About Santa Barbara City College
Founded in 1909, Santa Barbara City College is one of the oldest and most respected community colleges in California. Consistently ranked among the nation's top community colleges, SBCC offers over 200 academic programs, a vibrant campus life, and a dedicated faculty — all set against the backdrop of the Santa Barbara coastline. The campus spans 74 acres atop a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, with La Playa Stadium serving as the setting for its renowned graduation ceremonies.
SBCC draws students from across California, the country, and internationally — meaning families and visitors regularly travel to campus for orientations, campus days, move-in periods, and commencement. When you make the trip to Santa Barbara, we make sure your stay matches the quality of the destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far are your hotels from Santa Barbara City College?
All four of our hotels are approximately 5-10 minutes by car from SBCC's campus on Loma Alta Drive. Our West Beach properties — Brisas del Mar, Lavender Inn, and Inn by the Harbor — are on the waterfront side of Santa Barbara approximately 5 minutes from campus, while Best Western Plus is in downtown, slightly further from campus via State Street.
- Do you offer group rates for families attending graduation?
Yes — we accommodate group bookings for SBCC graduation families. Contact us directly at sbhotels.com or call (800) 468-1988 to discuss availability and group rates for commencement weekend.
- What amenities do your hotels include for families visiting SBCC?
Our boutique properties include complimentary daily breakfast, afternoon wine and cheese happy hour, and evening milk and cookies. Free Wi-Fi, beach cruiser rentals, and easy walkability to West Beach and the Santa Barbara waterfront are part of the experience at our three West Beach properties. Best Western Plus features the on-site Live Oak Café for all-day dining.
- Is there parking available for guests who drive to SBCC?
Yes — all four of our hotels offer complimentary or on-site parking. SBCC's campus also has parking lots available. We recommend arriving early on move-in days and graduation weekend as parking fills quickly.
- What is there to do in Santa Barbara near your hotels?
Our West Beach hotels are steps from Stearns Wharf, West Beach, and the Funk Zone — Santa Barbara's vibrant arts and wine district. State Street shopping and dining, Mission Santa Barbara, and the Santa Barbara Zoo are all within easy reach. Santa Ynez wine country is approximately 45 minutes away.