The city's first full-service downtown hotel opened in late 2004. Everything within the tony interior reflects Andalusian hacienda style, from Spanish tiles and gold-red colors to wrought-iron chandeliers and arched doorways. Rooms are on the small side, but include such homey touches as fresh flowers and candles. Ride up to the sixth-floor rooftop terrace—which has a pool, hot tub, and outdoor fireplace—for exotic drinks at El Cielo, a hip bar with some of the best views in Santa Barbara. The hotel's sophisticated 31 West restaurant ($$-$$$$) draws discerning diners from all over Southern California. Don't look out the window, though; the Greyhound station across the street will draw you back to reality. Pros: Fabulous rooftop views of the city, in the heart of downtown, slick urban decor. Cons: Some rooms feel cramped, across the street from the main bus transit center, shutters serve as bathroom doors.
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