I stayed here for 3 nights with my girlfriend during the first week of April. I stayed in a suite with a king sized bed, kitchen, and fireplace. Everything was great. Great price, great facilities, great location, great breakfast, great staff. I was originally going to stay at the Mar Monte across the street for more money, but after checking out their rooms and facilities I was glad that I didn't.
The hotel is literally across the street from the beach, and about a 25 minute walk from the pier. There are also electric shuttles to bring you down for 25 cents. My room was big, clean, and very nice. The breakfast in the morning is amazing! Frank has several locaal bakeries and cafes cater the breakfast and the food is diverse and very high quality. All of the food is pre-packed and varies from ham and cheese croissants to scones, cerial, muffins, etc. Many places have 'continental' style breakfasts, but this food was actually very very good. I was impressed.
I found all the staff to be very laid-back, understanding, and cheerful.
I would highly recommend this place to anyone visiting santa barbara. There are places that may be a little more luxorious or extravegent (i.e. the Doubletree down the street), but be ready to pay $200-$300 more per night. I'll see you next year, Frank!