Santa Barbara holiday homes

Why visit Santa Barbara

• Beautiful Beaches: Relax on the stunning shores of West Beach, perfect for sunbathing and family fun.
• Cultural Heritage: Explore historic churches and landmarks that reflect the city's rich history and architectural charm.
• Outdoor Activities: Enjoy various outdoor adventures, including hiking in nearby parks and coastal walks.
• Vibrant Neighbourhoods: Wander through lively areas filled with local shops, cafés, and cultural experiences.
• Scenic Views: Take in breathtaking coastal views that make Santa Barbara a picturesque getaway.

Top attractions in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, California, boasts a charming blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, making it perfect for family holidays. Visitors can enjoy its beautiful beaches, explore urban parks, and visit historic churches. With a focus on family-friendly activities and vibrant local culture, Santa Barbara offers a delightful escape for those seeking relaxation and adventure in an idyllic coastal setting.

• Santa Barbara County Courthouse: This stunning historic building boasts Spanish-Moorish architecture and vibrant tile work. Visitors can explore its beautifully landscaped gardens and climb the clock tower for panoramic views of the city and coastline.
• Santa Barbara Harbor: A bustling marina ideal for outdoor adventures, offering activities like sailing, kayaking, and whale watching. The picturesque waterfront is perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying fresh seafood at local eateries.
• Butterfly Beach: A serene stretch of sand known for its stunning sunsets and gentle waves. It's a great spot for sunbathing, beachcombing, and spotting dolphins along the coastline.

Things to do recommended for couples

Experience a magical time in Santa Barbara, where you can unwind at scenic beaches, explore charming local markets, and savour sunset views together. Discover hidden gems and create unforgettable memories on your couple's holiday.

Things to do recommended for families

Families exploring Santa Barbara can enjoy a fun day at the Santa Barbara Zoo and a picnic at the nearby gardens, creating memorable experiences that cater to every age group.

Things to do recommended for groups

Explore Santa Barbara's vibrant culture with group tours through local vineyards, coastal hikes, and artisan markets, creating unforgettable Kiwi memories in the Californian sun.

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

Whether you're travelling with a group, as a family, with your pets, or seeking extended stays, be sure to refine your search with the right priorities. Here are some Vrbo booking tips to help you out.

• Traveling to Santa Barbara with a group: Consider how many bedrooms you require, along with features such as a fully equipped kitchen or an outdoor area for group gatherings. Luckily, you can search for all these options—and more—on Vrbo.
• 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 having access to suitable amenities, like a private swimming pool. Additionally, it's wise to think about how close you are to family-friendly attractions.
• Taking your pets with you to Santa Barbara: For many, a family holiday isn’t complete without their furry companion. If this resonates with you, explore Vrbo properties that welcome pets. Most pet-friendly accommodations offer feeding bowls and bedding, ensuring everyone feels right at home.
• Planning for a long term stay visiting Santa Barbara: If you're seeking holiday rentals offering discounts for month-long stays, you've come to the right spot. By applying the appropriate filters, you can effortlessly uncover and save on monthly accommodations. You might also want to include options like a parking space, a well-equipped kitchen, or a private pool in your search.

Where to stay in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara offers an enchanting blend of Californian coastal charm and historical allure. Enjoy relaxing strolls along the West Beach and explore top locations nestled within the city. Wander through vibrant neighbourhoods, savour the local culture, and take in the scenic views of the Californian coast. Perfect for families and those seeking a romantic getaway, the city provides a warm, friendly atmosphere that lets you immerse yourself in a truly unique travel experience.

• Santa Barbara Beach: Nestled along the scenic coastline, Santa Barbara Beach is renowned for its pristine family beach and outdoor lifestyle. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the shore, explore nearby shopping areas and education centres, or add a touch of thrill at the local theme park ride. The neighbourhood’s charming tourist precinct and family-friendly beach spots create a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a blend of sun, sand, and community spirit.
• Montecito: Located just around the corner from Santa Barbara, Montecito offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and family engagements. This neighbourhood is celebrated for its accessible national state park and family beach for a laid-back coastal experience. In addition to leisurely shopping at the local mall centres, visitors can delve into educational explorations, making Montecito a well-rounded destination for those who enjoy both nature and a touch of urban convenience.
• Downtown Santa Barbara: At the heart of the city, Downtown Santa Barbara presents a vibrant fusion of family, city-themed, and outdoor experiences. The area is known for its bustling shopping areas, cultural theatres, and educational attractions. With the iconic family beach and tourist precinct in close proximity, visitors enjoy easy access to both urban delights and natural escapes, making it an ideal spot for those who appreciate a dynamic city atmosphere intertwined with coastal charm.

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.

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

Booking with Vrbo is simple

Are you hoping to save some dollars on your next adventure? Being flexible with your travel dates can make a significant difference, as prices tend to vary. Additionally, opting for a longer stay often leads to substantial savings. To discover the perfect Vrbo property that fits your budget, feel free to use our filters to organise your search by price, location, and type of holiday rental. We're here to help you make the most of your travel experience.

Vrbo Trips: Planning made easy

Vrbo’s Trip Board provides you with a convenient space to plan new trips, keep your arrangements on track, or review and organise your bookings. Your saved or booked properties are neatly categorised into Potential, Upcoming, or Current Trips. To check out the Trip Boards, head over to: https://www.bookabach.co.nz/trips.

**Based on Vrbo properties bookings.

Take in the beachside beauty of Santa Barbara

The area's wineries and history are just some of the reasons to come on holiday to Santa Barbara. This walkable city is known for its beaches, seaside and shopping. Whether you're planning a family holiday, a trip with friends or a romantic retreat, HomeAway has a great selection of holiday homes. Many rentals come with a full kitchen and separate dining area, perfect if you need a space for entertaining.

Activities and attractions in Santa Barbara

Are you hoping to find things to do while you're in the area? Venture out of your cosy holiday rental and experience everything that makes Santa Barbara a fun spot to go on holiday. Here are some of the most popular attractions to see, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

• Santa Barbara Zoo (2.2 mi / 3.6 km)
• Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club (8 mi / 12.9 km)
• Sandpiper Golf Club (11.6 mi / 18.7 km)
• Sunstone Vineyards & Winery (25.4 mi / 40.9 km)
• River Course at the Alisal (27.4 mi / 44.1 km)
• OstrichLand USA (29.7 mi / 47.9 km)

Exploring the beaches and other natural features in Santa Barbara

Travellers enjoy Santa Barbara for its seaside and sunsets. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or just want to spend some time taking in the scenery, Santa Barbara is a great spot to appreciate mother nature. Here are a few of the area's noteworthy sights, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

• West Beach (1.2 mi / 2 km)
• Leadbetter Beach (1.6 mi / 2.5 km)
• East Beach (2 mi / 3.2 km)
• Arroyo Burro Beach (2.7 mi / 4.3 km)
• Lotusland (2.9 mi / 4.6 km)
• Butterfly Beach (3.4 mi / 5.6 km)

Seasonal weather averages in Santa Barbara

If you're hoping to enjoy some warm-weather activities on your holiday, August, September, July and October are the hottest months to visit, when temperatures average 22°C.

Travelling to and around Santa Barbara

The nearest airport is in Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal), located 7.6 mi (12.2 km) from the city centre. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you can also fly into Santa Ynez, CA (SQA), which is 24.7 mi (39.7 km) away.

If you prefer train travel, you can make your way to Santa Barbara Station.