When Katharine told me about her elopement schedule in Santa Barbara and invited me to her ceremony and reception, I was incredibly honored and excited for her. But, driving up from Los Angeles the morning of and then driving back after dinner? No way – not worth it. Not when it’s one of your dearest lifelong friends – and you’re the one photographing her getting ready for her elopement. I wanted a hotel property that felt easy, comfortable and would give us the peace and space to get ready. Especially during on of the most popular times in Santa Barbara – Labor Day weekend.
So – there was only one solution: a staycation on the California coast for the holiday weekend. I started searching, comparing, reading reviews – trying to find that one hotel that gave me the unmistakable “this is it” feeling I’ve gotten so good at trusting. I did not need to stay at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara again. And I would be too busy with activities to really be able to enjoy at stay at the Rosewood Miramar Beach. But, when my search landed on the Mar Monte Hotel, it all clicked. That feeling hit, and I booked it. Not only was it beautiful, but it was also the perfect distance from the Santa Barbara courthouse.
Check In
Now, one thing about me is I hate the cost of valet. So, when I called the hotel earlier in the day to make my usual requests, I was pleased to be informed that there was street parking. When I arrived – I found out that there was not only street parking. But, I found a spot in front of the hotel that gave me free parking until Tuesday. This means I saved $48 per night.
It’s not about just having the money to spend. It’s about spending it wisely – on the right things.
Room and Stay
Arriving, I settled into my ocean view room with a balcony.
The bathroom was also roomy and comfortable.
It was exactly what I wanted for a weekend away. Especially, when I found myself drinking one of my favorite beers from Russian River Brewing as the sun set.
I couldn’t have thought of a better place to book the final details for my upcoming trip to Paris and Upstate New York.
Waking up the morning of my second day, I delighted in watching the life of coastal Santa Barbara unfold around me. Bikers moved in groups down East Cabrillo Boulevard. Dogs happily trotted along with their owners. Boats moored off the coast.
Out of the numerous times I’d visited Santa Barbara over the years, this is the first time I felt the true essence of its coastal essence. There truly is something about writing this part of my review, while seated on a balcony surrounded by the sights and sounds of Santa Barbara that vibes with classic coastal California charm.
Restaurants: Cafe Lido & Costa
I will say though – Saturday morning, bright and early, the groundskeeping crew decided 8 a.m. was the perfect time to mow the lawn. Not exactly ideal. And when I wandered over to Café Lido and Costa, the vibes were… off.
At Costa, kids were running wild, screaming, completely unparented. I got seated next to a guy working on his laptop who, when politely asked by the server if he could shift to make room for someone else, literally waved her away like she was an annoyance. Meanwhile, the table beside me was loudly debating current events. Between that, the mower, and the overall chaos, I stood up before ordering and headed to Café Lido instead.
But that was also a miss. The bartender/server was juggling a line of people while multiple tables sat dirty. The whole scene felt messy, and honestly, both menus looked basic AF. Not worth my time or my money.
So, I returned to the front desk and asked one of the outstandingly friendly staff members where she goes when she doesn’t want to eat at home. One Lyft request later and I was at The Shop, dining on a delicious breakfast burrito. My morning was better for it. She also gave me an outstanding recommendation to go to Jeannine’s in Montecito, which I went to for breakfast the next morning.
Now, frankly – even though the Mar Monte is part of the Hyatt Unbound Collection, it’s nowhere near the level of Carmel Valley Ranch in service, property expansiveness or resort activities. But as a comfortable hotel with a pool and beach access right across the street, it’s a solid choice.
However, if one is looking for a stay in Santa Barbara with steps from the beach access that’s priced much less, the Motel 6 Santa Barbara Beach Hotel and The Inn at East Beach are literally across the street from the Mar Monte Hotel.
Overall
Overall, I truly appreciated my stay at the Mar Monte. The location couldn’t have been more perfect for what I needed. There’s something so special about waking up to the sight of the Pacific Ocean, watching the waves roll in from the comfort of my bed – it set the tone for the entire weekend.
And with the hotel being such a short time away from the Santa Barbara Courthouse, it ended up being the ideal spot for Katharine and her mom to come over after her hair and makeup appointment to get ready for her elopement. It gave us both the space, convenience, and calm we needed before such a meaningful event.
Mar Monte Hotel - The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
1111 E Cabrillo BlvdSanta Barbara, California 93103
