This is a perfect gem of a boutique hotel located across Cabrillo Drive from the beach in Santa Barbara, at the corner where State Street (Santa Barbara's main downtown drag) meets the beach. The interiors are cool, impeccably decorated, the staff unobtrusive but natural and friendly. The rooms range in price from $250 to $700 a night, and I suspect I have seen the $300/night Superior room (someone else paid). This room is sizeable, with a very finished feeling rendered by mullions and ceiling treatments that go well-beyond what one encounters on business at the Hyatt. The particular room had a private balcony looking out at the beach, a very nice bathroom, again "perfect" with separate shower and bath. The hotel is equipped with a medium sized outdoor pool, hot tub, and kiddie wading pool, as well as a small exercise facility. Its location means it is easy to walk into downtown Santa Barbara (though you must cross under Highway 101 in a well-travelled underpass) and easy to walk across the street to the beach. Overall, this is a perfect hotel and the key is finding someone in the family who is willing to pay for your stay.
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