Vacation Rentals in Santa Barbara

Treat yourself to original vegan creations and other inspiring dishes at Mesa Verde Restaurant. Try the rajas tacos, macadamia ricotta, or picadillo empanadas, all of which are tasty and beautifully presented. Alternatively, if you are walking down North Milpas Street, you’ll find La Super Rica Taqueria, the most renowned Mexican eatery in town. Katy Perry and Julia Child have been spotted here, so the location comes with top recommendations. Their special marinated pork and cheese is a must-try, and the beef or fish tacos are delicious.

For more fine Mexican dining, head to Los Agaves Restaurant where sumptuous enchiladas and chile relleno are served in a casual, hacienda-style setting. However, if you’re after Californian and French cuisines, try the Bouchon Santa Barbara. This restaurant serves organic dishes and offers an exclusive wine list. It has won several awards and accolades over the years. The menu changes seasonally, but if it's available, try the delicious Dungeness crab cake and forest mushroom ragout. Other restaurants worth visiting include The Lark Santa Barbara and Brophy Bros.

Although there are about 200 vineyards in Santa Barbara, the Presqu’ile Winery in the Santa Maria Valley is the place to prioritize. Amenities include a wine club lounge, amphitheater, and live music. If that's not enough, head to Saarloos & Sons Winery. Here you can sample fine bottles of Syrah or port in a cozy tasting room complete with a fireplace, bar, and a bakery selling cupcakes.

Refugio Ranch Vineyards in Los Olivos specializes in Rhone-based wines. Sample Petite Sirah, Grenache, or Syrah in one of its two tasting rooms. This large former cattle ranch is nestled in the northern part of the Santa Ynez Mountains and devotes around much of its grounds to its vineyards. If you’re still up for it, include the Rusack Vineyards in your itinerary. Visitors are treated to picturesque vistas of vineyards and rural cottages on the way to the winery. Upon arrival, make sure to enjoy a bottle of Pinot Noir or Syrah on the redwood deck that offers a splendid panorama over the rolling hills.

Santa Barbara's main East Beach beckons visitors with its palm trees and white sands, however Leadbetter Beach and Arroyo Burro (known as Hendry's Beach to locals) are tranquil, pet-friendly options. Amateur and advanced surfers can hire boards and take on the surf while kayakers should consider Channel Islands Kayaking where a wealth of natural and archeological resources await.

For a world class golfing experience at reasonable rates, try Hidden Oaks, Twin Lakes, and Ocean Meadows. Outdoorsy types shouldn't miss a chance to hike in Santa Barbara where there are excellent views from Mesa to the Santa Ynez Mountains. Wine tasting trails are a must in a city that takes its wine seriously.

The Santa Barbara International Film Festival is held towards the end of January and attracts Hollywood's brightest stars. Summertime events include the Fiesta, also known as the Old Spanish Days, where Aztec music, flamenco and country music is celebrated. El Desfile Histórico, one of the largest equestrian parades in America, takes place in Fiesta Week. Belly dancers, swing dancers and Tihitian Dancers perform at the Summer Solstice Festival at Alemeda Park. Many of Santa Barbara's cultural events are free making a vacation rental a splendid idea for the culturally inclined traveler.

1. Mission Santa Barbara

Founded in 1786 by the Franciscan order, this Mission is one of the most visited attractions in Santa Barbara and a historic example of Franciscan Spanish architecture. The ruins of the tanning vats and the pottery kiln are also worth a visit.

2. Stearns Wharf

Stearns Wharf is the longest deep water pier between L.A and San Francisco it features plenty of waterfront restaurants and shopping options.

3. Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

Nestled in the foothills above the city this garden is California's oldest botanic garden and was established in 1926. Visitors enjoy the panoramic views of the Channel Islands, the historic dam, the canyon and the redwood forest.

4. Ty Warner Sea Center

Operated by the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, this center is an educational and engaging attraction. Live tidepool animal encounters with sea stars, urchins and limpets await the visitor.

5. Santa Barbara Zoo

Rated as one of America's best small zoos, this zoo is home to more than 500 animals ranging from exotic Channel Island foxes, to desert tortoises, Masai giraffes and East African crowned cranes. Watch out for Gemina, the popular crooked-necked giraffe.