I don't think there are any hotels in Santa Barbara proper that are *on* the beach. We stayed at the Fess Parker Doubletree once--from the photos, you'd think it was on the beach, but you actually have to cross a busy road to get to the beach. I believe the same is true with other hotels in town. We also have stayed at the Miramar in Montecito, and that actually is on the beach south of SB. However, it has been undergoing renovation (badly needed, I might add) and I don't think it has reopened yet. I don't know when you're planning to travel, so it may be available then--and might be offering some bargains too.

I would just stay downtown on State Street and walk a couple of blocks to the beaches.

JoAnne in rainy Silicon Valley