The Franciscan Hotel

Everything about this stay was enjoyable! I was very warmly received and the communication at the front desk was superb. The room was very tastefully decorated and comfortable for a business traveler. The location is also perfect as it is situated in the heart of Downtown SB and the waterfront.

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.

I have just spent 1 night at this hotel and I wish we stayed longer! Great place from start to finish! Positives - Spotless room, warm clean pool, plentiful parking, complimentary cookies!! Breakfast was very tasty and fresh! They even have bicycles to rent which are free for the first 2 hours! All the staff were friendly and we had a good sleep in this quiet area. Only negative I would give is that the bathroom could do with updating (still nice), and there was what appeared to be some black mold on the corner of our wall in our room. Would’ve mentioned this to staff if I was here any longer.

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.

This was our favourite hotel during our Californian road trip. We were already staying in Santa Barbara and were not very happy with our first hotel. The general manager showed us around and gave us an upgrade to a suite. The hotel a facilities were great. All the staff on reception were excellent and very helpful. At the time they were not advertising that breakfast was included but it was. They also offer complementary cookies between1-9pm, wow. Very convenient to the beach , downtown and everything you could wish to visit in Santa Barbara. The town itself was delightful. Would have love to have stayed longer but had to continue our journey

This is a hidden gem! Close to the water and Funk Zone. Clean, updated rooms. Breakfast! But the best part of this property is the staff. So pleasant! Big shout out to Ben who was so helpful and generous with his time when I pulled in. A very kind human! I will definitely be back!

I'm so happy I found this property in SB. The city can be super touristy and the hotels sometimes are too pricey for what they offer. Franciscan Inn is the perfect spot if you want to be close to lively State St (walking distance) but have peace and quiet. I stayed at a Junior suite and the room was brand new, had nice appliances and would be perfect to accommodate a small family too. But the staff is the highlight: they were courteous, welcoming and professional. There is coffee and fruits at the front desk, which is nice touch for when you are on the go. Although I didn't get to use the pool this time, it looked very inviting! I will stay here again when my travels take me back to Santa Barbara!