The 17 best Airbnbs in Santa Barbara

You know what they say, if it’s fit for a prince… in recent years Montecito has become associated with a certain royal resident and his relocated family. And, if we’re honest, we can see why he might have wanted to swap the English drizzle for time spent here. This gorgeous cabaña makes the most of the glorious, glowing surroundings of this location just outside of Santa Barbara itself. The headlines: beautiful, lushly decorated rooms, a stunning pool and hot spring, a nice little hammock and an onsite masseuse. Yes, you read that right: an onsite masseuse.

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps three guests.
Mood? Earthly paradise.
Budget range? Not quite as much as you’d think.

If you feel in need of a wellness shot in the arm, consider booking some time here. This stunning adobe ranch house is set within 17 acres of certified organic avocado and citrus orchards (that’s your magnesium and vitamin C boost right there) and offers views of both the ocean and the mountains. Internally, it’s a cooling spectacle of Mexican floor tiles and Spanish antiques. Outside, there’s a heated pool to enjoy, plus a terrace of roses and several al fresco dining areas.

Rooms? Three bedrooms. Sleeps six guests.
Mood? Organic wholesomeness.
Budget range? A fair price.

Just walking distance to Butterfly Beach sits this gorgeous designer two-bed home in Montecito. Seriously, every inch of this house is stylish and well thought out, but not in an over-the-top kind of way, it just exudes calm. The space consists of two bedrooms, a beautiful open kitchen, two bathrooms, and your soon-to-be oasis the patio area shrouded with green shrubs, a dining area, and a firepit. With such a gorgeous set up, relaxing is simple, especially if you prefer to go with the flow. 

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps four guests. 
Mood? Ultra-chic.
Budget range? A hole in the pocket, but what the heck? Perfect if you only vacation once a year.

This century-old home is an absolute stunner. It's full of old charm while being strikingly modern too. Trust us, that's pretty hard to pull off, but this place gets it in with its blend of antique and contemporary in all the right places. In other, words can we move in? We suppose that would mean you, our lovely readers missing out on all this hunk of a five-bedroom has to offer. Complete with a gourmet kitchen, a generous outdoor space, and a tonne of original fixtures. Character is an understatement. We'll race you to the booking button. 

Rooms? Five bedrooms. Sleeps 13 guests. 
Mood? Old world charm. 
Budget range? Not too shabby for large groups.

If you're after a Santa Barbara Airbnb by the ocean, this is the spot for you. Enjoy a vacation by the water from your very own tiny house. Perfect for couples and solo travelers, this custom-made space is just a mile from downtown Carpinteria and the state beach. While it may be small in size, there are high ceilings, full-sized appliances, and two spacious sleeping lofts. Make the most of the Cali lifestyle by enjoying some time outdoors by the BBQ. 

Rooms? Two. Sleeps four guests.
Mood? Modern delights.
Budget range? An awesome deal.

Imagine waking up in this beautiful, secluded one cottage stay set on five glorious acres for a peaceful surrounded by vineyards and majestic rolling hills. Indoors it's cozy, vintage cottage core galore: wooden beams, exposed cobbled walls, hardwood floors, wicker baskets, linens, and dainty china. Along with beautiful sunsets in the evening, you can enjoy snuggling up on the living room couch, hanging out on the porch, taking a stroll through the vineyards, or by enjoying a glass by the pond. When you want to head out and explore, you're just 1 mile from Roblar Winery and 2.5 miles to Los Olivos. 

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps four.
Mood? Rustic chic. 
Budget range? Moderately priced for such an enchanting experience. 

After something a little bohemian? This Airstream is one of the most unique Airbnbs in Santa Barbara. Inside, the hardened metallic edges come offset by warm tan leather and cowhide touches, while the queen bed acts as a cozy nook at the back of the space. Cook up a hearty breakfast every morning at the stove while admiring views of the surrounding countryside, before enjoying alfresco on the porch. You've even got a firepit for the evenings – a dream! 

Rooms? One. Sleeps two guests.
Mood? Rustic glamping. 
Budget range? Super affordable. 

Want your own private beach kind of luxury? Oh ok, Ms Fancy Pants. Here's something that might peke your interest. When you're not strolling along the waterfront or having a splash in the ocean, you've got the trails of More Mesa not too far away, so you can go gallivanting through the wilderness whenever you please. And if you're traveling as a group? You have to have at least one dinner out in the spacious dining area in the garden, it's pretty spectacular at sunset.

Rooms? Five. Sleeps 13 guests.
Mood? Next-level beach vibes.
Budget range? As pricey as you'd expect.

This desert-inspired home is made for romantic getaways, solo staycations, and comfortable work holidays. You'll spend your time here hanging out in the lounge with the French doors wide open, rustling up delicious dinners in the modern kitchen, and topping up your tan in the garden. You're a little while away from the bustle of downtown, but it's perfect for when you just want a little peace and quiet. 

Rooms? One. Sleeps six guests.
Mood? Boho chic.
Budget range? Mid-range.

This coastal Airbnb is a must for parents with little kids. They'll always be entertained as you take steps away from the beach. The little ones can sleep in their bunk beds, while mom and dad enjoy the luxury of a king-sized bed. Build sandcastles, have a slash in the ocean, and enjoy more ice cream than most stomachs can handle throughout your stay. It's even a short drive into the city if you fancy a day of metropolitan exploration. 

Rooms? Two. Sleeps six guests.
Mood? Coastal charm.
Budget range? On the pricier side. 

This newly renovated Santa Barbara Airbnb is only six minutes from the beach, making it a must for swimmers, surfers, and sun tanners alike. Enjoy life by the water and all of its perks, like fresh sea air from a luxury stay that comes complete with indoor-outdoor features like bifold glass doors, a hot tub, a fire pit, and pristine landscaping. Inside, it carries a beach theme with soft furnishings in light hues and a gourmet kitchen for picnic-ready meal preparation. 

Rooms? Two. Sleeps four guests.
Mood? Beachfront access.
Budget range? Pricey but worth it.

Channeling the ocean into every inch of its meticulous decor, this house is a must for beach lovers. Watch over the Pacific Ocean every day from the living room's curved window or the alfresco seating area on the decking. This blue beach house has you covered with all the living essentials, from the chef’s gas BBQ to the fire pit with a built-in wrap-around bench. Made for families, the home has two double beds in one room and a king bed in the primary. 

Rooms? Two. Sleeps six guests.
Mood? Classic Cali.
Budget range? An absolute steal. 

Located in the very charming-sounding Summerland, this stylish bungalow has some pretty impressive views that you can lap up from your own private patio. Kick back in the lounge space with a glass of iced tea and a good book as the water laps up onto the shore before you, with a fire pit and BBQ that make for memorable nights. Along with the big blue, you've got home stores, local restaurants, wine bars, and hiking trails all within easy reach. Setting your out of office has never been so tempting.

Rooms? One. Sleeps two guests.
Mood? Bungalow chic. 
Budget range? Basically free. 

Not looking for frills and fancy? This sleek studio in Oxnard is calling you. Let in the sea breeze every morning by opening up the sliding door, before settling down to catch the morning news on the Smart TV. The interiors have a seaside feel with a cream-tiled bathroom and crisp white linens, while the neat kitchenette is ideal for the more takeaway-style chefs.

Rooms? One. Sleeps two guests.
Mood? Beachfront studio for two.
Budget range? A great deal.

Live out your beach house fantasy at this stone and slate-inspired home in Santa Barbara. Perfect for laid-back vacations, this home is less than a quarter-mile from the beach. Inside the house itself, you'll find cool neutrals, wooden accents, and sleek shutters, adding to the beachy vibe. The town nearby has all you'll need throughout your stay, so you won't need ever to take the car out. 

Rooms? One. Sleeps four guests.
Mood? Contemporary design. 
Budget range? Pretty pricey.

With its hacienda vibe, this home is found in Oxnard with sweeping views of the beach below. When you aren't tanning or barbecuing on the bamboo-enclosed balcony, you can take 40 steps out of the house and be on a gorgeous coastline. You'll see nods to the seaside location reflected in the decor, with touches such as white paneling really adding to the laid-back vibe. There are even bikes and helmets available to hire if you fancy a trip along the water. 

Rooms? Three. Sleeps eight guests.
Mood? Dine alfresco on the beach. 
Budget range? A fantastic offer.

Set in Goleta, a popular area for families and the outdoorsy types, this cozy one-bed is ideal for those looking for the perfect place to unwind in nature while being close to all the typical urban hotspots like the State Street promenade in downtown. Interior-wise, it couldn't be more inviting with shades of terracotta and a beautiful blend of woods to complement the white walls and bring warmth throughout. Out on the patio, you'll find a hot tub as well as a lovely outdoor dining area to enjoy when the sun's out, which is practically all the time here.

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps four guests.  
Mood? Boho chic. 
Budget range? Pretty decent for a spot so close to the beach and downtown.