West Beach Inn, Santa Barbara

It’s no surprise that we’ve been on the road a lot lately.  It’s generally what we enjoy doing, but most recently we’ve been touring our state of California for our oldest daughter.  As a senior in high school, she has applied to universities with a plan to major in Dance.  With this major also comes the added application requirement of having to audition  for placement in the programs.  A weekend to UC Irvine and UC Santa Barbara had us down in southern California and we were thrilled to partner with West Beach Inn right across the street from Santa Barbara’s harbor.

For years my girlfriends and I would stay in the gorgeous city for our annual getaway adventure.  West Beach Inn is just down the road from our favorite beachside restaurant, so I immediately knew we were in a fabulous area.  Sitting on the corner of Bath and W. Cabrillo Blvd. the hotel offers various areas of free parking just steps to your room.  We arrived late into town and when we got to check in they were closing in on the tail end of their  complimentary wine and cheese hour.  We appreciated that the staff  gave us a bonus 15 minutes to enjoy a drink and also pour a second glass of their California Cabernet.I love a hotel that offers a happy hour, it makes for an easier transition to a relaxed state-of-mind for many travelers.  After our evening snack, we left the lobby and approached the pool and hot tub area.  Both are illuminated by lavender lights at night and look really cool.  The hot tub is covered by a pretty black canopy where you can close the drapes up for a little privacy and it took all of me not to race and get my swimsuit on for a quick dip.  My husband and daughter reminded me we hadn’t even made it to our room yet, so we picked up our luggage and made way for the Garden Suite on the second floor.

Walking in, there’s a desk and chair to the right and a living room area and television.  Plenty of space for three of us and would be wonderful for our whole family of 5 had we all traveled together.  The couch pulls out to a bed, and the chairs were comfortably positioned to chat or enjoy a show.  A full kitchen was at our disposal, and  had we been staying more than one night would be perfect to cook a meal or two in to save some money.  A dining table for 6 completed the layout and we made use of it as we planned for the rest of our trip.The master bedroom had a wonderfully soft and comfortable bed, with a sitting area, television, large closet and master bath.  Dinner reservations had us in to refresh and out quickly only to return and fall quickly asleep. Even with a full hotel, we slept soundly and only heard the impending El Nino storm that approached.  We made time in our schedule to wake a bit earlier to enjoy the hotel’s complimentary continental breakfast located in the lobby.  Breads, bagels, cereal, fruit, coffee and juices were just enough to start our day.  Travelers not familiar with an area can use a kiosk in the lobby that serves as a concierge to activities, restaurants, and more in Santa Barbara.During the day you can tell the pool area is a great place to relax and enjoy with plenty of chaises and tables.Palm trees and fruit trees surround the property with lush green, with tons of tranquil areas to read a book, chat with family and friends, and enjoy the outdoors.  After my daughter’s audition later that morning and before we got on our journey home, the sun peeked through the clouds and we got that money shot from just outside our room of the harbor.A enjoyable stay, albeit quick, was had by all of us at the West Beach Inn.  We encountered nothing but lovely hospitality, comfort, and extra special amenities you’d find in a luxury resort.  The location is perfect near the beach and just 5 minutes from the bustling State Street and activities the city has to offer.  Non-suite rooms are affordable enough for a weekend, or week’s vacation and we will definitely come back again when we’re in the area to enjoy that pool and spa!

For more information on West Beach Inn and other Coast Hotels, visit https://www.coasthotels.com/.