Vacation rentals in Santa Barbara

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Top-rated vacation rentals in Santa Barbara

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Top guest favorite
A dining area is presented, featuring a large wooden table surrounded by six light-colored chairs. Natural light fills the space through sliding glass doors, and a woven pendant light hangs above. Framed art pieces adorn the walls, complemented by a simple vase of fresh flowers.
Home in Santa Barbara
5 out of 5 average rating, 104 reviews

Mesa Casita | walk to the beach

Discover coastal living at Mesa Casita, steps from the bluffs at Douglas Preserve and the pristine Mesa Lane Beach. This 3-bed, 2-bath home has been recently renovated with an open floor plan, top-grade finishes , and a spacious backyard. Enjoy a detached office studio with high-speed internet, relax on the private patio, or wind down by the backyard fire pit. Additional amenities include an outdoor shower, home gym, laundry, Sonos sound system, large flat-screen TV with Netflix, and EV charger.

Guest favorite
A charming cottage entrance is framed by vibrant purple flowers and lush greenery. The front porch features white railings, enhancing the inviting appearance of the home. Palm trees stand nearby, contributing to the serene outdoor atmosphere.
Cottage in Lower State
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 418 reviews

La Petite Maison Blanche. Perfect downtown retreat

A Quintessential Santa Barbara cottage in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara built in 1915. The rooms are rather small (Think Parisian Hotel) but well-appointed and quaint: a place to hang your hat, charge your phone, rest your feet, set your glass and simply relax. The Living Room is intimate. Think of this space as a private parlor car in a train, perhaps, perfect for reading! The more spacious backyard is perfect for sharing stories, relaxing and unwinding around the fire pit and cozy sofas.

Top guest favorite
A bright and airy living area features a light-colored sofa accented with a patterned throw pillow. Bifold glass doors open to a private outdoor space, allowing natural light to fill the room. A woven basket, coffee table, and a wooden dining chair complete the inviting space.
Home in Santa Barbara
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 285 reviews

Shoreline Retreat - newly renovated, walk to beach

Shoreline Retreat is your newly renovated Santa Barbara getaway, just a 6-minute walk to the beach. This breathtaking home features a gourmet kitchen with high-end appliances, an open floor plan, and 9-ft bifold glass doors that disappear in the living room for California indoor/outdoor living. Step outside to a private oasis complete with hot tub, fire pit and beautiful landscaping. Just minutes away from the beach, ocean and walking paths -- this is Santa Barbara beach living at its finest.

Guest favorite
A private yard is shown, featuring a lush green lawn and vibrant flower beds. A meandering path leads through the garden, bordered by a low fence. Garden decorations and seating can be seen in the background, creating a serene outdoor space.
Guest suite in Santa Barbara
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 444 reviews

Mi Casita- a sweet Mesa Suite-walk to beach!

A bright, comfortable studio with high ceilings, and a full sized kitchen which includes a butcher block counter seating area for working or dining. Gas stove, Fiestaware dishes, Revere ware pans, silverware, microwave, coffee maker, hot water kettle, toaster, microwave, blender, and refrigerator. Fully fenced in yard with private gate, patio, and lawn. The secluded Mesa Lane Beach is 2 blocks away, and the Douglas Family Preserve with beautiful bluff views is a 5 minute walk from the house.

Guest favorite
A private outdoor deck is illuminated by string lights, enhancing the evening ambiance. A dining table with bright tableware is set, surrounded by white metal chairs. Lush greenery is visible, along with the charming presence of a large Jacaranda tree offering natural shade.
Home in Santa Barbara
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 159 reviews

Dreamy Beach Cottage Spa and Sauna~ Walk to Beach

Newly remodeled Beach Cottage with hot tub just 2 blocks from the sand! This adorable 1 bed/1bath private home boasts incredible outdoor spaces with Spa & Sauna. Located just .2 miles (5 minutes walking distance) from Leadbetter Beach & Shoreline Park. Enjoy the expansive private deck w/ outdoor dining, smart TV's, abundant amenities, & the newly remodeled kitchen. Located just minutes to trails, wine tasting & downtown Santa Barbara. Pet friendly ($125 pet fee). The perfect coastal get-away!

Top guest favorite
A light-filled living space features a comfortable beige sofa and a rustic coffee table placed on a textured area rug. Large windows allow for ample natural light, while potted plants add a touch of greenery. A red accent door complements the modern decor.
Cottage in West Beach
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 601 reviews

Spanish Bungalow 2 blocks to Beach & Funk Zone

*Featured in Condé Nast as one of best Airbnb's in California!* - an unsolicited review 😊 Welcome to Casa Encanto —a romantic Spanish casita in West Beach. Just 2 blocks from the Wharf, Beach, Funk Zone, and State St., this light-filled, stylish retreat offers modern comforts with a boutique flair. Enjoy peak Riviera views from the living room, luxurious bedding, and thoughtfully curated decor. With meticulous attention to detail, this is one of the finest Airbnb experiences you'll find.

Top guest favorite
A spacious great room features modern design elements, with a large, comfortable sofa facing a glass coffee table. Artwork adorns the walls, and glass doors lead to a lush outdoor space. A dining area is positioned in the background, surrounded by natural light and greenery.
Loft in Lower State
5 out of 5 average rating, 129 reviews

ART + Airbnb in the heart of the FunkZone

Something special is happening here. It's all about creativity, inspiration and fun, with some of the city's most amazing food, wineries, boutiques, and galleries just outside your door. The loft itself, is a living gallery, filled with thoughtfully curated art and design to experience first hand; connecting guests with talented and unique makers of every kind. Only a few blocks away beach aficionados can feel their toes in the sand. This is a magic spot to base any SB adventure.

Guest favorite
A striking red door framed by natural wooden branches and flowering vines creates an inviting entrance. The door features two vertical windows, allowing light to filter through and providing a glimpse of the interior. Stone steps lead up to the entrance.
Cottage in Santa Barbara
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 384 reviews

Lighthouse Keeper's House, close to the beach

Relax at the Lighthouse Keeper's House. A perfect spot to retreat to in Santa Barbara. Warm and inviting. A 2 minute walk to the steps to pet friendly beach. A studio size bungalow with a full kitchen. Private deck out back and enclosed front yard. Sleeps 1-2 people. Pets okay, unless they're notorious barkers as this is a quiet neighborhood. Please note that there is a $85 pet fee for your pets stay. Many great restaurants, natural grocery store (Lazy Acres) 4 blocks away.

Guest favorite
A spacious sleeping area features a king size bed dressed in a textured grey coverlet. Soft lighting from two bedside lamps enhances the calming atmosphere. A wooden bench sits at the foot of the bed, and the floor is adorned with a colorful area rug.
Guest suite in Goleta
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 495 reviews

Cozy Studio w/Private entrance & parking. KING BED

Recently remodeled studio. Studio has private entrance and one private parking space. King size bed makes a great place to relax, only 5 minute drive to UCSB, Cottage Hospital and Goleta pier/beach. We have the fastest WIFI internet available in the area so working from the studio is not a problem. Studio shares a wall with the main house but we are a quiet family so noise should not be an issue. New appliances and smart TV. Water softener and filter system throughout.

Guest favorite
The tiny home is nestled among lush greenery, featuring a welcoming deck with steps leading up to it. Large windows provide natural light to the interior, and a patio umbrella stands over the outdoor seating area, enhancing the serene outdoor setting.
Tiny home in Carpinteria
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 118 reviews

Serene Getaway on Organic Ocean View Farm

Welcome to your dream escape in Santa Barbara County! Nestled amidst lush greenery on a sprawling organic avocado & coffee farm, our charming tiny home offers an unmatched blend of tranquility and scenic beauty. Wake up to the soothing sounds of nature and breathe in the fresh, ocean-kissed air. Tiny home has one private bedroom w/ queen size bed, with extra sleeping space that includes a twin size fold out couch and a queen sized air mattress for additional guests.

Top guest favorite
The exterior of the Stone Cottage features rustic stone walls and a charming wooden door framed by light foliage. Two small windows on either side allow natural light to enter, while a chimney stands atop the roof under a partially cloudy sky.
Guesthouse in Santa Barbara
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 314 reviews

Cozy Stone Cottage

Our property is a collection of former out-buildings for the Glendessary Manor estate of poet and composer, Robert Cameron Rogers. The Cozy Stone Cottage was originally a pump house for the beautiful water tower which you can see from the front garden. You’ll love its rustic atmosphere and the warm cozy feeling of The Stone Cottage, separate bedroom, small gas fireplace stove, and sweet patio to sit and relax or eat a meal. Come enjoy this wonderful retreat!

Top guest favorite
A modern kitchen features white cabinetry and open shelving, complemented by a reclaimed wood island with a bluestone top. Stainless steel appliances and a large window provide ample light. Simple decor includes a bowl of oranges and fresh flowers, enhancing the clean, inviting atmosphere.
Home in Waterfront
5 out of 5 average rating, 129 reviews

Designer Perfect Beach Cottage - Walk to Beaches

Recognized by House Beautiful magazine, this light and bright beach cottage was renovated and furnished by Brown Design Group. Minutes walk to Butterfly, Hammond's, and Miramar beaches as well as to all the shops and restaurants on Coast Village Road. This 2 bedroom/2 bath cottage is the perfect escape with charming details. Complete renovation features designer kitchen, baths, hardwood flooring, wood ceilings, lighting, furnishings and accessories.

Popular amenities for Santa Barbara vacation rentals

Your guide to Santa Barbara

All About Santa Barbara

Palm-studded Santa Barbara sits on a pristine stretch of California coastline, bringing together the area's Spanish influence, laid-back beach vibe, and upscale sensibility. The city is home to breathtaking nature, inspiring arts and culture, and an incredible variety of food and wine. Known for broad sandy beaches, you can sunbathe or enjoy a breathtaking sunset at East Beach — a favorite located east of State Street, Santa Barbara’s main thoroughfare for boutique shopping and world-class dining. Head over to Leadbetter Beach for surfing, boogie boarding, and paddle boarding.

Outside town, you’ll find an abundance of vineyards and wineries set in the valleys of the Santa Ynez Mountains, and just off the shore is Channel Islands National Park, where you can kayak through caves, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and hike among wildlife. Sitting at the doorstep of Los Padres National Forest, the nearby Romero Canyon Trailhead offers great opportunities for further hiking or mountain biking. Back in town, history buffs can explore the city’s Spanish heritage at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History or the Santa Barbara Historical Museum before refueling at one of the city’s many dining options, from harbor-side classics, stylish hot spots, and cozy State Street cafes.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Santa Barbara

Those looking for a classic beach vacation will want to come during the summer months, as July and August are when the sun and water are their warmest for swimming and sunbathing. The shoulder seasons — March to May and September to November — are also great times to visit. The weather is still warm, and Santa Barbara vacation home rentals are easier to find. Winters are chilly and wet — December through February sees the most rainfall — but you will be able to enjoy the Santa Barbara International Film Festival in January, along with the buzz of Restaurant Week. No matter what time of year you visit, be sure to pack layers as morning and late evening temperatures tend to be cooler.


Top things to do in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara Scenic Drive

Hop in your car and explore the riotous colors and classic California scenery of Santa Barbara on this self-guided tour. The Santa Barbara Scenic Drive covers 25 miles of immaculate shoreline beneath the towering Santa Ynez Mountains and through palm-lined roads. The drive itself only takes about one hour, but give yourself half a day to explore the city from Santa Barbara Harbor and marvel at the spectacular mansions in Montecito.

Old Mission Santa Barbara

Step back in time for a glimpse into Santa Barbara’s origins when you visit this California mission. The mission now hosts a museum featuring artifacts of the time and early photographs of the area. Explore the mission grounds, spanning 13 acres, on a leisurely self-guided tour. Don’t miss La Huerta, a garden showcasing flora dating back to the mission's early years.

The Funk Zone

It’s all about the art in the Funk Zone. Once a manufacturing hub and industrial area where artists, surfboard makers, and urban winemakers set up shop, the Funk Zone is now home to hip restaurants, boutiques, wine-tasting rooms, and galleries. Walk the 13-block neighborhood and check out the colorful murals adorning the walls. Grab an Urban Wine Trail map and make your way through the area’s wineries before finishing the day with tacos and burritos on one of the neighborhood’s many patios.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in Santa Barbara?

    Santa Barbara boasts a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Average temperatures range from 65°F (18°C) to 70°F (21°C) year-round. Rainfall is most likely in the winter months, from December to March.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Santa Barbara?

    Visitors often explore the historic Santa Barbara Mission, walk the scenic trails of Lotusland, or take a trip to the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. A stroll along State Street is another popular activity, with its shops, restaurants, and theaters. Lastly, many enjoy the stunning views from Stearns Wharf, the oldest working wharf in California.

  • What is the best time of year to visit Santa Barbara?

    Santa Barbara has pleasant weather all year round, but summer months, from June to August, are the most popular for visitors. During this time, the city hosts the annual Summer Solstice Parade, a colorful event with floats, costumes, and music. In August, the Old Spanish Days Fiesta, a five-day celebration of the city's Hispanic heritage, takes place.

  • What are the best places to stay in Santa Barbara?

    The Downtown area is a popular place to stay with its restaurants, shops, and close proximity to attractions. West Beach, near the waterfront, offers stunning views and easy beach access. The East Side is well-liked for its quiet atmosphere and historic charm, whilst Montecito offers a more upscale, secluded experience.

  • What are the best places to visit in Santa Barbara?

    Popular places to visit include the historic Santa Barbara Mission, Lotusland's lush gardens, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, and the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. Additional attractions include the Santa Barbara Zoo and the scenic Stearns Wharf.

  • What are some hiking trails in Santa Barbara?

    Visitors can explore the 3.5-mile (5.6 km) Inspiration Point Trail for panoramic views of the city, or the 2-mile (3.2 km) Seven Falls Trail that leads to a series of waterfalls. The 6.5-mile (10.5 km) Cold Spring Trail is another popular route, offering views of waterfalls and woodland scenery.

  • What are some family activities to do in Santa Barbara?

    Families can explore the Santa Barbara Zoo, which has over 500 animals, or visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History. For a day of learning and fun, the MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation, might be a great choice. Lastly, Lotusland, a beautiful 37-acre garden estate, is also worth a visit.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in Santa Barbara?

    Popular day trips include a visit to the Channel Islands National Park, a boat ride away, or exploring the beautiful vineyards in Santa Ynez Valley. Another option is a trip to the charming Danish-style town of Solvang, which is about an hour's drive away, and is known for its Scandinavian-style architecture and bakeries.

  • What types of vacation rentals are available in Santa Barbara?

    Uncover the perfect home-away-from-home with our diverse selection of vacation rentals in Santa Barbara. From over 70 condo rentals, over 930 house rentals to over 300 apartment rentals, we've got you covered.

  • Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Santa Barbara?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 1,060 vacation rentals in Santa Barbara featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Santa Barbara

  • Total vacation rentals

    Explore 1,830 vacation rentals in Santa Barbara

  • Verified guest reviews

    Over 108,180 verified reviews to help you choose

  • Family-friendly vacation rentals

    920 properties offer extra space & kid-friendly amenities

  • Pet-friendly vacation rentals

    Find 700 rentals that welcome pets

  • Vacation rentals with a pool

    250 properties feature pools

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    1,020 properties have a dedicated workspace

  • Wi-Fi availability

    1,800 of Santa Barbara vacation rentals include wi-fi access

  • Popular amenities for guests

    Guests love Pet friendly, Self check-in, and Laptop-friendly workspace across Santa Barbara rentals

  • 4.8 Average rating

    Santa Barbara stays are highly rated by guests—averaging 4.8 out of 5!

  • Nearby attractions

    Santa Barbara's top spots, include Santa Barbara Zoo, Santa Barbara Bowl, and Paseo Nuevo

Destinations to explore