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Santa Barbara Airbnb
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

The 12 best Airbnbs in Santa Barbara

Make the most of Californian coastal living at these seriously swish Airbnb stays

Edited by
Georgia Evans
Contributors
Alex Floyd-Douglass
&
Camila Karalyte
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Looking for the best places to stay in the gorgeous coastal city of Santa Barbara? Well, you're in the right place. Enjoy long, sunny days lazing by a pool in the warmth of the sun's rays, or out exploring the bustling cultural scene this seaside city has to offer. The Mediterranean vibes of the city will have you thinking you're far away in Italy or Spain but without the hours onboard a flight. From unique airstream stays to romantic beachfront getaways and trendy downtown apartments, we've got you covered for every kind of vacation. Have a look at our top picks of the best Airbnbs in Santa Barbara and book a Cali vacay to remember. Pass us a cocktail.

Here's more Santa Barbara inspiration:

🍔 Eat at the best Restaurants in Santa Barbara
🏖️ Book fun things to do in Santa Barbara
😴 Discover luxury hotels in Santa Barbara

Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines. 

Best Santa Barbara Airbnbs

The ocean-view tiny house in Carpinteria
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

1. The ocean-view tiny house in Carpinteria

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.

The stillpoint sanctuary in Montecito
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

2. The stillpoint sanctuary in Montecito

One of the best luxury Airbnbs in Santa Barbara, this bright and open home is found in Montecito, seven minutes from downtown and close to the beach – so surfers, you won't be disappointed if this home catches your eye. A private hideaway, this place is surrounded by 1.3 acres surrounded by trees and lush forest. As well as the standard BBQ outdoors, this place goes the extra mile with a hot tub. So you can stargaze with a vino to hand during your stay. 

Rooms? Three. Sleeps seven guests.
Mood? Home away from home.
Budget range? Spennnny.

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The 1974 Airstream on an organic ranch in Carpenteria
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

3. The 1974 Airstream on an organic ranch in Carpenteria

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. 

The blackrock beach house in Santa Barbara
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

4. The blackrock beach house in Santa Barbara

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.

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The cozy bohemian oasis near Hope Ranch
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

5. The cozy bohemian oasis near Hope Ranch

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.

The coastal home in Carpinteria
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

6. The coastal home in Carpinteria

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. 

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The shoreline retreat in Santa Barbara
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

7. The shoreline retreat in Santa Barbara

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.

The beachy blue hideaway in Summerland
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

8. The beachy blue hideaway in Summerland

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. 

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The bungalow with ocean views in Summerland
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

9. The bungalow with ocean views in Summerland

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. 

The studio by the beach in Oxnard
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

10. The studio by the beach in Oxnard

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.

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The stone hideaway in Santa Barbara
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

11. The stone hideaway in Santa Barbara

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.

The Hollywood beach escape in Oxnard
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

12. The Hollywood beach escape in Oxnard

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.

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