The Franciscan Hotel

The hotel was comfortable and pleasant, and it was very clean and well maintained. Breakfast is included, and there are complimentary snacks like cookies and fruit available during the day. There’s also a small shop on site with essentials. Ben, the owner or manager, was incredibly kind, upbeat, and welcoming. You can tell he cares about guests and helps create a warm, friendly atmosphere. We really enjoyed our stay and would absolutely recommend this cozy, hospitable place.

We only booked one night and wished we could’ve stayed longer. The room was lovely, the staff were helpful and friendly, and they let us check in early. The heated pool was a nice surprise, and we had it all to ourselves. Breakfast was really good too. I especially liked the egg bites instead of the usual gross hotel scrambled eggs. It’s in a quiet, safe area, close to the wharf, beach, and restaurants, with a grocery store within walking distance. We’d definitely stay again.

We booked the Franciscan at the last minute for two nights as a base while exploring Santa Barbara, and ended up adding a third. It’s close enough to walk to the port for our boat tour, and State Street and Stearn's Wharf are also within a reasonable walk for food and drinks. Even so, it was quiet at night. The service was great, especially from front desk attendant CJ. When we mentioned we’d gotten engaged during the trip, they brought us champagne and a card. The free breakfast was a filling way to start the day, and the cookies were great. For the price, it can’t be beat.

The courtyard is lovely, with a fountain and a place to sit, and the grounds are kept beautifully. It’s also just a few blocks from downtown SB, with plenty of convenient parking. Inside, everything felt spotless, fresh, and modern. My room had a big TV, fast Wi-Fi, a soft bed, great shower pressure, and a surprisingly well-equipped kitchenette with a nearly full-size fridge and freezer, espresso machine, sink, dishes, and mugs. Check-in was quick and very professional. I’m surprised this place isn’t rated a perfect five. Part of me wants to keep this little inn to myself.