The Hyatt Centric in Santa Barbara is undergoing a mutli-million dollar refresh that will bring much-needed upgrades to a historic hotel.
I recently took my family to Santa Barbara for the weekend and we stayed, as usual, at the Hyatt Centric. It’s not one of Hyatt’s most modern properties. On the contrary, the historic Hotel Vista Mar Monte is one of its oldest.
And over the years, the hotel fell grew increasingly in need of a refresh. I was surprised to find out, upon check-in, that the refresh is now happening.
Indeed, a note on the hotel’s website explains the upgrades:
Hyatt Centric Santa Barbara is undergoing facility improvements. During this time, some hotel facilities are relocated or unavailable. The swimming pool and lounge deck is closed through February 10, 2020. StayFit by Hyatt Fitness Center is closed from December 23, 2019 through February 25, 2020. Additionally, restaurant service is limited to breakfast hours.
I almost booked away from this hotel to the new Hyatt Place in town, for blog review purposes and because it has a pool, but could not resist this oceanfront property.
And the decision paid off: I was upgraded to the Santa Maria Suite, which worked out great for little Augustine (he slept in the living room on a rollaway bed).
Breakfast is also still decent at this hotel (huevos rancheros are recommended), though there was no espresso available.
I asked the manager on duty if this hotel would be going up in category after the remodel and he indicated it would not, though I expect it will in 2021.
In short: be advised the restaurant hours are limited, pool and fitness center are closed, but this remains one of the best locations. But refreshed rooms, refreshed common areas, and better air conditioning are coming.
> Read More: Hyatt Centric Santa Barbara Review
Do you think they will add more rooms to be points eligible? They are one of the worse offenders in limiting availability.
Thank goodness. This place was a complete outdated dump when we stayed last year. And $$ rates, like most SBA hotels, are quite high.