Multi-Million-Dollar Renovation for Santa Barbara Beach Retreat
A new chapter has officially begun for one of Santa Barbara’s most beloved coastal landmarks.
The Milo, Hotel by the Sea (The Milo), formerly Hotel Milo, has unveiled the results of a multi-million-dollar renovation and rebrand, significantly elevating the guest experience. The comprehensive transformation includes a full reimagining of all 121 guest rooms, upgraded outdoor gathering spaces, and a refreshed brand identity, marking the most extensive update to the property in more than 30 years and positioning The Milo as one of Santa Barbara’s premier design-forward, experience-led boutique hotels.
The Milo’s new identity honors the hotel’s storied past while presenting a modern vision for its future. Situated on the former site of the iconic 400-room Potter Hotel, the property was reintroduced as Hotel Milo in 2014, named for the original hotelier, Milo Potter. As part of its rebranding, The Milo introduces a new logo inspired by classic coastal typography, a refined visual identity, and a newly launched website designed to reflect the property’s contemporary voice and seaside sensibility. The updated name and tagline, Hotel by the Sea, reinforce the hotel’s prime oceanfront location and reflects Santa Barbara’s relaxed elegance.
“This thoughtful and extensive transformation represents a notable elevation of the guest experience,” said Tanner Turner, general manager of The Milo, Hotel by the Sea. “It delivers a more refined, elegantly appointed, and experience-rich stay that reflects the true value of our oceanfront location as well as Santa Barbara’s coastal lifestyle.”
Reimagined guestrooms, designed by Santa Monica-based DESIGN360 unlimited, honor Santa Barbara’s history and laid-back sophistication while delivering a more upscale, residential-style experience. The design blends the vintage charm of a European seaside villa with modern California sensibility.
Custom furnishings, natural wood flooring, and rattan and gold accents are paired with a calming palette of dreamy blues, cream, and sun-washed oak, while thoughtful touches, including blush pink glass lamps and playful, unexpected patterns, add moments of delight.
The centerpiece of the newly enhanced rooms is a series of three bespoke wallcovering designs featuring herons, inspired by the native birds found along Santa Barbara’s shoreline and the historic Potter Zoo, once located on the site.
Additionally, guests will find newly upgraded outdoor spaces inspired by the ease of Mediterranean living. Sun-drenched courtyards, cozy seating areas, and features including a Tiny Library and Discovery Cabinet invite visitors to unplug and embrace the beauty of their surroundings. Guests can borrow a book, or grab sketchpads, binoculars, bird guides, and trail maps, and experience a stay that nurtures creativity, rest, and reflection along the golden edge of the California coast.
Guests of The Milo will enjoy a suite of amenities designed to showcase the American Riviera state of mind. On-property perks include two sparkling swimming pools and a hot tub; complimentary beach gear and beach cruisers for a day of sun-drenched relaxation or exploring the coast; free 24/7 access to Key2Fitness, a full-service gym; cozy fire pits; and adjacent Chad’s café, offering an extensive menu of breakfast and lunch favorites.
To celebrate its next chapter, The Milo is featuring a New Year, New Rooms promotion bookable through February 2nd, offering up to 15% off stays through December 31st, 2026.
The Milo, Hotel by the Sea is located at 202 W Cabrillo Blvd., Santa Barbara, CA. Follow the hotel on Instagram and Facebook.
