Santa Barbara, a delightful coastal city in California, is a prime destination for families seeking memorable vacations. Known for its stunning beaches, scenic mountains, and a wide array of family-friendly activities, this area offers hotels that prioritize comfort and convenience for guests of all ages. Whether you are looking for spacious accommodations, on-site amenities, or access to local attractions, family hotels in Santa Barbara have you covered. From beachfront resorts to charming boutique lodgings, there’s something for every family’s preferences and needs. Here, you’ll find some of the best options to create lasting memories together.
Our Top 10
(Sorted by rating & number of reviews)
Best Family-Friendly Hotel in Santa Barbara
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Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort, located just off The Cabrillo Ball Park, about 2.6 km from the sand Leadbetter Beach, features a heated swimming pool for guests to take a dip in. Set near a train station, this venue boasts a Jacuzzi, recreational facilities, and a shuffleboard court as well as an American restaurant that serves American cuisine.
Funk Zone is less than 1.4 km away. The accommodation is 25 minutes' walk from Santa Barbara city centre and 31 minutes by car from Santa Barbara airport. Occupying an ideal location, the hotel lies a short distance from mountains. You can get to Visit Santa Barbara in a few minutes by car.
The Franciscan Hotel
The 3-star Franciscan Hotel Santa Barbara is set 2.3 km from Kids World Playground and 1.1 km from University of California. It offers Wi-Fi throughout the venue, parking on site and an outdoor pool.
The accommodation offers a comfortable location about 20 km from Santa Barbara airport and a few minutes' walk from Sea Center. Guests can get to Santa Barbara city centre, which is 2 km away. The Franciscan Hotel is a short ride from Stearns Wharf Harbor. Castillo & Montecito bus stop lies within 350 metres away.
Lemon Tree Inn
Lemon Tree Inn Santa Barbara is situated in Upper State Street district, 25 minutes' walk from the lush Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden and features 92 rooms with views of the inner courtyard. Guests will have access to parking on site for added convenience.
Set next to First Presbyterian Church, the venue is located in the heart of Santa Barbara. Susan Quinlan Doll and Teddy Bear Museum is 3 km from the hotel, while Santa Barbara airport is 20 km from it. Lemon Tree Inn is a short ride from the Kid-friendly Chase Palm Waterfront Park. The nearest bus stop is State & Alamar, it is only 100 metres away.
Family Hotels with Kid-Friendly Amenities
If you are traveling with children, consider staying at family hotels that focus on kid-friendly amenities. Many properties feature pools with splash pads, playgrounds, and recreational activities designed to keep the little ones entertained. You’ll also find dining options that cater to younger palates, as well as programs for learning and fun. Resorts with family suites or connecting rooms can accommodate larger groups with ease, ensuring everyone has their own space for relaxation. The ease of access to nearby attractions like the Santa Barbara Zoo and Discovery Park enhances family vacations, making these hotels particularly appealing.
Best Western Plus Santa Barbara
Best Western Plus Santa Barbara Hotel is set a 10-minute drive from Stearns Wharf Harbor and boasts a hot tub, spa therapy, and a shared lounge. Situated in Santa Barbara Downtown district, this venue is 10 minutes walk from the centre of Santa Barbara.
The accommodation is 25 minutes' stroll from Lobero Theatre. The hotel is nestled in the centre of Santa Barbara. You can get to the lush Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden in a few minutes by car. Bath & Los Olivos bus stop is right by this charming property.
Hyatt Place Santa Barbara
Situated within a 15-minute drive of the non - profit non - collecting Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara, Hyatt Place Santa Barbara Hotel features Wi-Fi in public areas and private car parking on site. The centre of Santa Barbara is within 5 km of the venue, and Whole Foods Market is about 1.7 km away.
The accommodation is placed not far from beautiful beaches of Santa Barbara. You can get to University of California in a few minutes by car. Hyatt Place Santa Barbara Hotel is located 15 km from Santa Barbara airport and 100 metres from State & Highway 154 bus stop.
Mar Monte Hotel, In The Unbound Collection By Hyatt
Set within 2.6 km from University of California, the 4-star Mar Monte Hotel, In The Unbound Collection By Hyatt Santa Barbara features Wi-Fi throughout the venue as well as private parking on site. This accommodation is located in East Beach district, not far from Santa Barbara Zoo.
The hotel is situated in the very heart of Santa Barbara, near Cabrillo Pavillion Arts Center. Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is 10 minutes by car from the in Santa Barbara. Mar Monte Hotel, In The Unbound Collection By Hyatt is a short ride from Waterfront. The nearest bus stop is Cabrillo and Milpas, it is only 200 metres away.
Beachfront Family Hotels in Santa Barbara
For a perfect seaside getaway, beachfront family hotels in Santa Barbara offer an idyllic retreat. Imagine waking up to ocean views, stepping directly onto the sand, and enjoying numerous water activities just outside your door. These properties often provide spectrum ranging from spacious rooms to family condos, which are ideal for longer stays. The proximity to the beach means hassle-free outings for building sandcastles or taking whale-watching tours along the coast. Furthermore, resort services frequently include beach gear rentals and children's programs, ensuring fun-filled days for the entire family.
The Leta Santa Barbara Goleta, Tapestry Collection By Hilton Hotel
The 4-star Leta Santa Barbara Goleta, Tapestry Collection By Hilton Hotel is set 0.7 km from Calle Real Shopping Center and 2.9 km from the acre Goleta Public Beach Park. Guests will have access to parking on site for added convenience.
The venue features accommodation in Goleta district. This property is located in an entertainment area of Santa Barbara. Trade fairs are within several minutes away. You can get to Center for Urban Agriculture at Fairview Gardens Farm in a few minutes by car. A local bus stop Calle Real & Kingston is 50 metres away.
The Milo Hotel
The 4-star Hotel Milo Santa Barbara lies in West Beach district within a walking distance to Stearns Wharf Harbor. It offers modern rooms, Wi-Fi throughout the venue and private car parking on site.
The accommodation is set next to Carriage and Western Art Nonprofit Museum, 1.2 km from the white - sand Leadbetter Beach. Santa Barbara Maritime Museum is 0.9 km from the property, while Santa Barbara airport is 25 km from it. Hotel Milo Santa Barbara is a short ride from the public park "Douglas Family Preserve". Castillo & Montecito bus stop lies within 550 metres away.
Marina Beach Motel
The 3-star Marina Beach Motel Santa Barbara is set 0.8 km from Reagan Ranch Center and 1.2 km from University of California. Guests will have access to a car park on site for added convenience.
The venue is perfectly nestled in West Beach district, not very far from Moreton Bay Fig Tree. It's a 15-minute walk from here to the centre of Santa Barbara. You can get to Santa Barbara Zoo in a few minutes by car. Castillo & Montecito bus stop, offering a direct link to the city attractions and main places, is nearly 5 minutes' walk from Marina Beach Motel.
Budget-Friendly Family Hotels in Santa Barbara
Traveling with the family doesn’t have to break the bank, especially when it comes to budget-friendly family hotels in Santa Barbara. These accommodations prioritize affordability while still offering the essentials for a comfortable stay. Many properties feature complimentary breakfast options, ensuring that your family starts each day with a hearty meal before exploring the city. Located in convenient areas, these hotels provide easy access to attractions and public transportation, allowing you to make the most of your family vacation without overspending.
Riviera Beach House
Situated in the very heart of Santa Barbara, the 3-star Riviera Beach House Hotel is within walking distance from Stearns Wharf Harbor. Highlights at this venue include a Mexican restaurant, a lounge bar and Wi-Fi throughout the accommodation.
The enchanting Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is a 15-minute drive, and Santa Barbara Zoo is a 5-minute drive away. The property is also next door to Moreton Bay Fig Tree, and near a train station. Riviera Beach House Hotel is a short ride from the non-profit Lotusland Botanical Garden. Santa Barbara airport is located nearly 25 km away.
Casa Del Mar Inn
Set within a 25-minute walk of the Spanish Santa Barbara County Courthouse, this 3-star Casa Del Mar Inn is located near Carriage and Western Art Nonprofit Museum. The venue also offers Wi-Fi in public areas.
Santa Barbara Maritime Museum is less than 0.8 km away. Guests can get to Santa Barbara city centre, which is 2 km away. Casa Del Mar Inn is situated not too far from MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation. Castillo & Montecito bus stop lies within 450 metres away.
Orange Tree Inn
The 2-star Orange Tree Inn Santa Barbara is conveniently located in proximity to the lush Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden and offers views over the patio. It offers Wi-Fi in the business centre.
The tranquil 2-block Alameda Park is a 5-minute drive, and the public park "Douglas Family Preserve" is a 10-minute drive away. The centre of Santa Barbara is 1 km away from the venue. Orange Tree Inn is a short ride from Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center. The nearest bus stop State & Mission is 100 metres away.
Family-Friendly Vacation Rentals in Santa Barbara
For families seeking a more personalized experience, family-friendly vacation rentals in Santa Barbara can be a fantastic option. Rentals often come equipped with kitchens, allowing for home-cooked meals that can be enjoyed in a comfortable setting. Many homes and condos cater to larger families or groups, offering multiple bedrooms and outdoor spaces for gatherings. With a range of locations across Santa Barbara, you can find accommodations that are close to parks, beaches, and shopping areas, making it easy to tailor your stay to your group’s interests and activities.
The Eagle Inn
This comfortable The Eagle Inn Santa Barbara offers proximity to Carriage and Western Art Nonprofit Museum and entices guests with a picnic area and various recreational opportunities. The Kid-friendly Chase Palm Waterfront Park is 1.1 km from the inn, while the Spanish Santa Barbara County Courthouse is 2.2 km away.
The venue is ideally nestled in West Beach district, not very far from Moreton Bay Fig Tree. The accommodation is 15 minutes' walk from Santa Barbara city centre and 29 minutes by car from Santa Barbara airport. You can get to Clock tower Courthouse in a few minutes by car. Well-connected to many sights, The Eagle Inn is at a 350-metre distance from Castillo & Montecito bus station.
Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta
The 3-star Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta is set 2.9 km from South Coast Railroad Museum and 2.2 km from Goleta Public Beach Park. This inn features spa therapy, various recreational opportunities, and a golf course as well as high-speed Internet access in the rooms.
The venue is located in the heart of Santa Barbara, in close vicinity of Coal Oil Point Reserve. There is easy access to the central beach. Hampton Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta is a short ride from Center for Urban Agriculture at Fairview Gardens Farm. The nearest bus stop Goleta Valley Community Center is 150 metres away.
Oasis Inn And Suites
Oasis Inn And Suites provides 2-star accommodation in the heart of Santa Barbara, about 10 minutes' drive from the non - profit non - collecting Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara. Guests will have access to street parking on site for added convenience.
Situated in Upper State Street district, this inn is 30 minutes walk from the centre of Santa Barbara. Moreton Bay Fig Tree is 4.9 km from the venue, while State & Broadmoor bus station is 100 metres away. Oasis Inn And Suites is just a few steps from Gelson's Market and Chaucer's Bookstore.
Eco-Friendly Family Hotels in Santa Barbara
Increasingly, families are looking for eco-conscious accommodations that promote sustainability, and Santa Barbara has a range of eco-friendly family hotels committed to reducing their environmental impact. These properties often showcase green initiatives such as solar power, water conservation techniques, and organic food options. Many eco-hotels provide educational programs and nature tours that help families connect with the surrounding environment. Choosing these hotels not only supports sustainable practices, but also allows families to teach children about conservation in an interactive way.
Town And Country Inn
Town And Country Inn Santa Barbara is a 2-star venue positioned approximately 2 km from Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History. Guests will have access to parking on site for added convenience.
Situated in Upper State Street district, this inn is 20 minutes walk from the centre of Santa Barbara. The enchanting Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is 2.4 km from the property, while State & Alamar bus station is 50 metres away. Town And Country Inn is a short ride from the oceanfront Arroyo Burro Beach County Park. Santa Barbara airport is in 27 minutes by car.
Sunset Motel
The 2-star Sunset Motel is set 1.7 km from Willow Glen Park and 2.3 km from Old Mission Santa Barbara Catholic Church. Guests will have access to street parking on site for added convenience.
The property lies in the very heart of Santa Barbara, only steps from Santa Barbara Golf Club. You can reach the centre of Santa Barbara in 30 minutes on foot. Sunset Motel is a short ride from Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History. State & Ontare bus stop is within 150 metres.
Harbor View Inn
The 4-star Harbor View Inn Santa Barbara is centrally located in proximity to Stearns Wharf Harbor and offers views over the sea. Guests have access to an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre and Wi-Fi throughout the venue.
Andree Clark Bird Refuge Nature Preserve is 3 km from the accommodation, while Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center is 350 metres away. This perfect hotel is steps from Reagan Ranch Center and 2 km from downtown of Santa Barbara. Harbor View Inn is a short ride from Kids World Playground. Flixbus bus station is located 5 minutes away from the property on foot.
Charming Boutique Family Hotels in Santa Barbara
For a unique experience, charming boutique family hotels in Santa Barbara offer a personalized touch that large chains cannot match. These smaller hotels focus on creating a cozy atmosphere, with distinctive room designs and attentive staff who cater to your family’s needs. Many boutique hotels provide diverse family-oriented amenities, such as complimentary snacks, movie nights, and group outings. With a focus on local culture and art, these accommodations often place families in neighborhoods rich in history, giving visitors peek into the true essence of Santa Barbara.
San Ysidro Ranch Hotel
The 5-star San Ysidro Ranch Hotel Santa Barbara places guests within a 10-minute drive of Lookout Park. Set in Montecito district, this classic venue features a swimming pool and boasts views of Santa Ynez Mountains.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church is less than 2 km away. The accommodation is based next to the central beach. San Ysidro Ranch Hotel is a short ride from Funk Zone. East Valley & Glen Oaks bus station is set 900 metres away.
Hilton Garden Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta
The 3-star Hilton Garden Inn Santa Barbara/Goleta is set 2.6 km from University of California-Santa Barbara and 3.7 km from the 29-acre Goleta Public Beach Park. Guests have access to an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness room and Wi-Fi in the rooms.
This informal venue lies close to Camino Real Cinemas and offers views over Santa Ynez Mountains. The accommodation is located in Goleta district. You can get to Center for Urban Agriculture at Fairview Gardens Farm in a few minutes by car. The nearest bus stop Hollister & Storke is 50 metres away.
Luxury Family Hotels in Santa Barbara
If you’re looking to elevate your family vacation, consider luxury family hotels in Santa Barbara that combine sophistication with family-friendly features. These upscale properties often offer spacious suites, poolside cabanas, and exquisite dining experiences. You can enjoy spa services tailored for families or childcare services that allow parents some well-deserved relaxation time. Featuring breathtaking views and exclusive access to private beaches or golf courses, these hotels create an unmatched experience with all the comforts needed for an enjoyable family getaway.