11 Best Ranches In And Near Santa Barbara, California - Updated 2023

Victor
Victor 
Updated

California is blessed with a variety of ranches, where travelers can find safe and convenient accommodation, allowing a well-deserved break from the usual hotels and Airbnb rentals. Accommodation in the ranches is a great way to forget about the usual beaches and crowds present in some of the state’s big cities. They exude a sense of peace and calmness that will be appreciated by most, if not all travelers. The farm animals in the rural setup, the nicely designed cabins, the rocking chairs, and the hot cups of coffee, all make a good case for you to consider trying out the ranches during your next trip to Santa Barbara. Scroll below for the best ranches in and near Santa Barbara, California.

1. Lovely farm cottage with a kitchen

This ranch rests in the rustic countryside of Santa Barbara. It is surrounded by diverse flora and fauna. Guests can spend a tranquil time amidst oaks, olive trees, sycamores, and redwoods in the backdrop of the majestic Santa Rita Hills. The working farm is home to domesticated pigs, cows, and roosters. Guests can spend a fun time feeding these farm animals.

Back in the Airbnb, guests can watch television to unwind before drifting off to a peaceful slumber on the cozy beds. An indoor fireplace keeps the place snug on a drizzly afternoon when you can curl up by the comforting embers with a book and tea. A well-equipped kitchen lets you fix meals for the family.

The area abounds with ample opportunities for shopping, dining, wine tasting, and biking in Los Alamos, Santa Ynez, Los Olivos, and Solvang making sure there’s never a dull moment.

Three Dreamers Farm Stay Cottage
Buellton, California, United States
54 reviews Superhost  Wifi Available
Entire cottage 4 Beds 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
definitely wouldn’t recommend putting adults in the loft bc the mattresses were not comfortable
space is very cozy and comfortable with thoughtfully designed details
we slept soundly in very comfortable beds
Cleanliness:
very clean and comfortable and well equipped
the house was very clean and cozy
the place was very clean and everything was very nice
house is super clean and beautiful
very clean and well stocked with all the necessities beautiful scenery and extremely peaceful
Host:
owners are so nice
pam was a wonderful and very communicative host
pam was a great host responsive and helpful
thank you pam for hosting us
the property is beautiful and the hosts have thought of every detail for the guests
Location:
great location and relaxing place to unwind
the location was perfect — in the country but close enough to town if we needed anything
wonderful home very comfortable great location for relaxing and for beautiful bike rides
beautiful spot in buellton with an excellent location close to solvang los olivos and all the nearby wineries
the location was convenient and the farm animals next door were a delight
Read more reviews

2. A glamorous ranch by the beach (from USD 542)

This is a two-bedroom home located in a multi-unit ranch within the Hope Ranch Annex area. The area is peaceful and very secure, complete with a private entrance. The ranch comes equipped with all you need for a decent farm stay experience. It features spacious living rooms, a dining area, a farmhouse kitchen, and a private backyard with a pool. The home also comes with a beautiful front yard, where you will occasionally encounter some of the farm animals just roaming about. If you will choose to, you could get involved in feeding and tending to some of the farm animals during your stay.

Glamorous RANCH at the BEACH
Santa Barbara, California, United States
28 reviews  Wifi Available
Farm stay 5 Beds 8 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 8

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
our two boys loved spending time in the yard with all the animals and swimming in the pool
Host:
monique was hospitable and friendly
a truly stylish home with an amazing attentive host in a very central location
Location:
such a lovely place
Read more reviews

Nearby ranches

3. Beautiful ranch house by the creek

With the city of Ojai only a 25-minute drive from here, this Airbnb ranch clearly enjoys a superb location. Guests can get a taste of living amidst the forestlands in a secluded area while they are here.

This classic home was built in 1875 and is a well-furbished Airbnb now. Nestled along the harboring banks of a creek and two spring-fed ponds, it offers magical views of the lush landscape. Wooden boats are furnished so you can have an adventurous day of kayaking, canoeing, and rowing. A day of fishing can also be enjoyed while trying to reel in catches of catfish and bluegill.

Guests can enjoy bonfire evenings around the fire pit outdoors while roasting meat for dinner on the griller. Pets are welcome here, which means that you can bring your furry friend along on the trip who can, in turn, play with the farm animals.

The Ojai Cowboy Cabin at Rancho Grande
Ojai, California, United States
139 reviews Superhost  Wifi Available
Farm stay 2 Beds 5 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 5

Top guest reviews
Host:
the host is amazing
wonderful hosts and an unforgettable experience
farm animals and dogs were friendly
the hosts are friendly generous and so kind
the kids loved the horseback riding and our hosts took care of our every need
Location:
it’s a great place to create memories and to kick back and slow down
great place for relaxation and adventure
got a tour of the place and what a beautiful place it is
Read more reviews

4. Charming farmhouse in Santa Ynez

This charming farmhouse in Santa Ynez sits on 4 acres (1.6 ha) is a space that you will gladly share with a variety of farm animals, including geese, tortoise, horses, chickens, cats, goats, and dogs. The furnishing inside the farmhouse is simple, but it has everything you may need for a comfortable stay. There’s a spacious seating area and a small dining section just adjacent to the fully equipped kitchen, with all you need to prepare a meal. You will also have a king-size bed as well as a full bath with a shower and tub for your grooming needs. With animals on the farm, you will have a lot to see and do if you want to get your hands dirty with some of the farm work, or you might as well stay indoors and watch some movies on the large flat-screen TV in the living room.

Charming Santa Ynez Farmhouse
Santa Ynez, California, United States
328 reviews Superhost  Wifi Available
Farm stay 2 Beds 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we loved sleeping in the little bed loft area
the cottage is so comfortable and quiet and the area so gorgeous
her hospitality was exceptional and the amenities were so comfortable
it has a comfortable bed clean full bathroom it’s own patio and great kitchen
Cleanliness:
very clean and comfortable
the place is very clean and tidy
everything was clean as can be the shower was so much better than mine at home
the space was adorable clean and so unique
the place itself was very clean and kris did a great job of communicating
Host:
communications was excellent with the hosts who are very friendly
kristine and francisco are amazing hosts
kristine is a great host; very kind and thoughtful
she is an incredible host and very sweet person
plus kristine is a great host
Location:
the location was great
there's a cute market really close by
the location was ideal located just minutes away from los olivos and steps away from great wineries
it’s the perfect location for wine tasting
perfect location we will be back
Read more reviews

5. Historic horse ranch with breathtaking views

The Ballard Hill Ranch Los Olivos is a historical ranch sitting on a 20-acre (8.09ha) piece of land overlooking the stunningly beautiful Santa Ynez wine valley. The accommodation here features two large bedrooms, each fitted with a carl king-size bed. There is a spacious living room with floor-to-ceiling windows that allows plenty of natural light, as well as giving you the pleasure to marvel at the beautiful outdoors without stepping a foot outside the door. You also get to have a fully equipped kitchen for your meal preparation needs. You will definitely find lots of things to do and see within the ranch, but if you would love to explore around, notable activities and attractions include bike riding, horse riding, hot air balloon rides, and a plenty of wineries in the region.

Ballard Hill Ranch Los Olivos wine country horses
Los Olivos, California, United States
208 reviews  Wifi Available
Farm stay 4 Beds 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
beautiful views comfortable beds plenty of sleeping space for a family
the furniture is comfortable and the large windows provide great views and light
wonderful kitchen amenities and 2 spacious rooms
you will love the views and the comfortable accommodations
even when the temperature outside reached close to 90 degrees the deck was comfortable and shaded
Cleanliness:
the house is clean and had everything needed
amazing place very clean and good location
bedrooms were clean and comfortable and the kitchen was well equipped with all i needed
clean comfortable and a great view
Host:
the host: communicable friendly knowledgeable
angela was a great host
they were very helpful and friendly
angela was a responsive and lovely host
great spot and angela is a wonderful host
Location:
the location is peaceful and private
beautiful location in wilderness to get away from it all- very comfortable home
this place is absolutely amazing and the location was unbeatable
its close to town very casual/comfortable and relaxing
great location and great view very secluded yet close to town
Read more reviews

6. Comfortable ranch house with beautiful views of Santa Ynez Mountains

The accommodation in this ranch is offered in a three-bedroom house, complete with two full bathrooms and a large kitchen. The house has a gorgeous deck from where you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Santa Ynez Mountains and the beautiful vineyards in the valley. Though an old ranch house, the property has been completely remodeled and is now very comfortable to take care of the ranch accommodation needs of families as well as solo travelers.

Ballard Hill Ranch, Los Olivos farm style living
Los Olivos, California, United States
76 reviews  Wifi Available
Farm stay 4 Beds 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
the place was comfortable clean and had everything we needed
Host:
angela was friendly and very good at communicating with me before our arrival
angela was super nice inviting and helpful
Location:
super close to everything
this is a great location in los olivos close to wineries
if you're in town for wine tasting it's a great location
clean and roomy place and close proximity to the wineries in the area
if you're okay with all of that then this place was pretty good
Read more reviews

7. Rustic cottage at historic Willow Creek Ranch

This rustic one-bedroom cottage sits pretty at the historic Willow Creek ranch. It is surrounded by over 160 acres (64.7ha) of mountains, trails, wildlife, and trees. The spacious cottage is fully furnished, with luxury touches like pure flax sheets, a pool in the back area, french doors, Nespresso machine, and more. You won’t have many reasons to leave the ranch, but if you choose to explore around, there are plenty of things to see and do in the area, including sport fishing, whale watching, golfing, and kayaking.

Country Cottage Retreat On Private Ranch
Santa Paula, California, United States
48 reviews Superhost  Wifi Available
Farm stay 2 Beds 8 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 8

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the cottage is absolutely charming and authentic overlooking a huge pool
the whole pool area is surrounded with willow trees and palms that create the perfect holiday feeling
the pool area is fantastic
Cleanliness:
the pool had a perfect temperature and was very clean and well equipped
Host:
the hosts were very welcoming and attentive without being intrusive
marianne and vito are wonderful hosts who make themselves available while also remaining unobtrusive
marianne and vito are fantastic hosts the property is beautiful and the surrounding canyon absolutely stunning
we can say enough good things about our stay and our hosts
marianne and vito are incredibly kind and the place had so many great touches
Location:
close to ojai santa paula and ventura but hidden away in a beautiful canyon
Read more reviews

8. Peaceful and tranquil cabin with breathtaking views

This is a peaceful and tranquil cabin sitting on a 20-acre (8.09ha) of land, with charming hills and breathtaking views. It features a large studio with a living area, a private bath, a loft, and an open porch. There are chickens and a few heifers on the ranch. With so much space to roam around, you may get the feeling that you are hundreds of miles away from civilization, but if you explore the neighboring regions, you will find some of the best wineries in Santa Barbara County.

Experience Life At Its Best In Wine Country
Solvang, California, United States
300 reviews Superhost  Wifi Available
Farm stay 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the amenities which include a king bed and sofa were comfortable
(but great wifi if you don't want to be too out of touch
the cottage is cozy and comfortable
the bed was incredibly comfortable
the cottage is perfect for a couple it has one king size bed (very comfortable)
Cleanliness:
big clean fluffy towels
the property is beautiful the cabin is clean and cozy
the guest house was charming clean and private
the place was also very clean
the house was very clean and spacious and the bed was comfortable
Host:
marcia was a wonderful gracious host
the hosts were very gracious and helpful
the hosts are wonderful and went above and beyond to make us feel welcome
our hosts were welcoming and introduced us to the farm animals
hosts were extremely friendly and happy to assist with any requests or needs
Location:
rene's location is perfect for the area
the location is perfect for wine tasting in the area
the location is convenient to many wineries and a short drive to solvang to enjoy restaurants shopping
in the heart of wine country so an excellent location
also so close to everything yet far enough out to feel truly secluded
Read more reviews

9. Private studio in Santa Ynez Valley (from USD 224)

Spend your days and nights in this charming farm retreat located just a few miles from downtown Los Olivos. The location is on top of a hill, guaranteeing you not only a bird’s-eye view of the Santa Ynez Valley, but also incredible privacy as well as great proximity to downtown, wine tasting, and shopping spots. The farm has a myriad of animals that you will enjoy interacting with and taking care of.

Westbrooks Farm Private Studio- Los Olivos Area
46 reviews  Wifi Available
House 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
even the pullout couch is super comfortable with the extra mattress topper provided
a tranquil country escape with expansive beautiful views and spacious clean comfortable accommodations
Cleanliness:
beautiful cottage was very clean and nicely decorated
cute clean spacious one bedroom that fulfilled our every wish
the cottage is clean spacious and has all you need to feel at home
the property was really nice clean private and super close to everything
Host:
the owners were available and responsive to our questions
the owners were very available and helpful
the hosts were wonderful and very responsive
property owners were an absolute pleasure to communicate with
leanna was super responsive and amazing
Location:
great property super close to everything
peaceful and close to everything you want to do in the area
Read more reviews

10. Gorgeous farm retreat in a quiet village (from USD 354)

The Anavo Farm retreat sits gently in the village of Ballard, right in the heart of Santa Ynez wine country. It is just a few minutes away from Los Olivos, and is also in close proximity to most of the attractions and amenities that the valley has to offer. Since it is a working farm, you will enjoy not only the gorgeous rural setup, but also you will find bleating of sheep, neighing of horses, and the rooster crows.

Anavo Farm's Chic Sheep Retreat
30 reviews  Wifi Available
House 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the kitchen was stocked with drinks and snacks which was an amazing treat
we appreciated the stocked kitchen and bathroom
Cleanliness:
very quaint clean well stocked cottage
this was exactly as described very quiet clean and modern
Host:
jen was the perfect host
her animals were so friendly and enjoyable too wake up too
Location:
great location and quiet neighborhood
it was like walking into a pottery barn page in a magazine
Read more reviews

11. A micro-farm in the heart of Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country

This is a relatively small farm, but with all the charms you would wish to find in a typical working ranch. The accommodation features a three-bedroom house, with a spacious and decently furnished living room, a separate dining area, and a fully equipped kitchen. Since it is a working farm with lots of animals to tend to and a lot of farming going on, you’ll find plenty of activities to indulge in here. You also have the option of taking a bike ride down the numerous wine trails or touring the historical sites and museums within the region.

Los Olivos Micro Farm in the Heart of the Santa Ynez Valley wine country
72 reviews
House 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
there is a lovely patio with chairs table fire pit bbq etc
very nice home with all the amenities for a comfortable stay
Cleanliness:
sheets and towels were clean and nice quality
the house is very clean and nicely decorated
the beds were very comfortable all linens and towels were fresh and clean and the home was spotless
the home is clean and comfortable
everything was clean and the kitchen had more than you would ever need
Host:
april was very accommodating and went above and beyond to assure a good time
Location:
the location is perfect
the walk to town is easy as it is practically right around the corner
located close to the center of los olivos it is well-appointed and comfortable
the micro farm was a perfect place for our family weekend
we also spent one day walking a few blocks to downtown los olivos and found it very charming
Read more reviews

Enjoy farm life in Santa Barbara

If you’re looking for a change of scenery and experience, we’d recommend staying in one of Santa Barbara’s ranches and cottages for rent. All of them offer necessary modern comforts in a pristine natural setting while you can enjoy plenty of fun things to do. So, dust off your boots and get ready to experience farm life in Santa Barbara.

Frequently asked questions about ranches in and near Santa Barbara, California

1. Which ranches in and near Santa Barbara have a pool?

If you are looking forward to spending a great vacation in a ranch with a swimming pool which is located in or near Santa Barbara, a good option to consider booking is this rustic cottage at historic Willow Creek Ranch.

2. Which ranches in and near Santa Barbara have parking?

Most of the ranches in and near Santa Barbara provide guest car parking facilities on the premises. You can check out some of the best ones such as this Lovely studio apartment in Buellton or this beautiful ranch house by the creek.

Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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