Come to Santa Barbara to experience coastal living, to have fun in the sun, and to see dolphins swimming along the Pacific’s stunning coastline. Enjoy “California Dreamin’” while sunbathing under date palms as talented surfers thrash powerful incoming waves. Visitors can admire downtown Santa Barbara’s Spanish-style buildings with red-tile roofs while scoping out its many museums. Besides checking out the aquarium, visitors should consider voyaging to the Channel Islands where they can paddle past playful seals. Check out our list for the top beach house rentals in Santa Barbara, California, to get the most out of your stay in California.
Beaches to visit:
- Avid surfers can head to Arroyo Burro Beach, which is located only 10 minutes from the city's downtown area, to catch a wave or two. Other water sports are also popular here, such as bodyboarding, fishing, stand-up paddleboarding, and swimming.
- If you're looking for a more relaxed vibe, Summerland Beach is the perfect choice. Not only is it ideal for days spent sunbathing and taking leisurely walks along the shore, but it also allows leashed dogs.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) host status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to beach. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 22, 2025.
1. Unique Miramar Beach boat house (from USD 1413)
Discover the chill southern California vibes while staying at this unique boat house on beautiful Miramar Beach. From the comfort of the living room’s sofa, guests can watch joyful dolphins splash about in the surf. There is a small kitchen that is suitable for storing the bare necessities during your stay. The shared rooftop balcony allows visitors to experience breathtaking views of the California coastline while barbecuing dinner. After dinner, retire to the captain’s quarters to fall asleep to the sound of waves breaking along the seashore.
Santa Barbara, California, United StatesSuperhost
Accommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Host:
the communication with sheri was prompt and helpful at all timesLocation:
super convenient location to freeway and downtown montecitoa small place but awesome locationRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
beautiful location tidy and quaint home with plenty of amenities for a comfortable stay
2. Exquisite Pacific Ocean boat house
Feel as if you’re sailing the Pacific Ocean each evening as you slumber to the sound of crashing waves. This one-of-a-kind beachfront home on picturesque Miramar Beach was custom-built to resemble a boat with its wood interior. Take time to delight in sail boats cruising by your living room window each morning as you eat breakfast. From the spacious patio, guests can enjoy refreshing sea breezes while relaxing from the day’s activities. There is a fully stocked kitchen as well as a barbecue where visitors can prepare delicious meals when not out and exploring sunny Santa Barbara.
Santa Barbara, California, United States
3. Classic California villa at the beach
Guests staying at this spacious beach villa with four bedrooms will be steps from Miramar Beach’s golden sand shoreline. Visitors can prepare meals in the galley kitchen before heading out to experience the Channel Islands’ scenic beauty. The villa’s three bathrooms should prevent morning line-ups from delaying daily coastal adventures. Each day, visitors can view talented surfers and dolphins playing in the surf from their beachfront patio. During your stay, you’ll be within driving distance to Santa Barbara’s art galleries, shopping promenade, and historic attractions.
Santa Barbara, California, United States
4. Lovely penthouse with a large terrace
Get that romantic getaway with this lovely penthouse located two blocks from the beach. This accommodation includes one bedroom with a queen-size bed, a full bathroom, and a beautiful garden. It has a cozy living area with TV and dining, surrounded by large windows that overlook the city. There is also a fully equipped kitchen with granite countertops where you can make home-cooked meals.
From the kitchen, you can access the large terrace with comfy seating areas and a gas grill. The space outdoors offers a romantic vibe for dates, especially the rose-covered pergola where you can enjoy coffee or tea together.
Santa Barbara, California, United States
5. Bright vacation rental with a courtyard
This bright and airy vacation rental is less than 500 steps away from the beach. It houses two bedrooms and can sleep four people comfortably. Ideally built to offer you convenience, it has a fully equipped kitchen, dining, and even a well-lit reading nook. There is also a cozy living area with a comfy sectional sofa and flat-screen TV where you can watch movies together.
In the afternoon, you can hang out in the courtyard and make use of the grill to cook some barbecues for dinner.
Santa Barbara, California, United States
6. Charming coastal retreat
This charming coastal retreat is ideal for lone travelers and couples looking for a place to stay near the beach. Before entering the home, you will come across a front porch with a comfy seating area and outdoor dining.
Inside, a cozy bedroom will welcome you with a queen-size bed and in a separate room, there is a full bathroom with complete toiletries for your convenience. The property is ideally located near coffee shops and restaurants where you can dine or order meals for take-out.
Santa Barbara, California, United States
7. Dazzling SoCal sanctuary
Guests will enjoy the warm California sun while vacationing at this recently remodelled three-bedroom Santa Barbara retreat. The coastal decor of greys, whites, blues, and greens provide a beachy feel which is appropriate being Leadbetter Beach is nearby. After stopping by the market, visitors can dine on meals prepared in their modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Following a hike through Douglas Family Preserve’s cypress forest, rejuvenate yourself in the pool’s cool waters. Then lay back on the silver plush sofa to enjoy family movie night before going to bed.
Santa Barbara, California, United States
8. Eclectic, sun-soaked seaside haven
When walking into this unique seaside haven, guests will have the feeling as if they were walking into a ship with its wood panelling. There is a sofa bed in the living room and a queen-size bed in the main bedroom to host four guests comfortably. Following a peaceful hike in the Santa Ynez mountains, soothe your muscles in the opulent soaker tub. Then prepare a quick meal in the fully equipped kitchen to enjoy sunset dining from your oceanfront balcony. For those visiting in cooler months, there is a fireplace to curl up beside after being out in the breezy coastal weather.
Santa Barbara, California, United States
9. Stylish rental with beach essentials (from USD 1824)
On this property, you can enjoy the refreshing sea view right from your bed via a picture window. When you feel like heading to the water, take the provided beach towels, umbrella, beach blanket, and snorkeling gear to ensure you have everything you need for a day of sun and surf.
In addition, the studio features a well-equipped kitchen so that you can prepare your own meals the way you like. For added convenience, a washing machine and dryer are available, allowing you to freshen up your clothes during your stay.
Santa Barbara, California, United StatesAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Host:
many thanks to the hostthanks sheri for hosting us this past weekendkind of a nice compromise for a technology cleanseRead more reviewsLocation:
comfortable bed cozy window seat for reading close to downtowncouldn't have asked for a better locationthis was an unforgettable experience the location was heavenly and so relaxinggreat location nice beach and a beautiful viewit was a relaxing trip and sheri's place made it very special
10. Luxe oceanfront abode (from USD 250)
Visitors wishing to experience the casually cool California lifestyle can do so during their stay at this luxe oceanfront apartment. The cool wood floors and ceiling fans will prove refreshing after walking on the hot sand. The kitchen, with sandy granite countertops, enables guests to prepare meals for when they’re too tired to dine out. Its seaside patio helps guests get into a sunny SoCal frame of mind before conquering waves, mountains, and trails. After paddling out to the Channel Islands, tuck yourself in under the crisp cotton sheets while the ceiling fan turns methodically overhead.
Santa Barbara, California, United StatesAccommodates: 6
11. Idyllic seaside retreat with garden oasis (from USD 178)
This charming one-bedroom vacation rental is a short walk from the beach and also Santa Barbara’s shopping and dining districts. There is also a fully equipped kitchen to prepare meals if guests desire to do so. The lush garden oasis makes an ideal area to relax after a full day spent enjoying California’s sunny weather. After rollerblading under Shoreline Park’s towering palms, relax on your private balcony with a glass of sparkling wine. Then saunter over to the living room to plan the next day’s intriguing excursions on the velvety mocha sofa.
Santa Barbara, California, United StatesTop guest reviews
Host:
host is very nice and friendly easy to communicate with:)the office receptionist was very helpful in restaurant suggestions for the night of our stayenjoyed my stay there very much the hotel attached was very helpful for any advice i neededwe could not have felt more welcomed by the staffi'm extremely disappointed i've been so many amazing places with airbnb met so many amazing hostsLocation:
a good location very near downtowngreat location i would returnexcellent location close to state street and the beachthe location was perfect everything right on the doorstepthe value is the location which is right downtown close to the beach and tasting roomsCleanliness:
that said the unit itself is clean and comfortableRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
did not expect but was pleasantly surprised by the coffee treats afternoon wine/cheese and breakfastand of course the room was amazing tooas with any airbnb please inquire with your host about specific accomodations you need (iron etc)we would definitely recommend the roomthere wasn't much weather stripping near the door so it often smelled like smoke in our room
12. Cozy California beach house
Visitors will definitely be California Dreamin’ when they step into this traditional beach house located on picturesque Miramar Beach. With its central location, visitors can experience Santa Barbara and Montecito’s beaches, art scene, coastal trails, etc. After visiting Stearns Wharf’s aquarium to encounter native sea creatures, feel free to unwind under your rainbow patio umbrella before preparing dinner for your group in the kitchen. Next, recount your day’s memorable adventures under high vaulted ceilings while lounging on the living room’s white cotton sofas.
Montecito, CA, US
Beach house rentals near Santa Barbara
13. Carpinteria Beach Bungalow (from USD 3184)
This vacation rental offers an enchanting beach view, allowing you to wake up to the soothing sight of the ocean. Cozy up by the indoor fireplace on cooler evenings. The heating system will also ensure that you stay cozy throughout your stay. Off of the front porch, you can step directly onto the soft white sand and make your way to the water.
For a hassle-free beach experience, the rental provides essentials such as towels, an umbrella, a blanket, and snorkeling gear. You can also explore the area with ease using the available bikes, allowing you to effortlessly navigate the charming streets and picturesque coastline.
Carpinteria, California, United StatesAccommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Host:
thank you for hosting ussamantha is a great host who answers questions quickly and is very accommodatingsamantha is great host and incredibly responsiveowner was nice and able to work with usand samantha was a very responsive hostLocation:
the location is fabulousvery cute decorations and so close to the beachwhat a find - the location is amazinggreat location stylish cozy spacethere are many good restaurants within walking distanceRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
wifi also worked perfectthe gas grill was great and we loved the outdoor showerthe wifi is strong and tv options with streaming services is very niceanother bedroom had 2 sets of really nice bunk beds
14. Vibrant beachfront bungalow (from USD 1186)
If you’re a travel blogger, you will love the colorful vibe of this place. You can immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the beach just beyond the deck. Moreover, your safety will be a top priority here, as security cameras are strategically placed to ensure the well-being of guests. Additionally, the presence of a smoke alarm, carbon monoxide alarm, fire extinguisher, and a first aid kit will provide peace of mind during your stay.
Step onto a deck where you can relish the fresh coastal air and admire the surrounding scenery. The property also boasts a private fully fenced backyard.
Oxnard, California, United StatesAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Host:
and host was super responsivethe hosts are easy to work with and very accommodatingour stay at the hula hut fit the bill the hosts are so welcoming and sweetneighbors were friendly and almost no beach trafficLocation:
the location's awesome toothe location was not too busy and true to the picturesa great location on the quiet end of a huge beachwe loved our stay at hula hut so darling and a great locationwhat a charming and amazing beach house we loved walking out right onto the sandCleanliness:
very cute and clean and peaceful place with comfy clean bedthe place is very clean comfy and cozyeverything about the house was fresh clean cozy and we felt extra safeeverything was very clean and the kitchen fully stocked with any utensils you may needRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
note: the mattresses for both beds are on the very soft side they are definitely not firm
15. Elegant sea-facing house (from USD 3772)
During your stay here, enjoy a reliable and fast WiFi connection with speeds of up to 30 Mbps for seamless video streaming and video calls and effortless web browsing. For those needing to work, the beach house also offers a dedicated workspace.
When you need a break, head to the outdoor dining area to bask in the sun or fire up the grill. In addition, parking is free on the property, and an electric vehicle charger is available on-site.
Montecito, California, United StatesAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Host:
the host was lovely and provided many wonderful goodiesshe is a wonderful and gracious host - i hope that we can return again and againdanielle is a wonderful hostRead more reviewsLocation:
perfect location & right on the beachperfect location perfect beach cottagegreat place to stay and just lounge at the beach but many nearby restaurants and shops to perusewe had a fantastic getaway at danielle's beachfront place
16. Sandy Cove House (from USD 3567)
Experience the ultimate beachfront life with convenient access to Faria Beach. If you don’t feel like sunbathing on the sand, unwind in the private hot tub where you can relax in soothing warmth while enjoying the surrounding views.
You can also stay entertained indoors with the HDTV equipped with popular streaming services, such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, Hulu, and Netflix. Premium cable channels are also offered here.
Ventura, California, United StatesAccommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Host:
marshall has been a wonderful hostRead more reviewsLocation:
location is amazingthe location of the home is perfectly equidistant to santa barbara and venturasuch an amazing location right on a walkable beach the house is recently renovated and spotlessdefinitely a place we would return
17. Strand Hus (from USD 3766)
This property is situated right next to a body of water, providing a picturesque waterfront setting. Guests can enjoy convenient access to a nearby beach for relaxing strolls and sunbathing right at their doorstep. Snorkeling gear will also be provided for their leisure.
The accommodation also offers guests the opportunity to use nearby resort facilities, guaranteeing additional amenities and services for an enhanced vacation experience. Also, the home’s radiant heating allows efficient and consistent warmth throughout the space.
Note that upon booking, a 1,500-USD security deposit will be collected.
Summerland, California, United StatesAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Host:
host was so welcoming and friendlythe host shelly is amazing answering any questions you have and making you feel at homeher response time was amazing and she was always helpfulthe best part of our stay however was the host shellyeasy check-in process and responsive hostLocation:
it has a perfect location isolated on the beachabsolutely amazing place and location is to die for highly recommended itexcellent location directly on the oceanfabulous location the view speaks for itself but the townhouse also has excellent access to 101 and shoppingbeautiful property unbelievable location and very cleanCleanliness:
perfectly clean and well appointedthis home was not only beautiful but perfectly clean and well stockedRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
(shelly thoughtfully brought us an electric space heaterthe bathrooms were beautiful and the property was filled with stylish and comfortable furnitureboth beds are very comfortable and the kitchen is well-stocked with everything you need to cook a meal
18. Padaro Sands (from USD 1922)
At this property, you can enjoy the comfort of air conditioning, ensuring a cool and pleasant environment during months with warmer weather. Alternatively, cozy up next to the indoor fireplace for a warm and inviting ambiance during the cooler seasons. In case you need to stay connected to your work, take advantage of the dedicated workspace equipped with WiFi.
This beach house also exudes a casual coastal style, making it perfect for small families seeking luxury on the sand or couples in search of a romantic getaway.
Carpinteria, California, United StatesAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Location:
great location very close to grocery stores and other infrastructuregreat location on a great beachand the location i can’t stress enough is the best location if you like a secluded beach areathe location and beach access are fabulousamazing property incredible location and very unique homeCleanliness:
the house was clean and comfortable and had every amenity we needed including some beach gearRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
jacuzzi with ocean view beat everything fire place make your evenings so comfortable and relaxing highly recommended
19. Sea Lofts at Padaro Beach (from USD 1435)
With convenient access to the beach, this rental guarantees that you can easily enjoy sun-soaked days, refreshing swims in the ocean, and leisurely walks along the shoreline. When you’ve maxed out your time in the sun, the air conditioning system will ensure a pleasant environment.
Take a moment to relax on the private patio where you can enjoy fresh air and beautiful views. The property is also equipped with security cameras for the safety and well-being of guests and the premises.
Carpinteria, California, United StatesAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Host:
property owner is fabuloushighly attentive and responsive hostlovely lovely place and hoststhe host was very friendly and welcominghosts were very attentive and helpfulLocation:
really appreciated the locationclose the highway and easy to get everywherebeautiful property and great location just steps to the beachwe really liked the cozy loft and the locationthere are also some great local restaurants walking distance to the unitCleanliness:
very clean well appointedbeautiful and clean very large studiothe loft was clean and quietplace is really cleanvery clean place right on the beachRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the heated bathroom floor is amazingthe comfort of the bed is legendarythe house is modern comfortable clean and has amazing view of the coast
20. Lavish beach home with hot tub (from USD 2622)
Not only does this property offer you breathtaking views of the ocean from the well-furnished patio with a fireplace, but it also comes with a luxurious hot tub. Meanwhile, the indoors are fully air conditioned, have a heating system, and feature another fireplace.
This beach bungalow also provides essential items to enhance your experience, such as beach towels and blankets and snorkeling gear. On-site parking is free as well.
Oxnard, California, United StatesAccommodates: 8
Top guest reviews
Host:
the host was very responsive to anything that came uphosts were fantastic and very attentivethe decor was beach chic perfected and marcie was an awesome hosteasy process to enter and good communication from the ownermichael and marcie are great hostsLocation:
great house and even better locationthis is a great house in a great locationgreat location and worth every pennythe location is secluded but we liked it that waymodern design amazing locationCleanliness:
the house was beautiful clean and well maintainedRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the pocket doors in the living room opened up onto the balcony making it the perfect indoor/outdoor spaceunobstructed views newer remodel with comfortable beds and furniture made our stay well worth itgreat house with a spectacular view the house is comfortable and well-equippedgrill and kitchen perfect for making great dinnersthe beds were very comfortable
21. Spacious beachhouse (from USD 1806)
This lavish rental offers a spacious 2,500-square-foot (232.26-square-meter) property situated right by the sea. The living space features wide windows so that you may enjoy the stunning view without stepping outside.
For those needing a dedicated workspace, the rental provides a comfortable area with WiFi, allowing you to attend to work-related tasks or set up a productive remote work setup if needed.
To enhance your dining experience, an electric grill is available for your use. Enjoy delicious barbeque dishes and create memorable meals with your loved ones.
Ventura, California, United StatesAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Host:
management company very responsivehost was very responsive throughout our stayeverything is as it appears in the pictures management is easy to contact and very helpfulLocation:
the location is superbbeautiful location but very outdatedthe location was as beautiful as advertised - right on the beachwhat a wonderful spot great location house and management companycarpenteria is close by and is a sweet beach town some good restaurants there as wellCleanliness:
clean and easy communicationall as described clean and ready to usebeautiful stay - huge and cleanthe good stuff first: what a beautiful location clean and quiet with good communication and clear directionsvery clean nice shampoo conditioner soap providedRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
this home is very light and bright with comfortable furniture and the most amazing surroundingscomfortable beds and plenty of space and well appointed kitchen
Have fun, fun, fun in the California sun
Be sure to book one of the breezy beach house rentals in Santa Barbara, California, to experience Santa Barbara’s museums, shopping, and historical sights. Following a visit to Stearns Wharf aquarium, treat yourself to rocky road ice cream while brown pelicans fly overhead. After having so much fun in the California sun, visitors will definitely be eager to return to its palm-lined, golden shores.
History
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