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A luxury hotel in Santa Barbara's Funk Zone, Hotel Californian continues to redefine luxury in the celebrated American Riviera.
Location
Hours
Reviews
4.3
528 reviews
5 stars
375
4 stars
50
3 stars
35
2 stars
28
1 star
40
What are people saying?
AI-generated from recent customer reviews
Location
The hotel is praised for its prime location near the beach and popular dining spots in Santa Barbara.
Service Quality
Customer service experiences are mixed, with some guests highlighting friendly staff while others report slow service and lack of attention.
Room Conditions
Rooms are generally described as beautiful and spacious, but there are complaints about cleanliness issues, including bugs and maintenance problems.
Pricing Concerns
Many guests feel the hotel is overpriced for the service and amenities provided, with some suggesting it does not meet the expectations of a luxury hotel.
Amenities
The hotel offers appealing amenities like a rooftop pool and spa, but guests have noted inconsistencies in service and availability.
- HRHonest Reviewer6 days ago5.0Had the pleasure of staying at Hotel Californian this past rainy weekend. My wife and I have been spending a lot of time in Santa Barbara this year, but this was our first time at the Californian. Everything was great, especially the staff. I say this because as I was returning from walking our two dogs, our newest and smallest (Harry. Rescue. Wolfman. Afraid of elevators.) slipped out of his collar as we were about to get on the elevator. He stood just a few feet away from me in the drizzle but, instead of coming towards me, he figured this was some new game and backed towards and ONTO State Street as I frantically tied his sister (Frankie. Rescue. Pit-bull. Sweetheart.) to the gate. Harry took off at blazing speed towards Mason as I—a tall and somewhat intimidating-looking bald man with a beard—sprinted after him yelling “HARRY!” past a confused-looking brunch crowd. ('Why is this scary-looking bald man running around the block yelling "hairy!"?') Harry ran towards the valet stand as I ran after him yelling “CATCH HIM!” Despite the valets' best efforts, Harry deked left and then darted right past the lobby and between a young couple having their wedding photos taken (congratulations) as I continued to yell “HARRY!” A lovely young blonde-haired woman from the front desk quickly gave me some dog treats and, after another circle of the block, I finally caught up to Harry, who was cowering beside a wet-but-unfazed Frankie. Without the assistance of the staff, Harry could have been run over or lost. My wife and I are very grateful... and we are sorry about the ruckus... and we hope you will let us stay in your nice hotel again.
- JWJohn Michael WilyatNov 8, 20251.0Horrible customer service. Walked into the empty bar after checking in and was told by the bartender they couldn’t serve anyone because all the tables were reserved. Again the place was completely empty except for maybe a single table at the time of this conversation (just those little reserved markers on each table). They wouldn’t even accommodate us with a glass of wine so that we could take it elsewhere to enjoy. Separately but on the same day we asked a staff member for water and they told us where to go to fetch it ourselves. Calling this 5 star is laughable and a stretch. The reviews here warning about the service are the real customer reviews. Be warned.
- BSBlaine SmithOct 26, 20255.0Nice hotel in a great downtown location
- MPMonica PaulinoOct 22, 20255.0I spent two night at the Hotel Californian on my own and could not have had a better stay. The property is gorgeous and feels like quintessential Santa Barbara! The hotel is one block from the beach and in the heart of the Funk Zone steps away from tons of great restaurants, coffee shops and bars. The team was very welcoming and made me feel very comfortable (especially important when traveling on your own). The room was extremely spacious and updated. When I arrived, I headed straight to The Society: State and Mason for one wine tasting and light bites. The team was so friendly and make me feel so comfortable. The wine were excellent! The following day, I had an amazing massage at the Majorelle Spa. The masseuse nailed the technique. The spa is small but has all the essentials you need — a sitting/relaxation area, steam room, hot team and light snacks. Overall I had a lovely stay and would absolutely come back! Highly recommend!
- EPErica Rochelle PhotographyOct 8, 20255.0Hotel Californian is an absolute dream for couples and photographers alike! Its mix of coastal charm and timeless architecture creates the perfect backdrop for romantic, sun-soaked wedding weekends. Every corner has a relaxed, elegant feel that photographs beautifully — especially with that soft Santa Barbara light. Truly one of my favorite spots to capture love stories.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hotel Californian
WHAT TIME IS CHECK IN?
4PM
WHAT TIME IS CHECK OUT?
12PM
WHAT IS HOTEL CALIFORNIAN'S CANCELLATION POLICY?
Reservations must be canceled at least 72 hours prior to your scheduled arrival to avoid any charges.
WHAT IS HOTEL CALIFORNIAN'S EARLY DEPARTURE POLICY?
Guests who need to depart early will be charged for one night's stay plus tax.
WHAT PARKING IS AVAILABLE AT HOTEL CALIFORNIAN?
We offer valet parking for $42 per night. There is also parking around the Santa Barbara hotel, but it is not affiliated with the hotel and is not guaranteed. Need a ride? Our friends at Enterprise are ready to help.
WHAT IS HOTEL CALIFORNIAN'S SMOKING POLICY?
Hotel Californian is a non-smoking Santa Barbara hotel.
DOES HOTEL CALIFORNIAN HAVE A CONCIERGE?
Yes. Our concierge is available 24/7.
WHAT IS HOTEL CALIFORNIAN'S PET POLICY?
We are happy to welcome dogs of all sizes. There is a non-refundable one-time $200 pet cleaning fee.
CAN I TAKE PHOTOS ON PROPERTY?
Yes. In order to ensure you have the support and access you need, and for the privacy and comfort of all our guests, all photoshoots are supported by our Sales Team, and charges generally apply. For availability and additional information, please contact us at sales@hotelcalifornian.com or (805) 882-0114. In the meantime, grab your phone and snap as many selfies as you like.
WHAT AMENITIES ARE IN HOTEL CALIFORNIAN ACCOMMODATIONS?
Our Santa Barbara hotel rooms and suites are equipped with a 65' TV, a Nespresso coffee maker, and a premium cocktail cart. Accommodations also include custom-formulated bath products and custom-designed Martyn Lawrence Bullard furnishings, light fixtures, and wall coverings.
ARE ROLLAWAY BEDS AND CRIBS AVAILABLE AT HOTEL CALIFORNIAN?
Yes. Rollaway beds are available for $50 per night. Cribs are available at no charge.
DOES HOTEL CALIFORNIAN HAVE A POOL?
Yes. The pool is open daily 7AM - 10PM
WHAT TRANSPORTATION IS AVAILABLE?
We offer complimentary custom Hotel Californian bicycles to our guests, available on a first-come, first served basis. Need to go further? Our friends at Enterprise are ready to help.
DOES HOTEL CALIFORNIAN HAVE A GYM?
Yes. Our fitness center is open 24 hours a day.
DOES HOTEL CALIFORNIAN HAVE BEACH ACCESSORIES AVAILABLE?
We offer beach chairs and umbrellas for our Santa Barbara hotel guests.
DOES HOTEL CALIFORNIAN HAVE A RESTAURANT?
Yes, Blackbird offers a beverage-forward atmosphere paired with our take on Santa Barbara-sourced, comfort food.
Blackbird is open Tuesday - Saturday 5PM-Close.
ARE THERE ANY OTHER ON-PROPERTY DINING OPTIONS?
Our Goat Tree marketplace café is the perfect place for a morning pick-me-up or a casual meeting with friends or colleagues.
Hours:
Brunch: 7AM-3PM
Dinner: 3PM-8PM
DOES HOTEL CALIFORNIAN HAVE A SPA?
Yes. Majorelle offers a full menu of face, body, and other signature treatments.
WHAT ARE MAJORELLE'S HOURS?
Majorelle is open daily from 10AM-6PM.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Hotel Californian?
Check-in is at 4:00 PM and check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Is Hotel Californian accessible for guests with mobility needs?
Yes, the hotel offers accessible parking, elevators, and an accessible pool.
Does Hotel Californian allow pets?
Yes, dogs and cats are welcome. There is a non-refundable one-time $200 pet cleaning fee.
What dining options are available at Hotel Californian?
The hotel features three restaurants including Blackbird, which serves Santa Barbara-sourced comfort food, and Goat Tree café offering brunch and dinner. There is also a cocktail bar on site.
What fitness amenities does Hotel Californian offer?
The hotel has a fitness center open 24 hours with elliptical machines, treadmills, and free weights available for free.
Are there any spa facilities at Hotel Californian?
Yes, the hotel features the Majorelle spa offering a full menu of face, body, and signature treatments, open daily from 10AM to 6PM.
What transportation options are available for Hotel Californian guests?
Complimentary Hotel Californian bicycles are available on a first-come, first-served basis. For longer trips, car rentals can be arranged through local providers like Enterprise. There is also local shuttle service.
How can guests access the beach from Hotel Californian?
The hotel offers beach access with complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas for guests to enjoy the nearby beach area.
What nearby places of interest are accessible from Hotel Californian?
Nearby are several notable spots including Blackbird restaurant and bar for dining, Douglas Margerum winery and wine bar for tastings, and the Santa Barbara Surfing Museum for cultural exploration.
What local amenities can guests enjoy around Hotel Californian?
Guests can explore nearby bike rental shops like Wheel Fun Rentals, visit art galleries such as Helena Mason Art Gallery, or enjoy wineries like Margerum Wine Company and Melville Winery Tasting Lounge.