Apartment

Papa Dux - A Playful Urban Penthouse

Photo gallery for Papa Dux - A Playful Urban Penthouse

An open balcony with wooden flooring and chairs, overlooking a cityscape at dusk with mountains in the background.
A cozy loft-style room with a wooden floor, a dining area with a table and chairs, and a large sliding glass door leading to a balcony.
A sidewalk with a mural of a woman with pink hair and polka dots, a street lamp, and a person walking in the distance.
A house with a red roof, surrounded by lush greenery and a well-maintained hedge.
A cozy loft-style room with a dining area, a kitchen with a sink, and a view through a large window.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area

Highlights

  • The great outdoors
    Guests love the outdoor space here.
  • Beach equipment
    A rare find — beach equipment ready to go for your days by the sea.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Walk to Santa Barbara Harbor
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue
  • Balcony

Explore the area

View map
Santa Barbara, CA
  • Place, Moreton Bay Fig Tree
    ‪7 min walk‬
  • Place, Santa Barbara Harbor
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Place, Stearns Wharf
    ‪15 min walk‬
  • Airport, Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal)
    ‪16 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Living Room 1

1 Double Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Number of living rooms
Dining area

About this property

Papa Dux - A Playful Urban Penthouse

Summary:
Luxury digs in the heart of fun with romantic private deck with outdoor fireplace, Rivera views, steps to beach, Funk Zone and restaurants. Artist-designed, boho chic one bedroom apartment with sofa bed in living room, sleeps 4 (2 in bedroom queen bed and 2 in living room double sofa bed), a well stocked kitchen, High Speed WiFi, 2 TVs, one bathroom, washer, dryer, desk/dining table, AC, Heater and on-site parking for one car. The space covers 700 square feet (65 square meters). Perfect for one or two couples who want a kitchen, living, dining and amenities.

The Space:
Papa Dux is the second floor apartment in The Dux, a three apartment hotel on the urban wine trail. Enjoy mountain and riviera views from this lovely apartment located on the urban wine trail. Experience enveloping luxury in this designer apartment in a classic craftsman house one block from the center of town and five walking blocks to the beach. Shopping, music, dance and excellent restaurants are just steps away.

French doors open to a large private deck with views of the mountains, Riviera and city. The deck is equipped with an outdoor fireplace and BBQ. A 'loft' style great room with cathedral ceiling includes a well equipped kitchen, dining and living areas with TV and High Speed WiFi. A comfortable bedroom with TV is in the rear of the apartment for total privacy. A perfect romantic getaway.

The house is on landscaped property with fruit trees, flowers fountains and off street parking. Pick fresh fruit (oranges, plums and pineapple kiwi in season) and ride the free bicycles for a relaxing stay in the heart of Santa Barbara.

This is one of three apartments in an old home so please understand that this is not a good choice for loud late night partying. Check out the other two apartments: Baby Dux (studio apartment) and Papa Dux (one bedroom).

Coronavirus alert: Be assured that our staff are fully isolated and we are going to great lengths to sterilize all bedding and all surfaces between reservations. Safe travels, stay well!

Guest Access:
Digital keypad access.
Free on-site parking.
Your apartment and balcony are entirely private to you.
Other gardens and pathways around the house are shared.

The Neighborhood:
On the urban wine trail; in the entertainment district, 4 blocks up from the wharf and beach, one block from State Street, the beautiful main artery of Santa Barbara lined with restaurants, museums, shopping and entertainment. The leafy streets of Lower State are lined with trendy eateries serving New American, Mexican, and pan-Asian fare, plus craft breweries and winery tasting rooms. National fashion chains cluster in the courtyards of the Paseo Nuevo shopping center, and buskers play amid stalls selling organic produce and flowers at the weekly Santa Barbara Farmers Market. The kid-friendly MOXI museum has interactive science exhibits.

Getting Around:
Super easy. Wonderfully situated for car-free vacationing. Free bicycles. The town's main street is a block away with free tram service.

Other Things to Note:
This is one of three apartments in an old home so please understand that this is not a good choice for loud late night partying.
Check out the other two apartments: Baby Dux (studio apartment) and Papa Dux (one bedroom).

Interaction with Guests:
All the privacy you want and all the help you need.
Debbie is the concierge.
Please call with any concerns.
CONCIERGE: Debbie Garven (805) 680-4304

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
$1,000 fine if there is detectable tobacco or marijuana odor
Quiet time is from 10 pm to 10 am. Please respect

Important information

You need to know

Property Registration Number 62468
Property # 224046
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts cash
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

About the area

Santa Barbara

Lower State, a neighbourhood in Santa Barbara, is home to this apartment. Travellers looking for local activities can try Stearns Wharf and Santa Barbara Harbor, while those looking to experience a bit of culture can stop by Santa Barbara Bowl. Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center and Santa Barbara Channel are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and scuba diving nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking and mountain climbing.
View more Apartments in Santa BarbaraOpens in a new window
Map
Santa Barbara, CA

What's nearby

  • Moreton Bay Fig Tree - 7 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Santa Barbara Harbor - 13 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Stearns Wharf - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Santa Barbara City College - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Santa Barbara County Courthouse - 18 min walk - 1.6 km

Getting around

  • Santa Barbara Station - 7 min walk
  • Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) - 13 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Dune Coffee Roasters - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Institution Ale Company - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪EOS Lounge - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Broad Street Oyster Company - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Whiskey Richards - ‬4 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Papa Dux - A Playful Urban Penthouse pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Papa Dux - A Playful Urban Penthouse?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Papa Dux - A Playful Urban Penthouse?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Papa Dux - A Playful Urban Penthouse?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Papa Dux - A Playful Urban Penthouse located?

Located in Lower State, this apartment building is within a 15-minute walk of Antioch University and Stearns Wharf. Santa Barbara Harbor and Santa Barbara County Courthouse are also within 1 mile (2 km). Santa Barbara Station is 7 minutes by foot.

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 121 out of 142 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 20 out of 142 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 142 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 142 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 142 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Location

Great stay in Santa Barbara.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our stay at Papa Dux was fabulous. Loved sitting on the deck enjoying the California sun! We walked to State Street for fun dinners and walks along the store fronts and restaurants etc. enjoyed morning walks to get coffee and to the beach. Papa Dux is a comfortable home away from home.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Always a restful stay

Stayed here before and came back. Love the location and the terrace. Place is perfect for staying in Santa Barbara. Bikes provided to cruise around town.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Unique Stay

Craftman house had unusual features, perfect for our family of 3. Easy walk to many restaurants, we had a great time.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 21 June 2023
Thank you!
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Always great near State

We love this place. Our third stay this year. Close, comfy, and beautifully decorated. We'll be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location with all the ammenities

We loved our stay at papa dux. They have done an excellent job with the decor, amenities and charm. You can’t beat the location to downtown, Funk Zone and even the beach is walkable or you can borrow one of the bikes. It was quiet at night too.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Unique

It was a perfect location in a beautiful city.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location!

Papa Dux was clean and more charming than I thought it would be. The location was great for walking downtown and to the beach. Keep in mind, this is a downtown location so expect car/motorcycle noise. Debbie the Concierge was great. We had a wonderful stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

What a gem!

This property is in the heart of Santa Barbara with an easy walk to main street, beach, and harbor. It is beautifully appointed and maintained. We loved or time here!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2020
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cozy Nest

Walk the town from this cozy tree house. Quiet and comfortable. Nice to have a parking space.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2020
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely hideaway

The Papa Dux property is a wonderful space to sit above the hustle of the town. The deck provides a view of the mountains and. a lovely fire feature for chilly nights. The apartment is clean and comfortable-even the pull out sofa. Caveat- if you are taller than 5'8", you need to be aware of sloping ceilings.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Papa Dux

The Dux is has a fun, eclectic vibe. The apartment is very conveniently located..restaurants, bakeries and cafes all within walking distance. Papa Dux has a cozy outdoor space with a fire pit which we made good use of. The kitchen was well equipped and the communication with the property manager was easy.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Wonderful!

My husband and I stayed at Papa Dux for our honeymoon. It could not have been better. The place is super cute just like the photos, and has everything you need. The location is amazing and within walking distance of everything. The hostess even went the extra mile and left us a bottle of champagne in the fridge to celebrate. We enjoyed our stay and plan to return for an anniversary in the future!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2016
Response from VrboOwner on 21 June 2023
We hope this will be your special, romantic getaway for years to come as a reminder of your honeymoon. We're so happy you enjoyed the Papa Dux! Please be sure to mention you're a return guest as there's a discount of 10% and of course another bottle of the bubbly to celebrate. Warmly, Laura and Inga
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Great Property close to everything!!

We had a great stay in Papa Dux, this is a lovely apartment very central to both State Street and the beach. The apartment is very well equipped and very much felt like a home from home rather than a holiday rental. It had nice little extras like bottled water in the fridge for us, a fresh bag of coffee and even detergent for the brilliant washing machine. The off street parking was another great feature and once we parked we didn't need the car again during our stay. We would definitely recommend this property to anybody looking for a great stay in the Santa Barbara area.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 21 June 2023
We're so happy you loved the Papa. We try hard to make sure the little things are thought of for our guests comfort and convenience. It is the best location for exploring the area and off-street parking so you can scoot off on the bikes or walk to so many fun places. Please come again for more Santa Barbara fun. Smiles, Laura and Inga
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Location, location, location

Lovely apartment, better than advertised, great value. One block from State St, shops, restaurants, 4 blocks from ocean made the lack of car a non issue. Laura was close by offering any help but we didn't have any problems at all. Inga's tips & 'how to' notes were valuable. Would highly recommend this property. Thank you !
Response from VrboOwner on 21 June 2023
Dear Michael and Cheryl, We're very happy you were contented during your stay in the Papa Dux. We hope you'll return again for some more fun in this beautiful city. Thank you for the thumbs up. Best, Laura and Inga
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Delightful property

From booking to checkout, our experience with Papa Dux was excellent. I was a little concerned that the listing said it has a half-bath and checked before going with the property manager, Laura to confirm there is indeed a nice shower. The house and property are charming and well-maintained, with a pleasing blend of clean and eclectic furnishings. We parked our car on site and walked everywhere. Great location. Looking forward to returning soon.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 21 June 2023
Thank you so much for the lovely review. We loved hosting you. Smiles
Archival

10/10 Excellent

A lovely stay

Papa Dux is a terrific VRBO, 1-bedroom apartment, in a downtown location. Easy walk to State St and the "Funk Zone". The kitchen is a good size, with appropriate utensils for those who want to cook at home. The bed is comfortable, good shower, off-street parking is a plus. There is a nice washer and dryer (full size) for your personal use. There is a long staircase to get up into the apartment, which was fine for us,, but could be an issue for some. Laura, the manager, lives in SB and is very responsive to any questions or issues. We would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 21 nights in Jan 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 21 June 2023
It was a pleasure to have you as our guests. It's a sweet spot and we appreciate your listing some of the beneficial amenities. Hopefully we'll see you again. Smiles, Laura and Inga
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Perfect Santa Barbara Get-A-Way

My husband and I frequently visit Santa Barbara for our special occasions (birthdays, anniversaries, etc.). We've stayed at several different hotels over the years. The Papa Dux apartment will now be our regular place to stay. It was extremely cozy and comfortable. We brought food in for breakfasts and enjoyed lounging on the couch in the morning while drinking our coffee. The location of the apartment couldn't be more perfect. We walked everywhere as State Street was only one block away and the beach/pier was about a 10 minute stroll. Restaurants, shopping, pubs are all within walking distance. The apartment even has a washer and dryer which came in handy. We are all ready planning our next visit and hope we are able to book Papa Dux. Thank you Laura and Inga for maintaining such a lovely, cozy and inviting place for us to stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2016
Response from VrboOwner on 21 June 2023
We couldn't be happier to have you back for all your future celebrations! Thank you for the sweet review. We are so pleased you found everything so cozy and inviting. We look forward to your next visit. Warmly, Laura and Inga
Archival

8/10 Good

Great Location, nice outside space

We loved Papa Dux. It is the attic space in this cute house. There is an off street parking space included with the apartment. We experienced great communication with the owner and manager. It has a bedroom, bath, full kitchen couch, and giant TV with lots of channels. The best part is the outdoor space, a porch with a couple chairs, grill and a wonderful gas fire pit, nice little view of the mountains. The only problem I would see here, is if you were really tall. The ceilings slope in the shower and kitchen. It was perfect for us as none of us are over 5" 8". There are bikes that you can use, and that was a nice plus. The location is great also, one block from the Main Street in town, State. Also was walking distance to the Funk Zone with lots of great wine tasting and restaurants. There were 3 of us and we needed another bed, that was the most comfortable high blowup bed I have ever slept on. It fit nicely next to the dining table. The apartment was clean and comfy for 3. Wouldn't hesitate to book this place for your Santa Barbara getaway.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2016
Response from VrboOwner on 21 June 2023
Hi Deborah, We're so glad we could accommodate the three of you and that you enjoyed yourselves so thoroughly. So happy too that the blowup bed was so comfy. Nothing like a good night sleep so you could spend your time checking out the beautiful sights in Santa Barbara. Do come again. Best, Laura and Inga
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location. Lovely apartment

Really enjoyed this place. It was perfect for three — my sister and her husband in the bedroom and myself in the comfortable sofa bed. Well stocked kitchen and very nice balcony. Would definitely stay again. The location was great. Close to the Funk Zone, State Street, the Presidio area and the beach.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful spot in the heart of Santa Barbara!

Wonderful weekend getaway spot in Santa Barbara that my wife and I enjoyed for the weekend! Highly-recommend the area and the Urban Wine Trail! The hosts were terrific and the place was perfect with a fire pit outside for wine and a Mountain View and bikes for enjoying SB! Thank you!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Location is fantastic, best in SB!

We were able to walk to beach for fireworks and State St for food and drink. The bikes were great and we used them several times! AC worked great! We loved the unit and views from the deck were fantastic!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect location, view, clean

Great location. Walk to coffee shops, restaurants, art museum. Lovely view. Clean. Comfortable. Updated amenities. Easy check in. Responsive, helpful manager.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Thank you

Great property, good location. Bikes need some work (seats and locks), but other than that everything was great. Good communication and easy check in.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great

Great
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021

About the host

Hosted by Debbie Garven

Host profile image
The 3 Dux is named in honor of the family that grew up in the house. The family home has been remodeled and converted to an ApartHotel. Inga grew up in the house with her mother, brother and grandparents who were renters in the house for 30+years before they were able to buy it in 1993. Her grandfather ran a washing machine repair business in the house. He was known to Inga and the kids of the extended family as Papa Duck. A squeaker of ears and teller of tales, he was beloved by all. The 3 DUX are so named in honor of him (Papa Dux, Mama Dux and Baby Dux). One of those kids was her cousin Laura who managed The 3 Dux with all her heart and soul. Inga and Laura have since retired and Laura's daughter, Heather is now managing guest communication and her dear friend, Debbie is the concierge onsite who will be taking care of you.

The new owner, Julietta, with the help of Heather and Debbie continues the legacy with the same high standards of hospitality, kindness, attention to detail and happiness.

Welcome to The3Dux. Welcome to downtown Santa Barbara.

Warm smiles.

Why they chose this property

Santa Barbara retains an outsized sense of community. We are all reminded of Santa Barbara’s good heartedness recently, watching the last SB Solstice Parade. It is a festival of generous smiles and kind intention… Neighbors singing, dancing and celebrating up the State Street and enjoying this beautiful coastal city.

I hope you might find some of that Santa Barbara warmth and friendliness at The Dux. State Street is a block away, the Funk Zone is two blocks away and the beach is 5 walking blocks. There is free use of bicycles which I highly recommend as the very best way to enjoy the town. Parking is on-site and the apartments are comfortable and well stocked for your comfort. We offer a clean space with high speed internet and digital tv with YourTubeTV, Showtime and STARZ.

Tucked between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara features the best of both worlds when it comes to outdoor adventure. Water lovers can enjoy the beaches and some of the most scenic islands in California just a short boat ride away. Hikers will find endless trails in the Los Padres National Forest with towering views of the Pacific. Add world-class wineries, fine dining, spas, manicured gardens, and the beautiful Mediterranean-style architecture of the city, and you’ll understand why Santa Barbara is so beloved.

What makes this property unique

A beautiful well-appointed and well stocked home in a convenient location run by good people who care about hospitality. Please treat it like your own home.

Languages:

English, French

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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