Hotels in Waterfront

Unveil the Coastal Charm: Where Nature Meets Adventure at the Waterfront

Discover the enchanting Waterfront in Santa Barbara, California, where sun-kissed beaches meet breathtaking ocean views. This vibrant destination offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, featuring a bustling marina, scenic parks, and family-friendly attractions. Stroll along the picturesque promenade, indulge in waterfront dining, or explore the charming shops in the historic district. With the majestic Santa Ynez Mountains as a backdrop, the Waterfront is not just a getaway; it’s a serene escape that invites you to bask in the beauty of coastal California. Whether you’re seeking romance or family fun, the Waterfront promises unforgettable memories.

Discover great hotels in Waterfront

Waterfront Santa Barbara offers a variety of oceanfront hotels and beachfront resorts, perfect for travelers seeking stunning views and easy beach access. Guest rooms range from cozy to luxurious, catering to different preferences and budgets, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway. Here are some of the best hotels in Waterfront that our travelers love:

1. Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront ResortOpens in a new window: This 4.0-star resort is perfect for leisure travelers seeking a quintessential beach vacation. With direct access to the beach, it offers a serene environment complemented by luxurious amenities. The standout features include beautifully designed common areas and an inviting pool that provides a perfect setting for relaxation. Travelers appreciate the resort's focus on comfort and the overall aesthetic appeal, making it a delightful choice for those wanting to unwind and enjoy the coastal charm of Santa Barbara.
2. Fess Parkers Doubletree ResortOpens in a new window: Fess Parkers Doubletree Resort is a refined 4.0-star hotel that caters to discerning travelers who appreciate gourmet dining experiences. The property boasts a stylish restaurant that serves an array of culinary delights, ensuring a memorable dining journey. Guests admire the hotel's elegant architectural design and the welcoming atmosphere it provides. This hotel is a great option for those looking to indulge in high-quality cuisine while enjoying the sophisticated ambiance characteristic of Santa Barbara.
3. Hotel CalifornianOpens in a new window: Standing out as a 5.0-star hotel, Hotel Californian is ideal for luxury-seeking travelers desiring an exceptional beach getaway. With direct access to the beach, this property emphasizes a lavish experience, highlighted by its upscale amenities and stunning architectural design. Guests love the opulent atmosphere, complemented by a world-class spa and infinity pool, offering the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation. This hotel promises a distinctive experience filled with curated luxury, making it a premier choice for those wanting to indulge in the best Santa Barbara has to offer.

Top locations to stay in Waterfront

Staying in Waterfront, Santa Barbara, California, United States of America, near Santa Barbara Harbor, Stearns Wharf, and Santa Barbara County Courthouse offers diverse attractions. The harbor provides stunning ocean views and vibrant nightlife, Stearns Wharf features unique shops and dining, and the courthouse boasts historical architecture. For first-time visitors, staying near Stearns Wharf is ideal for its accessibility and charm.

1. Near Santa Barbara HarborOpens in a new window: Staying near Santa Barbara Harbor puts you right at the heart of coastal charm and activity. Enjoy scenic views and a lively atmosphere, with easy access to attractions like Stearns WharfOpens in a new window, where you can explore shops and enjoy the ocean breeze. The area also features cultural attractions like the Granada Theatre and Arlington Theater, perfect for an evening out. For those looking to unwind, the nearby Santa Barbara Golf Club and Elings Park offer great spots to relax and soak in the sun.
2. Near Stearns Wharf: Choosing to stay near Stearns Wharf means you're just steps away from a historic pier that’s bustling with life. This area provides a unique blend of shopping at local boutiques and enjoying fresh ocean air. Take a stroll down the Cabrillo Bikeway for a refreshing experience along the coast. The vibrant cultural scene is highlighted by venues like the Lobero Theater, where you can catch a range of performances, making it a lively spot for entertainment.
3. Near Santa Barbara County CourthouseOpens in a new window: Staying near the Santa Barbara County Courthouse gives you a taste of the city’s rich history and stunning architecture. The courthouse itself is a must-see with its beautiful gardens and panoramic views from the clock tower. It's also conveniently located near Paseo Nuevo Mall, where you can indulge in a variety of shopping options. For a touch of wellness, visit the nearby Santa Barbara Bowl, known for its outdoor concerts and vibrant atmosphere, making it a great spot to enjoy local events.

Things to do near Waterfront

Waterfront invites travelers to bask in sun-kissed beaches and explore scenic parks, making it a family-friendly haven. Enjoy boating, hiking through lush forests, or diving into vibrant marine life. With lively entertainment venues and shopping areas, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this coastal paradise.

• Santa Barbara HarborOpens in a new window – Spend a day at this vibrant marina where you can watch boats bobbing in the water, enjoy waterfront dining, and explore unique shops. Take a leisurely stroll along the harbor to soak in the sun and perhaps rent a kayak or paddleboard for a bit of adventure on the water.
• Stearns WharfOpens in a new window – Walk along this historic pier, which offers stunning views of the coastline and the Santa Barbara skyline. Stop by the eateries for fresh seafood, check out the local shops, or simply relax on the deck while watching the waves crash against the pilings. Don’t forget to snap some photos of the picturesque scenery!
• Santa Barbara County CourthouseOpens in a new window – Visit this architectural gem, known for its stunning Spanish-Moorish design. Climb to the top of the clock tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and ocean. The lush gardens surrounding the courthouse are perfect for a leisurely walk or a family picnic amidst beautiful landscaping.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Waterfront

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Waterfront is during January, February, and November, when hotel prices are generally lower. Staying for at least 2 to 3 days is perfect for discovering the area’s significant landmarks and cultural sites. You can explore attractions like historic buildings, art galleries, museums, and urban parks, making it a budget-friendly getaway. With the potential for prices to drop during these months, you can enjoy a great value for your money while immersing yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Waterfront.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals at Waterfront on Hotels.com, explore the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections, where you may discover discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, you're more likely to see flash sales and special promotions, ensuring you stay updated on savings opportunities. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window feature within the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities effectively, so you'll be the first to know if prices drop or rooms become available for your spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay at the Waterfront Hotel. For travelers seeking something different, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized experience and could offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll recommend more affordable dates, increasing the likelihood that you’ll secure the best deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying close to major attractions or city centers can be convenient, but it usually tends to come with higher prices. For more budget-friendly options, think about hotels located in less central neighborhoods, which can help you strike a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you want to visit. You might also want to check out independent hotels a bit further out, as they often provide a more authentic experience at a more affordable rate.
5. Become a Member: Join for free and unlock exclusive deals on your next stay in Waterfront! As a member, you'll save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with special member prices. Enjoy the benefits of quickly advancing through membership tiers, including perks like complimentary room upgrades when available and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Don’t miss out on these great offers—sign up today!

Best time to go to Waterfront

Waterfront has a varied climate due to its size, so the best time to visit depends on the region and your preferences for weather and crowds. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Waterfront, June to August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, with no rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, February, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by no to light rainfall and sunny conditions.