If you’re looking for a beach getaway that offers casual, relaxing simplicity yet refined and accessible elegance, then this is the house for you.
The house is located on a quiet street just a short walk from two of the best beaches in Montecito/Santa Barbara. Miramar Beach is a three- to five-minute walk from the house. Hammonds Beach is about a ten-minute walk down a pathway lined with beautiful bougainvillea. We found both beaches to be swimmable and easy to boogie board and paddleboard (note: there are no lifeguards on these beaches).
The house is just a few minutes’ drive (or slightly longer walk/bike ride) to the shops and restaurants on Coast Village Road in Montecito, or to the shopping village at San Ysidro and East Valley Roads.
While you can hear the train from the house, we found it charming and part of the good vibe, rather than annoying. And this house is no closer to the train than the Four Seasons Biltmore or many of the houses in the area. We have stayed at several rentals in the area, and we have heard the train from all of them. It’s part of the charm.
Once you park in the driveway (plenty of parking for two cars) and walk through the wooden gate, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a paradise. The lush grounds and gravel pathway lead to a beautifully appointed, fully updated, light-filled home that offers seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor living. The doors on two sides of the house open up to a large wraparound porch with several areas in which to relax, enjoy a cup of coffee or a book, or catch up with friends and family. The hammock and large porch swing were popular hangouts during our week.
The master bedroom is spacious and enjoys an abundance of natural light and large windows through which you can enjoy the private garden view. The two other bedrooms are a comfortable size and offer trundle beds for extra sleeping capacity. We easily put two kids in one room. There’s also a small office space.
Both bathrooms are fully updated and clean. There’s an outdoor shower (and tub) for rinsing off after a day at the beach.
The kitchen is fully modernized with high-end appliances. The only thing missing for us was an outdoor grill.
The owners were easy to communicate with. They offer their paddleboard, two surfboards, several boogie boards and bicycles to renters.
The property manager was very attentive but not intrusive. She was always quick and accommodating with our questions and requests.