In the past two years since taking over, Hyatt has transformed a Santa Barbara classic property to be truly first rate.
The location is absolutely perfect, right across from the beach. You can sit at the poolside bar and see the ocean.
The restaurant is first-rate, staff is excellent, and the rooms are beautiful. I think all the rooms have been completely refurbished at this time.
This is NOT a new property, so there are some old-school corridors and access spots, and some of the rooms are across the parking lot from the lobby. But don't let that dissuade you from staying at this gem of a property.

1. Location is superb.
2. If you like sleeping in a run down old motel.

Sorry, Hyatt, there's no way to put lipstick on this old pig. Even though 2 of the 3 buildings had recently undergone cosmetic remodeling (the third was closed for construction), this is still plainly and simply a 2-story motel with dorm rooms. No grounds at all, no public areas, a gym the size of a closet. Yes, half of the rooms are ocean-facing, and balcony doors open to views of the surf (separated from the hotel by the major coast highway thoroughfare). But the rooms are tired, small, and awkwardly out of date. Bathrooms are not up to modern standards and layouts.

If you're okay with the motel vibe, spend less for the Motel 6 adjacent to this one. If you want a resort, keep moving down the road.

We would recommend this hotel for families and couples, alike. Awesome ocean views! It is a nice but not extraordinary Hyatt. It is right across from East Beach, which is broad and spacious. The hotel will require a car to restaurants and most of Santa Barbara, but it is quiet and there is a peaceful bird sanctuary just south of the hotel.

There may be no more beautiful place in California than Santa Barbara, and the Hyatt is well located across from the Beach. The Hyatt has all of the amenities one expects from this chain with a decent but small workout room and a nice pool. We stayed in a deluxe ocean view room that had a small balcony that overlooks Cabrillo. Our room was a little dated, but remodeling was starting the day we left so I would expect some sort of improvement in that regard. The key benefit to this property was the excellent staff, all of whom were quite friendly and helpful, and a great location. The Hyatt is a two minute walk to the Zoo, a quick drive to downtown, and right across the street. Finally, I thought the value was good in comparison to similar upscale hotels in the area.