Fodor's Expert Review Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

A full-scale resort with seven buildings spread over 24 landscaped acres across from East Beach, this hotel was founded by the late TV actor Fess Parker, best known for playing Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone. Most rooms have private balconies and terraces, and suites have a wet bar, a spa tub, and a small refrigerator. The complex centers on a palm tree–lined plaza and includes the Spa del Mar, a spacious pool and hot tub, three tennis courts, two restaurants and a coffee shop, a nine-hole putting green, shuffleboard, bike rentals, and a rental-car outlet.