ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel

Property class: 2

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel

City view from property
Living area
Living area
Train station shuttle
Exterior

Reviews

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Laundry

Explore the area

View in a map
134 Chapala St, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101
  • Place, Moreton Bay Fig Tree
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Santa Barbara Harbor
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Place, Stearns Wharf
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Airport, Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal)
    ‪17 min drive‬

Room options

Economy Shared Dormitory

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(7 reviews)
  • City view
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bunk Bed

Classic Shared Dormitory, Women only

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(6 reviews)
  • City view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bunk Bed

Classic Shared Dormitory

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(10 reviews)
  • City view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bunk Bed

Basic Double Room

  • City view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

Basic Double Room

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • City view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

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About the neighborhood

Santa Barbara

Located in Santa Barbara Beach, ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel is next to Reagan Ranch Center and MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation. This 9-room hostel welcomes guests with conveniences like free breakfast, free in-room WiFi, and laundry facilities.

What's nearby

  • Moreton Bay Fig Tree - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Santa Barbara Harbor - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Santa Barbara City College - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Stearns Wharf - 10 min walk - 0.6 miles

Getting around

  • Santa Barbara Station - 5 min walk
  • Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) - 13 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪SB Biergarten - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Jeannine’s American Bakery And Restaurant - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Finney’s Crafthouse & Kitchen - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Chad’s - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Validation Ale - ‬6 min walk

About this property

ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel

Guests staying at ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel enjoy free WiFi in public areas, laundry facilities, and a garden. Self parking is available for USD 20 per night. Front-desk staff can help with locker space, and provide local restaurant recommendations. Additional amenities include barbecue grills, a picnic area, and a vending machine.
Guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Bathrooms offer rainfall showers and hair dryers. Housekeeping is available on request.
The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • In-room WiFi speed: 25+ Mbps
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Self parking on site (USD 20 per night)

Food and drink

  • Free on-the-go breakfast available daily 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM

Family friendly

  • Laundry facilities

Conveniences

  • Laundry facilities
  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Lockers
  • Vending machine

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (on request)

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor entertainment area
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Picnic area

Accessibility

  • No elevator

More

  • Designated smoking areas (fines apply)

Room amenities

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer
  • Rainfall showerhead
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: 10:00 PM
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 front desk is open daily from 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

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

  • Self parking fee: USD 20 per night

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
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and outdoor lighting
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM—-10:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours. Driving? This property offers parking (fees apply).

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.
  • 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, debit cards, and cash.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and outdoor lighting.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.

Property is also known as

I.T.H. Santa Barbara Beach Hostel
ITH Santa Barbara Beach Hostel Santa Barbara
ITH Santa Barbara Beach Hostel Hostel/Backpacker accommodation

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel?

ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel offers free cancellation on some room rates. For more details, look at the cancellation policy on our site.

How much does it cost to stay at ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel?

As of Apr 19, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel on Apr 21, 2026 start from $128, including 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 close to ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel?

This hostel is situated in Santa Barbara Beach, just steps from Reagan Ranch Center 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.

Does ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel have a casino on the premises?

No, ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hostel.

Does ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel offers free on-the-go breakfast each morning though there is no restaurant.

Will ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel.

How close is the airport from ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel?

The closest major airport to ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel is Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA), which is 10.4 mi away (13 minutes by car). Another top airport is Santa Ynez, CA (SQA), which is around 25.6 mi away.

ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel Reviews

Reviews

9.2

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 151 out of 203 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 27 out of 203 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 15 out of 203 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 3 out of 203 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 7 out of 203 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

9.4/10

Staff & service

9.0/10

Amenities

9.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Alisa

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
To start with, the staff are very kind and accommodating - I had a gig that started at the time their check-in is and due to traffic beforehand and finishing up well after their front desk closed, they offered a solution that they will leave my key where I can grab it when I arrive so that I would be able to get in (also, luckily, there was actually someone at the front desk somehow at 4am as the key was unintentionally left inside so I'm grateful to her). I booked a bed in the all female 10 bed dormitory and had zero issues. Clean sheets, super comfortable mattress, a wide shelf to put things on, a lamp, and a fan - all of these little things made me sink in and have an incredible sleep. When it comes to hostels, there's a level of trust with the people in the room with you regarding your things, respect for each other's space, and a feeling of safety and I felt very comfortable all around. I also love how close the beach is! It was a short and sweet walk especially with beautiful weather. Very happy that I booked with this hostel!
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Alfie

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Amazing staff, really friendly & welcoming. Well-equipped hostel with a cozy common area and everything you might need but forgot. Daily/nightly events and a great outdoor space. Literally next to the train station so it’s convenient to get to. My daughter & I felt safe the entire time!
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Liahnnie

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Yes it was
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Briana

Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Naya, Los Angeles

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Highly recommended
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Dezheng

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Neat and clean place for backpackers. I love the kitchen which allows me to cook for the kids and myself. Very nice atmosphere and well maintained. They are not fancy but definitely clean everywhere.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

8/10 Good

Carrie

Stayed 1 night in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Blaine

Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Angelina

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
I spend 4 days in this Hostel and it was incredible ! The staff are so nice and everything is really clean ! By the way if you meet Maxine you're better watch out because she is iconic !! There is also activities during the day and in the evening, so as a single traveler it's perfect to meet new people ! Don't hesitate if you come in Santa Barbara, come to the ITH !!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Giovanni

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Cozy, courteous, and cute. This hostel was unlike previous I had stayed in that it had unique qualities such as the themed nights. The location is perfect! I was able to walk to dinner (a local Mediterranean spot) and steps from the beach for sunset. 10/10 would recommend & hope to return
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Chang

Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025

8/10 Good

Hubert

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alice

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Irene

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Everyone is always amazing!
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

James

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mike

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Walkable to everything, beach and downtown
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Fatima

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

8/10 Good

Chris

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jacob

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Fun and friendly atmosphere. Matthew was especially kind in showing me around. Definitely would stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Jacquelynn

Liked: Staff & service
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Donald

Liked: Staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very nice hostel! Friendly, helpful staff.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Martin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Yes and yes.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jorge

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
My husband was in town just to drop of some of my son's belongings and needed a place to rest before driving back home...literally less than an 24 hour trip. Hotels were either sold out, super far or ridiculously priced at over $400/night. I saw the hostel & he said he loved the idea...meeting new people, having a place to sleep, being downtown and you can't beat the rate. I did get him the private bedroom because he snores. Eeek, don't tell him I shared that on the internet! He checked in rather late at 9pm and was welcomed in by Hailey. She shared the rules, gave him a quick tour of the hostel and he left his backpack in his room and went out to find some dinner. He shared that it was such a relaxed environment: people working on their laptops, chatting by the fire pit, cooking up a meal, and sharing a beer. When he came back most people had gone to bed. He used the restroom which he said were spotless, went to bed and slept all night. He commented that the hostel was super clean, trendy, and really had a great atmosphere. Everything is so close by and while the crowd was younger than him, he said it's definitely a place he'd come back to and said he thinks I'd love it too!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Mei Qi

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Location close to the Amtrak station, sufficient restrooms for use, free breakfast as described, however there was no air conditioning in the room, just a portable fan available.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025