Santa Barbara is a home to the wealthy and also a vacation spot for many around the World. With that in mind it's not surprising that prices are on the spendy side when looking for a place to stay. There's one backpacker hostel which I would recommend strongly if you're looking to save cash.
Another way of getting somewhere to stay that is inexpensive is to try to meet a local. A strategy that has worked for me in the past is to go to a bar, I prefer the local bar type to the pick-up bar. Go around 4.00pm, just when happy hour is starting. Sit in front of the cash register, so every time the bartender serves a customer he has to be in front of you. When you arrive, introduce yourself and tell him you're travelling.
Try to engage him and anyone else in friendly conversation, but don't be too pushy. Maybe ask the bartender if you can buy him a drink (in the US the answer is usually that you can't because he's not allowed to drink, but you don't know that, and he will appreciate it). Bearing in mind that most hotel rooms start at $85, spending a few hours drinking a few beers can be well worth it.
If someone asks you where your staying, tell them you love Santa Barbara, but have to leave soon because of the high cost of rooms. I tell you, sooner or later you're gonna get a bite! Also, getting a foot in with a local is going to open up the whole local scene for you. So be relaxed and enjoy your adventure.
Banana Bungalow, Santa Barbara
210 E. Ortega St, Santa Barbara
Ph:(805) 963.0154
Toll free: 1-800-3-HOSTEL
Fax: (805)963.0184
This is the only hostel in town. Well situated 2 blocks from State St, on Ortega St, it is in the heart of downtown. The BBSB can accommodate 60 people. You can stay in 4-bed dorms for $18 a night, or in 1 big dorm for $15 a night (there is a slight seasonal variation). All rooms have an attached bathroom.
This is the cheapest backpacker type place in town. Unfortunately our experiences weren't good. It was a total madhouse with virtually no supervision.
Only use this place as a last resort.
Questions?
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