El Capitan CanyonvsThe Waterman
Both hotels are rated very highly by professionals. Overall, El Capitan Canyon scores marginally higher than The Wayfarer. El Capitan Canyon comes in at #20 in Santa Barbara with endorsements from 5 reviewers such as Travel + Leisure, Oyster and Lonely Planet.
El Capitan Canyon
11560 Calle Real, Santa Barbara, CA 93117
From $0/night
- Restaurant
- Pool
- Family Friendly
- Free Parking
- Kitchenette
- Meeting Rooms
Travel + Leisure
"These comfortable cedar cabins—outfitted with Wi-Fi and other 21st-century amenities—are near El Capitan State Beach, a 17-mile drive from Santa Barbara." Full review
Gayot
"Near the beautiful beaches north of Santa Barbara, families cram into this luxury campground to enjoy the semi-rustic life."
Oyster
Mid-Range
"With enough modern conveniences to satisfy travelers who would rather just semi-rough it. Guests stay in cabins, tents, or yurts; only cabins have en-suite bathrooms." Full review
goop
"Made up of cabins and tents... El Capitan offers a rustic but luxurious way to experience the El Capitan Canyon and beach near Santa Barbara." Full review
Lonely Planet
Top Choice
"About 20 miles west of Santa Barbara, off Hwy 101 opposite El Capitán State Beach, this ‘glamping’ resort is for anyone who loves camping, but hates to wake up with dirt under their nails." Full review
The Waterman
12 East Montecito Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
From $169/night
- Free Internet
- Free Breakfast
- Laundry Service
- Concierge
- Laundy Room
- Pool
Gayot
"Guests can choose from 31 modern private and shared accommodations with full en-suite bathrooms. All enjoy access to a community kitchen and heated outdoor pool." Full review
Condé Nast Traveler
"The Wayfarer has both shared and pri- vate rooms—along with free Wi-Fi, a Spanish colonial–style communal kitchen, and a heated pool." Full review
Fodor's
"Rates include breakfast, use of the community kitchen, and access to the outdoor heated pool and a sunny deck with reclining lounge chairs." Full review
Afar Magazine
"Part hostel and part hotel, The Wayfarer is a sweet spot for those who want a playful, not-too-fussy place to rest their heads after a long day of traveling." Full review
The Telegraph
8.0
"Definitely in a category of its own." Full review