The Franciscan Hotel

It was a small basic room at a great location. It was clean and good for an overnight stay which was for a race. I guess it was nice that I was able to park the car outside the room. I'd probably try other places next time in the area, but wouldn't mind staying here again ig the price is right.

Truly just an inn. The location was good, near state street and the beach. It was also a decent value considering most hotels in Santa Barbara are quite pricey. The room was small but did the job, the staff was also very kind and had free cookies in the afternoon. The pool was also very basic. Nothing to rave about but a decent all-around stay.

Before anything else, I want to salute the manager, Ben, who was extremely professional and gracious in responding to my request for a room change. Really above and beyond. My disappointment had to do with a fairly sweeping remodel that took place since the last time I stayed here 2 or 3 years ago. Granted, it might have been time to refresh the decor, but whoever did the remodel went for a dull, unimaginative version of modern minimalism, jarringly unsympathetic with the exterior architectural style. The rooms are stingily furnished with cheap IKEA furniture and accessories. The suite I was first shown had expanses of blank, white walls without a single piece of wall art anywhere. My room had a small round table with a chair, rather than something that might serve as a desk. Most annoying to me is that the new tile floors were devoid of any area rugs—not even alongside the bed. Since I hadn't knowingly booked a suite, I was happy switching to a cozier regular room, whose bed had a carved wooden headboard and pleasant wall art from the “old days.” One improvement I must acknowledge is that the fairly small lobby, which never functioned very well as a place to sit with breakfast, now works a bit better in that regard.

We stayed for one night, visiting Santa Barbara and so pleased we did! Spotless room, comfortable bed, quiet area but just a short walking distance to the beach and restaurants. Welcoming and helpful staff, too. We would return. Highly recommended.

Not sure who is writing these rave reviews for this hotel but it’s nothing short of disappointing. Overrated And overpriced for what it is. In my opinion not far off from a Howard Johnson’s. It’s a very basic hotel . The rooms are small. The bathroom is even smaller. The tv is outdated with two remotes that you need a phd to figure out . The time tamp on the to is for another time zone. No water in the room but they have an empty fridge and ice bucket. Go figure. The breakfast is inedible and the staff are snooty.