<p>vballmom- 2nd the suggestion of the Embassy Suites in Oxnard. I have not stayed there but H used to work in that area.
Not sure what level you are looking for but on the coast between Ventura and Santa Barbara on the coast is a small hotel. The name is escaping me right now but I will look it up. It is on the cliff right above the ocean. H and I stayed there about 7 yrs ago for an anniversary. Not fancy but the view is amazing and the food is good.
In SB there a tons of small motels on Cabrillo blvd right across from the ocean. If you just want a clean motel room for less cash try the Holiday Inn on Calle Real in Goleta. If you want something out of the ordinary just north of SB on the coast just in the canyon is El Capitan Canyon. They are tent cabins but luxury. If you have a ton of cash to spend check out the Bacara Resort just north of UCSB.
A lot depends on how important seeing the ocean is to you or if you just need a clean bed for the night.
Place between Ventura and Carpinteria is Cliff House Inn in Mussel Shoals. Funky but unique.</p>