Everything that people love about California is epitomized by Santa Barbara: beautiful weather, beautiful beaches, beautiful mountains and, well, beautiful people, too (it's historically lousy with Hollywood types that have made the two-hour trip north from LA). The only problem: Santa Barbara has the reputation of being notoriously priced for Hollywood-size wallets.
That makes the city's latest 24 More promotion even more irresistible. Twenty-two hotels in the county—from Santa Barbara proper down to Buellton (the backdrop of much of the movie Sideways)—are inviting visitors to spend 24 more hours in town for free. All 22 properties are offering a third night free through the winter months, when the weather is typically mild with temperatures in the mid-60s.
One standout opportunity is The Biltmore, the grand dame of Santa Barbara hotels and one of the most beloved hotels in all of California. Also known as the Four Seasons Resort Santa Barbara, it's set across from famed Butterly Beach and supposedly a stone's throw from Oprah's house. Regular rates start in the $375 to $500 range, so a third night free brings the average rate to $250 a night for a three-night stay—a great deal for this level of hotel. Bonus: The Biltmore is owned by the Ty Beanie Babies mogul, so kids get a free Beanie Baby, along with plenty of other perks, when they check in.
Another great option: The Hotel Oceana, which was revamped in 2008 and comes with two pools, complimentary breakfast, free bicycle rentals, and great access to Santa Barbara's lovely, pedestrian-friendly downtown shopping, as well as its beach and pier. Regular rates here start at $169, so getting the third night free slides the average rate down to about $115 over a three-night stay.
The 24 More deal also applies to some activities. On the coupons page we found buy-one-get-one deals for museums, entertainment, and even wine and olive-oil tastings.
To get the deal, you can book online using your desired hotel’s rate code or call the hotel directly. The offer is good through March 31, 2010 and some blackout dates may apply, depending on the hotel.
