In our review of this beachfront gem in Santa Barbara, we found a comfortable haven with a prime location near the city’s top sights. The outdoor pool and hot tub are perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring, and the free parking is a real money-saver.
While the hotel shines in many areas, it’s worth noting that it’s a bit far from the airport – about a 1.5-hour drive. Also, if you’re looking for a budget option, this might not be your best bet.
That said, this spot is ideal for beach lovers, families, and anyone who wants a clean, comfy base for exploring Santa Barbara. It’s especially good for eco-conscious travelers, thanks to its commitment to sustainability.
If you’re a student or visiting UC Santa Barbara, you’ll appreciate the quick 12-minute drive to campus.
Overall, we think this hotel is a great choice for those who don’t mind spending a bit more for quality and convenience in a beautiful coastal setting.
Good To Know
- The Franciscan Hotel is a highly-rated hotel in Santa Barbara, California, with an exceptional location near the beach, restaurants, and downtown.
- The hotel offers a variety of accommodation options, including King, Queen, Deluxe Rooms, and Suites, catering to different guest needs.
- Guests can enjoy amenities such as an outdoor pool, hot tub, free parking, and complimentary WiFi, as well as a daily free breakfast and freshly baked cookies.
- The hotel has a strong commitment to sustainability, with initiatives like solar energy utilization, recycling programs, and water conservation efforts.
- The Franciscan Hotel has received positive guest reviews, with high ratings for its location, cleanliness, comfort, and friendly staff.
Hotel Overview
The Franciscan Hotel, a charming beachfront resort, is situated in the heart of West Beach, Santa Barbara, California.
It boasts an impressive 8.8/10 rating from 1,609 reviews, with guests praising its exceptional location, just a 12-minute drive from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and 1.5 hours from Los Angeles International Airport.
The hotel’s proximity to the beach, restaurants, and downtown area has earned it a stellar 9.5/10 location score, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking convenience and accessibility.
With its array of amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool, hot tub, free parking, and free WiFi, the Franciscan Hotel provides a comfortable and well-equipped stay for its guests.
Location and Accessibility
Strategically situated in the heart of West Beach, Santa Barbara, the Franciscan Hotel enjoys a prime location that caters to the diverse needs of its guests.
Just a 12-minute drive from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and 1.5 hours from the Los Angeles International Airport, the hotel’s accessibility is top-notch.
Its proximity to the beach, numerous restaurants, and the vibrant downtown area further enhances its appeal, earning it a stellar 9.5/10 location score.
For guests with accessibility needs, the hotel offers wheelchair-accessible facilities, including lowered sinks, raised toilets, and grab rails, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.
Accommodation Options
A wide array of room options caters to the diverse preferences of the Franciscan Hotel’s guests.
The available accommodations range from standard King and Queen Rooms to more spacious Deluxe Rooms and Suites. The Franciscan Suite and Manager Suite offer additional living space and amenities, while the Family Suite is ideal for groups.
All room types feature contemporary furnishings, air conditioning, and en-suite bathrooms. Guests can conveniently check availability and pricing for their desired room type and dates through the hotel’s booking platform.
The hotel’s accommodation options provide comfortable and well-appointed lodging to suit the needs of both leisure and business travelers visiting the beautiful city of Santa Barbara.
Dining and Amenities
Beyond the comfortable accommodations, the Franciscan Hotel offers an array of amenities and services to enhance the guest experience.
The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool and hot tub, providing a refreshing escape. Guests can also take advantage of the free parking and complimentary WiFi throughout the property.
The hotel’s concierge is available to assist with arranging activities, such as bicycle rentals for exploring the nearby beach and downtown areas.
Dining options include a free daily breakfast and the opportunity to indulge in freshly baked cookies.
Plus, the Franciscan Hotel caters to guests with accessibility needs, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.
Guest Services and Facilities
The Franciscan Hotel offers an extensive array of guest services and facilities to cater to the diverse needs of its visitors. Guests can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool and hot tub, as well as take advantage of free parking, Wi-Fi, and bicycle rentals. The hotel also provides a concierge service, dry cleaning, and a daily free breakfast. For accessibility, the hotel features wheelchair-accessible rooms with lowered sinks, raised toilets, and grab rails. The hotel’s amenities are summarized in the table below:
| Facilities | Room Features | Guest Services |
|---|---|---|
| Outdoor pool | Flat-screen TV | Concierge |
| Hot tub | iPod docking | Dry cleaning |
| Free parking | Air conditioning | Bicycle rental |
| Free WiFi | Daily housekeeping | Free breakfast |
| Family rooms | Tea/coffee maker | Fresh cookies daily |
Sustainability and Initiatives
Along With its extensive guest amenities, The Franciscan Hotel demonstrates a commitment to sustainable practices and environmental initiatives.
The hotel actively seeks to reduce its carbon footprint through three key measures:
- Solar energy utilization, with rooftop panels generating a significant portion of the hotel’s electricity needs.
- Comprehensive recycling and waste reduction programs, diverting over 75% of the hotel’s waste from landfills.
- Water conservation efforts, including the use of low-flow fixtures and the implementation of a linen reuse program.
These initiatives highlight The Franciscan Hotel’s dedication to operating in an eco-friendly manner and minimizing its environmental impact.
Guest Reviews and Ratings
A wealth of positive feedback from guests highlights the exceptional experience offered at The Franciscan Hotel.
Guests consistently praise the hotel’s prime location, with a remarkable 9.5/10 rating for proximity to the beach, restaurants, and downtown.
The cleanliness, comfort, and friendly staff also receive outstanding ratings, with scores of 9.1, 9.3, and 9.4, respectively.
Common comments from satisfied visitors include "Great location," "Very quiet," "Incredible staff," and "Super clean."
Policies and Important Details
Visitors planning a stay at The Franciscan Hotel should be aware of the property’s key policies and important details.
Check-in is available from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and check-out is required by 12:00 PM. The cancellation policy varies by accommodation type.
Pets are allowed with additional charges. Guests should note that the hotel is undergoing guest room renovations from November 3, 2022, to December 20, 2022.
Plus, the hotel has implemented enhanced safety and sanitation measures due to COVID-19, which may result in limited services.
The key policies and details to be aware of are:
- Check-in and check-out times
- Cancellation policy
- Pet policy and renovation notice
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Hotel’s Environmental Sustainability Policy?
The hotel’s environmental sustainability policy is not explicitly stated in the provided information. However, the hotel’s focus on accessibility, guest services, and amenities suggests a commitment to providing a comfortable and accommodating experience for guests.
Are There Any Nearby Attractions or Activities Besides the Beach?
The hotel is located in close proximity to a variety of attractions and activities beyond the nearby beach, including downtown Santa Barbara, which offers shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Does the Hotel Offer Any Special Packages or Promotions?
The hotel offers a variety of special packages and promotions, including discounts for extended stays, packages with attraction tickets, and seasonal deals. Guests are advised to check the hotel’s website or contact the concierge for the latest offers.
What Are the Parking Rates and Options for Guests?
The hotel offers free parking for guests on-site. Complimentary self-parking is available for the duration of the stay. Valet parking is not offered at this location.
Is There a Fitness Center or Gym On-Site?
The hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool and hot tub for guests, but does not have an on-site fitness center or gym. Guests may wish to inquire about nearby gym facilities or fitness options during their stay.
Sum Up
We’ve just wrapped up our stay at this delightful coastal gem in West Beach, Santa Barbara. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to kick off your shoes and wiggle your toes in the sand.
This charming hotel blends seaside allure with modern comforts, all within a stone’s throw of the Pacific. The location is a dream for beach lovers and city explorers alike, with Santa Barbara’s top attractions just a hop, skip, and a jump away.
What really stood out was the warm hospitality – the staff here could teach a masterclass in making guests feel at home. Whether you’re a sun-seeking vacationer or a road-weary business traveler, you’ll find everything you need to recharge your batteries.
Ready to book your own Santa Barbara adventure? Hit the button below to reserve through our trusted partner, Booking.com. We use them ourselves and find their prices hard to beat. Plus, it’s free to make a reservation – how’s that for a sweet deal?