Best Places To Stay Santa Barbara

Nov 27 2025

Come To Santa Barbara For Your Honeymoon And Christmas

Santa Barbara really pops off during the holiday season. From holiday light ceremonies, Christmas parades, festive markets, and stunning New Year’s Eve celebrations, it’s simply an amazing time to see the city come to life. There is no shortage of things to do, so why not consider celebrating your honeymoon during the holidays, too?

Santa Barbara is not only a great place for relaxing, bonding, and romance. It’s also a lot of fun during Christmas. Consider booking a romantic holiday vacation rental with Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals. Keep the romance at the vacation rental and discover the festive Christmas charm around every corner of the city on your holiday honeymoon.

Holiday Romance In Santa Barbara

Combining your honeymoon with the holidays is a great way to keep spirits high, eat delicious Christmas food, and treat each other with early Christmas gifts. To help you keep things tidy and simple, here is a list of some Christmas things to do and some romantic options for you and your partner to enjoy in Santa Barbara.

Holiday Things To Do For Couples In Santa Barbara

Find your festive spirit and explore the Christmas wonderland that is Santa Barbara during the holidays. Here are some fun things to do for couples visiting Santa Barbara during the holiday season.

Holiday Lights: The best way to kick off the holiday season is with a holiday lighting ceremony. Even if you are late to the event, you can still take in the glittering lights after the sun sets. Some standout holiday lights include the Paseo Nuevo Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, ZooLights at Santa Barbara Zoo, and Stearns Wharf Tree-Lighting Ceremony.
Holiday Parades: It’s always fun to see the creativity and festive charm on display. There are several in Santa Barbara that are worth checking out if you have the time. These include Parade of Lights and Parade of Lights Cruise Aboard Double Dolphin.
Christmas Markets: Do some shopping while you are in Santa Barbara for the perfect Christmas gift. Here are some markets where you can find unique and meaningful items. Shop at Sip & Shop Holiday Market, Sip & Stroll Holiday Market at Old Mission Santa Barbara, Presidio Neighborhood Holiday Stroll, and Holiday Boutique at Santa Barbara Tennis Club.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations: Santa Barbara is a blast on New Year’s Eve, and you and your partner should absolutely take advantage of the many fun things to do. Here are some standout celebrations: New Year’s Eve Bar Crawl, New Year’s Eve with The Symphony, and many more.

Romantic Things To Do For Couples Celebrating Their Honeymoon In Santa Barbara

With all of the holiday festivities happening around you, don’t forget to celebrate with each other when you visit Santa Barbara. Here are some popular attractions for couples on their honeymoon in Santa Barbara.

Dine at Santa Barbara’s Best: Santa Barbara has an amazing cuisine scene that’s excellent for foodies and couples looking for a romantic dinner. Consider booking a table at Sushi by Scratch, or Tre Lune
Explore Wine Country: Experiencing California’s wine country is one of the biggest draws to the area. It’s also a quintessential honeymoon activity. Consider a tour with Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours.
Pamper Yourself At A Spa: Relax and enjoy your partner’s company with a spa treatment. Check out the services available at Float Luxury Spa, Salt, Summerland Salon & Spa, or Soul Care Studio + Sauna.

Find Romance During The Holidays

Santa Barbara has a fantastic rundown of Christmas events, as well as soothing and romantic things to do for couples on their honeymoon. Have the best of both worlds 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.

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 rental that’s ideal for your Santa Barbara escape.

Oct 31 2025

Best Santa Barbara Thanksgiving Vacation Ideas: Events, Dining, and Drinks

Get together with your family and consider doing it as a vacation for Thanksgiving. It’s one of the best Thanksgiving vacation ideas. What better way to give everyone in your family a new experience and an opportunity to try new food, beer, wine, and more?

Even better is that you could be enjoying Thanksgiving weekend on a beach in Santa Barbara. It’s not that wild an idea, because there are plenty of Thanksgiving events, dining options, wineries, breweries, and more in downtown Santa Barbara.

However, one of the best Thanksgiving vacation ideas is booking a place for your family with Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals. We have a place large enough to accommodate any family, making it easy for you to explore Santa Barbara’s unique events and its delicious food, wine, and beer scene.

Things To Do In Santa Barbara Thanksgiving Weekend

Thanksgiving weekend is filled with energy. It’s not just families and friends coming together, but also the events and shopping experiences. Here is a peek at some of the best things to do throughout Thanksgiving weekend in Santa Barbara.

Santa Barbara Events During Thanksgiving

If you are looking for something to do on Thanksgiving or in the days that follow in Santa Barbara, consider checking out one or more of these events.

Thanksgiving Day 4-Miler: This annual race is 4 miles long and starts early Thanksgiving morning.
ZooLights: The Santa Barbara Zoo hosts ZooLights through the holidays, an immersive experience featuring handcrafted silk-covered lanterns and other light shows.
Small Business Saturday: If you want to get a head start on Christmas gift shopping, then Small Business Saturday in downtown Santa Barbara is a great place to find deals and unique things you can only find here.

Santa Barbara Thanksgiving Special Menus

A lot goes into a Thanksgiving meal, and when dinner rolls around, you might be exhausted. Try going out for dinner with the family at one of these Santa Barbara restaurants that feature special Thanksgiving menus.

Finch & Fork: The restaurant is hosting a harvest buffet. It will feature “savory carving station, raw bar, soups, salads and decadent desserts” as well as seasonal cocktails and local wines and beers.
Marisella: Enjoy an à la carte dinner menu with roasted turkey breast, chestnut stuffing, whipped potatoes, sweet potatoes, and brown butter gravy at Marisella.
Caruso’s: Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant for Thanksgiving with Caruso’s. Here you will be treated to a five-course dinner that puts a local spin on a traditional Thanksgiving meal.

Santa Barbara Thanksgiving Winery And Brewery Events

Grab a drink at the end of your day at one of the many excellent wine bars, wineries, or breweries in the Santa Barbara area.

Pearl Social Cocktail Club: Some of the best cocktails in Santa Barbara are found at the Pearl Social Cocktail Club. This establishment also tends to host holiday-themed specialty drinks and more.
Santa Ynez Wine Tour: Wine tours are a popular pull to the Santa Barbara area, and you can embark on a special tour when you sign up for the Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours. Enjoy three local wineries, lunch, and door-to-door shuttle service.
Brass Bear Brewing: Enjoy some local brews and a Thanksgiving buffet at Brass Bear Brewing. It’s a family-friendly brewery with cocktails and food to dine on, too.

Bring The Family To Santa Barbara For Thanksgiving Weekend

The best Thanksgiving vacation ideas involve your family. Make this Thanksgiving extra special by booking directly with Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals.

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 rental that’s ideal for your Santa Barbara escape.

Sep 23 2025

Find A Wellness Retreat And Peaceful Vacation Rental In Santa Barbara For A Rejuvenating Escape

The changing of the seasons provides an ideal backdrop for focusing on your well-being, and what better place to find rejuvenating balance and peaceful retreat than in Santa Barbara? With its calm coastal scenery, tranquil atmosphere, and an abundance of wellness retreat offerings, Santa Barbara becomes a serene place to escape for a weekend and focus on yourself.

You can start that process of healing and rediscovery by browsing the vacation rentals through Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals. Wake up to the waves crashing against the shoreline and the sea breeze flowing through your open window–with a stunning view of the Santa Barbara horizon. Discover why a fall getaway to Santa Barbara is exactly what you need to recharge and find your inner peace.

Private, Tranquil Vacation Homes In Santa Barbara

Before you start booking time at a Santa Barbara spa, you need to find a soothing vacation rental. Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals has more than enough homes with incredible views; however, these are some that excel at creating a calming and cozy atmosphere. All of these vacation rentals are conveniently located near wellness centers that offer calming environments, ideal for a rejuvenating escape.

Cielitomar

The name Cielitomar translates to “little sky” or “little heaven” and “sea.” It’s everything you are looking for in a tranquil vacation home. With room for eight guests, four beds, and three bathrooms, you don’t need to enjoy the comforts of Cielitomar on your own. Find comfort outside under the towering oak trees or in the pool and hot tub.

Montecito Bungalow

Relax in the heart of Montecito at Montecito Bungalow. Experience a piece of the serene beauty of the California Riviera in this two-bedroom, two-bathroom, and pet-friendly vacation rental. Montecito is a welcoming and peaceful community, but you will also discover that the interior of the Montecito Bungalow is just as peaceful as its surroundings. Marvel at the meticulously designed architecture and thoughtfully curated interiors; every inch of this residence exudes a sense of refined living.

Mesa Gem

If you are interested in a romantic getaway with someone special or a spa retreat with your friends, then Mesa Gem might be the place for you. This vacation home is ideal for up to eight guests, featuring two bedrooms and two bathrooms. You can also bring a furry friend, as Mesa Gem is pet-friendly. Step outside and take a stroll to Santa Barbara’s best beaches and coastal adventures.

Mesa Jewel

Mesa Jewel is a vacation rental that shines because of its proximity to soothing places like the beach and the scenic Douglas Family Nature Preserve. However, if you want to stay at the vacation home most of the time, you will have peace and privacy with the tall fencing and a spacious yard.

Wellness Centers Near Your Santa Barbara Vacation Homes

Give yourself the healing you want at some of the wonderful wellness centers in Santa Barbara. Combine these wellness centers and spas with one of the above vacation rentals for your retreat.

Santa Barbara Beach Yoga

Santa Barbara is known for its beautiful weather and beaches. So take advantage of it and participate in Santa Barbara Beach Yoga. They offer yoga classes from morning through to sunset. You can stretch in the sand with yoga headphones or join open-air classes on the rooftop patio at the East Beach Cabrillo Pavilion.

Soul Care Studio + Sauna

Saunas are another amazing way to relax and unwind. Soul Care Studio + Sauna offers a range of services, including infrared saunas, cold plunges, a Somadome, and halotherapy. All of these services also have a variety of packages. It’s easy to add friends and family to join you in the Sauna, a cold plunge, and more.

Evolutions Medical & Day Spa

Evolutions Medical & Day Spa is the place to go for a variety of fantastic services. Their day spa service includes massage therapy, body treatments, facials, chemical peels, vi peels, and hydrafacials. But that’s not the end of the many services that they offer. Consider looking over their medical spa services and wellness services.

Find Your Peace In Santa Barbara

It’s easy to relax and soak up the good vibes in Santa Barbara with a peaceful vacation rental and a trip to a soothing wellness retreat spa. Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals is the ideal choice for those in need of a wellness escape before the end of the year.

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.

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.

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.