Ala Mar by the Sea

Beachside motel walking distance from Stearns Wharf

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Where to?

Dates

July 2025

August 2025

Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed, Ocean View | View from room

Overview
Rooms
Location
Policies

Popular amenities

Breakfast included
24/7 front desk
Parking included
Housekeeping
Pet friendly
Free WiFi

Explore the area

102 West Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101

Stearns Wharf
‪7 min walk‬
Santa Barbara Zoo
‪3 min drive‬
Santa Barbara Bowl
‪5 min drive‬
Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal)
‪14 min drive‬

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Room options

Room, 1 King Bed

Ocean view
Sleeps 2
1 King Bed

Panoramic Room, Ocean View

Ocean view
Sleeps 2
1 King Bed

Room, 2 Queen Beds

Sea view
Sleeps 4
2 Queen Beds

Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed, Ocean View

Ocean view
Sleeps 2
1 King Bed

About the neighborhood

Santa Barbara

Located in Santa Barbara Beach, Ala Mar by the Sea is a leisurely stroll from popular sights such as Stearns Wharf and Leadbetter Beach. This 18-room motel welcomes guests with free breakfast and conveniences like free in-room WiFi and free self parking.

View more Motels in Santa Barbara

What's nearby

Santa Barbara Harbor - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
Stearns Wharf - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
Leadbetter Beach - 12 min walk - 0.7 miles
Santa Barbara Zoo - 3 min drive - 2.1 miles
Santa Barbara Bowl - 5 min drive - 2.1 miles

Getting around

Santa Barbara Station - 7 min walk
Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) - 12 min drive

Restaurants

‪Moby Dick Restaurant - ‬8 min walk
‪Jeannine’s American Bakery & Restaurant - ‬3 min walk
‪Chad’s - ‬3 min walk
‪Finney's Crafthouse - ‬4 min walk
‪SB Biergarten - ‬4 min walk

About this property

Ala Mar by the Sea

Beachside motel walking distance from Stearns Wharf

Guests staying at Ala Mar by the Sea enjoy free WiFi in public areas, a terrace, and an ATM. You can take advantage of free parking if you drive. The front desk is staffed 24/7 to help with concierge services, and answer any questions about the accommodations. If you like to take your furry friend along on your adventures, this pet-friendly property offers food and water bowls.

Guests can expect to find free WiFi and flat-screen TVs with digital channels. Other standard amenities include refrigerators, microwaves, and fans.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Languages

Danish, English, French, Italian, Spanish, Swedish

Similar properties

Pool
Hot Tub
Pet friendly
Free WiFi

$325 nightly

Jul 20 - Jul 21

Total includes taxes and fees

Property amenities

Internet

Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

Free self parking on site
Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available

Food and drink

Free continental breakfast

Things to do

Personal motorized watercraft

Family friendly

In-room microwave
In-room refrigerator
Rollaway/extra bed (surcharge)

Conveniences

24-hour front desk
ATM

Guest services

Concierge services
Housekeeping (daily)
Tour and ticket assistance

Outdoors

On the beach
Terrace

Accessibility

If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
No elevator
Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
Wheelchair-accessible parking
Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
Wheelchair-accessible van parking

2 floors
Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

Bedsheets provided
Blackout drapes
Rollaway/extra bed (surcharge)

Bathroom

Free toiletries
Hair dryer (on request)
Private bathroom
Towels provided

Entertainment

Flat-screen TV with premium digital channels

Food and drink

Microwave
Refrigerator

Access via exterior corridors
Fan
Heating
Individual decor
Individual furnishings
Iron/ironing board on request

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 10:00 PM

Late check-in subject to availability

Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

An adult age 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking

The property charges USD 28.50 for credit card payments

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property

For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation

Guests are asked to check in between 3 PM and 11 PM on Saturdays and by 10 PM Sunday through Friday. To arrange check-in outside of these hours, guests should contact hotel/vacation rental management in advance.

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

This property welcomes pets for USD 50 per pet, per day
Food and water bowls are available
Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

Rollaway/extra beds are available

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

Pet fee: USD 50 per pet, per day
Service animals are exempt from fees
Rollaway beds are available for an additional fee
Credit card charges are subject to a surcharge of USD 28.50

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation

This property accepts credit cards and debit cards; cash is not accepted

This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.

Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit

This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room

Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property

Check-in: 3:00 PM—-10:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 18

The front desk is open 24 hours a day. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
This property accepts credit cards and debit cards. Cash is not accepted.
The credit card used at check-in for incidentals must be in the name of the primary guest who made the reservation.
This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

There are no elevators.
No cribs or infant beds are available.

Property is also known as

Ala Mar

Ala Mar Sea

Ala Mar Sea Hotel

Ala Mar Sea Hotel Santa Barbara

Ala Mar Sea Santa Barbara

Ala Mar Sea Motel Santa Barbara

Ala Mar Sea Motel

Ala Mar by the Sea Motel

Ala Mar by the Sea Santa Barbara

Ala Mar by the Sea Motel Santa Barbara

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at Ala Mar by the Sea?

Ala Mar by the Sea offers free cancellation on certain room rates. For more details, look at the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

What's there to do near Ala Mar by the Sea?

This motel is situated in Santa Barbara Beach, just steps from MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation, and within a 10-minute walk of Santa Barbara Harbor and Stearns Wharf. You'll also find Santa Barbara Zoo and Santa Barbara Bowl within a short drive.

Is there parking available at Ala Mar by the Sea?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the motel. Accessible parking is also available for guests.

Does Ala Mar by the Sea include a casino on the premises?

No, Ala Mar by the Sea doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Ala Mar by the Sea?

No, there is no indoor pool at this motel.

What amenities will couples enjoy at Ala Mar by the Sea?

At this beachfront motel, couples will appreciate amenities like free breakfast plus some guestrooms include fireplaces and jetted bathtubs.

Does Ala Mar by the Sea have a hot tub?

Yes, this motel offers private spa tubs in some guestrooms.

Does Ala Mar by the Sea have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

Ala Mar by the Sea offers free continental breakfast though there is no restaurant.

Does Ala Mar by the Sea allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although they can't stay for free, pets are welcome at Ala Mar by the Sea for a fee of USD 50 per pet, per day. The property also provides food and water bowls.

Are there connecting rooms at Ala Mar by the Sea?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this motel.

What is the closest airport to Ala Mar by the Sea?

The closest major airport to Ala Mar by the Sea is Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA), which is 10.6 mi away (12 minutes by car). Another top airport is Santa Ynez, CA (SQA), which is around 25.8 mi away.

Can I book a room with a balcony at Ala Mar by the Sea?

Yes, some guestrooms at this motel offer either a balcony or a patio where guests can enjoy ocean views.

Ala Mar by the Sea Reviews

6.0

6.2/10

Cleanliness

6.8/10

Staff & service

5.6/10

Amenities

5.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

6.0/10

Eco-friendliness

2/10 Terrible

Nicole

Traveled with family

Apr 13, 2025

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities

pictures not like on expedia! a motel not a hotel! disgusting, unclean, dirt everywhere, toilet had crap from prior guest, candy on floor, no blankets, window on top of side of bed and shutters never cleaned, cobwebs everywhere, rude check in (done on property across street!), floor unsafe, half used toilet paper roll on toilet (no TP holder), half used dirty dial soap bottle on sink (no vanity), chunks of cement on floor , paint all over things on celing and room, check in gave our room key to someone else who came in our room and then apolgized, check in was rude and dirty too

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sean

Apr 11, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

More than we expected!

Our room was perfect. From the cobblestone flooring to the decor and furniture, it really makes you comfortable All the amenities for a night in Santa Barbara.

Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tiffany

Apr 10, 2025

Liked: Property conditions & facilities

The location in relation to the train station and the beach is spectacular. The neighborhood is late-night-walking to the hotel, very friendly. There were multiple families walking with us down the street to other hotels/hostels after our midnight arrival on Amtrak

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brad

Apr 5, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

4/10 Poor

Verified traveler

Mar 14, 2025

Liked: Room comfort

Disliked: Staff & service

Well, at least you can see the beach

I don't like to be negative -- this place could be really nice, but it needs some work. The main problem was that the toilet was not properly attached to the floor, and it leaked. Beyond that, I would have liked to have a coffee maker, a closet with hangers, and a comfortable chair or two; and my gal would have liked to have a hair dryer. But the bed was comfortable, and we slept well. Otherwise, I would have given it a rating of 1 star.

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

4/10 Poor

Kelly

Mar 4, 2025

Disliked: Cleanliness, room comfort

Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Josh

Feb 18, 2025

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

2/10 Terrible

Stephen

Traveled with partner

Feb 6, 2025

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities

Decided to book for my wife's birthday, a little last minute but the went with the best room available. Once we entered, we noticed the AC wasn't working fans broken and the bathroom fan not working. The bed was on the wrong size frame and held together with exposed woodscrews. While there were ocean view, you could hardly see out of the window because of how dirty and failed it was. I brought up the AC and fan fixes needed, every day while being told they would be right on it. Nothing ever got resolved. Very disappointed in my stay!

Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

6/10 Okay

Matt

Feb 6, 2025

Liked: Staff & service

Older hotel and it shows. Beat up like an old house.

Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

2/10 Terrible

jessica

Traveled with partner

Jan 20, 2025

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities

First off the office was closed and to check in you had to go next door to villa de Rosa. Second there was a charge of $25 that was supposedly not covered in the Expedia cost which I don’t understand. Third the room we were put in was #109 which took us 15 mins to find because no where does it say 109. We were lost looking for it. So we randomly used our keys to open a random door and it worked. Then the up stairs neighbors or guest were walking around non stop we couldn’t sleep. This motel was not up to par. It should not be bookable on Expedia. The only good thing is they allowed us to park before check in time. We chose to do this because of the very limited parking. I will not stay here again and I recommend you skip this location.

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025

2/10 Terrible

Verified traveler

Traveled with family

Jan 3, 2025

Disliked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

When I booked, price said included all taxes and fees. But checking in they charged me an extra $30 fee Breakfast was a joke.

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

6/10 Okay

SANDRA, Ridgecrest

Traveled with partner

Dec 30, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service

My husband and I stayed 2 nights while exploring Santa Barbara. Very convenient to the harbor and State Street, with its fabulous dining. Parking in the lot can be a challenge but street parking is available. Check-in was at the lobby of the hotel next door for some reason. The hostess was nice but I don’t think she ever made eye contact with me. Our room was quaint with the 2 queen beds as requested. I didn’t have a very comfy bed (I used 2 pillows which were both pretty flat) but husband was fine in his bed. Amenities were limited - shampoo/conditioner/lotion and one small round of soap in the bathroom. Refrigerator, small microwave, ice bucket with 2 plastic cups. I wish I could’ve opened the bathroom window to let steam from our showers out (no fan) but it appeared to have been permanently locked. All in all we would stay again just for the convenient location but it is pretty no frills.

Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Melissa

Traveled with family

Dec 28, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities

Disliked: Staff & service

The location is excellent and the second floor patio has a great view. This old hotel has some beautiful details like tile floors and nice tile work in the bathroom. However, it’s clear they are relying on the location to sell the place and not bothering much with upkeep and service. Check-in was frustrating. We checked in on-line as requested, including giving a digital copy of a driver’s license which seemed like an invasion of privacy. When we arrived to actually check after dark (a few minutes ahead of when we had said we would), there was no sign of life at the office and a sign I could barely make out in the dark said to check in at the Villa Rosa hotel next door. This hotel had no obvious entrance but all the doors were locked. Knocking didn’t work and neither did calling the number on the door. I had to pound on a door to be let in. The desk clerk was clearly overwhelmed dealing with unhappy guests who needed things (towels, TV remotes, a new room because their first one had no glass in the window) so we had to wait to check in. Once in our room we found it clean and the windows all had glass. But the bathroom doorknob kept falling off, almost trapping me in the bathroom once. And the TV remote had no batteries so the TV couldn’t be used. By this time it was late and it seemed like too much trouble to rouse the clerk from next door to get batteries so we just went to bed. However, waking up to a beautiful view of the sunrise over the water made up for it all.

Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

4/10 Poor

Jordyn

Traveled with partner, Traveled with family

Nov 29, 2024

Disliked: Cleanliness

I had higher expectations for this stay. The floors in our room were dirty and we had a broken window in the bathroom. There was a man standing out by our window in the morning trying to get back into his room. Not a hotel problem but speaks to the locals. Our room details stated there was a jetted hot tub. It’s a standard bath tub with a couple jets. I liked how close this hotel was located to the wharf and downtown state street. We made the best of our trip but I would not stay here again for the price.

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

8/10 Good

Zovinar

Oct 25, 2024

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Isaac

Oct 9, 2024

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Deborah

Oct 8, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities

Because it was off-season, I had to go next door to check in. There was no one to call at midnight when the neighbor was having an argument - someone locked out and angry. Otherwise, the room was lovely.

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

6/10 Okay

nancy

Traveled with family

Oct 7, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities

expedia dont notice me about this motel charge 28.50 for use credit card to pay a deposit and the room smell too much a tobacco

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

6/10 Okay

Tamara

Traveled with partner

Sep 29, 2024

Liked: Staff & service

Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities

N/A

Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2024

2/10 Terrible

Chris

Sep 23, 2024

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

6/10 Okay

Tamara

Traveled with partner

Sep 21, 2024

Liked: Staff & service

Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities

Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

john, Jamul

Traveled with partner

Sep 10, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities

Beautiful view of the ocean and the pier. Santa Barbara is a beautiful city

Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Allan

Aug 27, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities

Thanks for the wonderful stay at your hotel. A special thank you to Laura. I had left my I.D. in the room and Laura tracked me down and sent my I.D. back to me. Thats above and beyond customer service. I look forward to a return visit there.

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2024