Santa Barbara, a beautiful Californian city nestled in between the majestic Santa Ynez mountains and the Pacific Ocean, is speckled with brick-red rooftops, Spanish architecture, lots and lots of good seafood restaurants and many amazing things to do. It’s a place where souls jaded after too many hours spent in grey office buildings should visit to feel alive again. Check out these soulful Airbnbs in Santa Barbara, California, to help you unwind and feel a sense of childlike wonder again.
1. Designer pod: Spacious house with a community pool (from USD 145)
Indulge in a pleasant stay at this spacious house that is situated within walking distance to restaurants and shops. The house comes with two bedrooms and two bathrooms to easily accommodate four people. If you want to unwind and breathe in the fresh air, you can drop by the private patio and spend a few minutes there. There is a kitchen that can help you satisfy your cooking needs. A hot tub is also available for a rejuvenating soak after a long day. If you prefer swimming, you can simply plunge into the community pool.
Designer's 2 BD Patio HomeSanta Barbara, California, United StatesAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
great location comfortable home with many amenities and a fantastic kitchenthe kitchen is huge with the most modern appliancesthe house itself is great: well located in santa barbara and very comfortable just like the photosHost:
julie is very welcoming and accommodatingRead more reviewsLocation:
the neighborhood was perfect -- central location and very friendly neighborsthe location was perfect close to everything in santa barbara in a peaceful residential areathe location is serene but there are a couple of great places to eat within walking distance
2. Boho nook: Comfortable apartment with mountain views (from USD 178)
This bright apartment situated in a historic Victorian building can comfortably accommodate two guests, ideal for solo travelers and couples looking to stay in the heart of the city. The property is located within walking distance of a selection of shops and restaurants. If you do not feel like heading out, you can cook your own meals in the spacious kitchen. The clean bathroom has shower facilities for freshening up after a full day exploring.
Cozy boho nook with Mountain ViewSanta Barbara, California, United StatesSuperhost
Accommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
alanna s place was perfectly charming and cozy with beautiful viewsthe kitchen is also equipped with everything you need — cute dishes and a keurigthe apartment is nestled in a quiet neighborhood surrounded by beautiful trees and scenerywe loved our stay at alanna’s apartmentCleanliness:
clean well decorated apartmentclean comfortable bedding and relaxing bedroom spaceplace was great super clean and easy to accessthe studio was very clean stylish and felt very homeygreat light and sparkling clean with easy checkinHost:
alanna was highly responsivealanna was so responsivealanna was a great host - quick to respond and very accommodatingalanna was also very responsive and helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
awesome location and beautiful apartmentperfect location so close to state streetgood location that is a short 8-10 minute drive to downtowneasy access and very close to state streetgreat location within 5 minute walk to downtown apartment fits comfortably 2 people
3. Rustic tiny home: Quaint studio for two (from USD 160)
Exuding a homey ambiance, this studio features quaint wooden interiors and can easily accommodate up to two guests. Though it may be tiny, the home offers plenty of modern creature comforts to ensure guests a delightful vacation experience. There is a large TV for fun movie nights. The bathroom comes with a walk-in shower and toiletries for your convenience. In the morning, you can relax on the deck with cozy seating as you quietly sip on your morning coffee.
Private TinyStudio StepsTo State StBeach &FunkZoneSanta Barbara, California, United StatesSuperhost
Accommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the little patio outside has a table and a couple lounge chairs you can relax onthe patio outdoor seating was relaxing comfortable bedsuper clean lots of amenities including a great shower comfortable bed and a keurig- it was perfectthe vibe was a classy modern cabin and we felt super comfortable and relaxedCleanliness:
immaculately clean and well designedthe space was clean and comfortableeverything was clean and good qualitythe space was clean quiet and tranquilit's clean adorable unique and has all the essentialsHost:
he was accommodating and responsivehost was responsive and had quick replieshost was very responsive and easy to communicate withthe host has really made sure to stock the place with anything you could need as a travelergiven these factors any heads up from the host regarding this situation would have been appreciatedRead more reviewsLocation:
great location walk to everythinggreat location of you’d like to be close to downtown areathe location is really greatprime location and great airbnbthe location is perfect as well walking distance to everything
4. Ocean views: Charming, light-filled apartment (from USD 120)
Say yes to a heavenly stay with the best people in your life by spending a couple of days at this charming apartment that can be reached quickly from East Beach. The apartment benefits from the floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room that bring in natural light and afford gorgeous ocean views. Walk out onto a private deck to relax in the sun. Come back again to the deck in the evening to have a barbecue on a small grill. Before going to bed, stream your favorite movies on the DVD player.
East Beach Ocean View ApartmentSanta Barbara, California, United StatesSuperhost
Accommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
great bed and the deck is a bonusHost:
great host and an enjoyable placei'd highly recommend lynda was an incredibly gracious hosteverything was as described and lynda was a very welcoming friendly and generous hostRead more reviewsLocation:
very good locationit is close to the beach & near a wonderful groceryit's a great location - right next to the sea and not far to downtowncozy little apartment in a great location less than 0
5. See new sights: seaside apartment (from 110 USD)
Built in 1912, this building was first used as the Santa Barbara Yacht Club, but then became a bed and breakfast venue. It now has more than 30 years of experience of serving customers. Here, you definitely know you are getting your money’s worth with hosts who know how to make their guests truly happy. And it is also one of the best beachside Santa Barbara vacation rentals. This apartment has a large variety of amenities. It has a fully stocked kitchen, kitchen equipment, a flat-screen television, and a gas fireplace. It is right next to the beach, which is within walking distance, and the rooms are tastefully decorated to reflect the seaside theme. There are other guest residences within the Yacht Club Inn, and you can meet other guests downstairs to talk about your travels and add some new stories to your memories.
This is a unique Airbnb experience where you get much more of a BnB feel. This was a refreshing change up on our road trip where we stayed in all private residences. The communal area downstairs ended up being a great meeting point where we got to know travelers from all over! We all ended up eating dinner together, sharing wine and sharing travel stories. Also very close to the beach which was a huge plus. Amanda
Canopy King w/ Balcony by Beach
Address: 431 Corona Del Mar, Santa Barbara, CA 93103, United States (see map)
Price: from 110 USD
Number of Guests: 2
6. Sweet suite: Rental with an outdoor gas grill (from USD 156)
Have sweet days at this suite that is equipped with a queen-sized bed to accommodate solo adventurers or couples. Enjoy a cup of hot coffee on the private patio or indulge in alfresco dining under the tree on the front lawn. For a memorable evening, light up the gas grill and relish an outdoor barbecue. Other amenities that you can enjoy include a gas stove, a refrigerator, and a blender.
Sweet Mesa Suite-2 blocks to beach!Santa Barbara, California, United StatesSuperhost
Accommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
you will have a beautiful fenced front yard with outdoor chairs and tablevery comfortable pleasant private patio and yardthe amenities especially in the kitchen were outstandingwe also worked remotely for a few days and the wifi was perfect and fastwe had to use the provided fan and leave some windows open to stay coolCleanliness:
the place was very clean and comfortableeverything works it is sparkling clean the yard well maintainedthe guest suite was spotless and was surrounded by a beautiful gardenvery clean close to the beacha little funky but light bright and super cleanHost:
host was friendly and helpfulthe host is very responsive and kindvery nice host with thoughtful touchesthe host was very helpful giving us hiking dining and beach infothe hosts are responsive and helpfulRead more reviewsLocation:
close to the funthe location is excellentthe location is amazinggreat location - very quietthe location is great
7. Step into another world: a yurt (from 209 USD)
There’s a hole in the roof, no Wi-Fi and it feels almost isolated. At most, you can only bring one other person. Sounds questionable, doesn’t it? But take a look inside and you’ll see why it’s so special … The yurt is a magnificent tent whose origins can be traced back to the nomadic people of Middle Asia. This yurt, which costs 209 USD a night, near the heart of Santa Barbara, is likewise a place for wandering souls to take some rest. The unique skylight on the top allows plenty of refreshing light to flood the place. Listen to the rain as it pitter patters on the yurt’s canvas. The structure of the tent creates a great surround sound system for you to play any music you wish. There is no Wi-Fi here, as the host states that this is where people can truly come to re-calibrate. After all, in a place so otherworldly and comforting, such as this, why would you want any?
Jennifer was an amazing host with an incredible space. I brought my wife up to Santa Barbara for a birthday weekend getaway and it was absolutely magical. Can’t thank her enough for providing such a wonderful experience. Karl
STUNNING EXCLUSIVE YURT ON 11 ACRES
Price: from 209 USD
Number of Guests: 2
8. Secluded sanctuary: Private studio with panoramic coastal views (from USD 207)
During your vacation in Santa Barbara, book a stay at this lovely private studio that offers an idyllic mountain getaway. There is a plush queen-size bed, a cozy seating area, a dining area, and a full bathroom in the studio. It also offers access to a hot tub, and a lovely courtyard with a barbecue and seating area from where you can enjoy panoramic coastal views. Several amazing wine-tasting rooms, restaurants and bars are within a short driving distance of the property.
Secluded Panoramic Coastal ViewSanta Barbara, California, United StatesSuperhost
Accommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we appreciated the complimentary breakfast and other amenitiesthe views are amazing and the guesthouse is very comfortablethe bed was so comfy and the amenities were amazing so thoughtfuldelightful hot tub just outside the apartment with an awe-inspiring viewthe bed was extremely comfortable and enhanced our stayCleanliness:
everything was spotless and comfortablevery clean and great facilities including superb outdoor areathe guesthouse was clean and the bed was very comfortablealso this place is sparkling cleanthe place was nicely decorated very clean and numerous amenitiesHost:
our hosts have made sure that everything is sparkling and readytony was a great host providing quick response to all of our questionsthe hosts are great; accommodating and responsivetony and bev are great hoststony was a kind and friendly host as wellRead more reviewsLocation:
this is a terrific locationas always a perfect getaway in a most beautiful locationthe location is super convenient for all the sight seeing locationsbeautiful peaceful location in the mountains overlooking santa barbaraa short drive to town is easy but the property is quiet and relaxing
9. Quaint space: Rustic studio in a garden setting (from USD 65)
Offering a relaxing and peaceful vibe because of its garden setting, this rustic studio is perfect for two people who are looking for a hideaway. A refreshing bath under the shower can be enjoyed in the private bathroom. Keep connected with everyone in your hometown by taking advantage of the free wireless internet connection available. As a guest, you can also have access to an outdoor brick patio and free parking.
Private studio in garden settingSanta Barbara, California, United StatesSuperhost
Accommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
great wifi and amenities like the fridge etcwe loved the outside shower we had everything we needed except the coffee makercannabis was allowed on the patio which made us feel more comfortable in our environmentthe room itself was small and quaint but perfect for a quick tripthe bathroom is outside the room although it’s a bit small but it’s very comfortable to useCleanliness:
very clean and well maintainedvery clean and wellstockedtidy clean and safevery clean highly recommend itthe place was very clean and had everything we neededHost:
friendly and helpful hostshe was so friendly and very accommodatingthank you julia for being a great hosti absolutely loved julias home and her kind and warm welcomegreat atmosphere stylish interior and very nice hostsRead more reviewsLocation:
great location not far from downtownwe loved the location of her studiogreat value and locationcute little place in sbgreat location; minutes from museums botanical garden restaurants and shopping plazas
10. Be moved: mountain view apartment (from 149 USD)
Mountains: those towering mounds of stone make us feel small and human again. They fill us with awe and respect, and we travel great distances just to see them. But, how great would it be if we could wake up to the sight of one every day? One of the best mountain-view apartments in Santa Barbara, this Airbnb is meant for a family stay, and it accommodates up to 6 guests. From the bedrooms, you can see rolling shapes of the mountains out the window, and, because of the city’s unique structure, it is only a 5-minute car drive away from the beach. The host is happy to introduce some of the best hiking and trekking spots for you to appreciate more of the city’s natural beauty. The property is also within a few miles of State Street in downtown Santa Barbara. You get the best of the sun, shopping, and the soil in one apartment for the low price of 149 USD a night.
Beautiful location, amazing views, and plenty of opportunity for peace and quiet. Note that this is a multi-unit property with other tenants. The unit was new, clean, and well-maintained. Stefan’s friend, Marti, was communicative over text and allowed us to come a bit earlier than the check in time - which was great. Bahareh
Unbelievable Ocean view mountain retreat
Price: from 149 USD
Number of Guests: 6
Access: Car recommended
11. Clearly a dream: a glass house in nature (from 199 USD)
You know that mixed feeling of wanting to be surrounded by trees and nature, but also wanting to be indoors and feeling protected at the same time? If you’re looking for unique Santa Barbara house rentals, then this listing is perfect for you. A glass house, standing in the middle of the woods, is yours to stay in for 199 USD. It’s like something right out of a child’s imagination. The house was designed by two incredible architects from Berlin. The Birch Glass House comprises a birch wood framework and two solid one-way glass walls to give the feeling of being outside, while you remain cosily indoors and hidden from outside eyes. The compound also has a hammock for you to rest on. There are other similar houses nearby for other guests, but they are spaced apart enough for you to feel like you have enough privacy. The host also has 14 chickens that lay eggs daily, and she is willing to give her guests a few for their breakfast. Bask in the sounds and sights of nature from a new perspective.
My girlfriend and I wanted a night away from the city and the world so we figured a dreamy glass house could fulfill such a desire. AND THIS PLACE WAS ABSOLUTELY HEAVEN. We had such a wonderful time and were blown away by the grounds and our perfect little glass cottage. Going to sleep amongst the trees and waking up to a perfect little nature right in front of us was so wonderful. William
Dreamy Glass Cottage in Nature Paradise
Price: from 199 USD
Number of Guests: 2
12. Just chill: glamping (from 82 USD)
You’re going to be on the ground, surrounded by trees, and in a tent. You’re also going to have to walk everywhere from here. But, this isn’t your regular, mosquito-bite-ridden camping ground. This is a cool glamping recommendation. For 82 USD a night, by yourself or with another soul-searching buddy, you’ll get access to a great homestay with the chillest vibes and a really convenient location. The spacious tent is meant for 5 people, but it is rented out for 2 guests only, so you’ll be sure of having plenty of room to move around. Be surrounded by the lush Santa Barbara greenery as you take photos with the fairy lights and candles. No need to worry about data use because this tent comes with Wi-Fi. It also has an indoor bathroom. No need to worry about transport either; there is free use of bikes, and many popular spots in Santa Barbara are accessible by foot from here, including the Santa Barbara Bowl. You might even fall asleep to the distant sounds of music and cheering from the large concert venue.
We had a very nice time staying here. There was a comfortable air bed in the tent. Being able to park in the driveway was very convenient. The location is great - we walked to brunch and shopping. Kate
Glamping! Downtown SB Oasis,FreeBikes, 5 Stars!
Address: 1705 San Marcos Pass Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93105 (see map)
Price: from 82 USD
Number of Guests: 2
13. Island loft: Light and airy guest suite with free bikes (from USD 144)
Situated adjacent to the downtown area, this light and airy guest suite is your perfect getaway to enjoy the American Riviera. Featuring a single bed and a queen-sized bed, this guest suite can sleep two people. All the kitchen appliances and dishes have been provided so you can make a delectable meal for everyone. You have your own private deck to indulge in a glass of wine in the evening. Bikes can be used for free to explore the nearby neighborhood.
Island Loft/Walk Downtown/Bikes AvailableSanta Barbara, California, United StatesSuperhost
Accommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
no air conditioning but was pretty comfortable withou itwith the oil heater and the ceiling fan the room was kept warmno a/c but the 2 fans kept us comfortable in julyspace heaters provided and definitely did the job of keeping us warmloved the tile in the bathroomCleanliness:
very clean and comfortablethe space was clean and quietsuper clean and spacious for a couplewe really appreciated how clean the place was toothe rooms were very clean and well equippedHost:
naomi and john were fantastic hosts answering to our questions and providing great recommendationsgreat spot and great hostsgreat host great spot 5/5super friendly hosts who provided some great recommendations for things to do and places to eatnaomi was very responsive and provided all the info neededRead more reviewsLocation:
awesome location a short walk from downtown in a quiet neighborhoodsuper cute great location renovated and safeeasy walking distance to so many thingsthe location is excellent and very prettysuper cute / clean / close to everything
14. Crisp casa: One-bedroom apartment with WiFi
Featuring clean white walls in its exteriors and interiors, this apartment is surrounded by beautifully colored flowers and can comfortably sleep two guests. It is situated in the center of Santa Barbara, just a short walk away from the bustling State Street. During your stay, you can enjoy access to laundry facilities as well as a Smart TV with streaming services to keep you entertained. Free high-speed WiFi is available on the premises for updating your socials.
Casa Castillo Unit #1-Santa Barbara Boutique Suite-Walk to State Street!Santa Barbara, California, United StatesSuperhost
Accommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
super comfy bed and nice amenitiesthe bed was incredibly comfortablemore like a hotel room with a kitchenette than an aptCleanliness:
clean and newly remodeledeverything was clean and moderneverything was clean and communication was efficientsuper clean with a huge bedvery modern clean and safeRead more reviewsLocation:
location is great also centrally locatedgreat location a short walk to downtownsuper cute room and an amazing locationgreat location and beautiful placethis was cute little stay in a great location
15. Quality touches: Downtown bungalow with Brazilian hardwood floors
Enjoy an unforgettable Santa Barbara stay at this downtown bungalow that is situated not far from the beach. Featuring two bedrooms and two bathrooms, the bungalow is excellent for a maximum of four travelers. You’re sure to appreciate the quality finishes in this house, including sparkling Brazilian hardwood floors.There are five outdoor patios that await your presence when you want to watch the spectacular sunsets.
Just Listed - Luxury Near Downtown PenthouseSanta Barbara, California, United StatesTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
beautiful apartment with multiple balconies offering gorgeous viewsCleanliness:
the place was spotless and nicely furnishedcozy and elegant penthouse spacious clean in a quiet zonethe beds were super comfortable and bathrooms were very clean and nicethe place is roomy nicely appointed and super cleanRead more reviewsLocation:
it is very beautiful and located in a very safe and friendly neighborhood with walking distance to downtownvery nice and clean apartment in a good location and within walking distance to downtown attractions
16. Beach getaway: Bright studio with a wooden deck
Unwind and recharge at this bright studio if you are traveling all by yourself or with one travel companion. Fall asleep quickly on either a queen-sized bed or a double bed and wake up feeling so fresh. Then, you can go to the kitchenette to make your morning tea or coffee before preparing a delicious breakfast. The wooden deck is all yours at any time you want to absorb the tranquil atmosphere of the surroundings.
Santa Barbara Mesa ~ Cute Beach Getaway!Santa Barbara, California, United StatesAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
claudia and paul space was so cute quaint and cozyCleanliness:
the place itself was clean and comfyspace was clean and had everything we neededthe space was clean and the location is amazingquaint and private clean and comfortable relaxing and refreshingclaudia and paul's space is clean thoughtfully decorated great location and with a lovely private patioHost:
claudia was an amazing hostthe hosts were very kindour hosts were pleasant and helpfulthe hosts were lovely and warm and gave us recommendationsnice place and the hosts were greatRead more reviewsLocation:
cute little place in an amazing locationit is an ideal of a getaway locationcute place great location right next to the beach abs close to downtownnice place and great locationthe location is amazing and super close to the beach
17. Coastal charm: Suite with a lovely courtyard
Welcome to this coastal suite and enjoy a great stay throughout. Nestled within a short stroll to the beach, this suite is ideal for solo travelers and those looking for romantic excursions. An enchanting courtyard is perhaps the best feature of the suite. It offers you an opportunity to reconnect with nature every now and then. Go straight to the kitchenette whenever you feel like cooking a homemade meal. For your entertainment, turn on the television that is equipped with a firestick to access Netflix, HBO, and more.
Charming Private Coastal Suite-Steps to the BeachSanta Barbara, California, United StatesSuperhost
Accommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
it was really comfortable and just so homey with the amenities that rich providesfire place/heater was a success me and my wife will definitely visit againnice welcoming touches and additions make up for no sink in kitchen areathoughtful touches in the room very welcomingCleanliness:
clean and comfortablethe place was very clean and cuteit felt very comfortable clean and privatealso the house is extremely prepared and cleanthe photos show a nice clean area to relax inHost:
the host is lovelyrich is friendly and quick with responses to any questions we hadrich as a host is amazing he’s quick to reply to questionsrich is a great hostthank you for hosting usRead more reviewsLocation:
location was greatjust a great locationgreat location for a holiday retreatthe location of this place is fantasticsuch a wonderful anniversary trip the location was unbelievable
18. Quiet escape: Serene apartment with a private terrace
Have a serene stay at this apartment that is set not far from Santa Barbara Mission. You can find a bedroom and a bathroom that are perfect for two travelers. The spacious terrace is inviting enough to be a relaxation spot during the day. All you have to do is make a cup of hot chocolate and grab your favorite book to read.
The Mission Lounge- Quiet GetawaySanta Barbara, California, United StatesSuperhost
Accommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
second it would be nice if there was a tv somewhere in the unitthe bathroom was newly renovated with a beautiful shower and sinka lovely apartment in a serene settingthe bathroom was modern and the water pressure was perfectCleanliness:
very clean as wellclean and beautifully designedthe spot was clean and well-decoratedi also appreciated the cleanliness of the spacemonica's place was clean and cozyHost:
the host was very helpful and answered our questions promptlythe host was helpful and responsive and provided thoughtful touchesmonica is super helpfulmonica had amazing suggestions and was extremely responsivemonica is extremely accommodating and definitely is an amazing hostRead more reviewsLocation:
cute place in a safe and quiet neighborhoodthe location is a pretty short drive to all the restaurants the public market etcwonderful place amazing location and such a great atmospherelove monica’s place beautiful neighborhood and close to everythingi also enjoyed how close it was to the restaurants in santa barbara (only a 10 minute drive)
Santa Barbara: a city to wind down in
Maybe it’s the romantic Spanish-inspired buildings, maybe it’s the incredible breathtaking location, but something about Santa Barbara just makes you want to slow down and take in everything around you. And whether you’re looking for cozy yurts or Santa Barbara beach house rentals, Airbnb has plenty of options for you. These Airbnb accommodations may just be what you need to get started in discovering this beautiful Californian city.
Frequently asked questions about Airbnbs in Santa Barbara, California
1. Which are the best pet-friendly Airbnbs in Santa Barbara?
Very few Airbnbs in Santa Barbara are pet-friendly. If you are visiting Santa Barbara with your furry friend, then consider staying at this stunning exclusive yurt or this glass house in nature.
2. Which are the best cheap Airbnbs in Santa Barbara?
Many cheap Airbnbs are located in Santa Barbara. For the best and cheapest options, book a stay at one of these Airbnbs: i) cool glamping accommodation ii) seaside apartment iii) mountain view apartment.
3. Which Airbnb in Santa Barbara is good for families?
Not many Airbnbs in Santa Barbara are good for families. If you are traveling with children or extended family to Santa Barbara, your best Airbnb option would be this mountain view apartment.
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