Vacation rentals in Santa Barbara

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Quick stats about vacation rentals in Santa Barbara

  • Total vacation rentals

    Explore 1,910 vacation rentals in Santa Barbara

  • Verified guest reviews

    Over 116,560 verified reviews to help you choose

  • Family-friendly vacation rentals

    950 properties offer extra space & kid-friendly amenities

  • Pet-friendly vacation rentals

    Find 790 rentals that welcome pets

  • Vacation rentals with a pool

    300 properties feature pools

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    1,060 properties have a dedicated workspace

  • Wi-Fi availability

    1,860 of Santa Barbara vacation rentals include wi-fi access

  • Popular amenities for guests

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

  • 4.9 Average rating

    Santa Barbara stays are highly rated by guests—averaging 4.9 out of 5!

  • Nearby attractions

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

Top-rated vacation rentals in Santa Barbara

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

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Guest favorite
A cozy living area features a green couch facing a wall-mounted television. A wooden media console sits below the TV, displaying decorative items. A tall, leafy plant in a sleek pot adds a touch of greenery, while natural light comes in through a nearby window.
Home in Santa Barbara
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 198 reviews

Cozy House King Size Bed DownTwn

Enjoy a stylish experience offering one bedroom, one bathroom with King Size Bed and surrounding patios. Private parking space for up to 2 vehicles in our private drive way. Centrally located near Down Town and among many local restaurants, bakeries and breweries. Small pets may be considered. Private front, side and back patios. House offers AC units for cold and hot air to make the ambiance to your desired temperature. We have the Highest WIFI available in the market. Great couples getaway!

Top guest favorite
A modern living area features a light-colored sofa paired with two wooden chairs, set on a patterned rug. Large windows provide natural light, while a dining table with blue chairs is positioned across the space, complemented by a contemporary light fixture.
Home in Santa Barbara
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 309 reviews

Beach retreat for families and dogs, EV charger!

Modern, completely restored vacation haven with all new furnishings. Amazing art , of the moment furniture, and luxury bedding curated by a 25 time SuperHost to satisfy the most discerning traveler, Walking distance to both Mesa Lane Beach and Hendry's beach. Steps away from the the Douglas Family Preserve with 3 miles of ocean side hiking trails. At the end of a peaceful cul de sac, a quiet haven free of cars; super safe for kids! Furnished with everything you need for an amazing vacation!

Guest favorite
A light-filled living space showcases a spacious white sofa facing a large wall-mounted television. Dining chairs surround a table near windows that reveal ocean views. Natural light stream through the glass doors, enhancing the airy ambiance.
Home in Summerland
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 139 reviews

Stunning Ocean View Vacation Home - Santa Barbara

This newly refurbished coastal home comfortably sleeps up to 7 guests across three generously sized bedrooms. The layout includes two king bedrooms and a third bedroom with two full beds. A second living space doubles as an office and workout area, featuring a Peloton and a queen pull-out sofa. Thoughtfully designed with a coastal aesthetic, the home offers indoor-outdoor living, a fully equipped kitchen, and multiple spaces to relax or gather - perfect for a weekend getaway or extended stay.

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
4.9 out of 5 average rating, 204 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 well-maintained exterior shows a landscaped yard with vibrant greenery and blooming flowers. The stone pathway leads to a front porch, inviting relaxation. The house features a light-colored facade with large windows, providing a bright and welcoming appearance.
Home in Santa Barbara
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 237 reviews

Beach House Near Shoreline Park- 3 blocks to ocean

Adorable, fresh & clean 2 bedroom, 2 bath Beach House - 4 guests. Just 2 blocks to the ocean and Shoreline Park with playground, BBQs & picnic tables. Stairs down to beach 3 blocks away. Nice beaches, bike path, restaurants & shops nearby. The living room has TV, fireplace & French doors open to patio with fire pit table & seating. Outdoor dining table & beautiful fenced yard with Jacuzzi. AC, Dishwasher, W/D, 14% City of SB TOT tax required. SPECIAL: 30% disc. w/ 30 night or more. No Tax!

Guest favorite
A spacious sleeping area features a neatly made bed with decorative pillows and a throw. Soft lighting is provided by two bedside lamps, with a mirror reflecting the calming blue wall. Natural light enters through a window, which is adorned with white blinds.
Home in Santa Barbara
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 699 reviews

Cute, Cozy, and Perfectly Located Home

Enjoy all that Santa Barbara has to offer in this newly furnished 3 bedroom/3bath house. Centrally located in downtown Santa Barbara, this home will put you in walking distance to State Street and Stearns Wharf. Shopping, dining, kayaking, surfing, and all Santa Barbara has to offer are only minutes away. After a long day of exploring, you can come home and enjoy the nice relaxing ambiance the home has to offer. With everything you need to enjoy your stay, it'll be as if you never left home.

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 Santa Barbara
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 159 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.

Top guest favorite
An outdoor patio area features a large round table shaded by a striped umbrella, surrounded by potted plants. A clear blue pool is visible in the background, along with a lounge chair positioned nearby, creating an inviting space for relaxation.
Home in Santa Barbara
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 276 reviews

Cozy serene retreat close to beach & downtown!

A rare find! A warm and welcoming home located in a quiet family neighborhood close to the beach, public transportation, parks, art & culture, shopping and downtown. Our place is an artists dream with artwork and collectables throughout, comfortable beds, and a private backyard that features BBQs, outdoor dining areas, lounge chairs and a large lap pool and spa. If you're a couple, solo adventurer, business traveler, or family we'd love to welcome you to our home!

Superhost
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, 414 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 private enclosed front yard with a fire bowl. Sleeps 1-2 people. Pets okay, unless they're notorious barkers. Please note that there is a $85 pet fee for your pets stay. Many great restaurants, and a natural grocery store (Lazy Acres) .

Top guest favorite
The living and dining area features a high vaulted ceiling with wooden beams. Furnishings include white sofas, a wooden dining table, and bookshelves filled with books. Large glass doors open to a garden view, while a fireplace adds warmth to the space.
Home in Carpinteria
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 117 reviews

Rancho Mesa Escondida adobe home on organic ranch

Rancho Mesa Escondida (Hidden Mesa) Adobe ranch house is a peaceful retreat on the bluffs overlooking the ocean, just above Rincon Point and minutes from the seaside town of Carpinteria. With 17 acres of certified organic avocado and citrus orchards, views of the ocean to the south and west, and to the Los Padres mountains on the east. The house, gardens, and pool provide a private, peaceful setting for writer, artist, family, those seeking a quiet retreat.

Top guest favorite
An aerial view captures The Captain's Cottage and its surroundings, featuring a tropical garden with palm trees and a glimpse of the ocean in the background. The outdoor space includes a patio with a dining table and seating area. A hot tub is visible at the side.
Home in Santa Barbara
4.98 out of 5 average rating, 398 reviews

The Captain's Cottage on Shoreline Drive

The Captain's Cottage exemplifies the California beach lifestyle at its finest. Tastefully remodeled and situated on its own private grounds, the cottage sits across the street from one of Santa Barbara's best beaches. With a tropical garden setting, modern amenities, and convenient proximity to the beach and Santa Barbara's State Street, a getaway at The Captain's Cottage is the quintessential Santa Barbara beachside experience.

Top guest favorite
The exterior of the beach bungalow features a well-maintained yard with a lush green lawn and neatly trimmed hedges. A white picket fence surrounds the property, and large windows provide a view of the welcoming front porch. The garage is attached to the right side of the house.
Home in Santa Barbara
4.96 out of 5 average rating, 124 reviews

Shoreline Escape

Drink in the view of the sunset over the Channel Islands in this beach bungalow centrally located atop the beloved Mesa in downtown in Santa Barbara. This newly renovated home sits on Shoreline Drive, directly across from the playground at the popular Shoreline Park. Minutes away from the Santa Barbara harbor, Funk Zone, and State Street, this home provides the perfect location for your beach escape with your family and friends.

Popular amenities for Santa Barbara vacation rentals

When is the best time to visit Santa Barbara?

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

    Santa Barbara has inviting neighborhoods, including the vibrant Funk Zone area, serene Montecito, and the historic Downtown district. Many guests enjoy places with easy access to beaches, local shops, and cultural sites, making it easy to tailor your stay to your interests.

  • What are the best things to do in Santa Barbara with kids?

    Families often explore the Santa Barbara Zoo, interactive exhibits at MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation, or enjoy hands-on activities at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History. Beach play and waterfront parks add extra fun for kids.

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

    Explore the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, tour the Santa Barbara Mission, or stroll the Funk Zone for art and food. The waterfront and Stearns Wharf are frequently suggested for a mix of coastal views, local culture, and relaxed dining.

  • How is the weather in Santa Barbara?

    Santa Barbara has mild weather year-round, with temperatures ranging from 44–74°F (7–23°C), cooler in winter and warmer in summer. Rain is most common in winter months, while summer and early fall stay dry and pleasant for outdoor activities.

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

    Stroll the Santa Barbara Mission, browse art at the Funk Zone, and unwind in the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. The historic courthouse and Stearns Wharf are frequently suggested for panoramic views and coastal atmosphere.

  • What are some hiking trails in Santa Barbara?

    Explore Inspiration Point for sweeping views, the trails at Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, or the Douglas Family Preserve for coastal paths and shaded groves. Rattlesnake Canyon is often suggested for visitors seeking varied terrain and natural surroundings.

  • What are some family activities we can do in Santa Barbara?

    Families can visit the Santa Barbara Zoo, enjoy hands-on exhibits at MOXI, or build sandcastles at area beaches. Parks, playgrounds, and boat cruises around the harbor are frequently suggested for a fun day out.

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

    Many visitors explore the Santa Ynez Valley's wineries, relax in Solvang's Danish-inspired streets, or hike in Los Padres National Forest. Coastal adventures, including boat tours to Channel Islands National Park, are also often recommended.

  • Are there any pet friendly accommodations available in Santa Barbara?

    Santa Barbara has pet-friendly stays across neighborhoods such as Downtown, West Beach, and Montecito. Many hosts welcome pets, with several green spaces and walking paths nearby for outdoor activities with your companion.

  • What are some local tips for visiting Santa Barbara?

    Pack layers as coastal mornings can be cool, even in summer, and the sun is bright in the afternoons. Locals use the open-air trolley and bike trails for scenic travel around town, and farmers markets are a favorite for fresh regional flavors.

  • What is Santa Barbara known for?

    Santa Barbara is known for its Spanish Colonial architecture, vibrant arts scene, and scenic coastline. The area also has wine tasting, historic sites, and locally rooted food traditions that draw visitors throughout the year.

  • What are the best hidden gems to explore in Santa Barbara?

    Discover the Alice Keck Park Memorial Gardens, hidden courtyards along State Street, or the peaceful paths in the Douglas Family Preserve. The Santa Barbara Public Market is often suggested for regional bites and local flavors.

  • What are the best foods to try in Santa Barbara?

    Santa Barbara has fresh seafood, locally made tri-tip sandwiches, and vibrant Mexican cuisine. Many visitors enjoy regional wines, farm-to-table salads, and locally inspired desserts using area berries and citrus.

  • What should I bring for a trip to Santa Barbara?

    Pack layers, sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes for exploring city sights and outdoor spaces. A light jacket is useful for cool evenings, and reusable water bottles are handy for beach or hiking days.

  • What is the nightlife in Santa Barbara like?

    Santa Barbara’s nightlife mixes relaxed wine bars, vibrant breweries, and live music venues, especially in the Funk Zone and Downtown areas. Expect a close-knit community feel, local performers, and laid-back spots for late-night gatherings.

  • What are the most popular events or festivals in Santa Barbara?

    Santa Barbara hosts the Old Spanish Days Fiesta in early August, the Santa Barbara International Film Festival in late winter, and summer wine and food celebrations. Harbor festivities and art fairs are also highlights each year.

  • Are there family friendly vacation rentals in Santa Barbara?

    Santa Barbara has a variety of family-friendly vacation rentals in neighborhoods like Mesa, Downtown, and near the beach. Many stays provide extra space, outdoor areas, and easy access to parks or attractions for visitors of all ages.

  • When is the best time to visit Santa Barbara?

    Late spring through early fall is often recommended for sunny days and warm temperatures around 70–74°F (21–23°C). Spring sees wildflowers and fewer crowds, while summer is popular for festivals and beach outings.

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.

What are the 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.

Destinations to explore