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Ala Mar by the Sea

2.0 star property
Beachfront motel with free breakfast and an outdoor pool

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Photo gallery for Ala Mar by the Sea

Front of property
Room, 1 King Bed, Ocean View | View from room
Property grounds
Property grounds
Terrace/patio

Reviews

6.0 out of 10

Popular amenities

  • Breakfast included
  • Hot Tub
  • Air conditioning
  • Parking included
  • Housekeeping
  • Pet friendly

Explore the area

View in a map
102 West Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101
  • Place, West Beach
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Stearns Wharf
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Place, Santa Barbara Zoo
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Airport, Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal)
    ‪14 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Room, 1 King Bed

Room, 1 King Bed | Individually decorated, individually furnished, laptop workspace

Room, 1 King Bed

  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Room, 2 Queen Beds

Room, 2 Queen Beds | Individually decorated, individually furnished, laptop workspace

Room, 2 Queen Beds

  • Sea view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Room, 1 King Bed, Ocean View

Room, 1 King Bed, Ocean View | Individually decorated, individually furnished, laptop workspace

Room, 1 King Bed, Ocean View

  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Panoramic Room, Ocean View

Panoramic Room, Ocean View | View from room

Panoramic Room, Ocean View

  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

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Front of property

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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 an outdoor pool and free in-room WiFi.
View more Motels in Santa BarbaraOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • West Beach - 1 min walk - 0.0 miles
  • Santa Barbara Harbor - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Stearns Wharf - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Santa Barbara Zoo - 3 min drive - 2.1 miles
  • Santa Barbara Bowl - 5 min drive - 1.9 miles

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Jeannine’s American Bakery And Restaurant - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪SB Biergarten - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Chad’s - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Finney’s Crafthouse & Kitchen - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Longboard's Grill - ‬6 min walk

About this property

Ala Mar by the Sea

Beachfront motel with free breakfast and an outdoor pool
Ala Mar by the Sea offers an outdoor pool, free WiFi in public areas, and a hot tub. You can take advantage of free parking if you drive. Front-desk staff can help with concierge services, and provide local restaurant recommendations. If you like to take your furry friend along on your adventures, this pet-friendly property offers food and water bowls. Other amenities at this beach motel include express check-in, a terrace, and an ATM.
Guests can expect to find free WiFi and flat-screen TVs with digital channels. Other standard amenities include refrigerators, microwaves, and free toiletries.
An outdoor pool and a hot tub are on site.

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

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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

  • Hot tub
  • Outdoor pool
  • Personal motorized watercraft

Family friendly

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

Conveniences

  • ATM
  • Limited-hour front desk

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Outdoors

  • On the beach
  • Pool loungers
  • Pool umbrellas
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 1 accessible parking space
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-accessible van parking

More

  • 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

  • Champagne service
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Access via exterior corridors
  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Iron/ironing board on request
  • Laptop workspace

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 11:00 PM
Express check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

The property charges USD 28.50 for credit card payments
The front desk is open daily from 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
If you are planning to arrive after 11:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
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

Front desk (limited hours)

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 for USD 60.0 per day

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 bed fee: USD 60.0 per day
  • 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—-11:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours, and checking in is easy with express services. 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.

How much does it cost to stay at Ala Mar by the Sea?

As of Nov 6, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Ala Mar by the Sea on Nov 16, 2025 start from $168.49, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

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

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

Will I be able to park 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, this motel doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there are an outdoor pool and a hot tub.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Ala Mar by the Sea?

This beachfront motel offers many amenities for couples such as Champagne service, fireplaces in some guestrooms, as well as an outdoor pool.

Does Ala Mar by the Sea have a hot tub?

Yes, guests can enjoy a spa tub at this motel.

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

Reviews

6.0
Rating 10 - Excellent. 193 out of 966 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 184 out of 966 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 188 out of 966 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 160 out of 966 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 241 out of 966 reviews

6.2/10

Cleanliness

6.8/10

Staff & service

5.6/10

Amenities

5.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

6.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

6/10 Okay

anatoliy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
In hotel description states continental breakfast included but only cofe and sweets
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Linda

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Lovely Hotel. view of the beach, walking distance of shops etc. Easy parking. Checking in was slow and at neighbouring hotel, which was a little confusing.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Galina, Cupertino

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

vadim

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Denton

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

2/10 Terrible

James

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Nice place with a pretty view, the air conditioners did not cool off the room. Horrible sleep, it was hot and tried both of the different units. One was a wall unit and the other was a mini split. Both of them would not cool down the room.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

2/10 Terrible

Sandra

Not like picture I got room with at but was dirty I had to clean my self there’s was a sitt
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

James, Lakebay

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful setting with gorgeous view, luxury touches, in pristine condition.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

2/10 Terrible

Leon

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Needs to be rebuild
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Timothy

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Nice location.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

6/10 Okay

Ray

Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

8/10 Good

Gustavo

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

2/10 Terrible

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Awful terrible place

Way overstated the accommodations at this hotel. What is not disclosed is it has not been updated since maybe the 80s- furniture was broken, mattresses old, linens etc threadbare. The only new thing in the room was the tv. Pool? In the next door hotel. Check in? No check in on site, next door? Weird. Breakfast? Defrosted soggy bagels and pastries. Not one redeeming quality except for the location, which is why they are still in business. Oh and construction in the room next door sounded like the drill was going to come through the wall. Just awful.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

jeffrey

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Very cool place. Melody was a delight.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

2/10 Terrible

Nicole

Traveled with family
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

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

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

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

4/10 Poor

Verified traveler

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

Disliked: Cleanliness, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Josh

Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025

2/10 Terrible

Stephen

Traveled with partner
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

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
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
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

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