A coastal town with a beach, houses, and mountains in the background.

Santa Barbara Budget Hotels from RM496

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Check availability on Santa Barbara Budget Hotels

Tonight
8 Oct - 9 Oct
Tomorrow
9 Oct - 10 Oct
This weekend
9 Oct - 11 Oct
Next weekend
16 Oct - 18 Oct

Our top choices for Santa Barbara cheap hotels

A spacious living room with a round wooden coffee table, two blue armchairs, and a patterned armchair.
A swimming pool with a tiled deck, lounge chairs, and a palm tree.
A spacious kitchen with granite countertops, wooden chairs, and a large island. There are multiple dining tables with chairs, a refrigerator, and a TV mounted on the wall.
A spacious living area with a sofa, armchairs, a coffee table, and a reception desk.

1. Sandpiper Lodge

Sandpiper Lodge
North State
United States
Greg
RM444
RM507 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Sandpiper Lodge
A hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a desk, and a nightstand.
A lobby with a wooden floor, two patterned armchairs, a small table, and a wall with three framed pictures.
A modern kitchen with a central island, wooden flooring, and a dining area with orange chairs and a table.
A hotel room with a bed, a desk, and a chair. There is a large window with a view of palm trees and a balcony.

2. Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara Beach
United States
Joseph
RM585
RM699 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
A hotel room with two beds, a wooden floor, a desk with a chair, and a door leading to a bathroom.
A hotel room with a large bed, a chair, a nightstand with a lamp, and a framed picture on the wall.
A building with a neon 'Welcome' sign, a 'Garden' sign, and a 'Vacancy' sign.
A Rose Garden Inn sign with a rose logo and the name.

3. Rose Garden Inn

Rose Garden Inn
North State
United States
K.
RM497
RM566 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
Rose Garden Inn
A two-story building with a balcony, palm trees, and a sign that reads "Castillo Inn."
A living room with a TV, a painting, and a red chair with a patterned pillow.
A building with a sign reading "Castillo Inn at the Beach" indicating a hotel.
A room with a sliding glass door leading to a patio area with a yellow fence and a table with chairs.

4. Castillo Inn at the Beach

Castillo Inn at the Beach
Santa Barbara Beach
United States
Wesley
RM609
RM695 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Castillo Inn at the Beach
A reception area with a counter, potted plants, a coffee station, and a view through large glass doors.
A modern kitchen with a central island, a coffee station, and a view of greenery outside.
A hotel room with a bed, bedside table, lamp, and a television on a dresser.
A hotel room with a bed, a TV, a desk, and a view of the street and palm trees outside.

5. The Inn at East Beach

The Inn at East Beach
Santa Barbara Beach
United States
Gustavo
RM519
RM591 total
includes taxes & fees
5 Nov - 6 Nov
The Inn at East Beach
A hotel room with two beds, a desk, and a window.
A hotel reception area with a coffee machine, jars, a tray, a mirror, and a certificate on the wall.
A variety of cacti in a planter on a balcony with a view of a pool and lounge chairs.
A cactus plant in a terracotta pot on a table.

6. The Presidio

The Presidio
Santa Barbara
United States
Bonnie
RM587
RM669 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Oct - 12 Oct
The Presidio
A modern living room with two grey sofas, a small woven stool, and a large wall clock.
A marina with parked cars and boats, palm trees, and a clear blue sky.
A balcony with two chairs and a small table, overlooking a marina with boats and palm trees.
A hotel room with a bed, two armchairs, a small table with a lamp, and a large window offering a view of the beach and palm trees.

7. Beachside Inn

Beachside Inn
Santa Barbara Beach
United States
ARKIMBERLEY
RM807
RM921 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Beachside Inn
A coastal road leading to a pier with a view of the ocean and beach.
A building with a central courtyard, surrounded by palm trees and a clear blue sky.
A modern building with a glass facade, outdoor seating area with Adirondack chairs, a fire pit, and a school bus parked nearby.
A spacious indoor area with large windows, wooden benches, a sofa, and a coffee table.

8. ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel

ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel
Santa Barbara Beach
United States
Kerri
RM556
RM634 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Nov - 9 Nov
ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel
A large, two-story building with a tiled roof, surrounded by palm trees and a well-maintained garden.
A spacious room with a wooden ceiling, a dining area with chairs and a table, a sofa, and a fireplace.
A pathway flanked by lush greenery and palm trees, leading to a building with a tiled roof.
An outdoor patio with tables and chairs, a pergola with vines, and a view of greenery.

9. Inn By The Harbor

Inn By The Harbor
Santa Barbara Beach
United States
emiliano
RM1,052
RM1,202 total
includes taxes & fees
29 Oct - 30 Oct
Inn By The Harbor
A hotel room with two beds, a desk, a chair, a mirror, and a refrigerator.
A swimming pool with lounge chairs and palm trees, surrounded by a building with balconies and red awnings.
A laundry facility with stacked washing machines and dryers, control panels, and a view of the outside through a window.
A compact microwave on a small black stand, a white door, and a wall-mounted microwave.

10. Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria South

Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria South
Carpinteria
United States
Jose
RM310
RM374 total
includes taxes & fees
22 Oct - 23 Oct
Vagabond Inn Santa Barbara - Carpinteria South
View all properties

Find out more about Santa Barbara

Discover cheap things to do in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, with its stunning coastal views and vibrant culture, offers plenty for the budget-conscious traveller. Start your adventure at the Santa Barbara Mission, a historical gem known as the 'Queen of the Missions,' where you can explore beautiful gardens and learn about California’s history for just a small donation. Next, take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront at East Beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy a picnic with stunning ocean views—all for free! Don’t miss the bustling Santa Barbara Farmers Market on Tuesdays and Saturdays, where you can taste local produce and grab affordable snacks while supporting local vendors. For those keen on art, the Santa Barbara Contemporary Arts Forum hosts free exhibitions showcasing regional artists. When it comes to accommodation, consider staying in the Funk Zone, a trendy area dotted with budget-friendly hotels and hostels. This vibrant neighbourhood is packed with local eateries and tasting rooms, making it easy to sample the renowned Santa Barbara wine scene without breaking the bank. With easy access to both the beach and local attractions, you can truly enjoy an enriching experience without overspending.

Find the best cheap hotels in Santa Barbara

For travellers seeking budget-friendly options in Santa Barbara, these hotels offer excellent value without sacrificing comfort or convenience.Marina Beach Motel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: For those seeking exceptional value, the Marina Beach Motel shines with a stellar review rating of 9.8. This budget-friendly motel offers free continental breakfast and Wi-Fi, along with free self-parking, making it a convenient choice for beach lovers. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms equipped with kitchenettes, allowing for easy meal preparation during their stay.
  • Other amenities: Beyond the essentials, the Marina Beach Motel features a furnished patio and patio for outdoor enjoyment, as well as complimentary bicycles to explore the coastal area. With nearby access to the beach, winery tours, and various outdoor activities, travelers can immerse themselves in the vibrant Santa Barbara lifestyle without overspending.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 0.7 km, Santa Barbara Harbor - 0.2 km, Stearns Wharf - 0.9 km

La Playa Inn

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: La Playa Inn is a charming budget option with a solid guest review rating of 9.6, ideal for travellers looking for affordability without sacrificing comfort. The hotel features free Wi-Fi and toiletries, along with free self-parking to make your stay as convenient as possible. Its prime location near Santa Barbara Beach allows guests to enjoy the sun and sand just a short walk away.
  • Other amenities: Guests can relax on the terrace or patio, and the hotel offers air conditioning for added comfort. With a concierge service available, guests can easily plan their local adventures. The hotel also boasts a balcony for those looking to enjoy the ocean breeze right from their room.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: Leadbetter Beach - 0.9 km, MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 1 km, Santa Barbara Harbor - 1 km

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Avania Inn of Santa Barbara is an ideal choice for budget-conscious travellers looking for comfort and convenience. With an impressive review rating of 9.2, travelers can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and a delicious free breakfast daily, ensuring a pleasant start to each day. The hotel also features free self-parking, making it easy for travelers to explore the stunning nearby beaches without the hassle of parking fees.
  • Other amenities: In addition to its budget-friendly amenities, the Avania Inn boasts a terrace for relaxation, an outdoor pool perfect for a refreshing dip, and easy access to the beach and boardwalk. Guests will appreciate the thoughtful touches, such as designer toiletries and air conditioning, ensuring a comfortable stay. With golf nearby and a scenic ocean location, this inn is a fantastic base for Santa Barbara adventures.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 1 km, Leadbetter Beach - 1 km, Santa Barbara Harbor - 1.1 km

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Avania Inn of Santa Barbara is a fantastic choice for budget travellers, an impressive guest review rating of 9.2. Guests will appreciate the complimentary breakfast options, including a self-serve breakfast, which makes mornings a breeze. The hotel also features free self-parking, ensuring convenience without extra costs while being located just steps from the beautiful Santa Barbara Beach.
  • Other amenities: In addition to the budget-friendly offerings, guests can unwind on the terrace or take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool. The hotel provides air conditioning for comfort, designer toiletries for a touch of luxury, and easy access to nearby beach locations for sun-soaked days. With features like hot tub access and nearby golf, Avania Inn is well-equipped for a fun-filled getaway.
  • Neighborhood: Santa Barbara Beach
  • Nearby attractions: Leadbetter Beach - 1 km, MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 1 km, Santa Barbara Harbor - 1.1 km

Top Santa Barbara Hotel Reviews

Inn By The Harbor

Inn By The Harbor

10/10 Excellent
"It was out first time staying at this hotel, we’ll definitely be back! Heather checked us in and was very helpful. The room was very clean! COMPLIMENTARY happy hour was from 4:30-6:30pm and they had a selection of cheeses and wine that you could choose from. They also had a good variety of items for breakfast. I look forward to staying here again soon!"
jordy 1-night trip
Posted 6 hours ago
Inn By The Harbor
Beachside Inn

Beachside Inn

10/10 Excellent
"We had a wonderful stay at the Beach Day Inn! The hotel looks even better in person than it does in the photos. The location is great, and the staff were very friendly and welcoming throughout our visit. The upgraded rooms are beautiful, comfortable, and well worth it. We loved our stay and would definitely come back!"
JULIO 1-night trip
Posted 8 hours ago
Beachside Inn
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

10/10 Excellent
"Happy to report that this property was very good value for money. Will be back in the future."
Monica 2-night trip
Posted 9 hours ago
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

10/10 Excellent
"Excellent staff and very comfortable room I enjoyed the room upgrade The location is excellent with easy access to West Beach and Chase Palm park"
Herbert 1-night trip
Posted 13 hours ago
Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara

Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara

10/10 Excellent
"We only stayed for one night but it was a blast! The room was spacious, clean, it smelled nice and there was a sliding door leading into the backyard which was really cute and well maintained. There were ducks and a little pond and my kids were so impressed! The pool was wonderful and the water was heated. Luckily we brought beach towels from home because there were no clean towels left in the afternoon when we were there so that’s one thing they should keep eye on. The breakfast in the morning was amazing just like all the reviews mentioned and the ladies that helped with the food were super nice! We wanted to stay longer!!! We loved it and we will definitely come back!"
Jana 1-night trip
Posted 21 hours ago
Ramada by Wyndham Santa Barbara
Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Amazing hotel. Helpful staff."
Molly 1-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

Frequently asked questions

What is Santa Barbara like for travellers on a budget?
Santa Barbara has cheap accommodation options and a range of things to see and do, making it a budget-friendly holiday choice. You can find ways to save money while getting to know this destination, which is home to attractions such as Arlington Theater, Lobero Theater and Presidio Santa Barbara.
What's the best budget-friendly accommodation in Santa Barbara?
Based on reviews, Inn By The Harbor is a popular hotel for our travellers who want a more economical choice, and features free breakfast and free Wi-Fi. Other good options to stay on the cheap include Avania Inn of Santa Barbara and Sandpiper Lodge.
How many low-cost hotels will I find in Santa Barbara?
Expedia has 10 hotels in Santa Barbara that are ideal if you are watching your pennies.
When is the best time for a budget trip to Santa Barbara?
Weather will likely play an important role when you plan your trip to Santa Barbara, but bear in mind that cheaper options are usually available when the weather isn't as good. The hottest months are usually August and September, with an average temperature of 22°C, while the coldest months are February and January, with an average of 13°C. Average annual precipitation for Santa Barbara is 392 mm.
What is there to see and do in Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara attracts visitors with its fine wine and fantastic dining options, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the local attractions that interest you most, and then make time for sights and activities that cost little or nothing at all. If you're looking to enjoy the area's natural beauty, you can get outdoors at West Beach, Leadbetter Beach or East Beach.
How can I get to Santa Barbara and get around on a budget?
Looking at these ways to get around Santa Barbara is a smart way to keep your trip affordable. The nearest airport is Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal), situated 7.6 mi (12.2 km) away. If that doesn't suit your budget, you can arrange flights in and out of Santa Ynez, CA (SQA), which is 24.7 mi (39.7 km) away. To see more of the larger area, hop on a train at Santa Barbara Station.

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