Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals

Santa Barbara is the ultimate summer escape, complete with pristine beaches and many local events occurring all summer long. From vibrant festivals to relaxing movie nights under the stars, use this curated collection of events and activities to help you craft your perfect Santa Barbara vacation.

Summer Solstice Celebration | June 20 – June 22

Kick off summer at the 51st annual Summer Solstice Celebration at Alameda Park. Enjoy vibrant displays of artwork, costumes, performances and more.

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JAWS at 50! | April 25 – May 4

Experience the thrill of JAWS like never before as the Academy Festival Orchestra, led by conductor Ben Palmer, brings the iconic film to life in celebration of its 50th anniversary at the Granada Theatre.

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Santa Barbara Wine + Food Festival | June 28

Support the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History’s education programs at the Santa Barbara Wine + Food Festival®! Sip on 100+ of the Central Coast’s best wines whilst surrounded by the oak woodland along Mission Creek.

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Santa Barbara Lavender Festival | June 28

This arts and crafts festival encourages local lavender farms and small businesses to incorporate lavender into as many of their products as possible!

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Concerts in the Park | Weekly in July

Bring your picnic blankets, snacks, and friends to enjoy free live music at Chase Palm Park. Find a list of dates and performers below.

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Concerts at the Santa Barbara Bowl | All Throughout Summer

Catch live performances from artists like Rebelution, Iration, Darius Rucker, Maren Morris, Goo Goo Dolls, Mt. Joy, Mac Demarco, and more at the beloved Santa Barbara Bowl.

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French Wave Film Festival | July 11 – 17

Enjoy the showcase of eleven new films from notable French filmmakers at the Riviera Theatre! Purchase individual passes or a Patron Pass below.

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Free Summer Cinema | Weekly on Fridays

Pack a blanket and some snacks and enjoy free movies under the stars at the Santa Barbara Courthouse. This year’s theme is “Dog Days of Summer” and will feature feel-good films that include our favorite canine stars.

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California Beachside Wine Festival | July 19

Sip and savor your way through hundreds of wines and crafts brews at this beachside wine festival held along Santa Barbara’s Waterfront. Enjoy tons of artisanal cheeses, chocolates and more, all while taking in the ocean breeze and the sounds of live music. Photo from California Wine Festival.

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Old Spanish Days Fiesta | July 30 – August 5

Every August, Santa Barbara bursts to life with Old Spanish Days Fiesta, a vibrant celebration of music, dance, and culture that dates back to 1925. The five-day event kicks off with La Fiesta Pequeña on the steps of the Old Mission, featuring colorful flamenco and folklorico performances.

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Best In Show | August 24

This beloved Montecito tradition held at the Rosewood invites you to compete with your four-legged friend for the title of best in show. Enjoy an afternoon of local treats, shopping, and friendly competition, all in support of Santa Barbara Humane and Love Leo Rescue.

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Find a complete list of all Santa Barbara summer events here.

With beautiful weather and a laid-back atmosphere, Santa Barbara sets the perfect backdrop for a relaxing “staycation” or summer gathering. Whether you’re planning a casual alfresco dinner party or just want to unwind in a serene backyard setting, these vacation rentals offer the ideal outdoor space for making the most of warm, sunny days at home.

Above It All

6 Guests | 3 Beds | 3 Bath

Above It All offers the ideal blend of luxury, privacy, and unforgettable views. Perched above Santa Barbara on a serene hilltop, this architectural gem invites you to unwind in style. Start your day with coffee overlooking the Pacific, host sunset cocktails by the fire pit, or fire up the grill for an alfresco dinner. With a private pool, hot tub, and panoramic vistas, this home delivers the perfect setting for relaxed days and memorable summer evenings.

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Beachfront Bungalow

5 Guests | 2 Beds | 2 Bath

Embrace laid-back luxury at the charming Beachfront Bungalow on Miramar Beach, an ideal escape for a summer staycation. With private balconies overlooking the ocean, a chef-ready galley-kitchen for beachside meals, and direct access to the sand, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the outdoors without ever leaving home. Grill up a feast, lounge by the waves, or simply soak in the sun and salty air.

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Casa Colibrí Del Mar

4 Guests | 2 Beds | 3 Bath

Casa Colibrí Del Mar is the kind of place where summer days feel easy and effortless. Start your morning sipping coffee in the garden, then fire up the built-in grill for lunch with a view that stretches all the way to the Pacific. Whether you’re lounging on the patio, enjoying dinner at the outdoor dining table, or sipping wine by the outdoor fireplace, this hillside hideaway is perfect for relaxing outdoors and making the most of warm, sunny days.

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Cielitomar

8 Guests | 4 Beds | 3 Bath

Cielitomar is the perfect place for a laid-back yet lively summer escape. Spend the day by the pool, unwind in the hot tub, or challenge friends and family to a game of bocce ball in the beautifully landscaped backyard. With a dining area nestled under the shade of ancient oak trees, it’s an ideal setting for long, leisurely meals with a view. This private Montecito retreat offers the perfect blend of comfort and style for outdoor living at its finest.

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Mesa Beach Escape

6 Guests | 4 Beds | 2 Bath

Mesa Beach Escape is the perfect spot for a relaxed summer getaway at home. Lounge in the spacious backyard, unwind in the hot tub, or enjoy the ocean breeze with a drink in hand. Just a short walk to the beach, you can catch some sun or grab a bite at the Boathouse at Hendry’s, one of Santa Barbara’s favorite oceanfront spots. If you’re lounging in the backyard or simply soaking up the peaceful vibe of the Mesa neighborhood, this home offers a laid-back and charming setting for enjoying summer.

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Mesa Sanctuary

6 Guests | 4 Beds | 2.5 Bath

At Mesa Sanctuary, summer days feel effortlessly special. The backyard is a true retreat, offering a peaceful space to relax in the hot tub or lounge with family and friends. With plenty of seating and a beautifully landscaped setting, it’s easy to unwind and enjoy the outdoors. The home’s proximity to Leadbetter Beach and Shoreline Park makes it simple to take a stroll by the ocean or watch the sunset.

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Montecito Oaks

8 Guests | 4 Beds | 4 Bath

Montecito Oaks is a luxe setting for a relaxing summer escape. With two stunning outdoor spaces, you can enjoy grilling in fully equipped outdoor kitchens, unwind by one of the fire pits, or take in expansive ocean views from the upper deck tucked among the trees. A private redwood hot tub, tranquil water features, and lush landscaping create an inviting atmosphere for laid-back days and serene evenings. The lower patio offers a peaceful retreat, while the upper deck is perfect for hosting friends and family.

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Santa Barbara Retreat

8 Guests | 4 Beds | 4 Bath

With a spacious backyard featuring a fire pit, spa, and ample seating, Santa Barbara Retreat is ideal for grilling, enjoying evening cocktails, or simply unwinding under the stars. The open layout of the home ensures a seamless flow between the chef-ready kitchen, dining area, and living spaces, making outdoor meals and gatherings effortless. This retreat provides a stylish and serene coastal setting, perfect for relaxing and enjoying time outdoors.

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Sweet Spot of Montecito

6 Guests | 3 Beds | 2 Bath

The Sweet Spot of Montecito is the perfect setting for a day immersed in coastal charm and serene luxury. With its spacious, orchard-lined backyard and multiple outdoor living areas, this home offers plenty of room for grilling, lounging, and enjoying quality time with family and friends. Whether you’re cooking up a delicious meal in the retro-chic kitchen, sipping wine by the fire pit, or unwinding on the patio under the stars, this retreat provides the ideal backdrop for a memorable summer gathering.

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The Cottage at Miramar

5 Guests | 3 Beds | 2 Bath

This historic beach cottage offers an unbeatable spot to relax, unwind, and enjoy the ocean breeze. With the beach just outside your door and a deck perfect for soaking up the sun, you can spend the day savoring the salty air and sounds of the waves. Whether you’re grilling, having a casual beach picnic, or watching the sunset from the deck, this coastal gem provides the ultimate setting for a laid-back and memorable getaway. Plus, a short stroll takes you to the luxurious Rosewood Miramar Resort for a little extra pampering.

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From miles of pristine coastline to rolling hills and vibrant city streets, Santa Barbara offers a wealth of free activities for every kind of traveler. Use this curated guide to make the most of your stay wallet-free.

Arts & Culture

Santa Barbara is a vibrant city that values its local art scene, as well as its Spanish heritage. All around the city you can find art galleries, architectural feats, culturally significant sites, and modern murals. Here is a quick list to help you track down some notable sites.

Historical Sites

Downtown you can find the famous Santa Barbara Courthouse, known for is stunning Spanish exterior and sunken gardens. Enjoy a free, self-guided tour throughout the building and its grounds, and even climb up to the top of the bell tower for amazing 360 degree views of the city and ocean below. Not far from the Courthouse, is the El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park. Established in 1782, this site is a Spanish-built fort that gives visitors the chance to relive history. Further down the road on State and Victoria you can find a statue of Native American heroine Sacagawea. The Old Mission Santa Barbara is free to visit, and so are the rose gardens across the street.

Art Museums & Exhibits

On Thursdays from 5pm to 8pm you can enjoy free admission to the Santa Barbara Museum of Art where you can find collections of both modern and classic art. At the Santa Barbara Public Library you can find the latest local art exhibits on display. Every Sunday you can stroll along the beachfront walkway on Cabrillo Blvd and discover local handmade arts and crafts at the Arts & Crafts Show, and at the Taste Maker’s Market you can explore a gourmet pop-up market. Another market to check out is the Mujeres Makers Market, a monthly pop-up market that supports women of color vendors.

While you’re downtown, check out a prominent piece of art called the Chromatic Gate on the corner of Cabrillo Blvd near East Beach. These brightly-colored arches are set against the backdrop for the Pacific and make for a good photo-op. To see vibrant arts and murals, take a stroll through the Funk Zone, a hub for eclectic arts and businesses.

Architecture Tours

If architecture and history is your thing, you’ll want to take the historic Red Tile Walking Tour, a self-guided tour throughout historic downtown. The Jeff Shelton walking tour is a shorter, colorful tour that takes you to 5 iconic locations designed by the architect. Stearns Wharf is another great place to stroll and take in some of the best views of the city. Near State street on De La Guerra is El Paseo, or “street in Spain” where you can window shop and imagine you’re in a different place.

Outdoor Activities

Beaches

There are many beaches in Santa Barbara county to choose to spend your day at. Whether you seek an afternoon of sunbathing, a stroll along the shore, or a refreshing swim, all of these beaches are perfect for day well spent. Goleta Beach, Leadbetter Beach, and Devereux Beach are great for walking and exploring tide pools. Thousand Steps Beach and Mesa Lane Beach are both local secrets, while East Beach, Butterfly Beach, Arroyo Burro, and Summerland Beach are more popular and family friendly.

Surfing

If you brought your surf board, check out some of Santa Barbara’s well-known surf spots. For beginners try out Leadbetter Point off Cabrillo Blvd, and for more advanced surfers check out Sands Beach in Goleta, Hammond’s Reef in Summerland, or Rincon Point in Carpinteria. Find a comprehensive list of surf spots here.

Trails

Santa Barbara is full of trails that allow you to take it the beauty of the city from different perspectives. You can bike ride mountainous trails with stunning vistas, stroll along the boulevard to look out for wildlife, or even drive through the lush Santa Ynez mountains. We recommend leisurely rides along Cabrillo Blvd or Channel Drive, but you can find a list of Santa Barbara’s most popular biking trails here. Lots of locals recommend hiking as a must-do activity in Santa Barbara. Our favorite trails are Inspiration Point, Hot Springs Trail, and Romero Canyon. Here is a list of some more popular hikes in the area.

If you want a more relaxing experience, take a scenic drive to the Chumash archaeological site Painted Caves, cruise down Shoreline Drive along the coast, take in views of the coast on E Camino Cielo, or road trip through Foxen Canyon Road to experience the beauty of the Santa Barbara wine country.

Parks & Gardens

The Rose Garden at the Old Mission is one of the most popular gardens to visit and have an afternoon picnic. On the Riviera, Alameda Park has a Kids World Park for children play and climb, while Franceschi Park and Parma Park are large grassy areas with trails to explore. The Santa Barbara Orchid Estate has over 100 varieties of orchids to enjoy, Butterfly Grove in Goleta is popular for its monarch butterflies, and from June to July Clairmont Lavender Farm is in bloom. Enjoy a day trip to the Lompoc Flower Fields when they’re in bloom in the summer. For more recommendations of parks and gardens read our blog here.

Find more free activities here.