Coast Village Inn (Montecito, California)

After driving by the Coast Village Inn in Montecito, California, we decided to pull in and splurge on a one-night stay. We needed hot showers and more time to research local campgrounds.

If there’s something I’ve learned while living in a cabin, on a boat, or while traveling, it’s that I must shower, then pause and relax in silence at times, to gather myself.

The Coast Village Inn could not have been more perfect for this.

I tend to like two kinds of lodging. New and clean. Or vintage and clean. This inn held its vintage character well and the property was kept very tidy.

It also somehow felt like we were set in 1930s Hawaii, staying at a small lodge where families returned, year after year. Simple. Cozy. Almost rustic.

The price was super affordable for this area (financially sustainable). The on-site employees were so kind. And the hot beverages at the front office were appreciated.

In our room, we had crisp sheets, fluffy pillows, and ample curtains. Plus, we had an adorable upgraded vintage-style bathroom containing refillable toiletries (not single-use).

I loved the beautiful creaking of our upper floor as guests carefully walked by our cottage-styled window. I wanted to absorb the experience, so I didn’t even close the curtains for privacy.

It is so meaningful to feel like we’re part of a small community experience, no matter where we are in the world. This brief stay provided that need for me.

Equally important, the Coast Village Inn was steps from all of lower Montecito, where we could easily walk to Montecito’s high-end vegan restaurant and all the small local shops.