Guests at ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel enjoy comfortable bunks and private rooms with blackout curtains and lockers, all kept spotless. The vibrant hostel offers free pancake breakfasts, community events like karaoke and open mic nights, and easy walking access to beaches, restaurants, and the train station.
What's Included:
🍳 Complimentary breakfast with pancakes and coffee
🏄♂️ Social activities including movie nights and karaoke
🔒 Secure lockers with padlock access
🌊 Walkable to beach, State Street, and train station
Important Information:
Paid parking available; limited street parking freeShared bathrooms with regular cleaningPrivate rooms feature blackout curtainsHosts provide friendly, welcoming servicePerfect for travelers seeking value, social atmosphere, and a coastal Santa Barbara base.
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
🌅 Book Private Rooms Early: Private rooms include blackout curtains and fill up fast, ideal for those seeking extra privacy.
🍽️ Pancake Breakfast Highlight: Free pancake station is a guest favorite; arrive early to enjoy fresh batches.
🎤 Social Evenings: Weekly activities like karaoke and open mic nights foster community bonding; ask staff about schedules.
🚶 Prime Location Perks: Walk just 5–7 minutes to the beach, restaurants, and the train station for convenient exploring.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel is highly praised for its clean, comfortable accommodations, especially cozy beds and spacious lockers. Guests consistently highlight the friendly, welcoming staff and vibrant community atmosphere with frequent social events. Its superb location within walking distance to the beach, State Street, and the train station is repeatedly noted. Some guests mention occasional communication lapses from front desk staff and the self-service sheet removal policy, but these are outweighed by the overall positive experience and strong value.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
