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Guide to Santa Barbara

Relaxing spots with nice views

A relaxing spot with a view that you can actually sit and look at without being crowded by tourists.

Based on 813 Opinions
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01
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Large Victorian home blends elegant charm with a homey atmosphere and peaceful gardens. Quiet, spa-like vibe invites relaxation with features like a fireplace and private terraces. Guests enjoy a central location with easy access to local attractions.

Outside areas offer a tranquil and inviting atmosphere for morning coffee or evening wine. Common spaces and the garden provide quiet spots ideal for reading, mingling, or watching the sunset.

Rooms offer amazing views from mountains to ocean. Many have private balconies or patios with quiet, beautiful scenery.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, quiet place to relax."

"The views from the balcony were amazing and gorgeous."

Good to know

1

The inn is centrally located, just two blocks off State Street.

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Parking is convenient and available, making it easy to explore on foot.

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Rooms feature private patios for added comfort and relaxation.

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Pier offers breathtaking ocean and mountain views with a peaceful, historic atmosphere. Visitors enjoy fishing off the dock and exploring hands-on marine exhibits popular with children. The area features casual dining and souvenir shops that complement the relaxing vibe.

Relaxed coastal vibes fill the air with quiet and serene atmosphere. Ocean views and a picturesque setting make it ideal for unwinding, strolling, and enjoying peaceful moments.

Breathtaking ocean horizons meet the Santa Barbara coastline and mountain views here. The spot offers panoramic scenes of the Pacific and city, perfect for walking and soaking in the scenery.

People are saying

"The panoramic views of the mountains meeting the Pacific are breathtaking."

"It's a perfect relaxing spot with beautiful ocean views."

Good to know

1

Parking is free for the first 90 minutes at Stearns Wharf.

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There are various shops and restaurants with ocean views on the wharf.

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Visitors can walk to Stearns Wharf from nearby hotels.

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Sandy beach with incredible ocean views and a glassy surface that reflects the surroundings. The atmosphere is relaxing and lively, with many people enjoying picnics, grilling, and yoga on grassy areas shaded by palms. It welcomes families and dogs, offering easy parking and nearby dining options.

Ocean views and a quiet shoreline create a peaceful atmosphere. Nearby cafe offers sheltered seating and quick food, adding convenience for a relaxing day.

Breathtaking ocean views stretch across the coastline, visible from the beach and nearby park. Paddling north reveals a full panorama with dolphins and fish weaving through kelp forests.

People are saying

"The ocean views here are absolutely breathtaking."

"It's a great relaxing spot to enjoy the ocean view."

Good to know

1

Avoid swimming within 50 yards of drains or runoff at Leadbetter Beach.

2

Parking is easily accessible and close to the beach.

3

Leadbetter Beach is a great spot for picnics and gatherings without needing a reservation.

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Beach pavilion offers secluded access via about 200 steps down a bluff, leading to a quiet, peaceful atmosphere with stunning ocean views. The area remains uncrowded and serene, attracting those seeking calm and natural beauty away from busy spots.

Expansive shoreline offers plenty of space to relax and soak up the sun. Waves crashing into rocks create a serene and peaceful atmosphere perfect for unwinding and clearing the mind.

Breathtaking panoramic views of the sparkling ocean, rugged cliffs, and sandy shores greet visitors along the staircase. The spot offers a peaceful atmosphere and gorgeous sunrise views that make the climb worthwhile.

People are saying

"The ocean views here are absolutely beautiful and stunning."

"This secluded beach is a truly relaxing spot with stunning scenery."

Good to know

1

Parking at 1000 Steps Beach is limited and located at the end of a dead-end street.

2

There are only about 150 stair steps to reach the beach, not 1000 as the name suggests.

3

I need to pay attention to the tides because at high tide, the water comes right up to the bottom of the steps.

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Building preserves Spanish colonial architecture with terra-cotta tiles and wrought-iron balconies. Atmosphere stays quiet and clean, with a friendly, dog-friendly vibe. Rooftop offers heated pool and 360° views, creating a peaceful retreat.

Breathtaking views from the rooftop pool create a perfect spot to relax. The suite offers a spacious room to unwind before and after events.

Rooftop pool offers breathtaking views with comfortable loungers and excellent bartender service. Suites feature wrap-around balconies providing majestic sights and a serene atmosphere for lounging.

People are saying

"The staff here are so friendly and helpful, making it a great Relaxing Spot."

"The rooftop offers a beautiful view of Santa Barbara."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Sunday to Thursday from 4-6 pm with free snacks.

2

A daily wine social occurs at 5 pm, offering complimentary wine.

3

Valet parking costs $50 per day, which is quite steep.

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Motel offers ocean views and Spanish-style rooms with unique character. Atmosphere ranges from quiet and cozy to occasionally noisy, with a laid-back vibe and access to beach activities. Evening amenities include complimentary wine and appetizers on a relaxing patio or terrace.

Upstairs, a terrace with tables and chairs offers a quiet spot to relax in the evenings. The patio provides amazing scenery, surrounded by inspiring flora and fauna that create a peaceful atmosphere.

Rooms offer stunning ocean views with balconies and large windows. Views include the harbor, pier, beach, and sunsets, all visible from close to the sand.

People are saying

"I loved the nice view of the ocean from the balcony."

"It's a relaxing spot right across from the beach."

Good to know

1

Expect safety concerns due to broken locks and reports of intruders.

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A $25 property fee is added on top of the booking price.

3

The motel offers a continental breakfast from 7:30 to 10am on weekdays.

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Small boat offers intimate 19-passenger cruises with clean, comfortable seating and deep cup holders. Atmosphere stays relaxed and uncrowded, with wildlife sightings like seals and dolphins common during calm waters. Suitable for families and small celebrations, it provides a quick, scenic escape on the water without a long time commitment.

A sunset cruise offers a laid back and beautiful way to unwind. The scenery and calm water create a perfect little escape to relax and just chill.

Views offer a beautiful and relaxing backdrop. It feels like a perfect escape to unwind and enjoy the scenery.

People are saying

"It's a perfect little escape to unwind and enjoy the scenery."

"It's a perfect little escape to unwind and enjoy the nice view."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the boat tour to ensure availability.

2

The boat accommodates up to 19 passengers, making it suitable for small groups.

3

The boat ride costs $10 each way, providing a budget-friendly option.

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Rooms offer spacious layouts with ocean views and private balconies overlooking the wharf and beach. The atmosphere remains quiet and peaceful despite proximity to lively surroundings. Amenities include a heated saltwater pool, spa, and private Jacuzzi, supporting relaxation and comfort.

Unbeatable ocean views and private balconies create a peaceful setting. The pool and spa area offer quiet spots to unwind and relax.

Rooms offer stunning ocean views from balconies and patios. Building two overlooks a grassy courtyard, pool, hot tub, ocean, and marina for a great visual experience.

People are saying

"The ocean view from the room was breathtaking and beautiful."

"It's a relaxing spot with stunning oceanfront views."

Good to know

1

The hotel charges an additional $32 per day for parking.

2

There is no room service or breakfast available at the hotel.

3

The bakery/cafe below the hotel causes noise disturbances early in the morning.

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Rooms feature spacious layouts with unique antiques and balconies overlooking a courtyard with pool and spa. The atmosphere blends cozy seclusion with occasional noise from nearby guests. Beach access lies just steps away, enhancing the relaxing vibe.

Antiques and several seating areas around the pool and patio create a relaxed atmosphere. Rooms overlook a gorgeous courtyard and pool, enhancing the calm vibe.

Rooms have balconies with ocean views and look out over the mountains and Sterns Wharf. The balcony offers a moonlit ocean scene that's easy to enjoy.

People are saying

"I loved the nice view of the beach right across the street."

"Emily's attentive service made this relaxing spot feel special."

Good to know

1

Parking is very problematic, so plan accordingly.

2

Expect an additional $30 fee upon arrival not included in the quoted rate.

3

A daily 'property fee' of $27.50 is charged for 'amenities'.

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Hotel combines upscale casual rooms with loud live music from an on-site bar that plays until early morning. Location places guests in the heart of downtown with easy access to local attractions. Amenities include a cocktail and oyster bar and complimentary bike rentals for exploring the city.

Rooms feel quaint and romantic with every detail designed for a luxurious atmosphere. Tasteful decor and modern amenities add to the relaxing vibe.

Upgraded rooms offer killer views of the mountains and city. The Mountain View rooms are more spacious and provide an elevated perspective.

People are saying

"It's a truly relaxing spot with a stylish, modern design."

"It's a nice view for walking to restaurants and the beach."

Good to know

1

The hotel has a partnership with Buttonwood Vineyard, offering a buy-one-get-one-free wine tasting.

2

The hotel is located within walking distance to the beach and downtown attractions.

3

Expect noise from weddings and events that may last until 1:00am.

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Hotel offers beachfront views and many outdoor seating areas with fire pits and live music. Atmosphere is cozy and relaxed with a European boutique vibe and quiet rooms. Amenities include multiple pools, hot tub, bicycles, and free s'mores at night.

Rooms offer ocean views with the beach right outside the door. Evenings feature lit firepits enhancing the beautiful seaside setting.

People are saying

"The ocean view from my room was amazing and spectacular."

Good to know

1

The hotel is located right across the street from the beach.

2

The location is perfect for exploring nearby restaurants and attractions.

3

The hotel is pet friendly.

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Santa Barbara, California

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