Entire home

Beautiful Peaceful Home away from Home Surrounded by Nature 10 mins to downtown

Photo gallery for Beautiful Peaceful Home away from Home Surrounded by Nature 10 mins to downtown

Redwood deck with view of back meadow and More Mesa beyond.
Front garden East side terrace
Great Room with Fireplace with carved antique mantle
Dining area looking toward kitchen
Kitchen with granite topped island/ bar. Shown without 5 barstools.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6232.3 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

Map
Santa Barbara, CA
  • Upper State Street
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Mission Santa Barbara
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Goleta Beach
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal)
    ‪10 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Master

1 King Bed

Queen Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Small Bedroom

1 Double Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 2

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Master Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

Beautiful Peaceful Home away from Home Surrounded by Nature 10 mins to downtown

(Owners occupy upstairs unit with private exterior entrance. No shared space.. )

We have been watching the tragedy of the devastating LA fires unfold and we are so very sorry for the many homes that have been lost ,affecting so many families. It’s difficult to fathom the extent of this tragedy. Many people may be searching for a place to relocate, regroup and recover while they figure out what to do next. We would welcome you to NATURES RETREAT! At the moment our property is available from Saturday, January 18 to the first week in April. If a longer stay is needed please let us know as it may be possible to extend your stay.


If you’re looking to get away to a quiet, peaceful comfortable place to-- relax, “work from home” or have kids attending virtual school-during these difficult times, come to beautiful Santa Barbara and stay with us for awhile. About 10 minutes from SB Cottage hospital or Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital, Nature’s Retreat is also an ideal and comfortable place to stay while recuperating from surgery. With high speed WiFi, a great fully equipped kitchen, and lots of outdoor surrounding space for walks, hikes, and the beach, Nature’s Retreat offers you a great “home away from home.” Bring your bikes- a wonderful bike path is just down the street. Whether you’re planning to cook or take advantage of all the restaurants providing takeout, or the many food delivery services available, all are at your fingertips. Restaurants are open for indoor and outdoor dining.
Upon your arrival you’ll find the home thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to the best of our ability, using cleaning methods recommended by the CDC. You can be assured that all remotes, light switches, cabinet knobs and pulls and door knobs are disinfected also.

Private, secluded, and "Romantic", this beautiful and spacious home is near More Mesa, "one of the most outstanding scenic and environmentally sensitive pieces of undeveloped open space remaining on the Coast of Southern California." As a bird refuge (128 species) and natural animal habitat, you may see everything from Red-tailed Hawks, Squirrels, Rabbits, Raccoons, Opossum and Skunk, to Coyote, Fox and sometimes even Bobcats. We also have chickens, and when the hens are laying can offer you some fresh eggs. No rooster.

The retreat is walking distance to one of Santa Barbara s most beautiful beaches. (Due to it s seclusion it has a reputation as a "clothing-optional" beach.) This beautifully decorated approximately 2500 sq. foot home with vaulted ceilings, ceiling fans and lots of windows, has an "open" floor plan with living room, dining room and kitchen area sharing one large space.
All this looks out on a lovely stone terrace that features a magnificent very old oak tree, and beautiful views of nature just out the back door. A great setting for outdoor dining or just relaxing.

The living room has the feel of a European "Country House", with the casual elegance of comfortable sofas and chairs around a fireplace that features an architectural antique carved wood mantel. There are touches of individually picked Architectural antique carved pieces throughout the home, including the soaring antique columns with stone bases from India that support the main arch to the dining area. The dining table seats 6 but can expand with table "leaves." There is a large bookcase/ entertainment center with 52" flatscreen TV and Blu Ray player. The home is equipped with Cox high speed Panoramic WIFI. We have one network for range and one for speed.

There is a fully equipped kitchen with center island, Dacor stovetop and Bar seating for 5, Dacor double ovens, a Miele dishwasher, and a Wine Fridge. There is also a comfortable loveseat facing the kitchen.

All bedrooms feature luxury all cotton sheets, down comforters and down pillows. We have alternative down options for the master suite.
The romantic Master suite features a California King Aireloom pillow top bed, beautiful custom fabrics, a fireplace that is open to the bedroom and bathroom, and a walk- in closet. It has a garden view with fountain and often hummingbirds, doves, gold finches, and many other types of birds visit there. The bathroom features honed travertine floors and countertop with custom tile trim and double sinks. There is a separate private area for shower and toilet.

The second bedroom has a queen size Aireloom bed, designer fabrics, a view of beautiful nature with a French door out to the back deck.

The charming third bedroom is very cozy, and features a Pine Sleigh bed with full size mattress, and custom fabrics.

The second bathroom has a single sink and vanity and a tub- shower combo and toilet.

The owners occupy the upstairs unit with exterior private entrance. There is NO SHARED SPACE. The main floor and exterior area are yours and your privacy and ours, is assured.

Near miles of trails on More Mesa----- the area is a Bird-Watchers delight. The University (UCSB) to the West and Downtown Santa Barbara to the South are just 10 minutes away.
Easy access to biking and hiking.
A bike path that will take you both West and South is close by

Whether you re interested in a vacation rental or possibly a longer stay-a month to month rental is also available-Please contact the owners.

This is an ideal place for vacationers, writers, patients recovering from surgery in the Santa Barbara area, corporate lodging, visiting Doctors or faculty, or someone who is remodeling or building a home in the Santa Barbara area and needs a comfortable place to stay during construction.
If you re looking for peace and quiet in a country setting but want to be close to downtown Santa Barbara, or UCSB, the Retreat is the perfect place for you.

Property manager

Cathy
Premier Host

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue grill
Mountain view

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House Rules

Minimum age to rent: 40
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Please discuss with owner
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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
Absolutely no smoking anywhere on the premises
No loud music or TV after 10pm. Pls be respectful
Guests must do their own dishes.
If any furniture is moved-interior or exterior-please return to original location. Same applies to flashlights. Please don’t remove velvet hangers

Important information

You need to know

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
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

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Santa Barbara

Located in Santa Barbara, this holiday home is in a rural area and by the sea. Travellers looking for local activities can try Santa Barbara Harbor and Stearns Wharf, while those looking to experience a bit of culture can stop by Santa Barbara Bowl. Santa Barbara Zoo and Zodo's - Bowling and Beyond are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with windsurfing and sailing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with horse riding and mountain biking.
Map
Santa Barbara, CA

What's nearby

  • Upper State Street - 5 min drive - 3.5 km
  • Santa Barbara County Courthouse - 12 min drive - 11.3 km
  • Mission Santa Barbara - 12 min drive - 10.3 km
  • Goleta Beach - 15 min drive - 9.2 km
  • Santa Barbara Bowl - 15 min drive - 12.8 km

Getting around

  • UC Santa Barbara Station - 17 min drive
  • Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) - 10 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪In-N-Out Burger - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Dave's Dogs Grill - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Wendy's - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Lighthouse Coffee - ‬4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Beautiful Peaceful Home away from Home Surrounded by Nature 10 mins to downtown pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

Where is Beautiful Peaceful Home away from Home Surrounded by Nature 10 mins to downtown located?

Situated by the sea, this holiday home is within 1 mile (2 km) of More Mesa, More Mesa Beach and Santa Barbara Orchid Estate. Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital and Upper State Street are also within 3 miles (5 km).

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. 94 out of 106 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 9 out of 106 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 106 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 106 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 106 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jason M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A Lovely, Pastoral Getaway
Our stay at this beautiful rental in Goleta was nothing short of delightful. The spacious three-bedroom house is set in a serene, rustic pastoral landscape, offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.Inside, the home is a treasure trove of charm and character, with ornate decor, fascinating art pieces, and family photos that add a warm, personal touch. The large kitchen, seamlessly opening into the family sitting area and dining room, made for a wonderful space to gather, cook, and enjoy meals together.Every detail of the home reflects care and thoughtfulness, making it a comfortable and inviting retreat. We truly appreciated the unique ambiance and welcoming atmosphere. My friends and I truly enjoyed our time at Cathy and Jim's home. We highly recommended their place for anyone looking for a peaceful and inspiring getaway!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Beverly D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great Christmas Holiday In Santa Barbara
Six of us stayed at Cathy & Jim's home, beginning on Christmas afternoon thru the next 4 days. Communications were all timely & helpful - and the house was spectacular (quiet setting, very cozy, well stocked kitchen) and great place for lounging, running paths nearly with walk to cliffs along the beach, and easy access to Santa Barbara. There was a huge storm the day before we arrived that knocked out power - so Cathy was busy restoring internet service for a few days after arrival - all resolved and host was very attentive. We brought along Christmas dinner supplies and were delighted to find the wonderful kitchen with every imaginable pan, dish, cooking supply. We also made use of the twin blow up bed, which was perfect. The house is on a dead end street so the driveway/road was helpful for games of catch with my 6 year old grandson. The house was better in person than the photos - filled with comfy chairs, couches, reading books, music, and all nice amenities in the bathrooms. We loved our stay and would return again!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Deborah O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful house!
We loved our stay. The house was big, clean and beautiful. Loved the yard.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joan G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A Santa Barbara Sojourn
The house was very comfortable with beautiful interior decor and very comfortable furniture and beds. The kitchen was well equipped and stocked with the necessary basics (re: cooking oil, spices). Wall-enclosed front grounds demonstrated excellent landscaping with fruit-bearing lemon and apple trees. The back patio was spacious, featuring a large interesting oak tree and a path leading to the beach. The neighborhood was quiet and safe. We really didn't want to leave.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tracy C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic home in Santa Barbara
Nature's retreat is a lovely property. The grounds are amazing and the view of the mesa is so nice! Cathy is a great hostess and makes sure all the details are taken care of. We loved sitting on the side patio by the fountain watching the birds and on the main patio enjoying a glass of wine. The location is fantastic as it is midway between UCSB and downtown. There is a close grocery store and you can actually walk to a beach overlook from the house. The kitchen is well stocked and the home is very comfortable. We highly recommend and will stay here again!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Eileen U.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful home and garden
The kitchen was the perfect gathering place during our stay in Cathy and Jim’s beautiful home. The kitchen was outfitted with every pot, pan and dish we needed for home cooked meals. We all enjoyed spending time outside in the beautiful and scenic backyard. Cathy welcomed us with open arms and was available for questions throughout our stay. We would definitely stay here again if we return to SB.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

David D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Santa Barbara break
We took a break from our driving to stay a while in a very nice house in a beautiful natural setting. The house had everything, and the hostess was warm and welcoming. An excellent visit overall.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Deborah A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great stay for a Graduation celebration!
We were thrilled to stay here when we came to Santa Barbara for a UCSB graduation. We celebrated with the family in the lovely backyard, enjoyed the quiet location, and found it convenient to everything. The house is amazing and filled with history. The hostess went out of her way to make us feel welcome and comfortable. My children told me the beds were the best they'd ever slept in. It was a perfect choice for our trip. Thank you Cathy!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lyn E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful family home
The owner Cathy is very detail oriented which was very helpful- all directions for operation of appliances, TV, lights and so on were there and labeled, a booklet of recommendations for restaurants and other info was made up and if we had any questions she was just a text away. The home has the most complete kitchen and equipment in a rental that I have ever seen and her books were great for the rainy weather periods. We loved walking out the door and down a short street to the trail across the mesa to the beach, but driving to attractions was easy also. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Very quiet and relaxing stay!
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeannie M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Country home
Very lovely home, well stocked and comfortable. Quiet and secluded but still close enough to every thing we wanted to do.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

8/10 Good

Michele S., Indian land, Sc

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Family get together
Nice property with large rooms and a huge kitchen. Everything you need is provided to have a comfortable stay. The beds are all very comfortable. We couldn't spend much time outside because of the pineapple express hitting the area. Kind of put a damper on things. It rained more than I have ever seen in California. They provide many options to keep you occupied Puzzles, books, games. Enjoyed our stay in spite of the rain.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

gail s., small town, new mexico, usa

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful and comfortable home
The house was lovely, and pretty perfect in every way. The kitchen was well equipped and the bedding was first rate. We enjoyed knowing about Cathy's musical career. There are three main seating areas inside and we used them all. We proudly hosted a few people that we were in town to see,, and they were very impressed — and comfortable.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
BEAUTIFUL outdoors, good people.
We are a film crew staying in SB, so had three guys staying here - we were looking for a place to shoot an interview and double as accommodations, and Cathy was willing to work with us! She communicated all of her concerns and requests clearly, and nothing was unreasonable - total sport for being willing to take a chance on us. I told her immediately of our intention to shoot and she and Jim decided to get on board and give us a shot. Cathy dropped by the set and was lovely. The guys enjoyed their stay and the house is comfortable and beautiful.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Chris J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
GREAT PROPERTY
The house was beautiful the grounds immaculate. The owner was very hospitable and more than helpful. I would recommend this place to anyone. I cannot wait to return!!!! Book it you won’t be sorry.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great site, great value!
We had everything we needed at the property. It was a great base of operations for a 50th and 75th birthday celebration. Cathy welcomed us, showed us around, and was flexible on small details that made a big difference. There is a great supermarket nearby for essentials, and you can drive anywhere pretty quickly. We loved just sitting on the large patio and deck and enjoing the environment and each other. Thanks!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tom B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Old Spanish Days
We came to Santa Barbara for Old Spanish Days. Cathy our host was great at communicating the check in process with a thorough email. Upon arriving she showed me everything we needed to know about the house and gave me the tour. The house was a perfect fit for our family. Beautiful house, and a very safe on a private road. I would highly recommend Cathy’s house!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mark B., Minneapolis, MN, USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing...
A beautiful home nestled into the countryside, yet close to downtown Santa Barbara. The house is impeccably decorated, inviting, and comfortable. Cathy and Jim are fantastic hosts and available for any need. Pictures do not do the patio and property justice, the peacefulness of having coffee in the morning while listening to all the birds is not to be missed. We will definitely stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

8/10 Good

Christine J.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy
Secret Garden
The home is large and nicely appointed and decorated in a rustic Tuscan style. Comfortable beds and amenities. Sits behind the bluffs. Very quiet. Lovely gardens and outdoor sitting spaces. We were not fully aware the property is occupied full time by the owners who live upstairs. Parking is very limited. Sadly, there quite a few spiders, indoors and out, while we were there. And you do get the noise of planes landing at Santa Barbara Airport. A distance from restaurants and resources.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robert V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely place
Truly a “nature’s retreat.“ Beautiful place. Lovely location, even if at the end of a narrow road. Good communications with the owner, clean as a whistle, comfortable beds, lovely garden, very pleasant stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jana M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect for graduation celebration
We reserved for UCSB graduation weekend because we had grandparents and an aunt & uncle coming to graduation. It was perfect! Plenty of room inside and out. Kitchen was well stocked with what we needed. Location was great…quiet and close to campus, plus close to a More Mesa trailhead for short hikes to the ocean. Cathy met us when we arrived and gave us a quick tour. We loved it! My 91 year old father particularly enjoyed the King Sister and King Cousin pictures!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Laura M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Anna’s Wedding
Loved the outside areas and the ability to relax with family. So many birds to watch and listen to.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mijail S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful
Beautiful home and landscape, courteous and attentive hosts
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Colleen B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Deliciously comfortable home
Cathy and Jim could teach a class on how to prepare a cozy nest of a bed. Each of us thought we had the most comfortable bed in the choicest room. The kitchen is very thoroughly furnished with cookware and serving ware. The location is fantastic: very quiet, close to the beach and to trails. The grounds around the house are picturesque and inviting. Our hosts were so very obliging and respectful. I highly recommend this dishy, cozy, comforting nest.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023

2/10 Terrible

Norman K., Sonoma Co, CA, USA

Liked: Check-in
Disliked: Communication, listing accuracy
Extremely disappointed
You will be receiving a letter from me outlining the problems we encountered. Cathy does not understand VRBO and should not be a property manager!
Stayed 11 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Angela M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect for our family getaway to Santa Barbara
Cathy was a wonderful host, and her beautiful retreat was perfect for our adult family to convene in Santa Barbara. The property is a short drive to downtown and yet feels a million miles away tucked up into the quiet hills with fruit trees, chickens, and stunning flora all over the quaint property. Cathy was there to greet us upon arrival and very attentive when a couple of issues arose. Beds and couches were comfy, and we had everything we needed to cook up breakfasts in the morning. I'd love to stay here again for a girls weekend in the future. Thank you for everything, Cathy!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022

About the host

Hosted by Cathy

Host profile image
We're both native Californians and in the Entertainment industry. Traveling has been a big part of our lives, with performances in almost every state in the US, Japan, Europe, Canada and even Tahiti, and film locations in the US, Canada, Europe, Hawaii, Tahiti, Mexico and The Caribbean. But we've always looked forward to coming home, waking up in our own bed, smelling the roses in our own garden, making our own coffee. So we know how important it is to find "a home away from home", when you travel. That's what we wanted to create here.
We love watching all the birds and hearing them chirping and singing around the property throughout the day.

We've never regretted moving to Santa Barbara and hope our guests will enjoy our beautiful city as much as we do!

Why they chose this property

Santa Barbara had always been our favorite week-end getaway destination. After living in the Los Angeles for our entire adult lives, we had experienced earthquakes, fires, floods, riots and smog and traffic. After the massive 6.7 Northridge, CA earthquake struck at 4:31am on Monday, January 17, 1994, we decided we'd had enough. We packed up our home of 30 years and headed to paradise. We leased this house, while we looked at property to buy from Montecito to Hope Ranch. In the end we decided we loved it here most and purchased the home in 1997. In 2005 we remodeled with a European country style, to really make it “our own.”

What makes this property unique

We Santa Barbara had always been our favorite week-end getaway destination. After living in the Los Angeles for our entire adult lives, we had experienced earthquakes, fires, floods, riots and smog and traffic. After the massive 6.7 Northridge, CA earthquake struck at 4:31am on Monday, January 17, 1994, we decided we'd had enough. We packed up our home of 30 years and headed to paradise. We leased this house, while we looked at property to buy from Montecito to Hope Ranch. In the end we decided we loved it here most and purchased the home in 1997. In 2005 we remodeled with a European country style, to really make it “our own.”

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests