16 Best Places To Stay In Carpinteria CA On The Coast
Carpinteria is a small beach town tucked away between Ventura and Santa Barbara. If you’re planning a trip to this charming coastal city and are looking for all the best places to stay in Carpinteria, we have you covered!
Compared to its neighboring cities, Carpinteria still remains an undiscovered hidden gem. We love to come here on the weekends as a quick getaway for its excellent beachfront hiking trails, stunning scenery, wildlife viewing opportunities, fun breweries, and cozy mom-and-pop eateries.
Our pick for the top hotel in Carpinteria: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carpinteria which has great reviews & is located near the beach!
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a foodie, or simply looking for a peaceful beachy getaway with your family and friends, there’s something for everyone in Carpinteria!
If you are planning a mini trip to this city soon, below are some of the best vacation rentals and hotels in Carpinteria California.
Some of the links used in this blog may be affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, may I earn a small commission when you book through these links for which I am very thankful!
Best Places To Stay In Carpinteria California:
1. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Carpinteria
The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Carpinteria, and IHG Hotel offers the perfect balance between convenience and comfort, making it a great choice for travelers. This is where we usually stay when we come to Carpinteria for work or fun!
With its range of accommodation options – from studio suites to deluxe two-room suites – Holiday Inn Carpinteria caters to a variety of guests. Whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or with a family or group, you’ll be able to find a room that suits your needs.
“The location is good. The free breakfast was tasty and with a lot of options. The fact that is a pet-friendly hotel is a big plus, we were able to enjoy the location with ourYorkie.”
-Salia (read more reviews on Booking.com)
Holiday Inn Express Carpinteria is very pet friendly and allows two pets per room with 70 lbs maximum size for a $100 pet fee. Whenever we stay here, we usually bring our pup Quito along for fun outdoor adventures on the coast!
The close location to both the beautiful Carpinteria coastline and the vibrant city of Santa Barbara is definitely a plus, offering guests a wide variety of options when it comes to activities and sightseeing.
Due to its proximity to the shoreline, you can easily enjoy beach activities like hiking, swimming, sunbathing, or simply watching the sunset. The short drive to Santa Barbara allows for great dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
You May Also Like: 10 Best Hotels In Santa Barbara For A Perfect Seaside Escape
2. Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn
Situated just a mile away from the picturesque Carpinteria State Beach in California, the Best Western Plus Carpinteria Inn offers on-site dining, an outdoor swimming pool, and a hot tub. The property is near the ocean, shopping areas, and many other local attractions.
The hotel offers complimentary internet access and in-room dining to cater to every guest’s needs. Each guest room at the Best Western Carpinteria Inn is equipped with cable TV and exhibits charming wood-beamed ceilings.
“Very nice hotel. The reception girl is very efficient and helpful. The room is clean and comfortable. The location is very convenient.”
-Jiang (read more reviews on Booking.com)
To make your stay more comfortable, hotel rooms also come with a fridge and tea & coffee-making facilities so you can start the day off right!
At the hotel’s on-site restaurant and lounge, guests can relish American cuisine and a variety of cocktails. Post-dinner, guests can enjoy a leisurely walk around the tropical courtyard adorned with a koi pond.
3. Cliff House Inn
Cliff House Inn Carpinteria is a wonderful hidden gem on the Central Coast. This waterfront property is one of the best hotels in Carpinteria on the beach with excellent views of the ocean and private beach access. During low tide, you can walk down along the shoreline and explore tide pools with various sea life.
“The location can’t be beat. Beautiful view of the ocean, and plenty of places to sit and enjoy the surroundings.”
-Mark (read more reviews on Booking.com)
This 3-star hotel features excellent amenities including an outdoor swimming pool and an onsite Shoals Restaurant where we’ve dined on special occasions.
In the evenings, you can fall asleep listening to the waves crash against the shore from your hotel room and wake up to enjoy the sunrise from the balcony with a cup of coffee in hand.
4. Sandyland Reef Inn
Located just off Highway 101, Sandyland Reef Inn Carpinteria is only a 5-minute drive from Carpinteria State Beach and local eateries. The inn offers guests the added luxury of a jacuzzi and an outdoor pool where you can jump in for a refreshing swim.
The 51 guest rooms are equipped with accessible showers and sinks, complimented by toiletries and bath sheets for added comfort. The hotel’s outdoor pool and picnic area offer great relaxation spaces.
“Can’t beat the price and close proximity to town and the beach. The room was clean and beds comfortable. Front desk staff friendly and helpful.”
-Claudia (read more reviews on Booking.com)
Additionally, the Sandyland Reef is home to a wellness area, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. The inn is also equipped with a business center catering to guests visiting Carpinteria for work or those who need to stay connected during their travels.
If you’re looking to grab a drink at the end of the day, we personally love the nearby BrewLAB brewery, Rincon Mountain Winery Tasting Room, and Apiary Beverage Co taproom where you can try a flight of hard kombucha, cider, and mead drinks made of honey.
5. Motel 6 Carpinteria – South
Situated only a short distance from the heart of Carpinteria and close to beaches, shopping centers, and eateries, the pet-friendly Motel 6 – Santa Barbara – Carpinteria South provides comforting amenities and handy services.
“Clean, safe location with friendly staff and for an economy motel a very nice experience. Have stayed here many times and always a nice stay.”
-April (read more reviews on Booking.com)
Guests are sure to appreciate the motel’s outdoor swimming pool and laundry facilities, adding to the convenience of their stay. Each guest room at the Carpinteria Motel 6 is designed for comfort and comes equipped with complimentary WiFi and cable TV ensuring guests can stay entertained throughout their stay.
The Motel 6 Carpinteria is located close to Carpinteria Bluffs Trail & Tar Pits Park where you can enjoy beachfront hiking trails and viewpoints of the Carpinteria seal sanctuary.
Overall, this is one of the best motels in Carpinteria, especially if you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodations!
You May Also Like: 13 Best Pet-Friendly Hotels In Ventura, California
6. Casa Del Sol
Located in Carpinteria close to Carpinteria State Beach, Tar Pits Park, and Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve, Casa Del Sol provides lodging with complimentary access to bikes, free private parking, and shared lounge areas. It also features a beautiful garden, making it a great pick for a family stay.
“Old California Adobe-style architecture and furnishings were unique and fun. Staff was helpful and kept things very clean. Easy walk to restaurants, markets, and the beach.”
-Mary (read more reviews on Booking.com)
The property offers guests the use of a barbecue, free Wi-Fi, and a concierge service for an enhanced stay. Every room at the inn is furnished with a desk and a private bathroom that comes with a shower and complimentary toiletries.
The comfortable rooms at Casa Del Sol are equipped with flat-screen televisions and air conditioning for your comfort. Select rooms offer balconies for an added touch of luxury.
All rooms are provided with bed linen and towels, ensuring a homely feel. A daily à la carte breakfast is available at Casa Del Sol, offering a great start to the day.
7. Motel 6 Carpinteria – North
The Motel 6 – Santa Barbara – Carpinteria North is conveniently located just 1.5 miles from Carpinteria City Beach and a mere 9 miles away from the Santa Barbara Zoo. All rooms at the motel are equipped with a flat-screen TV, ensuring guests have a range of entertainment options.
“Loved this hotel and definitely will be staying here every time I’m in town for work.”
-Ashley (read more reviews on Booking.com)
For added convenience, laundry service facilities are available on-site. The motel offers air-conditioned rooms, each featuring vibrant decor and a private bathroom. Some rooms also include a refrigerator, adding an extra level of convenience to your stay.
The motel provides a 24-hour reception along with an outdoor pool which is great for cooling off in the summer.
The best part about this motel is that it’s pet-friendly, so your furry friends can tag along! Motel 6 Carpinteria – North is one of the top cheap places to stay in Carpinteria, especially for those traveling with their furry four-legged friends.
8. Brink Of Paradise
Brink of Paradise is a holiday home located in Carpinteria, just a few steps away from Mussel Shoals Beach and Pier Shoals Public Beach.
The accommodation provides a spacious retreat with 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a dining area. Sleeping up to 8 people, this vacation home is a great choice for families or traveling friend groups!
For your comfort, bed linen and towels are provided. What sets this holiday home apart is the balcony that offers stunning sea views, letting you fully enjoy the beauty of surrounding nature.
Free WiFi is available throughout the property to keep you connected during your stay. For those who love to explore, the area is great for cycling, surfing, and other water activities. All in all, this vacation rental is one of the top places to stay in Carpinteria on the beach!
Looking for a fun way to spend the day? Book this surfing lesson that takes place on Mondo’s Beach between Ventura and Carpinteria (rated 5/5 stars!).
9. Breakers Way Adventure
Breakers Way Adventure is a spacious beachfront holiday home boasting picturesque ocean views. The property is situated just steps away from Mussel Shoals Beach and features all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay for a larger party of 6 people.
It is furnished with 3 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, well-equipped with bed linen, towels, a TV with cable channels, a dining area, and a fully equipped kitchen for guests’ use.
Adding to its charm is a balcony that offers breathtaking sea views, allowing guests to soak in the beauty of their surroundings.
10. Downtown Carpinteria Luxury Retreat
This contemporary unit offers a luxurious space with strong attention to detail and high-quality amenities. It provides all the comforts of home, making it an ideal choice for a beachy vacation for a couple or a smaller family of 4.
The two bedrooms in the Downtown Carpinteria Luxury Retreat are equipped with a flat-panel TV, providing entertainment options and privacy for guests. The living area also has a flat-panel TV for shared viewing experiences. There is also a fully equipped kitchen, allowing guests to prepare their own meals.
“The place was beautifully remodeled, very clean, and very well equipped. It went beyond our expectations. Very walkable!”
-Kristi D. (read more reviews on VRBO)
An on-site laundry facility is also available for guests’ convenience. For outdoor enjoyment, there is a BBQ grill and a relaxing patio area where guests can unwind and soak up the atmosphere.
Within walking distance of the unit, guests can explore a variety of boutique and antique shops, indulge in dining experiences, and enjoy miles of sandy beaches. Additionally, there is a wonderful Carpinteria farmers market just half a block away, held on Thursdays, where you can check out local produce and artisanal goods.
11. Stylish Cottage Retreat In Carpinteria
This newly renovated cottage is conveniently located just 1.5 blocks away from Carpinteria State Beach, providing easy access to the beautiful shoreline. Stylish Carpinteria Cottage Retreat is also situated close to Carpinteria city center, ensuring convenient access to local shops and eateries.
“We had a great time. The house was cute and well taken care of. We felt comfortable and like it was a true getaway. Easy walk to the beach and restaurants.”
-Shawna C. (read more reviews on VRBO)
The cottage itself boasts bamboo hardwood floors and tasteful furnishings, creating a charming and stylish atmosphere. It consists of one bedroom with a queen bed and another bedroom with a bunk bed sleeping a total of 5 people.
The kitchen has been fully upgraded, with stone countertops and brand-new appliances, including a dishwasher, microwave, and ice maker. This is ideal for those who prefer to make their own meals instead of dining out.
This property is suitable for accommodating both individuals and small families. Additionally, there is a lovely patio in the yard, complete with an outdoor dining table, creating the perfect setting for enjoying a sunset dinner.
12. Sea Lofts At Padaro Beach
Experience the exquisite Sea Lofts at Padaro Beach located near Santa Claus Beach. Not only will you find yourself just a few feet away from the sea, but you’ll also be within walking distance of local surf shops, restaurants, and charming boutiques.
Immerse yourself in the beach lifestyle by renting surfboards or paddle boards, taking surf lessons, or enjoying breakfast, lunch, or dinner at one of the hotspots on Santa Claus Lane nearby. The Sea Lofts stand as the ultimate beach destination in Carpinteria, providing an idyllic setting for your stay!
“Beautiful property in a beautiful place! You can’t beat the location and the property is awesome. Close to restaurants, shops, Carpinteria, and Santa Barbara.”
-Eric M. (read more reviews on VRBO)
The Surf Loft offers a king bed and a fully accessible bathroom, ensuring comfort and convenience for couples on a romantic getaway. The loft is spacious and includes a fully equipped kitchenette with a microwave, refrigerator, and all the essentials needed for an unforgettable beachside stay.
During low tide, take leisurely walks for miles along the sandy shores or simply unwind on the deck and witness breathtaking sunsets over the ocean.
13. Carp Shores Oceanfront Modern Condo
The Carp Shores Oceanfront Modern Condo features a brand-new, fully equipped kitchen, complete with a flat-top cooktop, where you can prepare your favorite meals. Both bedrooms are tastefully decorated with a sophisticated beachy theme, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
The warm earth-tone colors add to the overall charm. The master bedroom has a king-size bed accompanied by two bedside tables and lamps, while a stylish wooden bench sits at the foot of the bed, adding a touch of elegance.
“Beautiful unit, exceeded our expectations. Kitchen was well stocked with everything you would need for cooking. Great location, just a short walk to town and shopping.”
-Cathy C. (read more reviews on VRBO)
The second bedroom offers a queen bed with matching bedside tables, lamps, and a flat-screen TV, providing a comfortable and relaxing space. There is also a balcony with two cozy sectional sofas, offering a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Take in the cool breeze and admire the sunsets while sipping on your favorite local Santa Barbara wine or beverage of choice.
Read Next: 15 Best Santa Barbara Wine Tasting Tours
14. Sandyland Shores – Walk To The Beach
Located close to Carpinteria State Beach, this cozy condo offers a perfect getaway for those seeking a peaceful time away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
With a one-bedroom and one-bathroom, Sandyland Shores vacation home can comfortably accommodate up to four guests. The master bedroom boasts a queen size bed, while a hidden Murphy bed in the living room provides additional sleeping space.
“Great location just steps from the beach. Worked well for my little family. Nice place with all amenities we needed for our vacation.”
-Shina C. (read more reviews on VRBO)
The fully equipped kitchen provides all the necessities for preparing a satisfying meal in the comfort of your ‘home away from home’. You can even enhance your outdoor experience by grilling a delicious lunch or dinner by the poolside.
Whether you prefer admiring the ocean view from the living room window or taking a refreshing dip in the nearby pool, this retreat offers ample opportunities for relaxation!
15. Gorgeous Carp Shores Beachfront View
Gorgeous Carp Shores Beachfront View Unit offers two bedrooms and a well-equipped kitchen with a dining area where you can enjoy meals overlooking the beach.
The master bedroom features a California King bed, two bedside tables, and a ceiling fan for added comfort. The second bedroom is furnished with two twin beds and has a flat-screen TV on the wall for entertainment.
“This condo is right on the beach with the best view in town. This is my second stay at this property and I can’t wait to come back again.”
-Penny N. (read more reviews on VRBO)
In the living room, there is a new sofa that can be converted into a queen sleeper sofa sleeping a total of 6 people in the unit.
This property provides a secure and welcoming environment for your family, ensuring an enjoyable vacation just steps away from the sandy shoreline. There is a community washer & dryer available in the facility and a gated parking lot for convenience.
16. Best Deal In Carpinteria
Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find solace in this Carpinteria Condo, perfectly suited for couples or a small family of three seeking a relaxing getaway. Immerse yourself in the charm of Carpinteria which has a small beach town vibe.
“We have stayed on three other occasions and always enjoyed our stay here. It’s easy walking to the beach and town!”
-George K. (read more reviews on VRBO)
This property offers an ideal location, excellent quality, and affordable pricing. Nestled in a peaceful area of Carpinteria, this condo provides convenient access to the beach, parks, dining options, and downtown shops, including a delightful local farmers market.
Leave your car and worries behind as you indulge in the ease and simplicity of this idyllic coastal retreat!
Looking for more things to do around the Central Coast? Be sure to check out these posts next:
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