Santa Barbara holiday rentals

Why visit Santa Barbara

• Coastal Charm: Enjoy picturesque beaches, perfect for leisurely strolls and serene seaside moments.
• Historic Elegance: Discover charming historic churches and cultural landmarks that echo Santa Barbara's rich past.
• Vibrant Downtown: Wander through boutique shops and delightful eateries in a lively urban setting.
• Cultural Heritage: Immerse in local museums and art scenes that showcase the city's unique story.
• Outdoor Adventures: Relish scenic parks and coastal trails ideal for families and couples alike.

Popular types of accommodation in Santa Barbara

Experience the charm of Santa Barbara, California, where private holiday homes, condos and apartments offer a perfect blend of comfort and style. Enjoy free wifi, rejuvenating spa treatments, beach retreats and even camping spots, ensuring a memorable stay in this picturesque coastal city. Discover its iconic landmarks and vibrant local culture, making it the ideal destination for your next holiday rental adventure.

• Private Holiday Homes: These fully-equipped residences offer a home-like atmosphere, perfect for families or groups seeking comfort and privacy.
• Condos: Ideal for those wanting modern amenities, condos provide a stylish living space often with shared facilities.
• Apartments: A convenient choice for solo travellers or couples, apartments offer flexibility and a central location.
• Cottages: For a quaint and cosy getaway, cottages provide charm and character amidst serene surroundings.
• Villas: Luxurious retreats, villas boast spacious living areas and stunning views, perfect for indulgent holidays.**

Top attractions in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara offers a delightful blend of urban charm and outdoor activities. With its inviting beaches, lovely urban parks and historic churches, visitors can enjoy a rich cultural experience while spending quality time with their family. The city's scenic beauty and varied attractions make it perfect for leisurely strolls and outdoor adventures, ensuring that every traveller finds something to cherish in this vibrant Californian locale.

• Santa Barbara Harbor: Experience a vibrant marina with stunning ocean views, perfect for sailing, kayaking, or simply enjoying the beach vibes. The harbour is also home to delightful seafood restaurants and charming shops, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and adventure.
• Butterfly Beach: This picturesque beach offers soft sands and gentle waves, creating a serene atmosphere for sunbathing and picnicking. It's an excellent place for a leisurely stroll while enjoying breathtaking sunsets.
• Stearns Wharf: A historic pier with shops, eateries, and stunning views, Stearns Wharf is a must-visit for a leisurely stroll. Explore marine exhibits and enjoy fresh seafood while watching boats glide in and out of the harbour.

Things to do recommended for couples

Santa Barbara offers enchanting experiences for couples, from a sunset stroll along the picturesque Stearns Wharf to indulging in wine tasting at nearby vineyards. Enjoy a romantic picnic at Butterfly Beach or explore the charming boutiques and cafes in the historic downtown area for an unforgettable getaway.

Things to do recommended for families

Enjoy a family day out exploring the Santa Barbara Zoo, strolling through the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, and visiting the Sea Centre for a hands-on marine experience.

Things to do recommended for groups

Embark on a wine-tasting tour through the scenic Santa Ynez Valley, indulge in a beach bonfire at East Beach, or explore the vibrant Santa Barbara Farmers Market for locally sourced delights. Enjoy a sunset kayak tour along the coast for a memorable group experience.

What do I need to keep in mind when booking a vacation in Santa Barbara

If you’re travelling with a group, family, pets, or seeking longer stays, be sure to apply the appropriate filters to align with your priorities. Here are some helpful booking tips for your Stayz experience.

• Traveling to Santa Barbara with a group: Think about how many bedrooms you require, along with features like a fully-equipped kitchen or outdoor areas for group gatherings. Luckily, you can easily filter for all of these options, and more, on Stayz.
• Traveling to Santa Barbara with young kids: Travelling with young children can be quite demanding. It's important to prioritise their comfort and safety, along with suitable amenities like private swimming pools. Additionally, it may be beneficial to think about how close you are to family-friendly attractions.
• Taking your pets with you to Santa Barbara: For many, a family holiday is incomplete without their furry companion. If this resonates with you, explore Stayz properties that welcome pets. Most pet-friendly accommodations offer feeding bowls and beds, ensuring that both you and your pet feel completely at home.
• Planning for a long term stay visiting Santa Barbara: If you’re seeking holiday lets with special offers for stays of a month or more, you’ve come to the right place. With the appropriate filters, you can effortlessly discover monthly rentals and secure savings. Additionally, consider including features such as a parking space, a well-equipped kitchen, or a private pool in your search.

Where to stay in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, California, is a captivating destination blending historical charm with stunning coastal beauty. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque beaches, explore the vibrant downtown filled with boutique shops and delightful eateries, or immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage at local museums. The city's welcoming atmosphere, combined with its romantic vibes, makes it ideal for families and couples alike. Whether you're enjoying outdoor excursions or relaxing by the shore, Santa Barbara promises an unforgettable holiday experience.

• Santa Barbara Beach: Nestled along the scenic coastline, Santa Barbara Beach offers travellers an exceptional outdoor and family-friendly beach experience. Its inviting sandy shores and vibrant atmosphere make it perfect for water-based activities and seaside strolls. Within easy reach, visitors can explore a variety of shopping areas and educational venues, while the nearby theme park ride promises fun for all ages. The local attractions, including the iconic beach and bustling tourist precinct, provide a delightful blend of relaxation and adventure.
• Montecito: Renowned for its picturesque setting, Montecito is a charming neighbourhood that captivates with its outdoor, family, and beach appeal. This area is celebrated for its natural beauty and access to expansive beach areas, offering ample opportunities for leisure and exploration. The community is well-served by local educational institutions and shopping centres, ensuring a balanced mix of culture and commerce. Nearby, the national state park invites nature enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the region’s spectacular landscapes.
• Downtown Santa Barbara: At the heart of Santa Barbara, Downtown Santa Barbara is a vibrant neighbourhood that pulsates with family-friendly city life and outdoor allure. The area is a hub for shopping and cultural experiences, with educational venues and theatres enriching the urban experience. Close by, the charming family beach and the bustling tourist precinct create a dynamic setting that blends coastal beauty with city sophistication, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and urban exploration.

Best time to go to Santa Barbara

If you're planning a trip to Santa Barbara, it's a good idea to check both the weather and property rates. The warmest month is August. Peak season runs from June to August, while off-peak times, like November to January tend to have fewer bookings and better deals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	55.0°F (12.8°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	60.3°F (15.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
May	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	68.2°F (20.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	72.1°F (22.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	72.9°F (22.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	71.6°F (22.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	60.4°F (15.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average

Booking with Stayz is simple

Looking to save on your next holiday? Consider being flexible with your travel dates, as prices can fluctuate. Furthermore, extending your stay often results in significant savings. To discover the ideal Stayz property that fits your budget, utilise our filters to search by price, location, and type of holiday rental.

Stayz Trips: Planning made easy

Stayz's Trip Board offers a handy platform for you to plan new trips, continue from where you last stopped, or manage your travel arrangements. You can easily find the properties you've saved or booked, organised under Potential, Upcoming, or Current Trips. To begin using Trip Boards, please visit: https://www.stayz.com.au/trips.

**Based on Vrbo properties bookings.

The information above was last updated: 8 July, 2026