We're planning a trip come spring down to SB to aste wines and explore the LotusLand Gardens. I've looked at the Upham and the Montecito Hotels on line. Both look ok(the Simpson House looks divine but more $$ than we want to spend). Any feedback on either inn and/or other recommendations would be appreciated.

My husband and I have stayed at The Montecito Inn twice and loved it. Nice rooms, great staff. The restaurant, though not actually owned by the hotel is wonderful and worth trying even if you do not stay at the inn.

I like the Harbor View Inn in SB but it's a full service hotel not a B&B.
Dining room at the Montecito Inn is a hidden gem for lunch.

Try the Villa Rosa in Santa Barbara. We did a trip down a coast a couple years back and stayed there. Very affordable..... right down the street from the beach...... nice lil' spot.

J

We stayed at the Cliff House Inn in 2001 and loved it. It is just outside of Santa Barbara, but we loved the fact that it was diretly on the ocean. Cool restaurant on site also, which is so unusual for a small inn. Have fun!

http://www.cliffhouseinn.com/

Jim is right. I had forgotten we stayed at Villa Rosa during our first visit to Santa Barbara and it is a great little place! Worth checking that one out too.