ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel

2.0 star property
Hostel with free breakfast, near Santa Barbara Zoo

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Photo gallery for ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel

City view from property
Living area
Exterior
Living area
Front of property

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, Santa Barbara Harbor
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Place, Santa Barbara City College
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Place, Stearns Wharf
    ‪10 min walk‬
  • Airport, Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal)
    ‪14 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

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(4 reviews)
  • City view
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bunk Bed

Classic Shared Dormitory

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

Basic Double Room

  • City view
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

Basic Double Room

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • City view
  • 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
  • ‪Chad’s - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Finney’s Crafthouse & Kitchen - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Flor De Maiz - ‬6 min walk

About this property

ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel

Hostel with free breakfast, near Santa Barbara Zoo
Guests staying at ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel enjoy free WiFi in public areas, laundry facilities, and barbecue grills. 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 a vending machine, a garden, and a picnic area.
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)
  • Limited onsite self parking

Food and drink

  • Free on-the-go breakfast available daily 8:00 AM to 9:30 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.

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 Stearns Wharf and East Beach less than a mile away.

Is parking available on site at ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel?

Yes, parking is offered for USD 20 per night.

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.

What amenities will couples enjoy at ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel?

Couples staying at this hostel will appreciate amenities like a rainfall showerhead as well as free breakfast and a garden.

Are there hot tubs at ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel?

No, there isn't a spa tub 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.

Does ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel have connecting rooms?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this 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.

Are there rooms with balconies at ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel?

No, at ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel, there aren't any rooms that list a balcony.

ITH Santa Barbara Surf Hostel Reviews

Reviews

9.2

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 130 out of 175 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 22 out of 175 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 13 out of 175 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 3 out of 175 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 7 out of 175 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

9.4/10

Staff & service

9.0/10

Amenities

9.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.0/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

2/10 Terrible

Sherry Belen

Disliked: Staff & service, amenities
I was never informed that we had to take out our sheets before checking out. The guy at the front desk named Drew (the ginger guy) did not even bother to explain properly or even stand up to show us where to put them. I had to ask again where to go. He was on his phone, never even bothered checking if we did it correctly or guiding us, and did not even bother checking our names upon check-out. The place really has potential, but you need to properly explain your rules, because paying $150 for a private room where we still have to take out the sheets ourselves sounds very unreasonable. I know it's not a hotel, but I've never been to a hostel where you have to take out the sheets. It would have been okay if it was explained before checking in, but it wasn't. Furthermore, the front desk staff lacked the decency to properly explain things to guests. Another guest approached us, saying she had never seen any private room guests taking out sheets before. She spoke with Drew, and he just shrugged it off like he didn't even care. We then had to ask again if we were, in fact, required to do it.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jacqueline

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Such a cute and inviting space!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

William

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Everything was great except that it was really hot at night
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Liezl, Stanton

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Steps from the Amtrak, beach, restaurants. Easy parking. Free breakfast. Clean comfortable beds and rooms and bathrooms. Kitchen access. Lots of common areas inside and outside. Weekly activities. Affordable prices!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Christopher, San Diego

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Stella

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I had such a great stay at this hostel! The staff were super friendly and welcoming, the rooms were clean and comfortable, and the atmosphere made it easy to meet other travelers. The location was also perfect—close to everything I needed. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting. Only tip: bring a small fan for your bed. There’s outlets for each bed which is perfect for a small portable fan.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Summer

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The facilities were clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. The dorms were cozyand the beds were surprisingly comfy. There’s a common area where you can hang out, cook, or just chill, which was very nice. In the future will pick bed by the window. Many different age groups from everywhere. Parking was convenient. Thanks for your kindness and hospitality Drew!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

VITORIA

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was great! Great location, so close to the beach and to Downtown, you can walk to both, staff so kind, space super clean - will definitely come back!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

Yashira

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

10/10 Excellent

Traci

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

Great place!

My stay was amazing! I cannot say enough wonderful things. I've never stayed in a hostel, I was traveling alone as an older woman. I never once felt worried or scared. The staff are amazing. At first it's hard to tell staff from guests because the staff interact with the guests. Every night there is a free activity (I e., bbq night, movie night, karaoke etc.). 6 minute walk to the beach. Just across the tracks from the Santa Barbara train station. Free breakfast. Food is provided and you cook it exactly how you like it. The place is surprisingly clean. I will definitely return to this wonderful spot!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Anthony

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Charles

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Legendary staff. Good vibe, and in the heart of SB
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

MEAGHAN

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
What a great spot! From the first intro to the property and staff to the end of my stay it was perfect. Great space, very clean, great location!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Emily

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Karey

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Laurie

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

Nice friendly hostel

Loved the friendliness of the staff. Bed was comfy and private enough. Breakfast was nice -real eggs and pancakes. and they had a bbq dinner in the evening. Centrally located to downtown sb. I was nervous because i had never stayed at a hostel before but it was better then expected. My only complaint is that the ice machine wasnt working
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Richard

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

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

Quick solo trip

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Keiren

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

John

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

John

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alicia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Everything exceeded expectations!!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Angela

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
this was my first time staying at a hostel, and I was nervous that I would be one of the older clientele and somehow feel out of place. It was not like that at all. It was a varied group of people and everyone was very nice. Pancakes and coffee were a bonus
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brian

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Safe, great spot to meet new people, friendly staff, clean and quiet.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Christine

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