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EXPERIENCES AT MAR MONTE . . .

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0.5 MILES AWAY

Mar Monte Hotel – Stylish Coastal Stay Near the Santa Barbara Zoo
Planning a visit to the Santa Barbara Zoo? Make your trip even more memorable with a stay at Mar Monte Hotel, a boutique beachfront retreat just minutes from one of Santa Barbara’s most beloved family attractions. As one of the top-rated hotels near the Santa Barbara Zoo, Mar Monte Hotel offers the perfect mix of convenience, comfort, and coastal charm.

Steps from the Santa Barbara Zoo and the Beach
Located along Cabrillo Boulevard, Mar Monte Hotel places you less than a mile from the Santa Barbara Zoo, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, and wildlife lovers. Spend the day exploring the zoo’s 30+ acres of lush gardens, over 500 animals, and kid-friendly exhibits — then unwind at our relaxing beachside resort. Nestled amidst ocean views and shaded by tree-lined walkways, this sprawling sanctuary invites you to explore its diverse habitats. Encounter 146 mesmerizing animal species, from majestic lions and graceful giraffes to playful penguins and awe-inspiring gorillas. Embark on a journey of discovery and wonder, right in the heart of Santa Barbara’s coastal beauty.

A Family-Friendly Hotel Near Santa Barbara Zoo
The Santa Barbara Zoo is one of the top-rated small zoos in the country, and Mar Monte Hotel makes it easy to enjoy it all with your family. After a fun-filled day, return to a stylish, restful space where everyone — including the kids — can recharge.

Enhance your trip with:

  • Family suites and connecting room options
  • On-site café for quick bites before or after the zoo
  • Easy access to beach parks, playgrounds, and family-friendly restaurants

Book One of the Closest Hotels to Santa Barbara Zoo
Whether you’re visiting the zoo, relaxing on the beach, or exploring downtown, Mar Monte Hotel offers the best of Santa Barbara just steps from your door. Book your stay today and experience why we’re a top choice among hotels near Santa Barbara Zoo — where adventure, comfort, and coastal beauty come together.

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Expond (Experiences On Demand) offers Santa Barbara residents and visitors alike access to on-demand, in-person Yoga, Pilates, fitness, wellness, and outdoor adventure services.

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Celebration Cruises of Santa Barbara offers options for everyone including whale watching, coastal cruises, catered and private cruises, water taxi rides, weddings, private parties, corporate events, and so much more!

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The best surf school in Santa Barbara. We pride ourselves on providing the highest quality equipment and service for the price. Our professional staff are trained to help students of all ages and skill levels learn to catch waves, better understand the ocean and move on to more advanced surfing techniques

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Take a tour of Santa Barbara on a Segway PT with one of our experienced guides and see the hidden gems it takes locals years to find. Segway Personal Transporters (PT) are a great way to experience Santa Barbara with friends, family, and kids.

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Rooted Vine Wine Tours is a locally owned and operated wine tour and tasting company in Santa Barbara. Our wine tours focus on boutique, family-owned, and independently operated wineries.d Vine Tours.

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Small-lot premium wine tastings focused on sustainability in private unforgettable locations. We have knowledgeable guides to share some of Santa Barbara’s best kept secrets all in a luxury Mercedes or Tesla Full Size SUV.
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Santa Barbara’s only all-ages concierge-level rental, charter, cruise, and bareboat event center. Choose from a wide variety of public cruises, including sunset cruises and whale-watching cruises, and see oceans of marine life and spectacular coastline views.

Contact | www.sbsail.com

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Santa Barbara’s Elite full-service surf school. We offer door-to-door service and a chance to learn with true professional surf instructors chosen for their skill, personality, knowledge of the ocean, and their ability to teach.

Contact | www.goldcoastsurfschool.com

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Explore Channel Islands National Park

Experience the wild beauty of the California coast with a day trip to Channel Islands National Park, a captivating natural escape just off the shore from Santa Barbara. Often called the “Galápagos of North America,” this remote, undeveloped archipelago offers unforgettable adventures — from hiking and kayaking to world-class Channel Islands National Park snorkeling.

Discover the Wonders of Channel Islands National Park CA

Designated as a national park in 1980, Channel Islands National Park spans five ecologically rich islands: Santa Cruz, Anacapa, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara Island. It’s a sanctuary for wildlife, marine ecosystems, and pristine coastal landscapes — all within reach of your stay at Mar Monte Hotel.

Top Channel Islands experiences include:

  • Guided Hiking Tours: Trek across rugged trails with panoramic ocean views and rare native plants.
  • Kayaking Through Sea Caves: Paddle through dramatic rock formations and hidden coves.
  • Snorkeling & Diving: Explore underwater kelp forests and colorful marine life in crystal-clear waters.
  • Whale Watching & Wildlife Viewing: Spot dolphins, sea lions, and migrating whales from land or sea.

How to Get to Channel Islands National Park

Getting to the park is part of the adventure. While there are no bridges or roads connecting the islands, it’s easy to plan a day trip from Santa Barbara:

  • Island Packers Cruises: The official park concessionaire offers year-round ferry service from Ventura and Oxnard harbors.
  • Private Charters: Arrange custom boat trips or guided excursions through local tour companies.
  • Visitor Centers: Learn about the islands’ history and ecology at the Channel Islands Visitor Center in Ventura before you depart.

Attractions Near Channel Islands

Your stay at Mar Monte Hotel makes exploring more of Santa Barbara’s iconic coastal offerings effortless. Before or after your island adventure, enjoy:

  • Santa Barbara Harbor: Ideal for seaside dining and launching whale-watching tours.
  • Stearns Wharf: A classic California pier with shops, eateries, and ocean views.
  • East Beach: Just steps from your room — perfect for relaxing after a day of hiking or snorkeling.

Your Gateway to Channel Islands National Park Starts Here

When it comes to hotels near Channel Islands National Park CA, Mar Monte Hotel offers the ideal launch point for discovery. Wake up to ocean views, explore the vibrant Santa Barbara coastline, and set out for a once-in-a-lifetime journey to the islands.

Book your stay at Mar Monte Hotel and make Channel Islands National Park part of your Santa Barbara story.

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Contact | (805)456-8752

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33.0 MILES AWAY

A quick 40-minute drive over the San Marcos Pass takes you into the scenic Santa Ynez Valley, home to more than a dozen wineries. Take advantage of the Clean Air Express bus from Santa Barbara to the valley and ride the Wine Country Express bus once you’ve arrived.

Contact | (800)563-3183

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4.0 MILES AWAY

Explore this historic Mission, originally established in 1786. Today, the Mission is home to a community of Franciscan friars; visit the church, museum, cemetery, and 12 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens overlooking the town and the Channel Islands.

Contact | (805)682-4713

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2.0 MILES AWAY

The museum displays a wide variety of works, including antiquities and Chinese ceramics, Western American paintings, and an impressive collection of French Impressionist works, including a number of Monet paintings.

Contact | (805)963-4364

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1.9 MILES AWAY

Planning to catch a live concert or event at the iconic Santa Barbara Bowl? Make your trip unforgettable by staying at our hotel near Santa Barbara Bowl, offering convenience, comfort, and easy access to the heart of Santa Barbara.

Stay Close to the Action
Located just minutes from downtown and nestled in the foothills, the Santa Barbara Bowl is one of California’s premier outdoor music venues. To make the most of your visit, choose our hotel within walking distance or a short drive from the venue. Enjoy a stress-free evening and avoid parking hassles by staying nearby.

Enjoy More Than Just the Show
Extend your stay and explore everything Santa Barbara has to offer:

  • Stroll through State Street’s shops and restaurants
  • Sip local wines in the nearby Funk Zone
  • Relax on the sands of East Beach or West Beach
  • Visit landmarks like the Old Mission Santa Barbara

Stay Near Santa Barbara Bowl 
Whether you’re attending a concert, planning a romantic getaway, or exploring the city, booking our hotel near the Santa Barbara Bowl ensures you’re close to the music, the beach, and the charm of downtown.

Contact | (805)962-7411

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The Funk Zone in Santa Barbara
Just minutes from the Mar Monte Hotel, the Funk Zone is Santa Barbara’s most vibrant and eclectic neighborhood. Guests can easily explore this dynamic district on foot or by bike, enjoying a laid-back mix of wine tasting rooms, craft breweries, artisan shops, and contemporary galleries. An excellent option whether you’re in the mood for a casual stroll or a full-day adventure, the Funk Zone offers an effortless way to dive into the local culture, cuisine, and creative spirit of Santa Barbara.
What is The Funk Zone in Santa Barbara?
Once an industrial district filled with warehouses, dive bars, and surfboard shapers, the Funk Zone has transformed into one of Santa Barbara’s most creative and sought-after neighborhoods. Tucked between the ocean and Highway 101, this area was historically home to maritime businesses and fishmongers. However, artists, winemakers, and entrepreneurs have reimagined the space over the past two decades, repurposing old buildings into tasting rooms, galleries, and cafes. Today, the Funk Zone retains its edgy, urban character and seafaring history while showcasing Santa Barbara’s casually elegant culture and its culinary evolution.
Things to Do in The Funk Zone
Spending a day in the Funk Zone means immersing yourself in Santa Barbara’s most creative, walkable neighborhood. With its relaxed vibe, colorful murals, and ever-evolving mix of local businesses, the area invites discovery at every turn, perfect for leisurely wandering, spontaneous experiences, and soaking in the city’s coastal-meets-artistic energy.
A few must-try activities in the Funk Zone include:
Art Walks 
Whether you pop into various art galleries or you simply admire the near-endless graffiti murals (whether they were commissioned or not) plastered on the Funk Zone’s walls, the neighborhood is teeming with visible creativity, talent, and color. It’s easy to look at many of the installations and say, “This is why it became the coolest area in Santa Barbara.”
The Urban Wine Trail
Santa Barbara’s highly regarded foodie scene can largely be attributed to the wine boom the area experienced in the 90s and early 2000s. The Urban Wine Trail is the best way to experience that wine culture in a fun, unstuffy way. The Trail itself is comprised of over 20 tasting rooms, around 17 of which are located within the 10-block Funk Zone radius.
The Funk Zone Restaurants
It seems like the Funk Zone is constantly introducing new and exciting players into Santa Barbara’s culinary scene, but there are a few tried and true classics that always make our list of places to try like The Lark, a New American bistro located in an old fish market, and the rustic Helena Avenue Bakery.
How to Get to the Funk Zone from Mar Monte Hotel
Taking a 25‑minute stroll (approx. 1.2 miles) from Mar Monte Hotel brings guests into the heart of Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone. Follow the scenic Cabrillo Boulevard pathway along the coast—it’s an easy, flat walk lined with palm trees and ocean views—and you’ll reach the colorful murals, tasting rooms, and artisan shops in no time. Feeling peckish or thirsty along the way? Plenty of cafes dot the route for a relaxing pause before diving into the Funk Zone.
Book Your Hotel Near The Funk Zone Santa Barbara
When you’re searching for hotels near Santa Barbara Funk Zone, Mar Monte Hotel offers a unique mix of historic charm and modern amenities. Situated across from East Beach and just minutes from downtown and the Funk Zone, our hotel features:
Coastal-inspired guest rooms with ocean or mountain views
A heated outdoor pool and Mediterranean-style courtyard
On-site dining at costa Kitchen & Bar and Café Lido
Easy access to Funk Zone attractions, the beach, and State Street
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1.3 MILES AWAY

Mar Monte Hotel – Sophisticated Comfort Near State Street Santa Barbara
Looking for stylish, beachfront hotels near State Street in Santa Barbara? Welcome to Mar Monte Hotel, a reimagined coastal retreat where Spanish-influenced architecture meets modern elegance. Located just minutes from State Street Santa Barbara, our hotel offers the perfect balance of oceanfront relaxation and urban exploration.

Stay Close to the Energy of State Street Santa Barbara
State Street Santa Barbara is the heart of the city — a vibrant, walkable hub for dining, shopping, art, and entertainment. From boutique shops to world-class restaurants and live music venues, it’s the place to experience Santa Barbara’s unique coastal culture.

  • When you stay at Mar Monte Hotel, you’re just:
  • A short bike ride or drive from downtown State Street
  • Moments away from the Santa Barbara Funk Zone and East Beach
  • Close to top attractions like the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, Presidio Neighborhood, and local wineries

A Perfect Blend of Beach and City
Spend your morning walking the coastline, your afternoon shopping along State Street Santa Barbara, and your evening enjoying fresh, local cuisine at a rooftop bar. At Mar Monte Hotel, you’re never far from the best of Santa Barbara.

Book Your Stay Near State Street Santa Barbara
Whether you’re visiting for a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a business trip, Mar Monte Hotel is your perfect home base near State Street Santa Barbara. Book now and experience the beauty, energy, and charm of California’s Central Coast — all from the comfort of one of Santa Barbara’s most beloved hotels.

Contact | (805)966-9222

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3.5 MILES AWAY

Explore 37 acres of exotic, rare plants and lotus-filled ponds at this secluded estate garden created in the 1940s.

Contact | (805)969-9990

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5.0 MILES AWAY

The Botanic Garden is devoted to indigenous California plants with 65 acres of cactuses, redwoods, wildflowers, and more along miles of meandering trails.

Contact | (805)682-4726

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1.2 MILES AWAY

This 42-acre park is a modified estuary supporting brackish wetlands. Enjoy hiking and biking trails in this scenic home for ducks, gulls, herons, and turtles.

Contact | (805)962-5339

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1.0 MILES AWAY

The Ty Warner Sea Center features interactive exhibits showcasing area marine life, including a 1,500-gallon tide pool tank.

Contact | (805)564-5530

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6.0 MILES AWAY

This state-protected coastline is a 15-minute drive south of the hotel, with recreational activities including swimming, tide pool exploration, bird watching, nature hikes, and surfing.

Contact | (805)564-5418

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2.6 MILES AWAY

This coastal bluff park features picnic and BBQ areas, a playground, and views of the Santa Barbara coastline, city, and Santa Ynez Mountains. Trek down the bluff to a rocky beach and tide pools where you can watch for whales.

Contact | (805)564-5418

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0.1 MILES AWAY

East Beach Santa Barbara is a premier destination for travelers seeking sun, sand, and seaside serenity on California’s Central Coast. Located just minutes from downtown, East Beach offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and easy access to Santa Barbara’s top attractions.

Why Visit East Beach in Santa Barbara?
With its wide sandy shoreline, swaying palm trees, and iconic oceanfront views, East Beach is one of Santa Barbara’s most beloved beaches. It’s ideal for swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and long walks along the shore.

Highlights include:

  • Scenic walking and biking paths along Cabrillo Boulevard
  • Easy access to Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara Zoo, and the Funk Zone
  • Picnic areas, beachside cafes, and family-friendly amenities
  • Plenty of parking and beachfront hotels within walking distance
  • Things to Do at East Beach Santa Barbara
    Whether you’re visiting for the day or planning a longer stay, East Beach Santa Barbara offers something for everyone:
  • Beach Volleyball Courts: Play where the pros train
  • Water Sports: Paddleboarding, kayaking, and more
  • Bike Rentals & Trails: Explore the coast on two wheels
  • Events & Festivals: Experience art shows, music, and beachfront yoga

Where to Stay Near East Beach Santa Barbara
Looking for the perfect beachfront hotel? Stay just steps from the sand at one of Santa Barbara’s boutique coastal hotels, offering ocean views, walkable access to East Beach, and a relaxing, resort-style experience.

Plan Your Visit to East Beach Santa Barbara
Whether you’re a local planning a weekend staycation or a visitor exploring the California coastline, East Beach in Santa Barbara is a must-see destination. With beautiful weather year-round, it’s always the right time to visit.

Contact | (805)564-5418

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