Hotel Californian is an upscale 5-star hotel blending Mediterranean charm and Moroccan style in Santa Barbara's walkable Funk Zone. Elegant rooms feature flat screens, Nespresso machines, and some offer fireplaces and ocean views.
Guests enjoy a rooftop pool, hot tub, posh Moroccan-style spa, stylish dining with ocean views, and wine tasting at The Society: State & Mason. Its central location is steps from Stearns Wharf and local attractions.
What's Included:
🏖️ Prime location near the Pacific Ocean and Santa Barbara train station
🛏️ Moroccan-style rooms with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and some with balconies
🍽️ On-site Mediterranean restaurant and hip café with terrace
🏊♂️ Outdoor rooftop pool and hot tub with ocean views
💆 Moroccan-style spa offering massages and steam room
Important Information:
Valet parking available with feePets permitted with a one-time feePaid breakfast and paid parkingReservations recommended for dining and spaCheck-in and check-out times may varyExperience Santa Barbara’s coastal charm with luxury service and distinctive Moroccan-inspired design at Hotel Californian.
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
📍 Local Insights
🌅 Request Ocean View Rooms: For the best experience, ask for rooms with ocean views and balconies to enjoy Santa Barbara's scenic beauty right from your suite.
🍷 Visit The Society for Wine Tasting: The in-house bar offers curated wine selections and light bites—perfect for a relaxed afternoon or evening.
🌿 Book Spa Treatments Early: Majorelle Spa appointments fill quickly; schedule massages or steam sessions in advance to avoid disappointment.
🚗 Utilize the Valet Service: While parking is paid, using valet is recommended for convenience, especially during busy weekends or events.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Hotel Californian impresses with its stunning location and stylish Moroccan-inspired design, earning praise for attentive and welcoming staff and luxurious rooms. Guests celebrate its unique wedding venues, rooftop pool views, and spa quality. Some detractors note occasional service inconsistencies, noise issues, and areas where value does not meet premium pricing expectations, with a few citing slow dining service and room upkeep concerns.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
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What You'll Find
Moroccan-Style Rooms; Ocean View Rooms; Suites with Living Areas; On-Site Mediterranean Restaurant; Hip Cafe with Terrace; Rooftop Pool; Hot Tub; Moroccan-Style Spa; Fitness Center; Bar; Free Wi-Fi; Paid Parking; Paid Breakfast; Pet-Friendly Rooms; Air-Conditioned; Laundry Service; Smoke-Free; Valet Parking
