by MacKenzie Geidt, Sunset assistant travel editor
If you're bored with your stay-at-home, football-inundated Thanksgiving tradition, maybe it's time to consider taking this holiday party to the beach. Maybe sprinkle a little sun and sand into the occasion? Santa Barbara is a mighty fine spot to feel thankful, and the West Beach Inn is a sweet little beachy spot to base yourself for under $200 a night as we're heading into low season.
The greatest advantage of this place is the prime beachfront real estate—RIGHT across the street from the beach and the gorgeous coastal bike path, and within walking distance of all the action on State Street. It's got a bit of the motel vibe on the exterior, but the lush garden landscaping and abundant palms give it a nice touch of the tropics. (And the rooms are definitely more "hotel" than "motel.") Throw in continental breakfast and afternoon wine and cheese, and you've got yourself a steal.
Photos courtesy of Coast Hotels and Resorts
Book it: Rooms from $170, 805/963-4277, 306 West Cabrillo Blvd.
Plan your trip: Cruise through Santa Barbara County's wine country, check out Santa Barbara's waterfront, try the tamales on Milpas Street, and discover SB's SoCo neighborhood.
