Ben Rueter

Aug 28 2025

Why Late Summer Is the Best Time to Visit Santa Barbara

Don’t feel as if you missed Summer in California. Late Summer is still an amazing time to visit the California Coast, and some might argue that it’s the best time to visit during the entire season!

There are many reasons why this is absolutely true, and there is plenty of crossover with fun summer activities and events that you can still participate in during August and September. Whether you are looking to squeeze in one more vacation before school starts, or you want to experience a California summer without the crowds, you can find all of that and more in Santa Barbara.

It’s a great city with welcoming people, fun attractions, peaceful beaches, and plenty of options when it comes to lodging with Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals. No matter the size of your party or if you are traveling light, there is a vacation rental that will suit your needs, and it won’t be far from summer fun in Santa Barbara.

Crowds Go Home and the Magic Stays

There are numerous reasons why you should visit Santa Barbara during the late summer months. We’ll do our best to convince you that there is still time to capture some of that summer magic, and we’ll suggest some of the best vacation rentals in Santa Barbara for the summer.

Smaller Crowds

During the final months of summer, Santa Barbara slows down and becomes a less crowded and peaceful city. It’s one of the best reasons for a late summer visit. Take your time and explore the city and beaches without the hassle. Also, there’s a better chance you can successfully book a reservation at one of the amazing restaurants, too.

Santa Barbara Weather

If you want to beat the heat, then late summer is perfect for those who want to relax under the sun without sweating it. The daytime temperatures stay around 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit, and the nights drop to the 60s. This is an ideal temperature where you can still enjoy the beach and walk to the restaurants and bars later in the night–and do all of it without breaking a sweat.

Best Vacation Rentals For A Last-Minute Summer Getaway To Santa Barbara

If you have the instant urge to book a Santa Barbara vacation rental, we have some suggestions that will satisfy those last-minute requests for a California summer vacation. These are our favorite vacation rentals for a quick or long-term getaway to Santa Barbara. Also, long-term stays require a 30-night minimum.

Above It All

Above It All is a peaceful vacation rental with some stunning views from a private hilltop at the base of the Santa Ynez Mountains. For those who are interested in an indoor-outdoor style of living, you can’t go wrong with this one-of-a-kind Santa Barbara home. This three-bedroom, three-bath estate offers some of the most amazing vistas through the walls of glass in nearly every room.

Mesa Sanctuary

Looking for something calming and serene? Mesa Sanctuary can help with that. In this vacation rental, you will find four bedrooms and two-and–a-half bathrooms, but the highlight of this home is just outside. In the backyard, you can enjoy the hot tub, complete with ample seating and dining space for entertaining. For those who want to lounge on the beach ASAP, you will be happy to know that you are close to Leadbetter Beach and Arroyo Burro Beach.

Modern Mesa Retreat

Modern Mesa Retreat is a luxurious property inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright’s style. The home has two bedrooms and two bathrooms that can accommodate up to four people, making this a great option for small families or a couple’s getaway. This property stands out for its curated Asian-inspired décor and beautifully finished en-suite bathrooms, creating a hotel-caliber experience within the comfort of a private home.

Sweet Spot of Montecito

One of the best beaches in the Santa Barbara area is Miramar Beach. The Sweet Spot of Montecito is located not far from the beach, but you can also stay home and enjoy a front-row seat to the best of the American Riviera. You can accommodate up to six people here with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Enjoy your private backyard with uninterrupted views of the Santa Barbara Foothills, al fresco dining, and the fire pit.

Don’t Miss The California Sun And Book Your Santa Barbara Vacation Rental

Don’t miss your chance to experience a California summer before it ends. Book a Santa Barbara Vacation Rental soon so you can get on the beach or lounge in your own private oasis before fall arrives.

Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals offers comfortable, charming, and fully furnished vacation rentals that provide a true home-away-from-home experience. Each property is conveniently close to all that Santa Barbara has to offer.

Book one of the many splendid Santa Barbara summer rentals today before properties fill up. Visit our website or call 805-617-0438 to speak with our friendly team and reserve the ideal Santa Barbara vacation home for your California escape.

Jul 04 2025

The Best Beaches in Santa Barbara: Local Favorites and Family-Friendly Picks

If you’re planning a summer vacation, then you can’t go wrong with California. Santa Barbara boasts seemingly countless spots with fun attractions and amazing beaches, making it a standout destination for those wanting to swim in the sea or lounge on the beach. You’ll find beaches with plenty of space for families to play, secluded beaches for getting lost in your favorite book, or beaches that are just a short walk from your vacation beach house rental.

That’s because Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals has several beach views, beachfront locations, and beach-adjacent properties throughout the Santa Barbara area. Here’s a rundown of some must-visit beaches in and around Santa Barbara, along with our favorite vacation rentals for those who never want to leave the beach.

Where To Find The Best Santa Barbara Beach Stays

Get out on the beach while you’re visiting Santa Barbara! There’s a variety of beaches that are sure to please anyone, whether you’re a guest or a local. Here are our suggestions for the best, most popular, and hidden gems for those who want to spend as much time as possible under the sun.

Miramar Beach: Peaceful Shores and Nearby Stays

Guests seeking a peaceful retreat to relax, read a book, or take a brief nap should consider visiting Miramar Beach. Miramar Beach is one of the few remaining private beach communities on the California coast, offering tranquility and privacy.

It’s not the most active place, and there aren’t a lot of waves either–which all adds to the beach’s appeal as a soothing spot. In addition, this is a great beach to bring young children because of the smaller waves, which makes it easy for small ones to have fun in the water without falling over (too much).

Beachfront Bungalow at Miramar

Nestled on historic Miramar Beach, the Beachfront Bungalow offers the most luxurious and convenient access to the beach. In addition to the beach, you will be surrounded by five-star dining, high-end shopping, and exclusive oceanfront experiences. The property spans 950 square feet, featuring two bedrooms and two bathrooms. We also welcome pets at this property.

The Cottage at Miramar

You’ll be perched right over the private and peaceful Miramar Beach when you stay at The Cottage. A five-minute stroll down the beach leads you to the luxurious Rosewood Miramar Resort, and after a short drive, you can visit Downtown Santa Barbara. At The Cottage, you won’t be far from relaxing spa treatments, beach services, dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant, amazing shopping opportunities, and a private beach feet away from your vacation rental.

Stay Just Steps from Arroyo Burro Beach

This is one of the most popular beaches in the area. One reason is its proximity to the Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach–a popular spot for food and drinks. Another reason is that it’s one of the few dog-friendly beaches in the area. The park is easily accessible, with parking nearby, and is conveniently located just off a bike path.

Adventures at Arroyo Burro

Find fun for the whole family when you stay in Santa Barbara’s beloved family-friendly beachside neighborhood, the Mesa. Adventures at Arroyo Burro spans 1,300 square feet, featuring three cozy bedrooms and two full bathrooms. The exterior is the real star attraction, with its beautiful private backyard and easy access to the beach. The home also includes parking for two vehicles in the driveway, with additional street parking available.

Enjoy The Sunset On Mesa Lane Beach And From Your Vacation Home

Mesa Lane Beach is a lovely beach with stunning views. To reach the beach, you’ll need to walk down the Mesa Lane Steps, which are approximately 240 steps to the sand. From the top of the steps, you’ll be high up, giving the beach area its unique and amazing views. Once you arrive at the narrow beach, you’ll find excellent waves for surfing. On days with high tide, it may be impossible to access the beach, so plan accordingly.

Mesa Beach Escape

Beach days are made easy when your family stays at the Mesa Beach Escape. You’re just a short, level walk away from one of Santa Barbara’s most beautiful beaches. Lay out on the beach or in the comfort of your vacation home.

With four bedrooms and two bathrooms, there is more than enough space for your family to lounge. Besides the beach, you’ll be near scenic hiking trails, open spaces, charming local shops, and delicious restaurants.

Mesa Gem

As the name implies, this is one of Santa Barbara’s hidden gems. It is the perfect destination for a family-friendly beach vacation, a romantic escape, or an adventure with friends. You are mere minutes away from the beach, known for its top-tier surfing, such as One Thousand Steps, Leadbetter Beach, and Hendry’s Beach.

Mesa Gem is also a few blocks away, near the Douglas Family Preserve, where you can enjoy ocean-view trails, picnic areas, and some of the best spots for seeing dolphins.

The Best Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals Go Best With A Nearby Beach

Spend as much time as possible on Santa Barbara’s beaches because your vacation beach home rental is not far away when you book directly with Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals.

Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals offers comfortable, charming, and fully furnished vacation rentals that provide a true home-away-from-home experience. Each property is conveniently close to all that Santa Barbara has to offer.
Ready to make the most of your Summer Solstice weekend? Book your stay today before properties fill up. Visit our website or call 805-617-0438 to speak with our friendly team and reserve the ideal rental for your Santa Barbara escape.

Jun 12 2025

Santa Barbara Summer Solstice Celebration 2025: What to Expect and Best Places To Stay

While it might feel like summer to you, it’s not really summer until the summer solstice in late June, which usually falls somewhere between June 20 to 22. It’s a dazzling day of the year because it’s the day with the most daylight possible. In Santa Barbara, that means up to 15 hours of golden sunlight to enjoy the coast, festivities, and outdoor living. Some places, such as the North Pole, experience the “midnight sun,” where the sun never sets.

Take full advantage of this extra stunning daylight and start summer off in style in Santa Barbara—California’s coastal gem known for its natural beauty, artistic spirit, and laid-back charm. It’s not just a summer destination, it’s the perfect place to truly start summer. The city hosts an annual Summer Solstice Celebration with a parade, festival, live music, and more.

Because people love the celebration and the warm summer weather, this time of year, vacation rentals tend to fill up quickly. Don’t wait—book directly with Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals to secure a beautiful place to stay near all the action and plenty of other exciting things to do. We offer excellent vacation rentals for small and large groups, located near the Santa Barbara Summer Solstice Celebration.

A float at the Summer Solstice parade in Santa Barbara.

What Is The Santa Barbara Summer Solstice Celebration?

Santa Barbara hosts a summer celebration that encompasses a wide range of entertainment near the summer solstice. Each year, the event features a unique theme that inspires floats, costumes, and installations. You can expect to see a parade, festival, live music, lots of extravagant costumes, an artist’s workshop, food vendors, and more.

What Are The Best Things To Do At The Summer Solstice Celebration?

Even though these are the longest days of the year, it can be hard to experience everything that happens at the Summer Solstice Celebration. However, we have some suggestions for how to make the most of your time in the (extra) sunlight.

Find the family fun: If you’re bringing your family to Santa Barbara, you’ll find a variety of fun, family-friendly activities at the celebration. Visit the FUNTopia Interactive Art Play Ground. As the name suggests, there is a lot of hands-on art from local and regional artists. There is also a stage with live music that is appropriate for children. This playful area is designed for creativity, interaction, and imagination—perfect for young festival-goers and families.

Study the parade route: The parade is one of the most popular events during the celebration. It begins at noon on Saturday, but you’ll want to arrive early to secure a good spot to watch the event. The route begins at Santa Barbara Street and ends at the Solstice Festival in Alameda Park on Sola Street. Be sure to check the event website for the most up-to-date map and timing information, as crowds can build quickly.

Know the theme: Each year, the celebration picks a theme for the event. For 2025, the theme is “Wild World.” You can either go all out and dress in bright, colorful animal patterns, wear your favorite wild print, or ignore the theme and people-watch.

Either way, expect an explosion of color, creativity, and artistic expression throughout the weekend. Additionally, you’ll be doing a lot of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and, because of the extra sunlight, be sure to find some shade as well.

End Your Nights Here

When the sun sets after the extra-long day, you’ll be glad to have a place to stay in Santa Barbara that is close to the solstice events and close enough to the sea to feel the cool breeze in the evenings. Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals offers centrally located homes and properties close to the city’s attractions. These featured properties offer not only comfort and charm but also convenient access to the festival’s key locations.

Casa Colibri del Mar (4-minute drive to Alameda Park): A wonderful place for couples or a small group of friends is the Casa Colibri del Mar. This rental is suitable for long-term stays (minimum 30 nights), offering two bedrooms and three bathrooms for up to four people. Enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Channel Islands, and city skyline from this private hillside retreat. In addition, you have easy access to Santa Barbara’s most cherished landmarks.

Santa Barbara Hideaway (11-minute drive to Alameda Park): The Santa Barbara Hideaway is an ideal venue for large gatherings. It can accommodate up to 10 people and it is also pet-friendly. You will find five bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms.

This luxury home features two spacious primary suites, a Peloton bike, a built-in espresso machine, and an open-concept living space that’s perfect for entertaining. Located just minutes from the beach and a short ride from the festival, it’s the perfect blend of comfort and convenience.

Santa Barbara Retreat (11-minute drive to Alameda Park): This vacation rental is ideal for families, including pets (pet-friendly rental). There are three bedrooms and two bathrooms, which are cozy for up to five people. It’s located in the highly sought-after Mesa Neighborhood– which is moments from the beach, shopping, and dining.

Unwind after the festival in the beautifully landscaped backyard featuring a spa, fire pit, and multiple lounging areas. The Santa Barbara Retreat offers a peaceful atmosphere while keeping you close to all the Solstice action.

Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals That Shine

Not only will these vacation rentals give you easy access to the festival and Santa Barbara attractions, but they also provide a place to recharge, so you’re ready to enjoy more of the extra daylight on the summer solstice.

Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals offers comfortable, charming, and fully furnished vacation rentals that provide a true home-away-from-home experience. Each property is conveniently close to all that Santa Barbara has to offer. Ready to make the most of your Summer Solstice weekend? Book your stay today before properties fill up.

Visit our website or call 805-617-0438 to speak with our friendly team and reserve the ideal rental for your Santa Barbara escape.