19 Best Santa Barbara Kid Friendly Hotels
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As a Santa Barbara local, world traveler and a mom of three, I know firsthand how important it is to find the perfect family-friendly hotel for your vacation.
Let’s face it—traveling with kids isn’t always as relaxing as we hope, but choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference.
A great hotel in an ideal location helps your trip run smoothly and sets the stage for unforgettable memories. With so many hotel options online, it can be hard to tell which hotels truly deliver for families.
That’s where I come in! After nearly 30 years in Santa Barbara, I’ve compiled a list of the best kid-friendly hotels in the area—places I’d recommend for families looking to enjoy all this beautiful city has to offer.
Quick Reference
Santa Barbara Kid-Friendly Hotels
Santa Barbara is the perfect destination for a family getaway, and I’m excited to help you make the most of it. Let’s dive in so you can start planning your dream trip!
Best Hotels on the Beach
Many people want to be along the water when visiting Santa Barbara, and for good reason! There is a big stretch of beach in Santa Barbara with a variety of great hotel options for families. Below are some of our favorites…
1. Hotel Milo
⭐RATING: 8.1/10 (Booking) 🧒BEST FOR: Any age 💲PRICES FROM: $200/night
A locally owned, classic Californian hotel set right along the water in Santa Barbara. This hotel is perfect for families with both little and big kids. It has a laid-back atmosphere, Spanish architecture, and rows of palm trees that make it quintessentially California.
What We Love for Families:
- Family-Friendly Rooms: Family suites sleep five, including bunk beds. Our family of five can share one room!
- Location: Set along Cabrillo Boulevard, it’s directly across from the beach and within a five-minute walk to the harbor, pier, and State Street.
- Spacious Grounds: A large lawn with palm trees—perfect for toddlers to explore and for big kids to play. My kiddos have spent hours playing on the expansive lawn at Hotel Milo, which was great when they were toddlers.
- Amenities: Two outdoor pools, a jacuzzi, and pet-friendly accommodations (one of the most pet-friendly hotels in Santa Barbara). Our labrador loves this place!
- Extras: Nightly s’mores kits for purchase, bike rentals, and beach chairs.
- Nearby Dining: Chad’s Cafe next door is family-owned and legendary for breakfast. You must go!
2. Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
⭐RATING: 7.2/10 (Booking) 🧒BEST FOR: Any age 💲PRICES FROM: $280/night
A larger hotel with a California vibe, this resort is spread over beautiful grounds, giving it an intimate feel despite its larger size. Perfect for families seeking amenities and proximity to attractions. I tend to prefer smaller hotels, but the benefit of these larger chains is that they have reliable amenities like late-night room service for hungry kiddos!
What We Love for Families:
- Prime Location: Across the street from the beach and a five-minute walk to the zoo.
- Family Amenities: Adjoining rooms, ocean-facing rooms with balconies, and a sprawling lawn for kids to play.
- On-Site Dining: “The Set” restaurant offers sunset views and family-friendly dining.
- Activities: Outdoor pool, jacuzzi, bike rentals, beach yoga classes, and s’mores kits by the fire pits. And Pickleball courts!
- Nearby Dining: East Beach Tacos is just a five-minute walk away and a MUST if visiting Santa Barbara.
3. Mar Monte by Hyatt
⭐RATING: 7.5/10 (Booking) 🧒BEST FOR: Any age 💲PRICES FROM: $250/night
This charming resort offers classic California style with convenient beach access. While the hotel is slightly older, it’s a solid choice for families.
What We Love for Families:
- Proximity to Attractions: One of the best things about this hotel is its location. It is a three-minute walk to the Santa Barbara Zoo and is located across the street from a playground on the beach that is fantastic for little ones. It is also a great spot to watch all the locals come out to play Volleyball on the beach.
- Family-Friendly Rooms: Spacious accommodations, including beach-facing options and rooms that do not feel too precious for messy kiddos. Many of the rooms have small patios overlooking the pool and ocean.
- Nearby Dining: Reunion Kitchen is across the street and a fun spot to eat while the kids play on the beach. Two on-site restaurants make it easy to feed hungry kiddos as well.
4. Hotel California
⭐RATING: 8.6/10 (Booking) 🧒BEST FOR: Slightly Older Kiddos 💲PRICES FROM: $580/night
Hotel California offers a beautiful California style with convenient beach access in a fantastic location on the end of State Street. This hotel is pricier than the ones listed above and is a bit more sophisticated, but the location and stunning design make it worth it. The hotel has a rooftop pool with views of the ocean, but it is not quite as kid-friendly as the others because there is no grassy area for little ones and toddlers to explore. Still, it is a lovely spot to spend your time as a family.
What We Love for Families:
- Proximity to Attractions: It is hard to beat this location. In the middle of the Funk Zone, close to fun shopping and restaurants, the famous McConnell’s ice cream, and a two-minute walk to the pier, and beach. You can easily hop on the waterfront shuttle that runs all day and head up state street or along the beach.
- Rooftop Pool and Spa: A pool with a view of the beach is hard to beat! They also have an exceptional Spa if you can manage to get an hour away from the kiddos it would be well worth your time. We highly recommend the atmospheric River Massage if you end up visiting.
- Nearby Dining: Many great family-friendly dining options including Finney´s, Jeannine’s Bakery, and Lucky Penny are minutes away. All are locally owned and great for families and serve local ingredients.
5. Harbor View Inn
⭐RATING: 8.9/10 (Booking) 🧒BEST FOR: Any age 💲PRICES FROM: $230/night
Harbor View Inn is a great choice for a beachfront hotel that doesn’t break the bank. It is a smaller hotel with lovely grounds and rows of palm trees and the classic red tile roof you see all over Santa Barbara.
What We Love for Families:
- Prime Location: The hotel is located across the street from the beach, minutes from Stearns Wharf and a two minute walk to the Funk Zone which has a big selection of activities for kids including the Moxy Museum and easy access to the Trolly.
- Family Friendly Rooms : The rooms are great for kids and not too precious or fancy. They all have a private patio or balcony and many have views of the pool and beach.
- Nearby Dining: Many great family-friendly dining options including Jeannine’s Bakery, Lucky Penny for pizza and Chad´s cafe for all day breakfast.
Best Hotels (Almost) on the Beach
There is a great selection of Hotels just a few blocks from the beach in Santa Barbara. These are a great choice when traveling with a family because they are often less expensive than beachfront hotels, but with easy access to all the amenities and just a short distance to the beach.
I also like these hotels as many are locally owned and can make a family vacation actually affordable due to their lower price points!
6. Pacifica Crest Hotel
⭐RATING: 7.4/10 (Booking) 🧒BEST FOR: Any age 💲PRICES FROM: $115/night
While a bit older and somewhat motel-like, this hidden gem offers an unbeatable location and affordability for families. As our family has grown we have often needed more than one room and the Pacific Crest Hotel makes it possible for us to get our older kids their own room.
What We Love For Families:
- Convenience: Mini kitchens save on meal costs, and the pool is great for kids.
- Location: While not on the beach the hotel is just one block from the beach and a short walk to the harbor.
- Cost: Traveling as a family can be expensive but this hotel doesn’t break the bank .
7. Marina Beach Motel
⭐RATING: 9.2/10 (Booking) 🧒BEST FOR: Any age 💲PRICES FROM: $200/night
This family-run motel is a great budget option with excellent perks and wonderful for families. Locally owned and staffed by friendly and helpful locals this Motel will change your perception about the word Motel. It also receives consistently high rating from guests!
What We Love for Families:
- Free Perks: Bicycle rentals, beach towel rentals, and continental breakfast.
- Location: Walkable to attractions and steps from the beach…37 to be exact!
- Affordable: Clean and simple accommodations without breaking the bank.
- Pet Policy: They are very pet friendly so you can be sure to take your furry friend.
8. The Eagle Inn
⭐RATING: 9.1/10 (Booking) 🧒BEST FOR: Any age 💲PRICES FROM: $170/night
Looking for a cozy, family-friendly spot with a dash of Santa Barbara charm? The Eagle Inn has you covered! This delightful, close-to-the-beach hotel combines the beauty of Spanish-Colonial architecture with a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. I love the feel of this hotel and it is set back in a cute neighborhood in Santa Barbara which gives you a taste of local life.
What We Love for Families:
- Prime Location: Just a short stroll from the beach and Santa Barbara Wharf, it’s the perfect base for fun on the beach, exploring the boats, or grabbing an ice cream cone while watching the sunset.
- Cozy and Peaceful: The intimate setting offers a calm escape after a day of adventures. Whether you’re unwinding on the charming patio or soaking in the cozy ambiance, this hotel delivers relaxation in spades.
- Historic Charm: The Spanish-Colonial style adds a touch of history and elegance, creating a unique vibe that captures the essence of Santa Barbara. It is one of my favorite buildings in this neighborhood!
9. Mason Beach Inn
⭐RATING: 8.8/10 (Booking) 🧒BEST FOR: Any age 💲PRICES FROM: $200/night
Mason Beach Inn offers a charming blend of classic Santa Barbara architecture, surrounded by vibrant bougainvillea and swaying palm trees. Recently renovated, this cozy hotel is perfect for families seeking comfort and convenience.
Located just a short stroll from the beach, its great location allows easy access to Santa Barbara’s coastline and nearby attractions. Families will especially appreciate the spacious guest suites, thoughtfully designed to provide extra room and comfort for group stays—all at a budget-friendly price. These rooms are great for families!
What We Love for Families:
- Great Location: Just a short stroll from the beach and Santa Barbara Wharf, it’s the perfect base with just a short walk to the beach, easy access to the wharf and the pier.
- Recently renovated and historic charm: The rooms have been recently updated and have a bright and open feeling.
- User friendly for families: The layout and vibe of the hotel is very family friendly.
Best Hotels on State Street for Families
State Street is the vibrant heart of Santa Barbara, offering endless shopping, dining, and entertainment options. There are a handful of great hotel options on State Street that are great for families and with easy access to many of Santa Barbaras top attractions.
Here are our top family-friendly hotel picks on State Street.
10. Riviera Beach House
⭐RATING: 7.7/10 (Booking) 🧒BEST FOR: Any age 💲PRICES FROM: $200/night
Located just one block from the beach, Riviera Beach House combines California cool with European-inspired design. This boutique hotel is nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara’s lively Funk Zone, surrounded by family-friendly attractions.
What We Love for Families:
- Proximity: Steps away from kid-friendly restaurants, shops, the beach, and the MOXI Museum for children.
- Family-Friendly Perks: Complimentary bikes for exploring the area. Keep in mind there is no swimming pool.
- Dining: Attached to a fantastic Mexican restaurant and close to other great family friendly dinning options like the Lucky Penny Pizza.
11. Hotel Santa Barbara
⭐RATING: 8.4/10 (Booking) 🧒BEST FOR: Older Kids 💲PRICES FROM: $240/night
This recently updated historic hotel is centrally located on the 500 block of State Street. Its prime location offers families easy access to the beach, shopping, and kid-friendly dining options. The beautifully remodeled rooms exude a chic California vibe, making it an inviting option for families.
What We Love for Families:
- Prime Location: Steps from shops and restaurants, and a short walk to the beach. This is a great hotel to be right in the middle of all the action.
- Charming Atmosphere: Perfect for families seeking a boutique experience with a really helpful staff.
- Keep in Mind: There’s no yard or pool on-site.
12. Moxy Hotel
⭐RATING: 8.2/10 (Booking) 🧒BEST FOR: Any age 💲PRICES FROM: $220/night
What started as a hostel has transformed into a unique, family-friendly hotel. With its large common area, fun game room for kids, and a giant outdoor pool, the Moxy is perfect for families who love a communal vibe. Situated in the Funk Zone, it’s a short walk to MOXI Museum for kids, Lucky Penny Pizza, McConnell’s Ice Cream, and the beach.
What We Love for Families:
- Convenience: A small on-site store for quick snacks and essentials—perfect for families.
- Kid-Friendly Spaces: A game room and communal areas where kids can easily make new friends and a large swimming pool.
- Rooms: User-friendly layouts for families.
13. Drift Hotel
⭐RATING: 7.9/10 (Booking) 🧒BEST FOR: Older Kids 💲PRICES FROM: $218/night
Drift Hotel, just off State Street, is a trendy, laid-back spot ideal for families with older kids or teens. It’s chic design, family suites, and unique room options make it a standout.
What We Love for Families:
- Family Suite: Sleeps four, and includes a kitchen for added convenience. This is great for teenagers who never stop eating!
- Bunk Room: A hit with teens and older kids.
- On-Site Café: Coffee and muffins for easy breakfasts.
14. Palihouse Santa Barbara
⭐RATING: 9.0/10 (Booking) 🧒BEST FOR: Older kids 💲PRICES FROM: $450/night
A sophisticated Mediterranean-style hotel, Palihouse features a stunning courtyard, a charming garden café, and an intimate vibe. While it’s more upscale, it’s an excellent choice for families seeking a luxurious stay. This is one of my top picks when staying in Santa Barbara.
What We Love for Families:
- Family Suites: Options like the Grand Suite (sleeps five) or El Apartamento (sleeps four with a full kitchen).
- Charming Amenities: Adorable gardens, a cozy pool, and a delightful atmosphere.
- Ideal for Girls’ Trips: A favorite for mother-daughter getaways. My daughters and I love staying here!
15. Casa Jardin
⭐RATING: 9.2/10 (Booking) 🧒BEST FOR: Any age 💲PRICES FROM: $210/night
This small hotel feels more like a house rental, making it perfect for larger families. Located in a quiet Santa Barbara neighborhood, it offers practicality and comfort at an excellent price point. It is not as architecturally pretty as some of the other hotels but it is very functional. So if you are looking for ambiance this is not your place!
What We Love for Families:
- Spacious Suites: The Casa Jardin Suite sleeps six, with two bedrooms and a full kitchen.
- Convenience: Close to shops, dining, and the iconic Santa Barbara Courthouse Sunken Gardens.
- Rooms: Functional and family-friendly, starting at budget-friendly rates.
16. Kimpton Canary Hotel
⭐RATING: 8.2/10 (Booking) 🧒BEST FOR: Any age 💲PRICES FROM: $300/night
Just one block off State Street, the Kimpton Canary Hotel is an excellent blend of family-friendly and upscale features. Its rooftop pool and central location make it a hit for families who want to explore Santa Barbara in style.
What We Love for Families:
- Prime Location: Walkable to shops, restaurants, and only 10 blocks to the beach. A trolley is available for an easy ride to the beach.
- On-Site Dining: The Finch & Fork restaurant offers fantastic food in a kid-friendly setting. Plus you are walking distance to a variety of other great family dining options and only a few blocks from the Santa Barbara Public Market.
- Perks: Rooftop pool with stunning views of Santa Barbara and a fun place to spend time with the kids.
17. The Upham Hotel
⭐RATING: 8.7/10 (Booking) 🧒BEST FOR: Any age 💲PRICES FROM: $200/night
Nestled a few blocks off the upper end of State Street, The Upham Hotel is a historic gem that offers a unique, bed-and-breakfast-style experience. Its tranquil charm, beautiful gardens, and spacious accommodations make it a standout option for families looking for something a bit different.
This is not your traditional Santa Barbara hotel experience but the hotel is very user friendly for families.
What We Love for Families:
- Spacious Accommodations: Separate bungalows with patios and gardens offer plenty of space for little ones to explore, while two-bedroom suites are ideal for families with teens.
- Relaxing Atmosphere: The historic charm and peaceful setting provide a restful retreat after a day of exploring.
- Convenience: Just a short walk to the Santa Barbara Public Market, where families can enjoy a variety of dining options perfect for kids.
- Personalized Service: The staff goes above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay.
Other Hotels Not Mentioned Above…
18. El Encanto by Belmond
⭐RATING: 9.2/10 (Booking) 🧒BEST FOR: Any age 💲PRICES FROM: $750/night
Perched in the hills with sweeping views of Santa Barbara, El Encanto offers a luxurious retreat for families visiting Santa Barbara. It is truly a remarkable hotel to stay when visiting Santa Barbara. And if you don’t end up staying here at least stop in for a cocktail.
What We Love for Families:
- Gorgeous Grounds: Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy serene water features and a beautiful pool.
- Family-Friendly Suites: Spacious rooms with private balconies.
- Amenities: An incredible spa, gourmet dining options, and stunning views.
- Considerations: While not walkable to downtown or the beach, it’s just a short drive to attractions like the Mission and Rose Gardens. But it does mean loading the kids up in the car to go anywhere.
19. The Ritz Carlton
⭐RATING: 8.6/10 (Booking) 🧒BEST FOR: Any age 💲PRICES FROM: $650/night
A lot of people ask me about this hotel because it comes up in searches a lot. It is a great spot for kids with fantastic grounds to explore and is located on the beach.
However, it is a 20-minute drive from Santa Barbara. So if you want to park yourself at a resort with a lot of amenaties and dip into Santa Barbara once in a while this is a great choice. But otherwise, it requires a lot of driving to see Santa Barbara.
What We Love for Families:
- Gorgeous Grounds: Beautifully maintained grounds and landscaping with stunning views of the Pacific.
- Family-Friendly Suites: Spacious rooms with private balconies and gorgeous design.
- Amenities: An incredible spa, several great dining options, and a huge gym.
Treat your family to a luxury beach day with a setup that includes towels, chairs, umbrellas and beach toys. We can hook you up with 10% off a premium beach service and we can also provide catering. Just send us an email here!
Tips for Choosing Kid-Friendly Hotels in Santa Barbara
We have traveled the world with three kids and we have lived in Santa Barbara for the better part of 30 years, so I know what to prioritize when looking for the perfect family hotel in Santa Barbara.
Here are some of the things I look for when choosing a family-friendly hotel…
1. Location, Location, Location
When traveling with kids, convenience is everything! Santa Barbara’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot or by bike, but where you stay still matters. Being within walking distance of the beach and major attractions is a game-changer. It’s not just about saving time; it’s about skipping the hassle of car seats and parking.
Pro Tip:
The heart of Santa Barbara stretches up State Street about 15 blocks from the beach, so even if you’re not staying directly on the water, you’ll still be close to the action. Plus, don’t forget about the city’s budget-friendly electric shuttle or bike rentals for added fun!
2. Family-Friendly Grounds
Having space for kids to run, play, and explore is crucial—especially if they’re full of energy! Look for hotels with open lawns, pools, or family-friendly spaces where toddlers and little ones can roam freely without worrying about breaking something “too precious.”
That said, it’s totally possible to find a balance between kid-friendly and luxurious. Some upscale hotels offer beautiful grounds and amenities designed with families in mind.
For older kids and teens who can explore on their own I suggest picking a hotel where they can set out on foot on their own without having to get in a car. When traveling with teens I love letting them go explore a town on their own and it is great for them to build some independence.
3. Room Layouts Matter
As a family of five, we’ve learned that room configurations can make a huge difference. When the kids were younger, we’d squeeze into one room with a rollaway bed if needed. But as they got older, adjoining rooms or family suites with extra space became essential.
If you’re a larger family or traveling with toddlers, look for accommodations that offer:
- Family suites with two beds and a pull-out sofa
- Adjoining rooms
- Kitchenettes for quick snacks or meals (this can save you a lot of money and time)
Having a little extra room to spread out can turn a cramped trip into a comfortable one!
4. Budget-Friendly Options
Traveling with kids adds up quickly, and we get it! Between transportation, meals, and activities, accommodation and hotels are just one piece of the puzzle. That’s why I’ve included hotels in a range of price points—from affordable family-friendly stays to luxurious splurges—so you can find the perfect fit for your budget.
Conclusion…
A Few Final Thoughts…
Santa Barbara offers something for every family, from beachfront views to downtown charm. Having raised children in this incredible area we are so excited for you to experience it with your family!
Looking for the Best Things To Do in Santa Barbara with Kids? Check out our recent blog post here.
And be sure to check out some of the MOST ICONIC ATTRACTIONS in Santa Barbara.
We can’t wait to hear about your time in Santa Barbara. Enjoy!
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