Santa Barbara’s Newest Hotel With a Mid-Century Flair

The historic mid-century 68-room El Prado Motor Inn is now Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Santa Barbara. This completely renovated hotel is unlike many of the Spanish design hotels in Santa Barbara. Even when it became a Days Inn and La Quinta Hotel later in it’s life, it still maintained its strong lines, geometric patterns and decorative exterior.

Marriott by Courtyard el Prado – Photo Jill Weinlein

When popular reality star, Andrew Firestone of ABC’s The Bachelor series and co-founder of StonePark Capital with Jess Parker became aware that this iconic hotel was available, they purchased the property and kept the creative design and integrity of the el Prado hotel. They also  enhanced the property by adding 54 new hotel rooms in a new three story tower.

Courtyard by Marriott – Photo Jill Weinlein

They added underground parking with EV chargers, a large swimming pool and heated whirlpool on an inviting outdoor terrace with palm trees and fire pit lounge area. Two large outdoor rooftop decks, one with a big screen television, offer a comfortable place to sit and take in the sweeping mountain, city and ocean views.

Located along mid-State Street in Santa Barbara, this location is more peaceful than the sensory overload down on the lower part of State Street towards The Wharf. The property is managed by Azul Hospitality Group, a San Diego based hospitality management platform focused primarily on lifestyle hotels and resorts.

New Tower offers mid-century design elements. Photo Jill Weinlein

In an interview, Firestone said, “As Santa Barbara natives, Jess and I are thrilled to re-introduce this classic downtown hotel with timeless mid-century architecture and style. We are also proud to partner with Azul Hospitality to bring to life the first Marriott branded hotel to the city of Santa Barbara.”

Spacious guest rooms – Photo by Jill Weinlein

The hotel’s spacious guest rooms combine comfort with functionality. The upper rooms have the best Santa Ynez Mountains to the Pacific Ocean views from the balcony. Modern design features include a spacious guest baths, walk-in shower, and large vanity. Each room includes a mini refrigerator, high-speed internet access, flat screen television and coffee maker. There are also two-room suites available, complete with a wet bar and conference table.

Rooms have balconies and views – Photos by Jill Weinlein

A new local favorite, the stylish Saint Remy restaurant offers booth and table seating. Some of the semi-private booths have flat screen televisions, a nod to other Marriott by Courtyard properties.

Food and Beverage Director Cruz sources the freshest local ingredients to prepare a thoughtfully curated Mediterranean coastal menu. “At Saint Remy, every meal is uniformly inventive and crafted with the rich history and culture of the coast. It brings the local dining scene a new hotspot for date nights, private parties and gathering with friends,” said General Manager Antonio Morales. 

Healthy salads, burgers and hearty dishes at Saint Remy. Photo Jill Weinlein

Dine al fresco by the sparkling pool or inside the retro-inspired design dining room for uniquely Santa Barbara fare starting with small bites, grilled corn with avocado salad, and big bites such as crispy short rib hummus with grilled lavash, and a savory fig, bacon and melted cheddar cheese burger.

Enjoy a craft cocktail made with local Blind Burro Rum, Hendry’s Vodka and Celo Rum from Black Market Spirits. Hand selected wines are from local Santa Barbara County vintners such as Alma Rosa, Andrew Murray, and One Stone Cellars, a winemaker that gives back to local and global organizations. 

Local fare at Saint Remy – Photo by Jill Weinlein

Start your morning at Saint Remy with a cup of locally-sourced Zaca Coffee and one of chef Cruz’s lemon or churro pancakes. Wellness offerings include citrus salmon toast, avocado toast, oatmeal and chia pudding. 

Courtyard by Marriott – Photo by Rick Weinlein

“Courtyard Santa Barbara is wonderfully located for both leisure and business travelers to indulge in all that the destination is known for, including its beaches, museums, dining options and wineries,” said Morales.

The new Courtyard Santa Barbara Downtown is a two-hour drive from Los Angeles, nine miles from Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) and two miles from the Amtrak Train Station. Its just a few blocks from prime downtown, and walkable to the Old Santa Barbara Mission, Museums, Santa Barbara Harbor, The Funk Zone, Sterns Wharf, and close to the Santa Barbara Zoo.