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Summary of reviewsLemon Tree Inn in Santa Barbara is frequently praised for its outstanding location, balancing tranquility and accessibility. Situated in a peaceful semi-residential area, it is conveniently close to attractions such as the Old Mission, the Natural History Museum and Botanical Gardens. Guests appreciated the easy access to grocery stores, restaurants and coffee shops along State Street. Its proximity to the University of California/Santa Barbara and local concert venues also adds convenience for specific travel purposes. The quiet neighborhood and beautifully landscaped grounds create a relaxing environment, further enhanced by the convenience of a nearby bus stop and ample parking for those traveling by car.
The on-site dining options, especially at The Crocodile restaurant, have garnered positive reviews. Diners enjoyed a creative menu with fresh products, noting the pleasant ambiance of eating by the pool and the friendly service. Despite some concerns about the late breakfast service and occasional high prices, the quality of the meals, particularly dinner, left a lasting impression on guests. The inviting atmosphere and outdoor patio seating added to the overall dining experience.
Rooms at the Lemon Tree Inn are noted for their spaciousness and comfort, often equipped with amenities such as balconies, coffee makers, refrigerators and microwaves. Many guests appreciated the clean and well-maintained areas, especially the garden and pool views. However, some criticized the rooms for being outdated and noted occasional cleanliness issues. Despite these concerns, the rooms generally provided a comfortable and quiet retreat, making the inn a good value proposition.
The staff's friendliness and helpfulness significantly contributed to a pleasant stay for many guests. Numerous reviews mentioned the warm and attentive service, particularly from the restaurant and front desk personnel. Some inconsistencies in front desk service were reported, but overall, the staff's positive attitude and support were appreciated.
Guests consistently highlighted the beautiful pool area, describing it as clean, well-maintained and a perfect spot to relax. The lush landscaping and tropical feel added to the courtyard's charm, making the pool a standout feature. Despite minor issues, like unheated water, the pool area remained a favored aspect of the inn.
Parking at Lemon Tree Inn received commendations for its availability, convenience and security. Guests appreciated the ample and free parking spaces, particularly those right in front of the rooms.
Families found Lemon Tree Inn to be an excellent choice for vacations, thanks to its spacious and comfortable rooms and family-friendly amenities. The location's convenience, combined with the enjoyable pool area and on-site dining, made it ideal for family getaways.
Though the Wi-Fi service received widespread criticism for its inconsistency and unreliability, other aspects of the inn helped to balance the overall experience. Feedback on the beds was mixed; while many found them comfortable, some noted they were old and in need of updating.
Overall, Lemon Tree Inn offers a relaxing and convenient stay with highlights including its prime location, quality dining, spacious rooms, friendly staff and inviting pool area. Despite minor drawbacks, it remains a favored choice for many visitors to Santa Barbara. Show more
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Categories
Family Friendly Hotel
While specific family-centric features are not highlighted, its reputation as a comfortable inn suggests a pleasant stay for families exploring Santa Barbara.
Hotel with Swimming Pool
This inn includes a pool as part of its amenities, offering a refreshing option for guests during their stay.
Outdoor Pool
Business Hotel
This hotel is listed as having meeting spaces. It offers a comfortable and relaxing environment for business travelers. It is known for its unique lemon tree theme.
3-Star Hotel
This inn is known for its comfortable accommodations and convenient location. It provides a relaxing environment for guests looking to explore Santa Barbara.
Hotel for Honeymoon
Cheap Hotel
Accessible Hotel
Hotel with Outdoor Pool
Room Types
Deluxe King Room Poolside This double room's special feature is the private pool. This air-conditioned double room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private bathroom as well as a balcony with pool views. The unit offers 1 bed.
Standard King RoomThis double room's special feature is the private pool. This air-conditioned double room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private bathroom as well as outdoor furniture. The unit offers 1 bed.
Two-Bedroom SuiteThis suite's standout feature is the private pool. Boasting a private entrance, this air-conditioned suite includes 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a bath or a shower and a hairdryer. Featuring a balcony with an inner courtyard view, this suite also offers a tea and coffee maker and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. The unit has 3 beds.
King Room - Disability AccessGuests will have a special experience as this double room offers a private pool. This air-conditioned double room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private bathroom as well as a patio. The unit offers 1 bed.
Studio - Disability AccessThe private pool is the standout feature of this suite. Boasting a private entrance, this air-conditioned suite comes with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a walk-in shower and a bath or a shower. Featuring a balcony with an inner courtyard view, this suite also features a tea and coffee maker and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. The unit has 2 beds.
Deluxe Queen RoomThe private pool is a top feature of this double room. This air-conditioned double room is comprised of a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private bathroom as well as a balcony with an inner courtyard view. The unit has 2 beds.
Deluxe King RoomThe private pool is the special feature of this double room. This air-conditioned double room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private bathroom as well as a balcony with an inner courtyard view. The unit offers 1 bed.
Standard Queen RoomGuests will have a special experience as this double room offers a private pool. This air-conditioned double room includes a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private bathroom as well as a patio. The unit offers 2 beds.
Double Room with Pool ViewThis double room's special feature is the private pool. The spacious double room offers air conditioning, a private entrance, a balcony with pool views as well as a private bathroom boasting a bath. The unit has 2 beds.
Guest Reviews
7.5
Good
Location
Lemon Tree Inn boasts a prime location that garners praise for various appealing aspects. Guests appreciated the hotel's peaceful setting in a semi-residential area that is still near enough to many of Santa Barbara's main attractions. The proximity to the upper end of State Street provides easy access to grocery stores, restaurants, coffee shops and essential amenities. Additionally, it is well situated for those wishing to visit landmarks such as the Old Mission, the Natural History Museum and the Botanical Gardens.
Transportation is a breeze with a bus stop conveniently located outside the hotel, making it simple to reach downtown Santa Barbara. Despite being a bit distant from the beach and the bustling city center, this location translates to a quieter, more relaxing environment which many guests found beneficial. The quiet neighborhood and beautifully landscaped grounds enhance the charm of the property, contributing to its restful ambiance.
For those traveling by car, Lemon Tree Inn's location offers quick access to the main highway and ample parking. Adventure seekers and walkers also noted that many attractions are within a fair walking distance, making it a great base for exploring the city on foot or via the efficient bus routes. Moreover, the inn's close proximity to the University of California / Santa Barbara and local concert venues adds to its convenience for specific travel purposes.
In summary, Lemon Tree Inn's location is highly regarded for its balance of tranquil surroundings and accessibility to key Santa Barbara highlights, alongside practical amenities that cater to both leisurely stays and those with particular itineraries.
Breakfast
Despite not being included in the room price, breakfast at Lemon Tree Inn has received mixed but generally positive feedback. Many guests appreciated the quality and taste of the breakfast items available at the on-site Crocodile restaurant, describing the meals as delicious and excellent. The menu offers a creative selection with fresh products and the option to have breakfast overlooking the pool adds a pleasant ambiance. Friendly servers and a good variety of choices were also noted. However, some visitors found breakfast to be pricey and were disappointed by the lack of complementary options. A notable point of concern is the restaurant's late opening time of 9 AM, which many guests found inconvenient, especially those with early plans. For some, this led to the use of alternative nearby coffee shops and delivery services. Overall, while the breakfast quality was praised, the absence of an early, inclusive breakfast service remains a drawback.
Dinner
Visitors to the Lemon Tree Inn have consistently praised the on-site dining experience. The attached restaurant, The Crocodile, stands out with its delectable dishes and impressive service. Guests enjoyed the variety of tasty options, including the highly recommended pizza and drinks, making it a perfect spot for dinner or a memorable late-night meal. Many reviewers highlighted the inviting atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor patio seating options, often noting the relaxing ambiance of dining by the fire pit.
The bar at the hotel also garnered positive mentions with visitors commenting on the lovely poolside bartender and the enjoyment of happy hours. The food selection has been described as delicious with a range of options, from jumbo coconut shrimp to excellent American breakfasts. The dining vibe, paired with good service, made evenings at The Crocodile delightful for many.
A few guests mentioned minor setbacks, such as a temporary closure of the bar or mismatched dining hours, but these did not overshadow the overall positive dining experience. The Lemon Tree Inn's on-site restaurant and bar significantly enhanced guests' stays, offering a convenient and highly enjoyable culinary haven.
Rooms
Rooms at the Lemon Tree Inn are generally praised for their spaciousness and comfort. Guests frequently note that the rooms are large and well-equipped, often including amenities such as balconies, coffee makers, refrigerators and microwaves. The views from the terraces, particularly those overlooking the garden and pool, are appreciated for their beauty.
Cleanliness is a consistent highlight with many reviews mentioning that the rooms are very clean and well-maintained. However, there are some reports of cleanliness issues, such as chipped plaster, musty odors and occasional insect problems.
The decor and furnishings of the rooms are a mixed bag. While some guests find the rooms beautifully furnished and tastefully decorated, others describe them as outdated and in need of modernization. Issues such as worn-out carpets, peeling paint and outdated bathroom fittings are commonly mentioned.
Despite the dated aesthetics, most guests find the rooms comfortable with many noting the quietness and the comfort of the beds. Some rooms, however, are described as dark, lacking adequate natural light and some have a musty or unpleasant smell.
Overall, the Lemon Tree Inn offers good value for its spacious and well-equipped rooms, though modern updates and consistent maintenance could significantly enhance the guest experience.
Beds
At Lemon Tree Inn, guest opinions on the beds are quite varied with a notable number of positive experiences highlighting the comfort and coziness of the beds. Many guests found the beds to be very comfortable, phrasing them as comfy and even super comfortable. Bedding, when mentioned positively, was often described as comfortable with some guests specifically appreciating the size and comfort of a king bed.
However, not all guests shared this sentiment. A significant number of reviewers noted that the beds were old, worn out and in need of updating. Some guests found the beds to be either too firm or too soft with complaints about lumpy mattresses and inadequate support. There were also mentions of outdated or noisy metal box springs, which detracted from the overall sleeping experience.
Pillows often came under criticism, described as lumpy, flat or too small, contributing to discomfort. Bedding, including sheets and blankets, was sometimes highlighted as being old or unclean with a few guests even reporting sand or dirt on the bedspread.
Overall, while many guests enjoyed a comfortable sleep at Lemon Tree Inn, the feedback also suggests that there is room for improvement in terms of bed quality and cleanliness to ensure a consistently pleasant stay.
Cleanliness
Lemon Tree Inn receives mixed reviews regarding its cleanliness. Many visitors commend the hotel's cleanliness, highlighting the clean pool, public areas and rooms. The apartments and rooms are frequently described as clean, spacious and comfortable with clean bedding, sheets and beds often noted. The bathrooms also receive positive feedback for being well-maintained, modern and having all the necessary amenities.
However, there are recurring concerns about the overall cleanliness and condition of some rooms. Some guests experienced rooms with unpleasant smells, noticeable dirt, dust and outdated furnishings. Issues like blood stains on sheets, dirty carpets and mold in showers were reported. Additionally, housekeeping services seem inconsistent with some guests noting their rooms were not cleaned properly upon arrival or during their stay and occasional incidents of missed areas or misplaced items.
Overall, while Lemon Tree Inn has many areas that meet cleanliness standards and provide a comfortable stay, it faces challenges with maintaining uniform cleanliness and modernity across all rooms.
Staff
At the Lemon Tree Inn, guests generally find a welcoming and pleasant ambiance, thanks to the friendly and polite staff. Many visitors appreciated the attentiveness and helpfulness from various team members, especially those in the restaurant and front desk. The staff's friendliness is frequently noted with several guests praising individuals for their outstanding service and genuine kindness. Specific mentions of staff members like Conrad and Penny highlight the exceptional assistance provided by some employees.
However, the experience with the front desk personnel is somewhat mixed. While some guests encountered efficient and accommodating staff, others reported instances of unhelpful and taciturn behavior. This inconsistency in service extends to various areas with some guests remarking on the lack of knowledge and poor communication skills of certain receptionists. Additionally, there were comments about staff being overwhelmed or inattentive at times.
Despite these occasional hiccups, the overall sentiment towards the staff is positive with many guests expressing satisfaction with their interactions. The hospitality team is largely described as friendly, helpful and supportive, contributing significantly to the welcoming atmosphere at the Lemon Tree Inn.
Wi-Fi
The reviews for Lemon Tree Inn's Wi-Fi are overwhelmingly critical with numerous guests reporting significant issues. The general sentiment is that the Wi-Fi service is inconsistent and unreliable, often leaving guests without any workable connection during their stay. Many mentioned the absence of Wi-Fi in their rooms or described an intermittent and weak signal when available. Additionally, connection drops and painfully slow speeds were common complaints. For travelers needing a stable internet connection, the experience at Lemon Tree Inn appears to be less than satisfactory with non-existent or poor Wi-Fi service frequently disrupting their connectivity needs.
Pool
The pool at Lemon Tree Inn garners a lot of praise from guests. Many highlight its cleanliness, noting that it is consistently well-maintained and inviting. The pool area itself is beautifully designed, featuring lush trees and plants that contribute to a relaxing ambiance. Guests appreciate the spacious and sizable pool, which is ideal for families and offers plenty of loungers for relaxation. The stunning courtyard settings around the pool are mentioned frequently, adding to the overall charm with its tropical feel and picturesque garden.
On the downside, some guests mentioned that the pool was not heated, which made it too chilly for comfort at times. There were a few isolated reports of it being dirty, but these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule. Nonetheless, most reviews are aligned in describing the pool as lovely with nice amenities and the overall pool area as a great spot to unwind.
Additionally, the saltwater variation of the pool and the thoughtful design of the surrounding area stand out with guests enjoying the outdoor bar and the pool cocktail service. Even with minor drawbacks like occasional cold water or uncomfortable lounge chairs, the pool's appeal and the courtyard's beauty make it a highlight for visitors staying at the Lemon Tree Inn.
Parking
The reviews for parking at the Lemon Tree Inn highlight largely positive experiences. Guests consistently mention the availability of ample parking spaces, including convenient spots right in front of the rooms, which many appreciated for its accessibility. The presence of free parking is frequently highlighted, making it a great option for cost-conscious travelers.
The parking lot itself is described as well-maintained and safe, allowing guests to park with ease. Many guests found the parking practical and conveniently located, providing easy access to main roads, which is ideal for those traveling by car. Despite these positives, there are few mentions of difficulties, such as the parking lot being very full or the need for additional handicapped parking spaces.
Overall, the ample and free parking options offer convenience and peace of mind to guests at Lemon Tree Inn.
Family
Lemon Tree Inn stands out as an ideal destination for family vacations, praised for its family-friendly environment and amenities that cater to all ages. It offers spacious and comfortable family rooms, making it a great option for families, including groups of three or four. Guests often find it perfect for family getaways with many highlighting the fun experiences for children. The swimming pool, in particular, received complimentary remarks with children frequently enjoying their time there.
The hotel's location is highly convenient, being close to State Street, excellent dining options, as well as coffee shops and bakeries, making outings stress-free and enjoyable. Families appreciated the ability to gather and socialise in the large patio area, which is perfect for group meetings and visits.
The Lemon Tree Inn also features on-site dining with guests praising dinners at the restaurant. Despite the occasional inconvenience like neighbouring pot smokers, the overall family experience at Lemon Tree Inn remains largely positive. Even though some mentioned the need for fridges and microwaves in the rooms, the hotel’s overall accommodation remains commendable for families looking for comfort, convenience and a friendly atmosphere.
3 Star
Lemon Tree Inn offers an excellent budget choice with value for money, making it a great deal for the price. For those seeking comfort without the expense, it provides a decent option. The hotel is appropriate for its price accessibility and has basic amenities suitable for a three-star establishment. Guests will find the charming 70s room decor a unique touch.
Despite its merits, Lemon Tree Inn could use some updates as the facilities are a bit old-fashioned and it lacks certain amenities like a fitness center. While some feel the room quality meets three-star expectations, others believe it falls short, especially considering the rates which can be higher on weekends. The inn’s grounds and overall atmosphere echo a nostalgic, old-school three-star hotel appeal.
Parking might not be ideal for all and the overall value proposition varies among guests with some finding it comparable to a two-star hotel at a four-star price. Nonetheless, its convenience and location make it a viable option for a passing night, especially for those who prioritize budget-friendly accommodations with a classic touch.
Business
Lemon Tree Inn stands out as a convenient and business-friendly option for travelers needing an efficient base during their trips. With conference rooms readily available, the inn is positioned as an ideal venue for business events. Facilities include nicely decorated and spacious rooms, conducive to relaxation and a comfortable stay. Its location is strategic, being close to essential amenities for business travelers.
While some reviews highlight the spacious yet outdated rooms and occasional poor service at check-in, these concerns are balanced by the advantages of a quiet and relaxing environment. The inn provides services tailored to business needs, making it suitable for a productive stay, despite some internet connectivity issues that could be a hindrance for guests needing reliable wifi for work. Overall, it is recognized for its potential to serve as a reliable hub during business stays.
Accessible
Lemon Tree Inn offers commendable amenities for guests with disabilities but reveals mixed experiences in accessibility. The hotel's accessible features include ramps, wide doors and ADA-compliant rooms equipped with accessible showers and grab bars in the bathrooms. The pool is also wheelchair accessible and maintained in clean condition. Parking facilities and room sizes are thoughtfully designed, making it a viable option for families and individuals with mobility aids.
The location is advantageous with good access to the city center and public transportation, making it convenient for wheelchair users. However, some reviews point out issues, such as non-functional accessible toilets, rooms without elevator access and narrow doors that hinder the use of walkers. There were also mentions of inadequate assistance for seniors and maintenance-related challenges with the elevator. Certain rooms and shower designs may not fully cater to older guests' needs.
Despite these drawbacks, Lemon Tree Inn's overall accessibility, ease of access and thoughtful features make it a generally suitable option for guests with disabilities, though it could benefit from some improvements.
Outdoor Pool
Lemon Tree Inn boasts a captivating outdoor pool area that has received high praise from guests for its aesthetic appeal and welcoming atmosphere. The pool itself is consistently described as clean, large and beautifully designed. Surrounded by lush palms, shrubbery and a well-kept patio area, the environment is further enhanced by cozy tables and fire pits, making it an appealing spot both day and night.
The addition of outdoor dining and bar facilities adds to the poolside experience, offering convenience and delightful amenities such as a vintage poolside bar and even cocktail service. The grounds are dotted with beautiful trees and ample seating areas, providing guests with a serene and picturesque setting.
Despite the overall positive feedback, some guests noted that the heated pool could be chilly, which may be worth considering for those who prefer warmer waters. However, the consistently attractive, neat and spacious pool area, coupled with excellent lighting and a large courtyard, leaves a lasting impression of luxury and relaxation.
The Lemon Tree Inn’s pool area is not only a highlight for its beauty and size but also for its thoughtfully designed space that caters well to friends, families and solo travelers looking for a tranquil escape.
Honeymoon
Lemon Tree Inn emerges as a stellar choice for honeymooners with numerous guests praising its suitability for romantic getaways. The honeymoon suite is frequently highlighted as great and the hotel's special honeymoon packages add an extra touch of charm. Couples find the place romantically quiet, making it an ideal setting for an intimate escape. Honeymoon amenities further enhance the experience and guests have appreciated complimentary upgrades in recognition of their special occasion. The hotel's atmosphere also lends itself well to celebrating anniversaries, reinforcing its reputation as a haven for couples. Super good reviews underscore the overall satisfaction of visitors, ensuring a memorable stay for newlyweds and romantics alike.
Yes, Lemon Tree Inn has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Outdoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Lemon Tree Inn.
No, Lemon Tree Inn doesn't allow dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Lemon Tree Inn.