The Inn at East Beach

Jay at the front desk was especially friendly, and the staff were trying their best. But the building felt neglected, with rust and poor upkeep throughout, and the price wasn’t justified. The first room hadn’t been cleaned: trash on the floor, beds unmade, and used towels left behind. We were moved to a smaller room that wasn’t what we had booked, and it still felt worn and dirty. The bathroom floor was coming apart, the corners were filthy, and the shower had mold and cracks. We also found human feces in the parking lot in the evening, and it was still there the next morning. Ownership needs to invest more in maintaining the place. I wouldn’t stay here again.

It’s a pleasant place inside, with kind and helpful staff. The breakfast and coffee are simple but fine, and for the price it’s a good choice. The beach is an easy five-minute walk away.

There were little black bugs crawling over our things, and the front desk response was, “what do you want me to do about bugs?” We also found the building a bit run-down. The wind blew a screen off one of our windows during our stay, and the views of the actual ocean were very limited, though the hotel is near the ocean and cheaper. For the price, I’d rather stay a little farther from the beach and be more comfortable, or pay more for the care and amenities of a nicer place. Honestly, stay somewhere without bugs all over your stuff. They charge for parking, but don’t have enough spaces for all guests, so you might pay and still have to park on the street. If I’d slept in my car there, at least I wouldn’t have had bugs in the room. To keep bugs out, the hotel could spray chemicals, clean more thoroughly, snake the drains, maintain the plumbing, keep the garden in good order and away from guest rooms, and use good insulation and sealant on windows and doors. Those are the kinds of things you’d do at home to keep bugs out. For this price, they could spray some Orkid.

Being able to bring my dog was the main thing I wanted for my first Santa Barbara stay. I booked through Expedia and mentioned my dog, and they quickly sent the pet and parking fees, which was helpful. After a long drive, I arrived a bit late, but the front desk was welcoming and patiently explained everything. Getting to the room meant navigating a few short stairs with a leash and a big suitcase. A little awkward, though manageable. Some details, like the gate and room keys, seemed dated, but they didn't affect the stay. The price felt like good value, and the beach was just steps away. There were grassy spots nearby for dog walks, too. I'd gladly come back to Santa Barbara and stay here again.