Santa Barbara & Ojai, California — Hotels

Motel 6 Santa Barbara Beach (The Original)

Santa Barbara · 1962 · The First Motel 6 Ever Built · Ocean Views · From $100

Getaway Unpacked Edit

A long-running budget property in the Santa Barbara area, near East Beach. Straightforward and clean, with one of the lowest price points in the region. No amenities beyond the basics; the location and the value are the appeal.

Why We Chose It

A long-running budget property in the Santa Barbara area, near East Beach. Straightforward and clean, with one of the lowest price points in the region. No amenities beyond the basics; the location and the value are the appeal. Confirm exact location, parking or valet fees, beach access, pool policies, accessibility, air-conditioning, and cancellation terms before booking.

What Stands Out

  • The original Motel 6 — where the chain was founded in 1962 at $6/night
  • Ocean views from select rooms — the best value beach-adjacent view in Santa Barbara
  • Retro 1960s California motel aesthetic — authentically preserved
  • Short walk to the beach and Funk Zone
  • The most historically significant budget hotel in California
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