Over $250

For a taste of Santa Barbara [1]’s posh side, stay at the Inn at the Spanish Garden (915 Garden St., 805/564-4700, www.spanishgardeninn.com [2], $280–575). This small boutique hotel gets it right from the first glimpse; the building in the historic Presidio neighborhood has the characteristic whitewashed adobe exterior with a red-tiled roof, arched doorways, and wooden balconies.

Courtyards seem filled with lush greenery and tiled fountains, while the swimming pool promises relief from the heat. Inside, guest rooms and suites whisper luxury with their white linens, earth-toned accents, and rich, dark wooden furniture.

Enjoy the benefits of your own gas fireplace, deep soaking bathtub, French press coffee maker, plush bathrobes, and honor bar. The complimentary continental breakfast can be delivered right to your door upon request.

Also upon appointment, you can arrange for a massage or facial in the comfort of your room. The Spanish Inn sits only three blocks from State Street, and within walking distance of a number of theaters and historic Santa Barbara [1] attractions.

Are you ready and willing to pay premium prices for a luxury beachfront resort hotel room? If so, check out the Harbor View Inn (28 W. Cabrillo Blvd., 805/963-0780, www.harborviewinnsb.com [3], $352). This stunning Spanish Colonial–style property sits right across the street from the flat white sands of West Beach and steps from Stearns Wharf. Blooming flowers and bright ceramic tiles create beautiful outdoor spaces everywhere on the property. The pool is a focal point of the resort, with long hours and food and beverage service.

Inside your lovely guest room, soft lighting and orange-and-red tones create a feeling of warmth. Suites offer palatial spaces and extra amenities.

If you want to enjoy a tasty meal without leaving the resort property, choose between room service and the on-site oceanfront restaurant Eladio’s. Eladio’s is best known for its breakfasts, but serves three meals each day and has a good list of wines that’s heavy on the local vintages.