, a 3-star property rated 9.6, also features kitchenettes. Reviewers often praise the great and delicious breakfast, comfortable and clean rooms, and the nice, quiet location. It is close to the Susan Quinlan Doll and Teddy Bear Museum and Mission Santa Barbara. Amenities include free WiFi, free toiletries, and free self-parking.

Casa Jardin, a 3-star hotel with a 9.6 rating, offers full kitchens, superb for extended stays or those who prefer to cook. Guests appreciate the great and walkable location, comfortable and clean rooms, and convenient parking. It's located near the Santa Barbara County Courthouse and Mission Santa Barbara. This hotel also provides free WiFi and free self-parking, with some rooms offering mountain views.

The 3-star The Eagle Inn, rated 9.4, includes kitchenettes in its offerings. Visitors consistently mention the friendly and great staff, excellent and delicious breakfast, and superb location. It is close to Leadbetter Beach and the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. Complimentary amenities include free breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking.

Oasis Inn & Suites, with an 8.4 rating, also provides kitchenettes. Guests frequently comment on the comfortable and clean rooms, friendly staff, and convenient location. It is located near Jesusita Trail.
Which cheap hotels in Santa Barbara have good reviews for customer service?
For budget-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara with excellent customer service, consider Marina Beach Motel, La Playa Inn, Harbor House Inn, Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages, and West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel.

Marina Beach Motel, a 3-star property with an outstanding 9.8 review rating, offers a variety of complimentary amenities including free continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking. Guests consistently praise the great service and friendly staff. It is conveniently located near Leadbetter Beach and the Santa Barbara County Courthouse.

La Playa Inn, with a 9.6 review rating, provides free WiFi, free toiletries, and free self-parking, along with the added bonus of a balcony or patio in some rooms. Visitors frequently praise the friendly and great staff. This hotel is close to Leadbetter Beach and the Susan Quinlan Doll and Teddy Bear Museum.

Harbor House Inn, a 3-star hotel with a 9.6 rating, includes free internet, free WiFi, and free self-parking. The excellent service and friendly staff are often highlighted in guest reviews. It's situated near Leadbetter Beach and the Santa Barbara County Courthouse.

Cheshire Cat Inn & Cottages, a 3-star establishment rated 9.6, features free WiFi, free toiletries, and free self-parking. Many rooms boast a furnished patio or balcony. Guests consistently describe the staff as amazing and great. This inn is located near the Santa Barbara County Courthouse and Mission Santa Barbara.

West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel, a 3-star option with a 9.4 rating, provides free breakfast, free continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free self-parking. Reviewers frequently mention the friendly and helpful staff.
How can I save on a budget hotel in Santa Barbara with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Santa Barbara. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards program, to unlock discounted Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel booking. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
What free activities should we do in Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara offers a wealth of free activities, superb for solo travellers looking to explore its natural beauty and vibrant culture without spending a dime. The city's stunning coastline and Mediterranean climate provide ample opportunities for outdoor enjoyment.

Solo travellers can begin their exploration by strolling along Stearns Wharf, enjoying the ocean breeze and panoramic views. Afterward, a walk or bike ride along the scenic Cabrillo Boulevard, which stretches for miles along the waterfront, is a fantastic way to take in the views and people-watch. The city's famous beaches, including East Beach and Leadbetter Beach, are free to access and ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or simply relaxing with a book.

Beyond the coastline, solo travellers can experience firsthand Santa Barbara's history and architecture. The historic Mission Santa Barbara offers beautiful grounds to wander through, and the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, with its iconic clock tower and stunning murals, provides free self-guided tours and breathtaking 360-degree views of the city from the top.
Is it cheaper to book a Santa Barbara hotel and flight package?
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 vacation package.
Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?
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.

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