Santa Barbara Sunset from Harbor View Hotel

Santa Barbara, Calif.—One of the best view hotels in Santa Barbara is Harbor View. It costs a bit more, especially when you stay in the view rooms on the upper floors. But for romance or even great photos & videos, it is a top choice for accommodations.

In the video above taken from our balcony the sun was just going down in rich golden hues. From the location you'll see many silhouettes of Stearns Wharf, the palm trees, and boats & yachts moored in the harbor across the street from the hotel.

If you go, be sure to book ahead. This popular destination sometimes surprises guests with its appeal and full house on weekends. While the 99% occupancy doesn't happen often, it does occur, thanks to the city being a college town (UC Santa Barbara) and when it does, the prices usually go up in rate, as well as being taken.

Sunsets—you'll see them most nights. Santa Barbara is known as a Mediterranean destination for its weather, architecture and lifestyle. The coldest days generally dip into the 50s and the rainfall average is around 15 inches per year.

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