Hotel Oceana Santa Barbara

Location. Located across the street from the beach, the Hotel Oceana Santa Barbara affords sweeping views of the wharf, harbor and even whales passing through on their migration. This hotel stands within one-quarter mile of State Street's boutique shops, quaint eateries, museums, and historical sites.

Hotel Features. European-style complimentary continental breakfasts include locally harvested fruits and fresh pastries served in a Mediterranean-inspired lounge or on the sun-dotted patio. Room service is provided by a local restaurant. Complimentary wireless Internet access, conference rooms and business services are available on site. The Spa offerings include the Oceanika Purifying Mud Wrap, Signature Sugar Scrub and French Rose Therapy. A fitness center is available and massages and facials can be administered in private poolside cabanas. Landscaped grounds boast fountains, palm trees and tropical flowers that surround the hotel's two heated outdoor pools and a spa tub.

Guestrooms. Exuding modern beach cool and detailed in pastel hues, the 122 guestrooms host whitewashed wicker furnishings, upholstered headboards with matching ottomans and framed botanical prints. Bedding includes imported Egyptian cotton linens with down comforters and pillows, and arched entryways lead to bathrooms with Aveda toiletries. Rooms are not air conditioned, but each has a ceiling fan and windows that open to fresh, off-shore breezes. Select rooms have fireplaces, and microwave ovens are available on request. Amenities include refrigerators and CD players.

Expert Tip. Located one-quarter mile away on State Street, the Santa Barbara Electric Trolley traverses the boulevard on a regular basis. Holiday visitors will recognize the trolley because it is the only local form of transportation that sports a pilgrim's hat at Thanksgiving and a Santa hat at Christmas.