On a mobile device? Try our mobile site, optimized for faster browsing.

Inn At the Spanish Garden

5 star rating
based on 22 reviews

Category: Hotels  [Edit]

915 Garden St
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
(805) 564-4700
Price Range:
$$$

22 reviews for Inn At the Spanish Garden

Sort by: Yelp Sort | Date | Rating | Elites'
Photo of Craig R.

 

182

112

Craig R.

Manhattan Beach, CA

5 star rating
4/30/2009

Once a month I like to escape and sample different boutique hotels. This week a friend and I chose to visit Santa Barbara and experience the Spanish Garden. From the moment you walked through the front door, you are greeted with warmth and hospitality. From my initial reservation phone call, to the final goodbye, this was a thoroughly enjoyable experience. I have traveled to over 35 countries on 6 continents and have spent the night in many fine accommodations but for a boutique hotel nothing compares to the Spanish Garden. They offer a wonderful inviting personal experience, with a homey feel, that leaves you totally satisfied, but knowing you'll be back for more. My compliments to each and every member of the staff; they were professional, courteous and fun individuals. This was my first visit and a highly recommended experience for my fellow Yelpers.

To all the fellas: This is a deal breaker ; )

People thought this was:

  • Useful (2)
  • Cool (3)
Photo of Kate T.

 

19

55

Kate T.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
7/30/2009

This place is awesome! My wife and I stayed here for two nights during our mini-moon back in June and couldn't have asked for a better place to lay our heads after a long day of shopping on State Street. The staff was super nice and really helpful, the breakfast was delicious, and the room was perfect. A gas fireplace, a semi-private balcony, a two person spa tub, and a comfy bed. Plus, it's within walking distance of the downtown area. In other words, a great stop on any getaway.

Photo of Joanna B.

 

4

161

Joanna B.

Austin, TX

5 star rating
6/9/2009

I cannot say enough good things about this place. Spent one night here on my honeymoon (we were driving down the CA coast). The staff was amazing, every need was met and exceeded, the place was beautiful and my room was amazing. If you ever have the chance to stay here - stay as long as you can. Simply amazing. (And if you've read my other reviews you know I complain more than I gush about anything)

People thought this was:

  • Cool (1)
Photo of Maxi T.

 

102

77

Maxi T.

West Hollywood, CA

4 star rating
12/22/2008

We went out of town for a quick turnaround and I chose this hotel due to all the yelp love.  It's definitely very cute, and  GREAT for the money.  Our room looked almost identical to the Andalusia, yet I think 50% of the price!  Bed was awesome, loved the Molton Brown products in the bathroom.   Small boutique hotel, centrally located, warm chocolate chip cookies and staff that knows what's fun to do in town and willing to tell you.  

The view wasn't anything to speak of,  and we could hear live music outside of our balcony but all in all, a great place.

People thought this was:

  • Cool (1)
Photo of Tara L.

 

2

24

Tara L.

Livermore, CA

5 star rating
12/5/2008

I think this is my favorite hotel in the world, or at least in California.  I have stayed here three times a year for 4 years, to attend quarterly meetings in the area and have never had a bad stay.  They think of EVERYTHING when it comes to the little touches to make a stay special.

Most rooms have a huge whirlpool tub, they all have flat screen TV's, stocked and affordable mini bars, free DVDs to borrow (and popcorn), a fireplace, great bedding and nice bath products.

Their breakfast is delicious, and they recently started serving a "small bites" room service menu (though I have not tried it yet).  Out the back of the hotel is a wonderful mexican restaurant that you can walk to, and just down from that is a fabulous sandwich shop---so you never have to go far for food!

They have a wine reception every night and you can always order a bottle or glass from their case.  The best part, though, is the fresh baked soft cookies that are out every night.

There are only a few dozen rooms, I think...it never feels crowded.  Every night, we end up outside at night under the stars and sitting around the fire pit table---the perfect end to a long day!

Staying here is so tranquil and relaxing, I would highly recommend it to anyone.

People thought this was:

  • Cool (2)
Photo of Liz O.

Elite '09

510

387

Liz O.

Long Beach, CA

5 star rating
4/27/2008

One thing I appreciate most about my domestic partner is that he has great taste in the finer things in life...I have reasonable and affordable taste -- yes, I'm extremely cheap.

I was very nervous about staying at the Spanish Garden. Not because I feared it would too posh for my own liking...but because I didn't exactly know (or want to) the rate per night. Again, I AM CHEAP.

We arrived and were instantly greeted by a hotel staff member.
The hotel lobby itself was very warm and inviting. Beautiful serene music played in the background as we checked in.
Freshly baked chocolate chip cookies were displayed at the front counter for guests.

The courtyard is awesome -- tables galore and a table with a fire pit that looks amazing in the evening.

Our suit was beautiful...I walked into a very romantic setting, thanks to my hunny who arranged for special additions to the room.

The room had a fireplace, a king size bed with the softest and coolest linens ever.
Plasma TV, comfy chairs and a private patio with patio furniture.
The bathroom was amazing...large bathtub decorated with candles and a shower stall with a window (in case you want to put on a show for someone in the tub)!
Another thing I loved about this place is that it is 100 percent smoke free! Even in the courtyard! I am not a smoker SO this was definitely a perk for me...
Our balcony overlooked the pool and neighboring suites, but still maintained a private feel.

The complimentary breakfast in the morning was perfect. Typical continental breakfast offering freshly squeeze orange juice, grapefruit halves, cereal, cold milk, specialty coffee drinks,  bagels and quiche.
In the evenings, the hotel offers fine wine in a romantic setting.

This is a place you want to go to to get away from reality and get lost in the bed sheets with that special someone.
Unfortunately, our stay was just for the night, so we didn't get to take advantage of the many amenities and services the Spanish Garden offers, but I will definitely be back for a longer stay.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (3)
  • Funny (2)
  • Cool (2)
Photo of Lena B.

Elite '09

214

373

Lena B.

Buena Park, CA

5 star rating
12/12/2008

o sh*t...i just checked the price for the package deal my bf booked for the night we stay a few weeks ago.  i guess he was afraid that i'd say "no" to that famous 4 words without the embellishments :)

although we were exhausted by the time we arrived to the hotel from our mini sb winery tour, we couldn't hide the excitement the moment we laid our eyes.  what a charming little gem!!!  it reminded me of my trip to spain and costa rica with the courtyard adorned with a fountain, a fire pit and full bloomed trees and flowers.  it couldn't be more romantic...

our room was large with a fireplace, 2 cozy leather chairs and a balcony overlooking their small pool.  it had that old european charm and intimacy in addition to some eye pleasing entertainment gadgets (flat screen tv, dvd player and free wi-fi).  the king size bed was extremely comfortable with high quality sheets and 20000 pillows.  awww, the bathroom...the tub, the separate shower, the double sink vanity, the molton brown amenities, the spanish tiles, the nice soft 2-ply toilet papers...awww (let me just dream for a while...).

the hotel's complimentary breakfast was adequate, if not disappointing.  they offered many different selections (cereals, fruits, breads) along with specialty coffee.  we decided to have our breakfast in bed, and our food arrived an hour later after 2 phone calls.  thankfully, my latte made up for the lack of service and flavors in breakfast (well, it is a continental breakfast where bacon and sausages are not served!).

you can tell the owners really care for this place and put a lot of small yet welcoming touches here and there.  there are free dvd rentals (don't expect netflix here) with popcorns, fresh baked cookies in the lobby and water bottles for guests when they check out.    

if you are sick of four seasons (ok, ok...that's not possible) or just lost a whole lot of money in stocks (not all because if you did, you shouldn't be traveling), check this place out.  you won't be disappointed!!!

p.s. - so here is the first fight we had since our engagement.  the fiance and i have different opinions on this review.  he thinks the hotel deserves only 4 stars due to some service issues (not just the breakfast, but also with our dinner reservation), and in all fairness maybe he's right,  but i fell head over heels in love with the place already and i can't let those minor issues deter me from giving the maximum stars.  if he wants to give 4 stars, maybe he should open his own yelp account!!!

he changed...he had never have gone againt my yelp opinions before...

People thought this was:

  • Useful (13)
  • Funny (12)
  • Cool (12)
Photo of Faye A.

 

16

178

Faye A.

Santa Cruz, CA

5 star rating
10/8/2008

Stayed here for a few days after getting married. Lots could be said about this place,  but most of it has already been mentioned.  Looked at the Four Seasons and Fess Parker and decided to stay here because it is much smaller and is well located.  Close to State, but not too close...quiet.  Very attentive service, and a great breakfast.

The bed is VERY comfortable...and the bathrobes, bath sheets were thick and quality. The bathtub jacuzzi bath is a joy!

Other perks: French Press coffee (!!)...a wine reception (yes, they charge, but they are providing some outstanding wine choices, so we were okay with it). Iced tea, cold water and popcorn available in the lobby...all around, this is a very special place.

Every day, we reluctantly left our room, and were so so happy to return =)

Photo of Stephen W.

Elite '09

15

176

Stephen W.

San Jose, CA

5 star rating
8/26/2008

This place really really REALLY spoiled me, and I'm having a hard time ever finding another quite boutique hotel as nice as this one. Rooms are spacious, service is extremely polite and helpful, and being walking distance to the center of State St. (downtown Santa Barbara) ROCKS!

The decor is really quite contemporary, but it has a nice Spanish theme to it all. The beds were fabulous, and OMG the bathroom was the fanciest I've seen! Giant tub, separate shower, and jets all around? PERFECT!!

The morning breakfast that they service is great too!!

Photo of David K.

 

0

7

David K.

Rancho Mirage, CA

5 star rating
8/5/2009

The reviews are true, this place is superb.  Lovely roooms and great beds/linens.  Free parking and a terrific complimentary breakfast are a plus.  Sophisticated but family friendly too.

Photo of Elliot Y.

 

9

10

Elliot Y.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
3/8/2008

Fellow Yelpers were right about this little gem. No need to elaborate much about the amenities as others have already done so. I WAS looking for something different from a chain hotel for my wife and 3-year-old when we decided we needed some R&R. We stayed in a junior suite and it was nice and quiet. The service was extremely attentive and helpful in getting us what we needed.

Someone stated that the breakfast was disappointing, but I actually didn't find anything wrong with it: the quiche and granola with yogurt and fruit were good. There were also complementary lattes and mochas.

I would definitely stay there again.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (2)
Photo of Kim S.

 

0

8

Kim S.

Laguna Niguel, CA

5 star rating
8/18/2007 1 photo

We had an amazing time at this hotel last week. The hotel is understated luxury. It has everything one expects in a small boutique hotel, but with style.

It is romantic and charming - perfect for celebrating our anniversary.  Once they found out we were celebrating the staff sent champage and chocolate covered strawberries to our room.  An oversized tub made a wonderful room even better.

However it is the level of service, genuine helpfulness and friendliness of the entire staff that earns this inn a top review.  It is the little things and attention to detail that impressed us the most. The chocolate cookies at reception; iced tea and water always available; bottled water given to you as you go out; inclusive breakfast buffet  with emphasis on taste and not quantity; calling us by our names at check in and check out.

We had a wonderful stay and highly recommend this hotel to couples looking for a romantic get away in Santa Barbara.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (2)
  • Cool (4)
Photo of Connor M.

 

0

1

Connor M.

Berkeley, CA

5 star rating
7/28/2009

In a world where standard service, competence, and friendliness have evaporated, Inn At The Spanish Garden exists as a beacon on a hill(well...actually a few short blocks off State Street.) I have never posted a review on Yelp(and may never again - sorry Yelp), but our experience a THE Inn was a true pleasure. Don't hesitate, just do it. To the crew at THE Inn - nice one and keep up the good work.

Photo of stephy s.

 

3386

2462

stephy s.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
6/1/2006

When i close my eyes, click my heels and think about a happy place, one of the Top 10 memories brings me to the Inn at the Spanish Garden. Just fantastic.

We went there for an anniversary and then headed up to wine country the next day, but honestly, I think the stay at the hotel was almost more fun than the wine tasting part. (And get your minds out of the gutter, I'm not referring to THAT) It was just so peaceful and tranquil and other worldly, that it was hard to face the reality of Check Out time when it arrived :(

The room was absolutely GORGEOUS and felt like you were traveling through Spain. The ceilings, the fireplace, the bed (and the headboard), it was all just so beautiful and totally romantical and I can't recommend this place enough for a special occasion!

It's not the world's cheapest hotel, but much like the other review pointed out, you do feel like you are at a resort or at the very least transported to another place in time. LOVED IT!

People thought this was:

  • Useful (2)
  • Cool (2)
Photo of Alex C.

 

343

45

Alex C.

New York, NY

5 star rating
1/24/2008

I stayed here on a whim to get away from the Bay.  To celebrate starting a new job -- and to just disappear for a bit.

Just booked it, packed up an inadequate amount of clothes, and jumped in the car.

Beautiful place.  Quiet.  Hidden.  Close to downtown.  Ample private and free parking for the hotel.

Comfy beds and oversized tubs.  C'mon, you know you liiike....

People thought this was:

  • Cool (2)
Photo of Steven P.

 

9

65

Steven P.

Mount Pleasant, SC

5 star rating
10/3/2007

There's not a single thing to complain about this place. It is simply perfect.

Tucked away on a charming, but peacefully nondescript street -- just a few blocks walking distance from all the hubbub on State Street, and about halfway between the beach and the Mission -- the Inn at the Spanish Garden is ground zero for tranquility and relaxation.

It's beautiful, quiet, classy, thoughtful...everything everyone else already said is true. I won't belabor the point, just try to add a few more observations.

First off, despite all the cooing over this place, there is nothing "frilly" about it. It's everything you want, but never overboard.

Not only were the cookies at the counter complimentary, they were warm and delicious.

Our upstairs room -- with window, sliding glass balcony door, and bathroom skylight -- had a refreshing amount of natural light. Draperies sealed everything up at night for a restful sleep.

The sitting room in the lobby, with over-sized armchairs, serves as a great place for relaxing by the fireplace (whether it's on or not; it was a warm night).

The red tile floors of our room were attractive and, somehow, never chilly.

Flat screen TV (with extensive cable offerings) is ideal for taking advantage of the free DVD library and complimentary microwave popcorn.

Someone did already mention it, but my girlfriend insists that I point out how luxuriously comfortable the bed is.

There are even more wonderful aspects about this place but part of the joy of staying here are the little surprises you didn't expect.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (1)
  • Cool (1)
Photo of Kirsten V.

 

113

204

Kirsten V.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
8/3/2008

This place was BEAUTIFUL!  I stayed here one night before my friend got married.  They really took care of us.  They chilled our champagne and brought it up in a bucket with strawberries and chocolate.  They had a great patio overlooking the pool which was awesome for having the make up lady set up.  Just a wonderful place in general.  If you're looking for an oasis, this is the place to stay.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (2)
Photo of J W.

 

3

30

J W.

San Gabriel, CA

5 star rating
9/13/2008

this place is lovely.  Breakfast was fantastic - they served really the best quiche ever!!! The beds were comfortable, i took my sister n the girls here for a bachelorette gettaway - it was perfect! This place is so secluded and takes you away from the busy city-life in LA.

Photo of rochelle p.

 

6

10

rochelle p.

Huntington Beach, CA

5 star rating
7/9/2007

I love this place!  It is so beautiful and romantic.  When you walk through the courtyard to your room you immediately start to relax.  You feel as if you've been transported to a wonderful villa in Spain.  The guest rooms are spacious and the bed is so luxurious and inviting.  The best part is the huge oversize tub and the Molton Brown products!  The complementary chococolate chip cookies are also a nice plus.  It is located close to all the restuarants and shops on state street and also to the beach and pier.  Everyone I know who had stayed there has absolutely  LOVED IT!

People thought this was:

  • Useful (2)
  • Cool (2)
Photo of S. L.

 

0

83

S. L.

Washington, DC

4 star rating
10/21/2007

Beautiful, quaint inn. Everything was charming and delightful (not enough good things can be said about the cookies at the front desk!!) The rooms were wonderful, with great little details included. At night, we curled up in front of the fireplace, borrowed a movie from the front desk, and ate the popcorn they popped for us... lovely touches.  I liked how the toiletries came in large bottles so you could just use them and have them refilled (much better for the environment to not have to throw away the tiny little bottles). The stone floor was really cold, though, and I was surprised there were no slippers provided. Also, breakfast was pretty disappointing - the pastries were really stale and the selection was pretty scarce.  That being said, the rest of the place was really wonderful, and we'd love to come back the next time we're in Santa Barbara.

People thought this was:

  • Cool (1)
Photo of B. ..

 

106

112

B. ..

South Bay

4 star rating
11/26/2008

cute quaint boutique hotel. excellent service. located a couple blocks from State Street (downtown SB). The room is spacious and super clean with comfie bed sheets and Molten Brown Bath products. Room with huge tub and flat screen tv with dvd player and a mini library w/ dvds to borrow free of charge at the front desk. (tho we ended up stopping by blockbuster to rent a different dvd).  They also offer you a complimentary tub of fresh popcorn. Breakfast is a standard continental breakfast ( maybe a tad more than standard).. but i wasn't all that impressed with breakfast. Fresh homemade cookies at the front desk daily. Nice wine bar in the late afternoons and a cute patio w/ a fire pit and fountain. Free underground parking for hotel guests.  Their pool however was an eye sore.. i dont know why they bother to have a pool if they dont clean it. I'd be surprised if anyone ever step foot into the pool. A definite place to come back to. customer service was excellent.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (1)
  • Cool (1)
Photo of Gil S.

Elite '09

238

848

Gil S.

San Francisco, CA

4 star rating
9/14/2005

Wow.  A gracious, pleasant small inn a few blocks from all the shops in Santa Barbara.  The decor and lowrise courtyard views, large well kept suites, and helpful staff can take you away.  You would almost think you're in a resort somewhere.  There are more extra touches than you could shake a stick at: French press in every room with a glass jar full of local roast -- not starbucks shrinkwrap. . . nice robes. . . each room has a generous deck or garden. . . couches, deck, free wired and wireless Internet throughout the property, plenty of extra room in the fridge / honor bar.  Huge deep soaking tub with a view and separate shower.  Small indoor/outdoor gym with water cooler by the pool.  All this and only 23 rooms.  Strangely they ** charge ** for wine at the evening social, which limits attendance (though they serve good local small wines and it works out to no more than the retail price of the bottle), and their continental plus breakfast seems to have the same exact selection everyday. . . though personable the staff is not quite Ritz material. . . but those big places cost twice as much.  All in all it was expensive but did not feel like a complete ripoff, which is good for Santa Barbara.

People thought this was:

  • Useful (1)
  • Cool (1)
1 to 22 of 22  
Write a Review

People Who Viewed This Also Viewed...