Really happy to recommend the Sandman. We spent 4 nights in a room by the pool (worth the extra). All mod cons in the room which also has a much more of a IKEA/designer feel that you would ever expect from such a place. Huge bed which I really enjoyed. Plus the breakfast place is hilarious (once you have found it); worth a stay for that experience alone.
Only odd thing to say is watch out for the window with no curtain which we had to cover up with a newspaper as there was a light on outside!
The location is on a busy four lane road and there is not much going on in the immediate area. Best places within walking distance we found were Whole Foods (not obvious but very close), and La Cafe Stella. Avoid the places the staff recommend - turns out there are quite a few odd places to eat along State Street.
Will definetely return to The Sandman, especially as the places by the sea front are so overpriced.

My father and I spent 2 nights at the Sandman to explore Santa Barbara on a trip together in California. The staff kindly booked us adjoining pool-side rooms which were large, simple and very clean, with microwave, flat-screen TV and DVD player, and coffee making facilities. But what really impressed us were the two pools and big jacuzzi, and the sweetest little retro diner where a self-serve breakfast offered loads of choice. The staff were friendly. We booked on a special deal of $60 per night and were amazed by the value, with free wi-fi and parking. I would recommend the Sandman to anyone.

My boyfriend and I stayed at this simple little motel on a last minute weekend getaway to Santa Barbara and Solvang. We booked the Sandman for a Friday night (of a holiday weekend no less) and payed next to nothing. Honestly, to get anything in the Santa Barbara area, let alone smack dab in the middle of town for less that $70 is a STEAL!

Because of the price point, we were honestly not expecting much. We were completely shocked upon our arrival by the size of the property...it is huge. Secondly the amenities in the room, especially for the price, were pretty incredible...

~2 bottles of water for FREE (which came in handy wine tasting the next day)
~Microwave
~Flat Screen TV
~Refrigerator
~Bathroom amenities (the usual) PLUS toothbrush/toothpaste, sewing kit and razor
~Continental Breakfast

Although dated, the room was extremely clean. Yes, the towels might have been on the small and thin side, and the walls were definitely not sound proof (could hear our neighbor snoring) but considering everything else....A+ for value v.amenities/location

My wife and I spent a couple of nights at the Sandmann Inn this past weekend. As a frequent business traveller i'm used to the fancy hotels in downtown locations. For this trip, we were looking for something at a reasonable price to use as a base for our weekend away. The sandmann Inn was great value for money and a perfect location. Although basic, the rooms were clean, staff pleasant and we really enjoyed the pool, hot tub, free breakfast and complimentery DVD rental. We would definately stay here again if we visit the area again.