Santa Barbara, with its beachtown vibe, high-end luxury hotels, and Mediterranean atmosphere, is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. With its beautiful beaches, Santa Barbara is a great place to relax, soak up some sun, and enjoy the California coastline. For those looking for a little more adventure, the Santa Ynez Mountains offer hiking trails and stunning views. Santa Barbara is the perfect destination for a beach getaway or a mountain retreat. And to lighten the load of searching, we curated the best neighborhoods and the top spa resorts in Santa Barbara, so you don’t have to.

This greatly depends on your budget and preference. The best places to stay in Santa Barbara , we would say, come with a certain community that speak to you. So a little background on the best neighborhood to stay when you are in Santa Barbara.

State Street

The most popular area to stay in Santa Barbara is along State Street, which is the main drag that goes through downtown. Here you’ll find high-end hotels, restaurants, shops, and bars. You can check out a lot of historical sights and landmarks on foot.

Downtown

Downtown Santa Barbara is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for a more central location with easier access to public transportation. You’ll be close to all the action, but still have a quiet place to come back to at the end of the day. Plus, there are plenty of great restaurants and shops nearby so you’ll never get bored! If you’re looking for a more unique experience, check out the Santa Barbara Public Market or the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. And don’t forget to climb the Santa Barbara Courthouse clock tower for an amazing view of the city!If you’re looking for a place to stay in Santa Barbara that is central and convenient, look no further than Downtown Santa Barbara. | Find hotel deals in Downtown Santa Barbara

Haley Corridor

The Haley Corridor is home to a number of breweries and wineries, as well as casual restaurants and trendy bars. The neighborhood is located on Haley Street between State Street and Milpas Street, and extends a block or two out on both sides of Haley. There is always something going on in the Haley Corridor, sobe sure to check it out next time you’re in Downtown Santa Barbara! | Hotel deals near Haley Corridor

Montecito

Associated with wealth, glamour, and luxury, Montecito is a small beach community located just five miles from Santa Barbara city center. Although hotels in the area are pricey, they offer unparalleled luxury and exclusivity. For those who enjoy spending time outdoors, Montecito is an ideal location, boasting numerous trails, parks, and gardens. | Best hotels to stay in Montecito

Funk Zone

The Funk Zone is a great place to come for a night out on the town, or to enjoy some of the best food and drink that Santa Barbara has to offer. With its close proximity to the beach, the Funk Zone is also a great place to come and spend a day in the sun. There are not many places to stay in the Funk Zone, but there are plenty of hotels and motels in the nearby area. | Best hotels to stay in Funk Zone

West Beach

Must be the most famous place to stay in Santa Barbara, West Beach neighorhood has a lot to offer like ocean view restaurants, shops, the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, and the Museum of Natural History Sea Center. Not to mention, it also boasts a gorgeous wide stretch of beach that’s perfect for biking and walking. Santa Barbara is a beautiful coastal city in Southern California that offers visitors a wealth of things to see and do. Whether you’re interested in arts and culture, outdoor activities, or simply relaxation, Santa Barbara has something for everyone. West Beach is the perfect place to start your Santa Barbara adventure. | Best stays in West Beach

Goleta

For a more budget-friendly beach vacation option, check out the neighboring town of Goleta, located just 9 miles west of Santa Barbara. This charming town is home to the University of California at Santa Barbara and has a more laid-back vibe. You’ll still be able to enjoy all the best that Santa Barbara has to offer without breaking the bank. | Best hotels to stay in Goleta

Where to Stay in Santa Barbara: Experience Luxury and Glamour

Santa Barbara is the perfect place to enjoy luxury and relaxation. With its stunning beaches, picturesque mountains, and beautiful architecture, it offers everything you could want in a California getaway. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the outdoors or take in the sights, Santa Barbara has something for everyone. But for those looking at the glamorous and luxurious side of the American Riviera, we curated the top Santa Barbara spa resorts for your next staycation. Bask in the glamor and luxury.

The Hotel Californian

A top spa resort in Santa Barbara, The Hotel Californian offers an exclusive experience featuring Majorelle, a distinctly Moroccan blue. This rich hue soothes and enlivens, while the indigo pigment inspires intense revitalization. The Hotel Californian’s Majorelle spa treatments are tailored to your personalized expression—an essential luxury along the path to wellness. Majorelle blue is a color that was created by French artist and fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent.

The shade is named after the Majorelle Garden in Marrakech, Morocco, which was designed by Saint Laurent’s partner, Pierre Bergé.The color Majorelle blue is a deep blue hue with strong undertones of purple. It is a very rich and vibrant color that can add a touch of luxury to any space.

The Majorelle blue spa treatments at The Hotel Californian will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Majorelle blue has long been associated with relaxation and rejuvenation, making it the perfect choice for a spa treatment. The Hotel Californian’s Majorelle treatments are designed to help you unwind and recharge. Whether you’re looking for a full-body massage or a facial, our experienced staff will tailor a treatment to fit your needs. After your treatment, take some time to explore Santa Barbara.

The Hotel Californian is situated in the city’s heart, making it easy to walk to nearby shops and restaurants. Or, if you’re looking for something more adventurous, our concierge can help you plan an outing to one of Santa Barbara’s many attractions. Experience a uniquely Santa Barbara resort luxury at the Hotel Californian, a perfect place to relax, rejuvenate, and explore the American Reviera.

The Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort 

Must be one of the luxury Santa Barbara resorts on the beach, the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort offers its visitors more than just a place to stay. With its convenient location near all the best that Santa Barbara has to offer and its wide range of amenities, the Hilton is the perfect choice for your next vacation. For those looking to relax and rejuvenate, the Spa at Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort offers a variety of services and treatments. Guests can enjoy a massage, facial, or body treatment in one of the spa’s 12 private treatment rooms. The spa also features a sauna, steam room, and whirlpool.

If you’re looking to stay active during your stay, the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort has you covered there as well. The resort features a heated outdoor pool, two tennis courts, and a 24-hour fitness center. Bike rentals are also available so you can explore Santa Barbara at your leisure. And of course, no Santa Barbara vacation would be complete without spending some time at the beach.

The Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort is located across the street from East Beach and just a mile from the Funk Zone district. Downtown Santa Barbara is just 10 minutes away. So whether you’re looking to relax and rejuvenate or explore and experience everything Santa Barbara has to offer, the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort is the perfect choice for your next vacation.

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Your Santa Barbara Spa Resorts: Kimpton Canary Hotel

For its quintessential and luxurious hotel experience, Kimpton Canary Hotel, one of the top Santa Barbara spa resorts, is the perfect choice for your next stay in Santa Barbara. Their accommodations are top-notch, and their staff will go above and beyond to make sure you have a fantastic experience. Kimpton Canary is also home to a beautiful rooftop pool with stunning views of the surrounding area – definitely worth a visit during your stay! And if you’re looking for some great local cuisine, be sure to check out Finch and Fork restaurant. With Kimpton’s signature amenities and top-notch service, you’re guaranteed to have a memorable stay at this Santa Barbara hotel.

El Canto, a Belmond Hotel 

Glamorous, modern, yet classic, El Encanto promises an unforgettable stay in Santa Barbara. With stunning views of the American Riviera, this iconic hideaway is perfect for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. El Encanto offers a variety of amenities and activities to make your stay as relaxing or exciting as you desire, including a pool, spa, restaurants, and more. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a fun-filled vacation, El Encanto is the perfect choice.

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

A luxury resort that captures the romance, majesty, and glamour of the Gaviota Coast, The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara is a 78-acre oceanfront paradise that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. Guests of the resort can enjoy sweeping ocean views from their rooms and suites, as well as from the three infinity-edge pools, two beaches, and 42,000-sq-ft spa. The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara also features locally sourced cuisine, making it the perfect place to escape and relax in luxury. 

The Forbes Five-Star Hotel & Spa Rosewood Miramar Beach

Set on 17 acres of oceanfront land, the Forbes Five-Star Hotel & Spa Rosewood Miramar Beach is one of Southern California’s most luxurious and exclusive beachfront resorts. The hotel features a tranquil retreat atmosphere with unique treatments inspired by local surroundings and native traditions. The hotel offers a variety of leisure amenities including an outdoor pool, a spa, and a fitness center. The hotel also features a variety of dining options, including a Michelin-starred restaurant. No kidding, this place redefines your Santa Barbara spa resorts experience.

The Best Western Plus Santa Barbara

One of the top Santa Barbara hotels for families is the Best Western Plus Santa Barbara. Parents will appreciate the chance to relax with a massage or other spa service while kids enjoy the onsite restaurant’s American cuisine. Whether you’re visiting Santa Barbara for business or pleasure, the Best Western Plus Santa Barbara is the perfect place to stay. The convenient location, free airport shuttle, and onsite restaurant make it a great choice for families. For those looking to relax, the hotel offers a terrace, coffee shop/cafe, and spa services. 

Montecito Inn

The Montecito Inn is a beautiful, historic hotel located in Montecito, California. The inn has been welcoming guests since 1928 and offers elegant accommodations, onsite dining, a spa, and more. Guests can enjoy easy access to the beach, shopping, and many attractions in Santa Barbara. The Montecito Inn is the perfect place to relax and enjoy all that Santa Barbara has to offer.

The Montecito Inn is located near the beach in Montecito, a walkable area in Santa Barbara with great shopping. The inn is just a short drive from the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club and Stearns Wharf.

Guests can also explore the nearby Los Padres National Forest and Butterfly Beach. The Montecito Inn is a great choice for travelers with kids, as the inn offers easy access to the Santa Barbara Zoo and Earl Warren Showgrounds.

Parasailing, windsurfing, skydiving, and hiking/biking trails are also available nearby. The Montecito Inn offers a variety of accommodations to suit every need. Guest rooms and suites are available, each with its own unique style and amenities. The inn also offers an onsite spa, restaurant, and bar.

The Four Seasons Resort: The Biltmore Santa Barbara

The Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara is the perfect place to stay for a luxurious and relaxing vacation. The resort is located in Montecito, a beautiful neighborhood in Santa Barbara, and is just a short drive from the airport. The resort is also right on the beach, so you can spend your days lounging on the sand or swimming in the ocean.

The area around the resort is also full of natural beauty, including Butterfly Beach and Andree Clark Bird Refuge. If you’re looking for some culture during your stay, Santa Barbara Bowl and MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation are both nearby.

And if you’re traveling with kids, they’ll love spending a day at the Santa Barbara Zoo. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in the area, including kayaking, sailing, mountain biking, and mountain climbing. No matter what you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it at the Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara.

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Traveling with kids? Here are our top 35 things to do in Santa Barbara for families

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Wine Valley Inn and Cottages

With the hotel’s strategic location, Wine Valley Inn, one of the luxury resorts near Santa Barbara, is within a 10-minute drive of popular attractions such as Solvang Festival Theater and Wildling Museum. This 4-star hotel offers guests a free breakfast buffet, a garden, and a fireplace in the lobby.Wine Valley Inn provides the perfect base for exploring all that Solvang has to offer. The hotel has spa services that include a manicure/pedicure, facial, or deep-tissue massage.

If you are not out exploring, experience a rejuvenating deep-tissue massage in the comfort of your room. And after a long day of wine tasting or hiking, come back to the hotel and relax by the fireplace in the lobby with a glass of wine from the hotel’s very own Buttonwood Farm Winery & Vineyard. Wine Valley Inn is the perfect place to stay when visiting Solvang.

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