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WORK FROM PARADISE

Working from home takes on a whole new meaning when your “office” includes ocean views, swaying palm trees, and a backyard oasis built for unwinding after hours. At Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals, we offer homes that make remote work feel more like a retreat than a routine. With dependable Wi-Fi, comfortable workspaces, and inspiring surroundings, you can stay productive without sacrificing relaxation. Read along to discover some of our vacation rentals that make working from home feel like working from paradise.

Above It All

6 Guests | 3 Beds | 3 Bath

Above it All is the kind of place that makes working from home feel like a serious upgrade. With floor-to-ceiling windows, panoramic ocean and mountain views, and tons of natural light, it’s easy to stay focused – and inspired – throughout your workday. Set up on the patio with your laptop, take meetings in the sun, then log off and head straight to the pool or hot tub. Between the quiet bedrooms, designated office space, strong Wi-Fi, and plenty of cozy spots to work or relax, this home turns remote work into a luxury experience.

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Beachfront Bungalow

5 Guests | 2 Beds | 2 Bath

This Beachfront Bungalow is a coastal haven perfect for anyone working from home. Both bedrooms open onto a private balcony with stunning ocean views and fresh sea air to keep you energized. The gentle sound of the waves offers a peaceful backdrop for Zoom calls or creative focus, while the comfortable, well-equipped interior supports your productivity. Step outside for a midday walk on the sand, enjoy lunch at the nearby Rosewood Miramar Beach Hotel, or relax in the evening with a sunset right from your balcony. Here, remote work truly feels like a vacation.

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Casa Colibrí Del Mar

4 Guests | 2 Beds | 3 Bath

Casa Colibrí Del Mar is an ideal work-from-home retreat, perfectly blending peaceful seclusion with stunning ocean views that inspire creativity and focus. The bright, open living spaces with accordion-style doors bring the outdoors in, creating a refreshing environment with plenty of natural light and fresh air. When you need a break, step outside to the private patio or lush backyard to enjoy the calming presence of hummingbirds and the gentle coastal breeze. With quiet primary suites for restful nights and nearby hiking trails for quick escapes, this home offers the perfect balance of productivity and relaxation just minutes from downtown Santa Barbara.

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Cielitomar

8 Guests | 4 Beds | 3 Bath

Imagine starting your day in a bright, airy office tucked off the serene primary suite, equipped with a Peloton for quick energy boosts between tasks. Natural light floods the open living areas through expansive French and accordion doors, inviting the peaceful garden and shimmering pool inside – ideal for midday pauses or brainstorming sessions by fresh air. With four spacious bedrooms and unique touches like a life-size chess board and bocce ball court, this home effortlessly balances focused productivity with relaxation. Just steps from Montecito’s charming Lower Village and Butterfly Beach, Cielitomar transforms remote work into an inspired, sun-soaked lifestyle.

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Mesa Beach Escape

6 Guests | 4 Beds | 2 Bath

Mesa Beach Escape is the ultimate work-from-home getaway where coastal calm meets comfortable living. Just minutes from the beach, you can easily step away from your desk to catch some fresh ocean air and stroll the shoreline. The home’s relaxed layout with plenty of space to spread out, including a cozy den perfect for taking meetings, makes it easy to stay productive without feeling confined. When the workday’s done, the private hot tub and breezy backyard offer the perfect spots to unwind under the stars. With charming shops, hiking trails, and Santa Barbara’s vibrant downtown just a short drive away, this is a place where remote work feels like a refreshing escape.

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Mesa Sanctuary

6 Guests | 4 Beds | 2.5 Bath

With multiple spacious bedrooms and cozy sitting areas, including a private spot off the queen guest room, you’ll find plenty of quiet corners to focus and recharge at Mesa Sanctuary. The bright, open kitchen and family room create inviting spaces for breaks or informal meetings, while the beautifully landscaped backyard and hot tub provide a relaxing retreat after a productive day. Eco-friendly touches throughout the home add a mindful sense of calm, and the prime location near beaches and parks means you can easily step outside to refresh your mind with ocean views and nature walks. Here, working remotely feels effortlessly serene.

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Montecito Oaks

8 Guests | 4 Beds | 4 Bath

Montecito Oaks is a work-from-home dream, offering not just space, but inspiration at every turn. With two fully equipped units connected by a pass-through door, it’s easy to create separate zones for focus and play. Whether you’re working from the sunlit great room, a quiet bedroom retreat, or the expansive upper deck with sweeping ocean views, every space is designed to elevate your day. Need a midday recharge? Step out to one of the outdoor kitchens, soak in the redwood hot tub, or take a walking break to nearby Coast Village Road for coffee or a bite. With luxury amenities, peaceful surroundings, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow, Montecito Oaks makes working remotely feel like living at a private resort.

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Santa Barbara Hideaway

10 Guests | 5 Beds | 3.5 Bath

Santa Barbara Hideaway is a remote work sanctuary where Mediterranean elegance meets modern functionality. With multiple serene workspaces, including a dedicated office with a trundle bed for flexibility, this spacious, light-filled home offers the perfect backdrop for focus and creative thinking. Set up your laptop on one of the many terraces, where foothill views and fresh coastal air keep the energy flowing. The two private primary suites offer ideal separation for couples working remotely, while the gourmet kitchen and cozy living areas make breaks between meetings feel like mini getaways. Whether you’re jumping on a Zoom call or stepping out for a walk on one of the nearby trails, this home effortlessly supports a balanced work-from-home experience.

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Sweet Spot of Montecito

6 Guests | 3 Beds | 2 Bath

The Sweet Spot of Montecito is a thoughtfully curated hideaway that turns remote work into a restorative experience. Tucked beneath the foothills and steps from Miramar Beach, this mid-century modern retreat offers a refined, low-key setting where creativity flows as easily as the coastal breeze. The primary suite opens to an orchard-framed backyard—an ideal backdrop for morning emails or midday mindfulness. Inside, the retro-inspired kitchen and sun-kissed living spaces provide just the right blend of character and calm. Whether you’re setting up your laptop beneath swaying palms or taking a screen break with a sunset stroll, this home offers a work-from-home rhythm that’s as balanced as it is beautiful.

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The Cottage at Miramar

5 Guests | 3 Beds | 2 Bath

This historic Montecito beach cottage offers a work-from-home setting that’s both calming and creatively energizing. Perched just above the shoreline, the upper level features an open, sunlit layout with ocean views that bring a sense of ease to even the busiest workdays. Whether you’re set up at the dining table, lounging on the deck between calls, or taking advantage of the natural light and sea breeze to power through your to-do list, the atmosphere is designed to keep you refreshed and calm. The cozy downstairs bedrooms provide quiet nooks for mid-day breaks or evening wind-downs, and with the Rosewood Miramar just a short stroll away, you’ve got a five-star option for meals or post-work unwinding. It’s the kind of place that makes working remotely feel like exactly where you’re meant to be.

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3 DAYS OF FAMILY FUN IN SANTA BARBARA

If you’re looking for a weekend that’s equal parts relaxing and kid-approved, Santa Barbara is the perfect place to press pause and play. Families can slow down and soak up every moment, from building sandcastles, browsing the local shops, or catching a sunset at the pier. With walkable neighborhoods, a laid-back coastal atmosphere, and plenty of kid-friendly attractions, it’s an ideal escape for guests of all ages.

To make planning easy, we’ve put together a simple itinerary to help you make the most of a weekend of family fun in Santa Barbara.

DAY 1

Cruise & Explore

Begin your weekend in Santa Barbara with a breakfast along the Waterfront, at places like Chad’s Cafe, Jeannine’s Bakery, On The Alley, Goat Tree, or Moby Dick Restaurant. From here, walk onto the Santa Barbara Wharf to explore the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History’s Sea Center, an interactive aquarium that lets you get up close experiences with creatures from the region.

After discovering all the Sea Center has to offer, hop on Lil Toot, Santa Barbara’s only water taxi that takes you on a 25-minute narrated ride to the Harbor. Upon arrival, grab lunch at Brophy Bros., a local staple for fresh seafood.

The Harbor is a great starting point for more exploration – either discover the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, or hop aboard the Condor Express for an afternoon of whale watching. Wrap up the day with a casual dinner from Lucky Penny pizza on their outdoor patio.

Once the kids are in bed for the night, enjoy a night in the hot tub with your partner at one of these properties:

DAY 2

Grill & Chill

Fuel up for a fun day at the beach with breakfast at Boathouse at Hendry’s before spending the day at Arroyo Burro Beach. Perched right on the sand, Boathouse offers classic breakfast staples with unbeatable ocean views. Arroyo Burro is the perfect family-friendly beach, as it’s perfect for those who want to swim, surf, stroll, or lay out under the sun. There are restrooms on site, and bbq grills and picnic tables perfect for an al fresco meal.

If you’re in Montecito, grab breakfast in Lower Village before taking to Butterfly Beach or Miramar Beach. We recommend trying Renaud’s Bakery and Bistro, Bree’osh Bakery Cafe, Lilac Patisserie, or Merci Montecito. Then, for those looking for an activity, rent paddles boards at Butterfly Beach with Cal Coast Adventures. Or, boogie board at Miramar Beach and swim up to the Rosewood’s swim platform.

After an afternoon of family fun under the sun, head back to your rental to rinse off and relax before an ocean front dinner. Some of our favorite spots include Oku for sushi, Flor De Maiz for Mexican, Toma for Italian, Bluewater Grill for seafood, Reunion Kitchen for American, and Caruso’s for upscale dining. If your little ones still have energy to burn, take a sunset stroll along Santa Barbara’s Waterfront.

If you prefer a private pool at the comfort of your rental, check out these properties:

DAY 3

Shopping & Sweets

Begin your last day in town with a slow morning at home. Get breakfast and coffee to-go from a local coffee shop like Dart Coffee Co., Dune Coffee Roasters, Handlebar Coffee, or Cajé. Then, spend time strolling and shopping for souvenirs  along State Street or Coast Village Road, the two main streets of Santa Barbara and Montecito respectively. While downtown, explore the famous Santa Barbara Courthouse and its bell tower and gardens. Enjoy free admission and 360 degree views of the city.

For lunch enjoy sandwiches at Panino, a local staple you can find in Santa Barbara or Montecito. Or, stock up on picnic supplies from a local shop like Cheese Shop Santa Barbara and take your set up to East Beach where you’ll find space to set up lunch and courts for sand volleyball.

End your trip on a sweet note at the legendary McConnell’s Ice Cream, an iconic taste of Santa Barbara.


Find a vacation rental for your stay here.

OLD SPANISH DAYS FIESTA 2025

Every summer, Santa Barbara bursts into color, music, and tradition during Old Spanish Days Fiesta, a beloved celebration of the city’s rich heritage. With a vibrant calendar full of parades, performances, and community gatherings, Fiesta offers something for everyone to enjoy.

La Fiesta Pequeña | July 30

Kick off the week’s festivities with the “little fiesta,” is a colorful, a historical program of traditional songs and dance from Californios Spirit set against the famous Old Mission Santa Barbara.

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DIGS Celebración de los Dignatarios | July 31

Visit the iconic Santa Barbara Zoo’s hilltop for an evening of local food, drinks, and live music!

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Las Noches de Ronda | July 31 – August 2

Held at the Sunken Gardens at the Santa Barbara Courthouse, enjoy an evening of live performances such as the flamenco or Mexican folklórico dances.

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photo via visitsantabarbara.com

El Desfile Histórico “The Historical Parade” | August 1

This historical parade along Cabrillo Boulevard is one of the largest equestrian parades in the country, featuring floats that depict episodes from California and Santa Barbara’s history.

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Fiesta Arts and Crafts Show | August 2 – 3

Explore handmade goodies from local artisans all along Cabrillo Boulevard, all weekend long.

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El Desfile de los Niños “Children’s Parade” | August 2

Dressed in traditional costumes, young people, their families, and other participants parade down Cabrillo Boulevard in a vibrant celebration of Santa Barbara’s rich culture.

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Courthouse Fiesta Tours | July 30 – August 3

Enjoy a free, docent-guided one-hour tour of the famous Santa Barbara Courthouse daily from 10:30am to 3:30pm.

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El Mercado De La Guerra | July 30 – August 2

Stroll through a vibrant Mexican market where you can enjoy Spanish and Mexican-American foods, shop for crafts and souvenirs, and take in live entertainment throughout the day and into the evening.

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Find a complete, detailed list of all Old Spanish Days events here.

DIVE INTO SUMMER

Summer in Santa Barbara is all about sun-soaked days, coastal breezes, and effortless outdoor living. At Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals, we offer a collection of homes that make the most of the season with their sparkling private pools, relaxing hot tubs, and prime locations just steps from the beach. Whether you’re planning lazy afternoons by the water or evening strolls along the shoreline, our properties offer the perfect blend of comfort, style, and summer-ready amenities for an unforgettable coastal getaway.

Above It All

6 Guests | 3 Beds | 3 Bath

Perfect for a quintessential Santa Barbara summer, Above It All is a stunning hilltop retreat that combines luxury, privacy, and sweeping coastal views. With a private pool and hot tub surrounded by sun-drenched terraces, this home is made for long, leisurely days in the sun and breezy evenings under the stars. Whether you’re enjoying morning coffee with a view of the Pacific or gathering for sunset cocktails by the fire pit, Above It All offers the ultimate backdrop for an elevated summer escape.

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Beachfront Bungalow

5 Guests | 2 Beds | 2 Bath

For a true Santa Barbara summer by the sea, the Beachfront Bungalow on Miramar Beach offers laid-back luxury just steps from the sand. This retreat enjoys direct beach access through its private entrance, making it effortless to enjoy sun-soaked days and cool ocean breezes. Lounging by the water or simply soaking in the salty air, this home captures the essence of a relaxed coastal summer.

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Cielitomar

8 Guests | 4 Beds | 3 Bath

In the heart of Montecito, Cielitomar combines laid-back luxury with everyday comfort – perfect for a relaxed Santa Barbara summer. The home’s sleek design, private pool, and hot tub create an inviting oasis, while being just steps from Lower Village and Butterfly Beach keeps you close to the best coastal experiences. From lounging poolside or strolling along the shore, this retreat offers a relaxed yet sophisticated escape that feels like your very own slice of heaven.

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Mesa Beach Escape

6 Guests | 4 Beds | 2 Bath

Just a short walk from Arroyo Burro Beach and the beloved Boathouse Restaurant, Mesa Beach Escape is the perfect spot for a relaxing Santa Barbara summer. This spacious home offers four bedrooms and two bathrooms, providing plenty of room for families or groups. After a day by the ocean, soak in the private hot tub under the stars or freshen up with the outdoor shower. With its convenient location and comfortable amenities, Mesa Beach Escape makes enjoying the beach and everything Santa Barbara has to offer simple and enjoyable.

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Mesa Sanctuary

6 Guests | 4 Beds | 2.5 Bath

Mesa Sanctuary is a great summer escape and is just a short walk from the popular 1000 Steps Beach. It’s also close to Leadbetter Beach and Shoreline Park, making it easy to take a stroll by the ocean or watch the sunset. After a day spent soaking up the sun and waves, you can relax and unwind in the private hot tub surrounded by a peaceful outdoor setting. With the beach close by and a private backyard retreat, this rental offers everything you need for a coastal getaway.

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Santa Barbara Retreat

5 Guests | 3 Beds | 2 Bath

This charming Mesa Neighborhood home is just minutes from Mesa Lane Beach, making it an ideal spot for a summer vacation by the sea. Spend your days soaking up the sun on the sand and your evenings relaxing in the hot tub or around the fire pit. With easy beach access and a cozy outdoor space designed for unwinding and entertaining, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort and coastal living for your summer getaway.

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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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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.