A charming Mediterranean-inspired property marked by tall palm trees, cheerful flower boxes, and a dolphin sculpture, the thirty-one-room Brisas Del Mar Inn at the Beach, is the sanctuary you’ve been looking for.
Ideally located just a short walk from West Beach and the Santa Barbara Harbor, top restaurants, museums, the Cabrillo bike path, and the eclectic Funk Zone, I parked my car and walked everywhere. Bonus, the parking is free.
Aside from the excellent location, this property offers many amenities, making a stay both convenient and comfortable. In addition to the aforementioned free parking, enjoy a continental breakfast, complimentary cruiser bikes, daily wine hour, and a twenty-four-hour concierge. There’s also an outdoor swimming pool (open year round) with plenty of lounge chairs, an outdoor shower, beach towels, and a small but well-outfitted gym, with Peleton bikes.
Lobby where continental breakfast is served
Rooms at Brisas Del Mar Santa Barbara
Rooms at the Brisas Del Mar are a mix of king and queen standard rooms, suites, and three penthouse suites. Two of the penthouse suites have a terrace. All of the rooms have Simmons pillowtop beds, luxurious sheets and comforters, and multiple USB-C charging ports. There is also an accessible suite that has been fitted with a larger doorway for easier wheelchair access.
The suites and penthouse rooms are perfect for an extended stay and include full kitchens, separate large living rooms with sleeper sofas, and gas fireplaces. Lots of windows bring the California sun indoors.
Extra large bathrooms with good lighting and magnifying mirrors, comfy robes, and Body Shop toiletries with space for spreading out. I loved my bathroom because for once I didn’t have to worry about things falling on the floor and I could leave my hair styling tools plugged in on the counter.
Where to eat
This location is convenient to a wide variety of restaurants and casual breakfast eateries. A few places I liked include Toma for high-level Italian cuisine; Lucky Penny for casual pizza and more in the Funk Zone; Santa Barbara Shellfish Co. on Stearns Wharf; and Jenine’s for coffee and pastries plus other delectable breakfast goodies. And did I already say you can walk to all of these places?
The swimming pool is an oasis in the summer but it’s open year round.
Things to do
Santa Barbara is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts with its mild climate and generally sunny weather. While wine tasting has become a top attraction, especially for locals from nearby Los Angeles, Santa Barbara also has a thriving culture scene and some fun activities for kids too, like the Moxi Museum, the interactive Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, and the Santa Barbara Zoo.
Since I’m a regular Santa Barbara visitor, I wanted to try something different. I went for a sunset cruise on Santa Barbara Sailing Center’s Double Dolphin, a 50-foot catamaran. The cruise was two hours and very, very relaxing. It’s a nice way to get out on the water and enjoy the views of the coast.
Whether your time in Santa Barbara is a relaxing weekend with friends, a romantic partner, or a family gathering, a stay at Brisas Del Mar is an obvious choice and it’s easy on the budget…something hard to find on the American Riviera.
Rates start at about $215-250 in the low season, which is a deal for the space and location. In the summer rooms begin around $300. Brisas Del Mar also offers extended stay rental options. Book your stay here. Or check for better rates at Expedia.
My stay at Brisas del Mar was hosted.
All photos copyright Penny Sadler.
