Before there was Hollywood, there was Santa Barbara, California. All the movie production companies that eventually relocated to Los Angeles first made their home right here in Santa Barbara. And even after many stars moved on to Hollywood, Santa Barbara's allure could not be denied, and this was where they came back to play and to live. Silent film megastar Charlie Chaplin immediately fell in love with the Santa Barbara area, so much so that he, along with a small group of investors, built Montecito Inn in 1928 as an upscale getaway. It soon became one of the most desirable destinations along the California coast.
With a small group of like-minded investors, famous silent film actor Charlie Chaplin built Montecito Inn as an upscale getaway for visitors along the California Coast. Mr. Chaplin loved the Santa Barbara area and it showed in every aspect of Montecito Inn’s early building and décor.
The history of our Montecito Beach hotel isn't all that attracts guests. Our iconic hotel is located within walking distance of Santa Barbara's top beaches, with boutique shopping and fine dining options just steps away along Coast Village Road. If you've got a taste for the finer things, take a drive to Santa Barbara wine country. If collegiate endeavors are on the syllabus, you've come to the right spot. From whale watching to art galleries to live theater, there's a lot to explore near the Montecito Inn.
Soon after Montecito Inn opened its doors, it became the "cream of the coast" between Los Angeles and San Francisco. Years later, in 1943, Mr. Chaplin returned to Montecito to marry the love of his life, Oona O'Neill. Since then, many things have come and gone, but the popularity and luxury of our historic hotel has remained.
Today, the tradition continues as guests enjoy elegant accommodations and amenities such as onsite dining, a full-service pool area, spa services, 1,100 square feet of modern events space, and complimentary Wi-Fi provided throughout the Inn.
