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Check prices for these dates

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6 Aug - 7 Aug
Tomorrow
7 Aug - 8 Aug
This weekend
7 Aug - 9 Aug
Next weekend
14 Aug - 16 Aug

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Our top choices for Santa Barbara Zoo hotels

1. Santa Barbara Inn

Santa Barbara Inn
East Beach, 0.7 km from Santa Barbara Zoo
United States
Mario
SAR 1,179
SAR 1,346 total
includes taxes & fees
31 Aug - 1 Sep
Santa Barbara Inn

2. Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach
East Beach, 0.6 km from Santa Barbara Zoo
United States
Ismael Vasquez
SAR 625
SAR 714 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Sep - 3 Sep
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

3. Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara

Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara
East Beach, 0.7 km from Santa Barbara Zoo
United States
Victoria
SAR 699
SAR 798 total
includes taxes & fees
17 Aug - 18 Aug
Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara

4. The Inn at East Beach

The Inn at East Beach
East Beach, 0.5 km from Santa Barbara Zoo
United States
Patrick
SAR 629
SAR 717 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Sep - 4 Sep
The Inn at East Beach

5. Mar Monte Hotel, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

Mar Monte Hotel, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
East Beach, 0.5 km from Santa Barbara Zoo
United States
Adolfo
SAR 1,018
SAR 1,312 total
includes taxes & fees
31 Aug - 1 Sep
Mar Monte Hotel, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

6. Harbor House Inn

Harbor House Inn
West Beach, 2.9 km from Santa Barbara Zoo
United States
Jackson
SAR 957
SAR 1,091 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Sep - 2 Sep
Harbor House Inn

7. Casa Riviera

Casa Riviera
Laguna, 2.9 km from Santa Barbara Zoo
United States
Monica
SAR 703
SAR 1,080 total
includes taxes & fees
31 Aug - 1 Sep
Casa Riviera

8. Marina Beach Hotel

Marina Beach Hotel
West Beach, 2.9 km from Santa Barbara Zoo
United States
Amy
SAR 832
SAR 948 total
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
Marina Beach Hotel

9. Casa Yano by The Beach

Casa Yano by The Beach
West Beach, 2.9 km from Santa Barbara Zoo
United States
Kelli
SAR 968
SAR 1,489 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Casa Yano by The Beach

10. La Playa Inn

La Playa Inn
West Beach, 3 km from Santa Barbara Zoo
United States
darryl a
SAR 954
SAR 1,088 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Sep - 3 Sep
La Playa Inn

11. Casa De La Vina

Casa De La Vina
3.1 km from Santa Barbara Zoo
United States
Jane Hodges
SAR 650
SAR 1,020 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Sep - 3 Sep
Casa De La Vina

12. West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel

West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel
West Beach, 2.9 km from Santa Barbara Zoo
United States
Amy
SAR 1,054
SAR 1,202 total
includes taxes & fees
31 Aug - 1 Sep
West Beach Inn, a Coast Hotel

13. The Franciscan Hotel

The Franciscan Hotel
West Beach, 2.9 km from Santa Barbara Zoo
United States
Marcella
SAR 688
SAR 785 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Sep - 3 Sep
The Franciscan Hotel

14. Hotel Santa Barbara

Hotel Santa Barbara
Lower State, 3 km from Santa Barbara Zoo
United States
Kennedy
SAR 1,116
SAR 1,298 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Sep - 3 Sep
Hotel Santa Barbara

15. Harbor View Inn

Harbor View Inn
West Beach, 2.5 km from Santa Barbara Zoo
United States
Danielle
SAR 1,307
SAR 1,490 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Aug - 26 Aug
Harbor View Inn

16. Casa Jardin

Casa Jardin
Laguna, 3.2 km from Santa Barbara Zoo
United States
Yessica
SAR 549
SAR 904 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Sep - 3 Sep
Casa Jardin

17. Mason Beach Inn

Mason Beach Inn
West Beach, 3 km from Santa Barbara Zoo
United States
Dayne
SAR 1,202
SAR 1,395 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Aug - 12 Aug
Mason Beach Inn

18. Palmoro House

Palmoro House
East Beach, 0.6 km from Santa Barbara Zoo
United States
Tristan
SAR 823
SAR 1,050 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Aug - 28 Aug
Palmoro House

19. Palihouse Santa Barbara

Palihouse Santa Barbara
3.1 km from Santa Barbara Zoo
United States
Mary
SAR 1,484
SAR 1,694 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Sep - 2 Sep
Palihouse Santa Barbara

20. Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach

Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach
West Beach, 3.1 km from Santa Barbara Zoo
United States
Ignacio
SAR 984
SAR 1,124 total
includes taxes & fees
31 Aug - 1 Sep
Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach
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Compare popular hotels close to Santa Barbara Zoo

Property
Property class
Guest rating
Breakfast included
Pool
Spa
Pet friendly
WiFi included
Luxury Suite, 1 Bedroom, Ocean View (Anacapa) | Beach/ocean view
Santa Barbara Inn
9.4
Exceptional
1,007 reviews
View
Room amenity
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach
9.0
Wonderful
1,445 reviews
View
Grand Suite | Private kitchen | Coffee/tea maker, refrigerator (on request)
Pacific Crest Hotel Santa Barbara
8.6
Excellent
1,006 reviews
View
Reception
The Inn at East Beach
8.2
Very Good
1,014 reviews
View
Exterior
Mar Monte Hotel, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
8.0
Very Good
1,010 reviews
View

Top Santa Barbara Zoo Hotel Reviews

Hotel Californian

Hotel Californian

8/10 Good
"check in was chaotic . She gave us a quick overview of the property, which is more of a compound and not super easy to figure out, but failed to provide the map. The biggest issues was the room wasn't ready till well after 4:00. They were supposed to update us, with a call and they didn't. We were left waiting in reception for a half hour and kept having to wait in line for reception."
Cenk 2-night trip
Posted 1 hour ago
Hotel Californian
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach

10/10 Excellent
".staff was great, very patient friendly. Nice sized room with everything you need."
Santino 5-night trip
Posted 3 hours ago
Motel 6 Santa Barbara, CA - Beach
Mar Monte Hotel, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

Mar Monte Hotel, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

10/10 Excellent
"Great location , restaurant on site"
Lillian 2-night trip
Posted 16 hours ago
Mar Monte Hotel, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

Avania Inn of Santa Barbara

10/10 Excellent
"The staff was amazing, especially Jacob and Katy. They both went above and beyond to make our stay so enjoyable. We can't wait to go back when visiting Santa Barbara!"
Kathryn 2-night trip
Posted 21 hours ago
Avania Inn of Santa Barbara
Soul & Sea #1 – East Beach Guesthouse

Soul & Sea #1 – East Beach Guesthouse

10/10 Excellent
"Super clean, well-stocked, very organized. It’s a great location within walking distance of the beach as well as the zoo. Hosts were very responsive. Great stay!"
Jennifer C. 3-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Soul & Sea #1 – East Beach Guesthouse
Entire guesthouse in Santa Barbara, California

Entire guesthouse in Santa Barbara, California

10/10 Excellent
"We had a cozy overnight stay at the Zen Den. Clean, comfortable, and clear communication throughout our stay. Conveniently located as well - would recommend!"
Janine P. 1-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Entire guesthouse in Santa Barbara, California
Mariposa- One Bedroom Flat; sweet getaway by the Beach!  newly renovated beauty

Mariposa- One Bedroom Flat; sweet getaway by the Beach! newly renovated beauty

10/10 Excellent
"Great location for walking to Zoo, beach and access to lower State St., Milpas, etc. Especially great for meeting up with friends staying at Inn at Santa Barbara! Very comfortable and with a lovely host."
Louise H. 2-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Mariposa- One Bedroom Flat; sweet getaway by the Beach! newly renovated beauty
Private studio with  large patio

Private studio with large patio

10/10 Excellent
"Amazing stay! Bed was so comfy and hot tub was divine. Enjoyed the fire pit on the patio as well. Would definitely come again.Thanks!!!"
Clifton T. 2-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
Private studio with large patio
Spacious Home near Downtown & Beach!

Spacious Home near Downtown & Beach!

8/10 Good
"I didn’t receive the email check in instructions from the Host. A little stressful for checking in"
Sanh 1-night trip
Posted 3 months ago
Spacious Home near Downtown & Beach!

Other attractions near Santa Barbara Zoo

A beach with a large cruise ship in the distance, palm trees, and mountains in the background.

East Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at East Beach during your trip to Santa Barbara? Stroll along the waterfront or seek out the biking trails.
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A pier extending into calm waters, palm trees, and a mountainous backdrop.

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center

9.6/10 (8 reviews)
You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center during your travels in Santa Barbara. Discover the top-notch restaurants in this walkable area, or seek out the biking trails.
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Municipal Tennis Center

Catch an event at Municipal Tennis Center during your trip to Santa Barbara. Check out the shops and charming cafes in this walkable area.
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Cabrillo Bike Path

9.6/10 (11 reviews)
You can take time to visit Cabrillo Bike Path during your travels to Santa Barbara. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.
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Andree Clark Bird Refuge

10.0/10 (1 review)
You can take time to visit Andree Clark Bird Refuge during your travels to Santa Barbara. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
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Cabrillo Pavillion

10.0/10 (1 review)
Cabrillo Pavillion is just one of the places to see in Santa Barbara, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Stroll along the waterfront or seek out the biking trails.
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Soma Get Fit

You can take time to visit Soma Get Fit during your travels to Lower Village. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.
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Chase Palm Park

9.6/10 (5 reviews)
Chase Palm Park is just one of the places to see in Santa Barbara, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Discover the top-notch restaurants in this walkable area, or seek out the biking trails.
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Find out more about Santa Barbara Zoo

Top reasons to visit Santa Barbara Zoo

  • Stunning Animal Exhibits: Explore diverse animal habitats and engage with wildlife in a picturesque setting.
  • Beautiful Coastal Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline while wandering through the zoo.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Participate in interactive experiences and educational programs for all ages.
  • Proximity to Beaches: Relax at nearby Santa Barbara Beach, perfect for sunbathing and beach activities.
  • Charming Local Culture: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Barbara's shops and restaurants.

Find great hotels near Santa Barbara Zoo

Discover a variety of hotel accommodations near the Santa Barbara Zoo, perfect for your vacation in California. From family-friendly hotels to charming bed and breakfasts, you’ll find options that cater to beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're looking for a pet-friendly stay or exclusive hotel packages, Santa Barbara offers a range of the best hotels to enhance your visit to this beautiful destination.

  • Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort: Nestled along the stunning coastline, the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort offers a luxurious 4-star experience just 1.3km from the Santa Barbara Zoo. This resort is perfect for business travelers and beach enthusiasts alike, featuring direct beach access for sun-soaked relaxation. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms adorned with coastal decor, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and on-site dining options that serve delicious local cuisine, making this a well-rounded choice for both work and leisure.
  • The Milo: A charming 3.5-star hotel located 3.2km from the Santa Barbara Zoo, The Milo is ideal for families and pet lovers seeking a beach getaway. With direct beach access, this hotel provides a welcoming atmosphere with amenities designed for children, including beach toys and a pool gate for safety. The Milo is pet-friendly, allowing dogs and cats with certain restrictions, ensuring that your furry family members are also included in your vacation plans. Its cozy rooms and family-oriented services make it a delightful choice for memorable family outings.
  • Avania Inn of Santa Barbara: Located in the heart of Santa Barbara, just 3.2km from the zoo, Avania Inn of Santa Barbara offers a unique nature-themed experience with a city vibe. This motel caters to business travelers and nature lovers alike, with easy access to local attractions and beautiful landscapes. Guests can unwind in comfortable rooms equipped with modern amenities while enjoying the convenience of being close to the city center. The friendly staff ensures a pleasant stay, making it a great option for those looking to explore all that Santa Barbara has to offer.

Where to stay near Santa Barbara Zoo

Visiting Santa Barbara Zoo offers a delightful experience surrounded by friendly locals and a rich historical atmosphere. You can easily explore the vibrant city center, where charming shops and restaurants await. Nearby attractions include beautiful beaches perfect for relaxation and scenic excursions that showcase the area's natural beauty. Make the most of your vacation by immersing yourself in the unique vibes of Santa Barbara and its welcoming neighborhoods.

  • Santa Barbara: As the heart of the region, Santa Barbara is a vibrant city where the Santa Barbara Zoo is located. This city offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and entertainment options. Peak travel times occur from June to August, attracting visitors seeking educational experiences, theater performances, and arena events. Close to beautiful beaches and a bustling tourist precinct, Santa Barbara boasts scenic views and cultural attractions that make it a must-visit destination.
  • Santa Barbara Beach: Nestled within Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara Beach is a charming neighborhood perfect for families and beach lovers alike. With a similar travel pattern peaking in the summer months, visitors flock to enjoy outdoor activities and shopping experiences. The beach area is not only a beautiful spot to relax but also features local attractions such as theme parks and educational venues. Its proximity to the main city ensures that you can easily explore the best of both worlds.
  • East Beach: Located about a mile from the Santa Barbara Zoo, East Beach is a picturesque neighborhood known for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor activities. Like its counterparts, East Beach sees peak visitor numbers during the summer, drawing those eager to enjoy its sandy shores and marina views. Popular activities include theater shows and arena entertainment, making it an ideal spot for leisure and fun. The beach's inviting environment is perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean.

Things to do near Santa Barbara Zoo

Santa Barbara Zoo offers visitors a delightful experience with activities like birdwatching, wildlife encounters, and stunning sunsets. It's a perfect destination for romantic getaways and day outings, providing opportunities for sailing experiences along the beautiful coastline. Enjoy the zoo's picturesque setting while exploring its diverse animal exhibits and engaging in outdoor adventures, making your visit truly memorable.

Shopping

The nearest shopping spots include Paseo Nuevo Mall, a vibrant shopping center just 3.2km from Santa Barbara Zoo, and the Santa Barbara Public Market, also 3.2km away, offering a local vibe. Rafael Gonzalez House, located nearby, features unique gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

Experience live music at Santa Barbara Bowl, just 3.2km from the zoo, where vibrant entertainment awaits. For a round of golf, visit Santa Barbara Golf Club, located 6.4km away, offering outdoor sports vibes. Elings Park, also 6.4km from the zoo, is perfect for wellness and relaxation in nature.

Adventure

Explore the scenic Cabrillo Bike Path, a short walk from the zoo, perfect for cycling along the beautiful coastline. Enjoy the Cabrillo Bikeway for a longer ride with stunning views. If you're looking for a challenge, head to the Municipal Tennis Center for an energetic game of tennis.

Nightlife

For a vibrant nightlife experience near Santa Barbara Zoo, catch a show at the Granada Theatre, Arlington Theater, or Lobero Theater, all offering a blend of romance, entertainment, and culture, just 3.2km away. Enjoy an enchanting evening filled with captivating performances in this beautiful coastal city.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Barbara Zoo

To save money on your visit to Santa Barbara Zoo, plan your trip between January to February or November, as hotel prices are lower during these months. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to book, while Saturdays tend to be more expensive. Consider using Expedia to find vacation packages that combine flights and accommodations for better deals. Additionally, explore free activities in the area and utilize public transport to keep costs down. Always check for hotel specials and flexible booking options to ensure you get the best rates available.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Santa Barbara Zoo are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Santa Barbara Zoo is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Santa Barbara Zoo is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel style. To find the best prices and offers, be sure to sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near the Santa Barbara Zoo with your flights and activities by booking a package through Expedia.

Find the best attractions near Santa Barbara Zoo

Santa Barbara Zoo offers a delightful experience for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Nearby attractions include the beautiful Santa Barbara Beach, perfect for relaxation, and the marina, where visitors can enjoy scenic views. Don't miss a stroll along the jetty pier for a refreshing ocean breeze. Explore the zoo itself, known for its wonderful exhibits, and indulge in the local charm of Santa Barbara for a memorable vacation.

  • Santa Barbara Harbor: Experience the vibrant marina atmosphere just 3.2km from the zoo. Enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking or paddleboarding, and savor fresh seafood at nearby restaurants while taking in stunning ocean views.
  • Stearns Wharf: Located only 1.6km away, this historic pier offers a delightful stroll with shops, eateries, and a scenic view of the coastline. Explore the sea life at the aquarium or relax on the wooden planks as boats pass by.
  • Butterfly Beach: Just 3.2km from the zoo, this beautiful beach is perfect for sunbathing and picnicking. With its soft sands and gentle waves, it’s an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy the breathtaking sunset.

Best time to go to Santa Barbara Zoo

The best time to visit Santa Barbara Zoo is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
February55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
March56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
April60.3°F (15.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
May63.1°F (17.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June68.2°F (20.1°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July72.1°F (22.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August72.9°F (22.7°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September71.6°F (22.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October66.7°F (19.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
November60.4°F (15.8°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Barbara Zoo

To visit Santa Barbara Zoo, you can fly into Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA), located 16.1km away. Nearby hotel options include the 5-star Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara, 8.0km from the airport, and El Encanto Santa Barbara, 12.9km away. Another option is the Hotel Californian, also 12.9km from SBA. Additionally, you can fly into Santa Ynez Airport (SQA), which is 43.5km away, with accommodations like Chumash Casino Resort, just 1.1km from SQA. Lastly, Oxnard Airport (OXR) is 48.3km from the zoo, with hotels such as Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach, located 3.2km from OXR.

Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around Santa Barbara Zoo?
Santa Barbara Zoo is located in a walkable area of Santa Barbara known for its beautiful beaches and popular zoo. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, check out the 81 hotels and other accommodations you'll find within a mile.
What's the best place to stay near Santa Barbara Zoo?
Mar Monte Hotel, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveler data, and this hotel offers 2 restaurants and 2 bars. It's located just a short 0.3 mi (0.5 km) from Santa Barbara Zoo. Other good choices within a short distance include Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort and The Inn at East Beach.
How many hotels are there close to Santa Barbara Zoo?
Expedia has 81 hotels and other accommodations within a mile from Santa Barbara Zoo.
If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Santa Barbara Zoo, will I receive a refund?
Yes, most hotel room reservations are fully refundable as long as you cancel before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of check in. If you have a non-refundable reservation, it may still be possible to cancel it and get a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Plug in your dates, click on "Search", then you can use the "fully refundable" filter to review the best deals near Santa Barbara Zoo.
Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip in the area near Santa Barbara Zoo?
To find more details about changing or cancelling your stay near Santa Barbara Zoo, head over to our customer service page.
What can I see and do near Santa Barbara Zoo?
You'll want to browse the collections at El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park, Presidio Santa Barbara, and Santa Barbara Natural History Museum. Explore notable local landmarks like Mission Santa Barbara, Casa Del Herrero, and Rafael Gonzalez House. You can catch a show at Santa Barbara Bowl, Arlington Theater, and Lobero Theater.
How can I get to Santa Barbara Zoo?
With so many transportation options, exploring the area around Santa Barbara Zoo is easy. To venture out into the surrounding area, hop on a train at Santa Barbara Station. You can explore water travel options at the local port.