Located right on the central California coast, Santa Barbara is a charming city with a picturesque setting. It features majestic views of the Santa Ynez Mountains and postcard-worthy beaches. Mediterranean-inspired homes dot the city, resonating with its Spanish colonial heritage. Swing by the Spanish Old Mission Santa Barbara 1786, and admire the beauty of its architecture and dreamy rose gardens. For dining opportunities with a view, the vibrant Stearns Wharf is the place to go, especially since it is packed with restaurants and shops. Don’t forget to breeze through the upscale State Street Promenade, where you can find high-end boutiques. Planning to spare no expense on your holiday in Santa Barbara? Browse through this list of top luxury rentals in Santa Barbara, California.
What to look forward to:
- If you'd like to watch majestic whales, dolphins, and porpoises glide through the water, head to Santa Barbara Channel Whale Heritage Area, which is one of the only two of its kind in the country. The best time to visit the channel is between May and September.
- For a taste of the city's vibrant nightlife, there's no better place than The Red Piano, which features live music and handcrafted cocktails for an unforgettable experience.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) host status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to luxury services and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 26, 2025.
1. Vista del Mar
Found stark in the affluent neighborhood of Eucalyptus Hill, this beautiful ranch-style mansion boasts sweeping views of the downtown area and the beach. You may admire the view from the comfort of your porch as you relish your breakfast under the nourishing sun.
You may even enjoy the vista from the main room with sliding glass doors, which boasts an open floor plan with a chef-inspired kitchen and a dining space. Other niceties include a games room, a built-in bar, and a gym.
Santa Barbara, California, United States
2. Blue Water Vista
This impeccable home is a charming space for those traveling in large groups or with extended family. Situated on a quiet corner in the friendly neighborhood of Mesa, this house offers a light-filled space with ocean views. It features brilliant living areas with high ceilings, exuding the perfect vacation vibe accentuated even more by the large glass windows.
Feel free to lounge on the plush sectional couch for a binge-worthy session on the flat-screen TV. Or, better yet, nestle up by the fireplace with a good read. Also available is a spacious kitchen that makes the perfect spot to prepare your favorite meals.
Santa Barbara, California, United States
Top guest reviews
Location:
great location and a lovely bright homethis house is well decorated wonderfully maintained and in a fantastic location for walks to the park or beachgreat location and lots of spacenice house within 7 minutes walking distance to park on oceanwe loved soaking in the hot tub and also being able to walk to the beachCleanliness:
the bedrooms are all comfortable and well appointed with fun art on the walls and clean comfortable bedsRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the beds are comfortable the kitchen is well stocked and the view is spectacular
3. Four-level dwelling with a roof deck (from USD 3017)
If you still haven’t found your ideal accommodation in Santa Barbara, this family-friendly villa might be the one for you. It’s a luxurious four-level accommodation with a hint of old-world vibe, highlighted by its architecture that will remind you of old buildings. Its master bedroom features a large walk-in shower and a deep jetted tub.
You won’t have to worry about accessibility - there’s an elevator for easy navigation. Its main attraction is the roof deck, which comes with patio furniture, perfect for unwinding and catching scenic views. The property’s proximity to the beach is a bonus.
Santa Barbara, California, United StatesSuperhost
Accommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Host:
tatiana and her husband were great hostswonderful place and wonderful host my family couldn’t have a better timetatiana was professional and responsiveLocation:
great place in a great locationbeautiful place great location highly recommendgreat location beautiful spacious and immaculate houseterrific location - very close to quiet beach and bike path as well as state streettatiana’s place is in an amazing locationCleanliness:
clean spacious great for familiestatiana has done an exceptional job of creating comfort and keeps the place spotlessbest airbnb experience yet the home was amazing- sparkling clean stylish and great applianceshome was clean and well stocked in kitchen all good thanks davidthis home is absolutely perfect everything was sparkling clean and well thought outRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the bed was extremely comfortable and the rooftop deck is incrediblespacious and comfortable with a fantastic open air seating area with a fireplacethe rooftop has gorgeous views and the rooftop fireplace is cozy and dreamy
4. Andromeda (from USD 596)
Nothing can surpass this futuristic Smart house called Andromeda in terms of uniqueness. This first-class vacation home is in the city center, making it easy to explore the area.
All three bedrooms feature voice control functions for their amenities, including the motorized window shade, the television with sound system, and air-conditioning. Its bathrooms’ interior features real marble, containing a dual spa shower with temperature controls. One of the bathrooms has a Smart bidet toilet with a heated seat. The best part? Every spot in the house is Instagram-worthy.
Santa Barbara, California, United StatesAccommodates: 7
Top guest reviews
Host:
host is nice and helpfulthe host was helpful kind and always answers your questions very fastevan was a nice hostevan is such a great hostawesome host and a beautiful futuristic homeLocation:
great location for our staygreat location and value would stay againstate street is super close for night lifethis place is great you’re a 10 minute drive from the beach this is a prime locationthe neighborhood is quiet and looks & feels safeCleanliness:
very clean and everything met our expectationsthis was a very clean and nice stay in santa barbaraevan’s place was very clean and one of a kindeverything was clean and the smart features were coolevan’s place was immaculate and communication was clearRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
great room and great amenitieslots of amenities comfy bed nice tv and awesome upstairs shower would definitely stay againevan has a really comfortable place with easy to use amenitiesthe bed was super comfortable and quieteverything is made to make your stay more comfortable automatic lights filtered water (hidden by airbnb) automated system
5. Modern beach home with fire table (from USD 832)
With an idyllic location close to Leadbetter Beach and the downtown area, this modern beach home in Santa Barbara guarantees a convenient stay. It’s a newly refurbished accommodation with a boutique hotel-inspired motif. Inside, you’ll find a gourmet kitchen, a wide-framed television in a bright living room, and three well-appointed bedrooms.
Once you step outside, a private and spacious backyard will greet you. There, you’ll find a six-person hot tub, a Weber grill, and a fire table for an outdoor picnic. Bikes are also available for your use.
Santa Barbara, California, United StatesAccommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Host:
brent was an amazing hostgreat host gotta stay againin addition brent is a wonderful host and easy to communicate withbrent was a great host communicative helpful fast responsebrent has been an amazing hostLocation:
amazing location that is close to town and walking distance to the beachthe location is fantasticwe loved the location and neighborhoodcute neighborhood to walk around ingreat location and stylish spaceCleanliness:
clean and maintained kitchen outfitted with cookware dishes and anything else you may needvery clean and and nice amenitieseverything is really well maintained clean and on the newer sidegreat place to stay the house is super close to the beach it was clean and comfortableRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
tv area super comfy… good setup to chillwe loved the cozy feeling in the backyard and enjoyed the hot tub & firepitcozy stylish hospitable and comfortable space with plenty of amenitiescomfortable beds beautiful yard and plenty of small touches to make your stay special
6. Seaside home with a jetted tub
While staying in this well-curated house, you can enjoy quick access to the beach, which is only within walking distance from the property. Plenty of restaurants and nightspots are a stone’s throw from this vacation rental, as well. On days you prefer to stay in, you can unleash some culinary prowess in the Instagram-worthy kitchen, which comes with stunning countertops, rustic storage spaces, and stainless steel appliances. If cookouts delight you, this accommodation’s on-site barbecue facilities will surely excite you.
At the end of the day, you can relax in the bathroom, which features a jetted tub.
Santa Barbara, California, United States
7. Villa Riviera
There is a lot to love about this upscale Airbnb vacation rental, starting with its spectacular ocean scenery and tranquil surroundings. Its stunning interior design is worth appreciating, as well. Bright walls, plenty of rustic details, and chic home decors await you.
Offering four cozy bedrooms, this haven lets you invite seven of your loved ones for a relaxing weekend getaway. Cozy up by the fireplace in the living room or enjoy the fresh air and majestic city views from the balconies. The house also has an outdoor hot tub, allowing you to enjoy a soak under the sky.
Santa Barbara, California, United States
8. Happy Place
This fantastic home near the beach offers a fascinating space for those traveling in large groups. Covering up to 2,400 square feet (223 square meters), it showcases well-appointed interiors with all the comforts of a modern home. It boasts an open floor plan with a fully equipped kitchen, a furnished dining room, and a cozy living room.
The main highlight of this vacation rental is the furnished patio that overlooks the hot tub and the pool, the ultimate spot to kick back and unwind. Guests will also love the outdoor shower and firepit.
Santa Barbara, California, United States
Top guest reviews
Location:
perfect location to downtown santa barbara very posh homeclose to everything worked great for our family of 8 in the area for a weddingthis is a wonderful place to get away from it allthe property was in a great location near the town of santa barbarathe property was great and a fun place to celebrate my father's 90th birthdayCleanliness:
a well-appointed and very clean custom-designed propertythe decor in the house is a bit odd - but the house is clean well-appointed and comfortableRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the outdoor space was especially comfortableadults enjoyed the well-stocked kitchen and cozy library; the kids enjoyed the pool and jacuzzitankless water heaters custom grohe plumbing fixtures sweet pool and hot tub very private settingthe kitchen is the most well equipped of any rental we’ve stayed inthe kitchen was great the pool and spa jets were not working which was only issue
9. The Wing House
Surrounded by 1.5 acres (0.6 hectares) of serene gardens, this exquisite home is a delight to artistic souls. It’s painted in shades of white and comes decked with plenty of modern comforts for your convenience. It boasts a spacious family room with Spanish-style windows and original pieces of modern art. Much of its allure also comes from the double-sided fireplace, which adorns the main living space and TV room. Moreover, you’ll love the bright and airy Insta-worthy kitchen.
Santa Barbara, California, United States
10. Peaceful home with private pool (from USD 33529)
This brightly lit and spacious vacation rental lies in a peaceful community of nine homes. It’s a single-story house with an attached guest apartment. The main home boasts all the amenities necessary for a delightful stay, including modern bedrooms with luxurious bedding for a rejuvenating rest. There’s also a fully equipped kitchen and a wrap-around patio with built-in heaters.
Santa Barbara, California, United StatesAccommodates: 10
11. Sophisticated retreat with million-dollar city views (from USD 17100)
Imagine waking up to views of dramatic cityscape from an excellent vantage point. This three-bedroom Airbnb in an elevated location in Upper Riviera can make that simple pleasure a reality. Soak up the scenery while dosing yourself with vitamin D from the balcony each morning. Thanks to expansive windows, you can fall in love with the view from most of the house, which is even more magical at night.
Three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a kitchen, and indoor and outdoor dining are laid out in this Airbnb. Thanks to WiFi access, you can show off million-dollar views on your socials as you wish.
Santa Barbara, California, United StatesAccommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Host:
hands down best host evershe was super responsive and accommodatinghost is wonderful responsive and helpfullisa was an amazing host and went above and beyond to be accommodatingowner is just a joy to communicate withLocation:
the location was beyond scenic and peacefulperfect location and quick drive to downtown beaches shopping hiking etcthe neighborhood is quiet with lovely walks right out the front doorclose enough to all of the santa barbara fun to pop into the action toobeautiful home in a wonderful location perfect for our wedding weekend i would definitely recommend 10/10 :)Cleanliness:
the house was sparkling clean and made for a comfortable and safe experiencethe house was very clean and the large windows brought in so much wonderful natural lightRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
absolutely incredible views tons of comfortable outdoor seating to experience the great weather and overlooking all of santa barbarathe pictures do not lie the layout is great - single level with views from every room
12. Bright and spacious Airbnb vacation rental (from USD 1367)
For travelers who love staying in places with so much charm, look no further. This vibrant and uniquely designed property is everything you’ll want and more. It features an open floor plan with high ceilings, making it look spacious and bright. Basic features, such as a kitchen, a living room, and bathrooms, are also available.
Aside from these, the property also boasts a lovely outdoor area, containing a large deck, barbecue grills, lounge seats, and a hot tub.
Santa Barbara, California, United StatesAccommodates: 8
Top guest reviews
Host:
friendly and caring hosteaston was such a fantastic hosteaston was a thoughtful and helpful hostthank you easton for hosting our familyeaston was such a thoughtful and accommodating hostLocation:
great location within walking distance to the beach and also really close to downtownlocation couldn’t be bettereasy walk to the beach easy drive downtown and to grocery stores and quiet neighborhoodthe house is located in a charming and quiet neighborhood a short walk to the beachthe neighborhood is safe peaceful and walkable with sidewalks to walk your doggiesCleanliness:
- modern clean spacious beautiful and full of everything we could needbeautiful and very clean rental very responsive hoststhe house was beautiful clean and had great amenitiesincredibly clean had everything we needed and 5 minutes from everythingvery clean and centrally locatedRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the wifi is excellentthe beds are comfortable and the linens are top qualitymost comfortable beds in the worldthere was plenty of room fir our family to spread out and we really enjoyed our time there
13. Elegant vacation home with a fabulous kitchen (from USD 9624)
Make your vacation in Santa Barbara something to look forward to by booking this elegant abode that comes with fascinating ocean views. This dwelling is the perfect mix of old-world meets modern. It has an open-plan living area that leads to a spacious terrace where you can enjoy watching sunsets. Its kitchen is as fabulous as the rest of the property, featuring stainless-steel appliances and complete dinnerware.
The master bedroom is stylish. You will find curtain-draped glass sliding doors that lead to a furnished balcony, a chandelier, and a king-sized bed. A whirlpool bath in the en-suite bathroom is also available. Two other bedrooms are available, too.
Santa Barbara, California, United StatesAccommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Host:
alei and rick were wonderful hostsalei is a great host and always respond to our questions quicklyalei was a very welcoming and kind host and made us feel like we were homealei and rick are great hosts and very responsive when we had questionsalei was a wonderful responsive hostLocation:
the location is nicely locateddefinitely recommend this location to othersquiet location which we enjoyed greatlypeacefully quiet place that is just the right distance from the hustle and bustle of downtowni highly recommend this location for a getaway in santa barbaraCleanliness:
clean comfy and stylishthe space was clean comfortable and nicely decoratedthe house is comfortable and very clean with amazing viewsit was spotless is beautifully decorated and had every amenity and convenienceRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
there is cable tv if needed but the view is better than the tvamazing view very cozy and stylish housefelt really relaxed with the amazing views the beds and sheets were super comfortablethe house is totally great with highest quality appliances bedding furniture hot tub robes etcthis home is comfortable and well appointed and has amazing views of santa barbara and the ocean
14. Mediterranean-style property with mountain views
Daydreaming of a blissful holiday in the beautiful Santa Barbara? What are you waiting for? Make it a reality by booking this luxurious two-bedroom vacation rental, which is adorned with lush plants. Its mountain scenery is just as pleasing to the eyes as its bright interiors, designed with hardwood flooring, granite countertops, and a lovely fireplace.
You can work your way around the kitchen and feast in the alfresco dining area on the upper floor balcony. With barbecue facilities at your disposal, you can plan a family cookout anytime you want.
Accommodates: 6
Minimum Nights: 3
Refund Policy :
Top guest reviews
Host:
property management is very responsivethe property manager was very responsive and happy to answer questions via text throughout our stayrating details: the property manager was very helpfulrating details: the property manager was very helpfulrating details: the property manager was very helpfulLocation:
the location is superbgreat location and beautiful housefun location easy to walk and bike around townloved the place and locationthe location was perfect as it is walking distance to downtown and the beachCleanliness:
very clean upon arrivalclean house well equippedproperty was clean and well furnishedvery clean and easy to get around lower state stclean spacious quiet and secureRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the hot water heater wasn't working when we arrived but the turnkey rep had it taken care of asaponly item of note for improvement would be the beds were rock hard - mattress upgrade recommendedthe house has plenty of room extremely clean well furnished and the amenities were first classplenty of room for two cars in the garage which is shared with an adjoining unitthe large kitchen with high-end appliances was a definite plus and the filtered water a pleasant surprise
15. Charming adobe rental with pool
Offering proximity to the beach and a heated outdoor pool on site, this 1921 adobe rental offers the best of both worlds. Since it has three bedrooms, a group of six friends or a medium-sized family will surely have a comfortable stay here. It also comes complete with two baths, a kitchen, and a sunny living room with a Smart TV. From the living room, you can head to the beautiful outdoor space.
While you will appreciate the indoors, its outdoor area is a great spot to hang out. There, you’ll find the pool, the spa, and plenty of lounge areas, including one with a fire pit.
Accommodates: 6
Minimum Nights: 0
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.
Top guest reviews
Read more reviewsLocation:
the location was perfect very close to the beachcharming home large private lot quiet & walkable neighborhood amazing location: close to shoreline park beach wharf …east mesa is a wonderful neighborhood with great restaurants parks and walking distance to the beach
5-star hotels in and near Santa Barbara
Though they aren’t vacation rentals, these 5-star hotels will ensure you feel the same grade of exclusivity and opulence during your stay, so check these options out!
16. Hotel Californian (from USD 826)
This 121-room Mediterranean-style hotel attracts locals, foreigners, and Hollywood’s elite to its offerings of Spanish colonial-themed rooms and gastronomical delights. Guests can indulge themselves with various cuisines from the five on-site restaurants each offering a unique dining experience. They can dine indoors or outdoors by the pool or in the Moroccan-themed courtyard.
Become the town celebrity by hosting an event at the hotel’s Alhambra Ballroom or Mirador Rooftop Deck. You can choose from several meeting rooms with exclusive patios on-site for formal meetings. Relax and rejuvenate from work and partying by diving into the outdoor rooftop pool or have a therapeutic massage at the Morrocan-themed Majorelle spa.
Hotel Californian
Address: 36 State Street
17. El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, Santa Barbara (from USD 965)
Varied dining experiences, with some slow service but exceptional food quality.
Luxurious and worth the cost, with some pricey add-ons.
Tucked into the Santa Barbara hills, offering stunning views and peaceful surroundings.
Beautiful infinity pool, e-bikes, and pet-friendly with thoughtful amenities.
El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, Santa Barbara is an iconic hotel restored to its 1920s grandeur. Its original Californian and Spanish structure with the addition of modern amenities such as the luxurious spa facilities and the infinity pool. The lush 7-ac (2.8-ha) garden is the perfect venue for outdoor weddings and corporate events. This glamorous hilltop hotel offers sweeping views of Pacific Ocean. It’s a low-key getaway for the Santa Barbara high-brow society. Tastefully decorated rooms, suites, and bungalows are offered to guests for luxurious stays.
Dine in style at the on-site restaurant with an ocean-facing terrace serving seasonal and locally sourced gourmet dishes. For casual dining and tea time with friends, you can hang out at The Lounge. You can also enjoy a drink or two with friends at The Bar.
El Encanto Santa Barbara This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 800 Alvarado Place
18. Rosewood Miramar Beach (from USD 1939)
Rosewood Miramar Beach garnered Forbes’ 5-star rating for its exclusive leisurely amenities and estate-style ambiance. For a two-night stay in their luxurious guest rooms and suites, you get the third night for free. The rooms and suites are exceptionally large and comfortable offering views of the garden or the ocean. Select rooms feature a furnished balcony while others have access to a garden patio or terrace.
There are several luxurious bars and restaurants on-site offering a variety of handcrafted cocktails and international cuisine. Whether you are dining indoors or al fresco by the sea, you will enjoy a high-dollar atmosphere. To keep you fit and refreshed, take time to exercise at the fitness studio or swim laps in the two outdoor pools. Additionally, you can get a deep tissue massage at Sense Spa.
Rosewood Miramar Beach
Address: 1759 South Jameson Lane, Montecito
19. The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara (from USD 659)
Mixed dining experiences, with some overpriced and slow service, but delicious fresh food choices.
High-end pricing, with some room discrepancies and overpriced amenities.
Scenic oceanfront setting, though some noise and distance issues.
Beautiful location, spa services, pools, beach access, and free bike rentals.
This luxurious resort is spread over a 78-ac (31.5-ha) property overlooking Gaviota Coast. It offers gorgeous rooms and suites with furnished patios offering stunning views of the ocean or the garden. This hotel could be a food mecca with its wide menu of local, Latin and Japanese cuisine including steaks, pastries, and ice cream in a variety of dining settings. There’s also a cafe, two bars, and a wine-tasting room on the premises.
Start your wellness journey at the on-site spa that offers various face and body treatments. You can swim in the three on-site pools, spend time at the beach, play golf, and go biking or hiking on the property.
The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara
Address: 8301 Holllister Avenue
Have a luxurious stay in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara affords visitors the best things life has to offer. From waterfront dining to high-end boutiques, there is a lot in store for guests planning to explore this Californian city. Make your visit even more memorable by choosing any of the properties included in this list of top luxury rentals in Santa Barbara, California.
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