This Funky-cool Hotel Was Named the Best Santa Barbara Newcomer of 2022 — Here's What It's Like

Santa Barbara, nicknamed the American Riviera, is one of California’s most popular destinations for its beaches, museums, entertainment, restaurants, wineries, and near-perfect climate. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to live there, a stay at Palihouse will give you a pretty good idea. Located near downtown in the historic Presidio neighborhood, the charming boutique hotel lets you feel like a local — a very well-cared for local, that is.

From one of Palihouse’s 24 plush guest rooms or suites, you can stroll to the Funk Zone for a spur-of-the-moment dinner, ride your complimentary bicycle on a sunny morning, or walk your dog along the neighborhood’s picturesque streets. You even have your own Smeg refrigerator, fully stocked with drinks, coffee, and ice cream in the freezer. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the courtyard among palm trees and pink umbrellas or reading a book on your private balcony. On warm days, you might splash around in the outdoor swimming pool, and if there’s a chill in the air, you can huddle by your fireplace.

One of Palisociety’s collection of unique hotels and residences, Palihouse features the eclectic design and hip hospitality of their other properties as well as its setting in a vintage building turned updated boutique. Italian linens, floral wallpaper, lively colors, and cleverly selected portrait art add up to what they refer to as “vintage-preppy meets American Riviera.” 

Other personal touches include 24-hour concierge service, in-room dining, a neighborhood guide, “Pali Vibes” playlist, and lemonade and a candy bar each afternoon. There are poolside cabanas, Peloton bikes in the fitness center, and grocery shopping service. Pawlisociety, their pet program, includes organic treats upon arrival, luxurious dog beds, toys, food and water bowls, a guide for local dog-friendly activities, and courtesy bags, with a one-time pet registration fee of $150. 

The all-day menu includes breakfast and lunch until 3 p.m. After that, cocktails and a bar menu are available until 9 p.m., and of course, there’s your fully stocked refrigerator when hunger strikes any time of day. After a few days in Santa Barbara at Palihouse imagining yourself as a pampered local, you’ll want to stay longer — but at least you’ll know what it’s like to live on the American Riviera.