Santa Barbara, California Vacation Rentals
Explore 145 rental homes and villas in Santa Barbara, California for your next vacation or business travel. With private vacation home rentals, enjoy a more personalized stay and a wide range of amenities such as Best Affordable Homes, Great for Groups and Homes with Parking. With a wide range of homes to offer, pricing can start as low as $112 per night with homes containing as many as 7 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms. However you're looking to experience your stay, Homes and Villas by Marriott has your next vacation home waiting.
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Santa Barbara Overview
Nestled between the serene Santa Ynez Mountains and the sparkling Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara, California, is a picturesque paradise that beckons with its natural splendor, historic charm, and vibrant culture. This coastal gem, often referred to as the American Riviera, is distinguished by its enchanting Mediterranean architecture, with white stucco buildings and red-tile roofs that hark back to its Spanish colonial past.
Imagine waking up in your own private home, a tranquil retreat where you can savor the morning with a cup of coffee in hand, surrounded by lush gardens and the soothing sounds of nature. Santa Barbara offers an array of exquisite private homes for rent, many of which are pet-friendly, ensuring that your furry companions can join in on the adventure. For those seeking the ultimate indulgence, select from homes that boast their own swimming pools, providing a private oasis where you can unwind and soak up the California sun.
The city's pristine beaches are a cornerstone of its allure. East Beach invites you to lounge on its golden sands and take a dip in the inviting waters, while Leadbetter Beach is a surfer's haven with its rolling waves. The historic Stearns Wharf, a local landmark, juts into the ocean, offering breathtaking views and a taste of the city's maritime heritage.
Santa Barbara's rich history is palpable at every turn. The Santa Barbara Mission, with its stunning architecture and lush gardens, stands as a testament to its moniker, "Queen of the Missions." Nearby, El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park offers a glimpse into the city's military past, preserving the essence of its Spanish roots.
Art aficionados will revel in the Santa Barbara Museum of Art's extensive collection, while the Granada Theatre stages an array of performances that cater to all tastes, from classical concerts to contemporary theater.
The great outdoors beckons with the majestic Santa Ynez Mountains as your backdrop. Hiking enthusiasts will find solace on trails that reveal awe-inspiring vistas of the cityscape and ocean. Lotusland, a botanical wonder, invites you to wander through its exotic plant collections from across the globe.
Santa Barbara's cultural tapestry is vibrant and dynamic, with festivals and events celebrating the rich mosaic of traditions that make up the community. The culinary landscape mirrors the city's coastal essence, with fresh seafood taking center stage. Yet, the dining scene is diverse, offering international flavors alongside local favorites. Wine connoisseurs will delight in the renowned vineyards of the Santa Ynez Valley, where the art of winemaking can be savored firsthand.
In essence, Santa Barbara is a sanctuary where the luxury of a private home, the joy of beachfront living, and the richness of cultural experiences converge to create an unforgettable escape. Whether you're seeking solace, adventure, or cultural enrichment, Santa Barbara promises a unique and enriching experience for every traveler.
Cultural Attractions in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, California, is a cultural treasure that offers a rich experience for travelers who have an appreciation for the arts, history, and local customs. The city's lively arts scene is displayed in its many art galleries and museums. The Santa Barbara Museum of Art boasts an extensive collection that spans from ancient to contemporary works from various cultures worldwide, not just limited to 19th, 20th, and 21st-century American and European art.
For those intrigued by local history, the Santa Barbara Historical Museum provides a peek into the city's past with its vast collection of artifacts and exhibits. El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park is another site worth visiting; it preserves the original Spanish fortress established in 1782 but was not the original founding site of Santa Barbara.
The Funk Zone neighborhood will captivate art enthusiasts with its eclectic mix of art galleries, boutique shops, and wine tasting rooms. It's not solely a hub for contemporary art studios but offers an Art Walk where local artists showcase their work.
Live music flourishes in Santa Barbara with venues like the historic Lobero Theatre hosting performances ranging from classical to jazz. The annual Santa Barbara Bowl outdoor concert series also draws renowned acts from across the globe.
Santa Barbara's cultural offerings also extend to its food scene. The city's farmers markets are a testament to its abundant agricultural surroundings where visitors can sample fresh produce or artisanal foods from local vendors.
Throughout the year, the city hosts several events that celebrate local customs such as Old Spanish Days Fiesta which honors Santa Barbara’s Spanish heritage with traditional music, dance performances, and food.
In essence, every corner of Santa Barbara provides something culturally enriching making it an ideal destination for those seeking an immersive travel experience centered around arts, history and local customs.
Family friendly activities in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, California, indeed lives up to its reputation as a child's paradise with an abundance of family-friendly attractions and activities. The Santa Barbara Zoo is a key attraction where children can interact with over 500 animals in beautifully designed exhibits. The zoo also provides engaging experiences such as giraffe feeding and a train ride around the park.
The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center on Stearns Wharf is another must-visit for ocean lovers. It offers interactive marine exhibits and touch tanks that let children interact closely with sea creatures. The Wet Deck's tide pool even allows kids to construct their own ocean ecosystem.
Lotusland garden is an ideal spot for families, boasting a variety of unique plants and themed gardens that children will enjoy exploring. They also conduct special programs to educate children about horticulture.
For those interested in history and culture, El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park offers an insight into California's Spanish colonial history. The park houses historical buildings, archaeological excavations, and hands-on exhibits.
Outdoor enthusiasts can head to Lotusland or Alameda Park which features Kid's World - one of the largest wooden playgrounds in the United States complete with a castle structure, swings, slides and ample space for imaginative play.
A scenic boat tour with Celebration Cruises or Condor Express is not to be missed - both offer whale watching tours that will undoubtedly thrill the young ones.
In terms of dining options, Santa Barbara boasts numerous kid-friendly restaurants serving everything from burgers to tacos to ice cream treats.
In conclusion, Santa Barbara provides a thrilling blend of educational experiences and outdoor adventures making it perfect for children.
Outdoor activities in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, California, is indeed a haven for those who love the outdoors and nature. The city's location between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean provides a diverse array of natural attractions and outdoor activities.
The Los Padres National Forest, extending across the mountains behind Santa Barbara, is an essential destination. This expansive wilderness area boasts hundreds of miles of trails suitable for hiking and mountain biking. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife and offers breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding landscape.
For those who are fond of water activities, the Pacific Ocean offers numerous opportunities for surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. East Beach is a favored spot for sunbathing and beach volleyball. Additionally, one can embark on a boat trip to Channel Islands National Park - often dubbed "The Galapagos of North America" due to its unique plant and animal life.
The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is another treasure that nature enthusiasts will value. This 78-acre garden displays California's varied plant life with over 1,000 species exhibited. It's an excellent place for leisurely strolls or picnics amidst stunning scenery.
If you're interested in bird-watching or simply enjoy peaceful surroundings, consider visiting Andree Clark Bird Refuge. This artificial lake encircled by parkland attracts numerous bird species throughout the year.
For those who enjoy hikes with rewarding views at their conclusion, Inspiration Point is ideal. This moderately difficult trail guides you up to a viewpoint with panoramic views over Santa Barbara, the Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands.
Lastly, no trip to Santa Barbara would be complete without exploring its wine country in the Santa Ynez Valley just north of town. While not strictly an outdoor activity or natural wonder itself, touring vineyards set amidst rolling hills provides another way to appreciate this region's natural beauty while savoring some excellent wines.
In summary, whether your interests lie in hiking through forests or along beaches, observing wildlife, exploring marine environments, or simply relaxing in beautiful gardens, Santa Barbara offers a multitude of opportunities to engage with nature.
Weather in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, California, is renowned for its Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The city basks in over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it a favored destination for travelers in search of a sunny retreat.
The warmest period falls between June and August with average high temperatures hovering in the mid to upper 70s Fahrenheit. These months also see minimal rainfall, making them ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures.
The winter months from December to February are cooler with average high temperatures in the mid-60s. Despite being the coldest time of year, Santa Barbara's winters are still relatively mild compared to other regions. These months receive the most rainfall but it's still quite low when compared to other areas.
Spring and fall serve as transitional seasons with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s. These periods offer balanced weather conditions that are perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking or wine tasting.
While summer months offer the most popular weather conditions - warm temperatures and little rainfall - many visitors find spring and fall particularly enjoyable due to fewer crowds and mild weather. Regardless of your chosen time of visit, you're likely to experience beautiful weather in this coastal Californian city.
Transportation in Santa Barbara
Visitors to Santa Barbara, California, can choose from a range of options for their arrival and departure. The Santa Barbara Municipal Airport is a key hub, offering flights to and from numerous major cities across the United States. Alternatively, the Pacific Surfliner train route operated by Amtrak offers a picturesque coastal journey with a stop in Santa Barbara for those who enjoy scenic travel.
Once in the city, there are several ways to navigate around. The Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District runs an extensive bus service throughout the city and its outskirts. Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also easily accessible for more direct routes.
For visitors who prefer self-drive options, car rentals are readily available at various points in the city including the airport. Santa Barbara also encourages cycling with its bike-friendly environment and numerous bike rental shops for those who wish to explore on two wheels.
Regarding walkability, downtown Santa Barbara is extremely pedestrian-friendly due to its closely situated shops, restaurants, and attractions. However, if your itinerary includes visiting distant sites like the vineyards in Santa Ynez Valley or hiking trails in Los Padres National Forest, some form of transportation will be required.
In summary, whether you're traveling by plane or train and planning to get around by bus, car or bike; Santa Barbara provides diverse transportation options that meet every visitor's needs.