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Following a nearly six-hour, at times stunning drive through rolling hills and along the coast from Oakhurst, I was happy to arrive at the cozy and casual Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach.

Located two blocks from the beach and about a 15-minute walk to the heart of State Street, Brisas del Mar has the Santa Barbara meets Mediterranean vibe down pat.

The hotel’s focal point is a lovely tiled staircase, together with Sant Barbara signature warm adobe style terracotta-coloured walls and red tiled roofs.

[Inn by the Harbor]

Brisas del Mar is part of the Santa Barbara Hotel Group, consisting of five Santa Barbara properties (the other four are Best Western Plus Pepper Tree Inn, Inn by the Harbor, Lavender Inn by the Sea and Best Western Plus Encina Inn & Suites).

Staff are happy to help offer directions and dining tips; at check-in, I was shown a large book of DVD rentals (rooms, suites and penthouses all have HBO and DVD players), the breakfast room where an included continental breakfast is served and the pool area.

Other amenities include a late afternoon cheese and cracker reception, evening milk and cookies, small fitness room, outdoor pool and jacuzzi, two sun decks, free wifi, bike rentals and parking, plus a laundry room (upon request).

A mix of 31 rooms, suites, plus three penthouses form a circle with the pool, jacuzzi and gym off to one end, and the carport in the center.

I stayed in one of the penthouses with a living room, electric fireplace and queen sofa sleeper plus a full kitchen (of the 31 rooms, 16 offer full kitchens).

There’s a back room with lots of closet space and an additional desk, ideal for longer stays or families. The airco system is quiet and the bed comfortable.

When you’re ready to hit the beach, walk two blocks down Castillo Street to Cabrillo Boulevard where the beach and Stearns Wharf unfold before your eyes.

Once you’re down at the waterfront, there’s a ton of activities and attractions awaiting, as well as the Santa Barbara Visitor Center.

Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach is located at 223 Castillo Street in Santa Barbara, about 90 mile north of Los Angeles and 340 miles south of San Francisco.

My stay was hosted by Brisas del Mar, Inn at the Beach and Visit Santa Barbara. Opinions, as always, are my own. Non-watermarked images courtesy of Brisas del Mar.