The picture-perfect image of laid-back seaside living
Just six miles east of Santa Barbara on the south-facing Pacific coast, the quaint seaside town of Summerland feels light years away from big city life. Perched on bluffs overlooking the sandy beach and ocean below, the relaxing enclave originally settled by Spiritualists is made up of quaint shops, eateries, and antique stores dotted among Victorian houses and Craftsman-style bungalows. A Summerland vacation rental has something for everyone, from surfing at the local beaches and hiking in the nearby mountains, to exploring the historical sights of Santa Barbara and sipping the fine vintages of some of California's most vibrant wine regions.
Your mission, should you choose to accept it
You can sample some of the best wines in the state at Summerland Winery, or go wine-tasting further afield in the Santa Ynez Valley or on the Fox Canyon Wine Trail. Santa Barbara is home to the famous Mission Santa Barbara, dating from 1786, as well as attractions like the Santa Barbara Zoo, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, and El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park, featuring Spanish military outposts built in 1782. Get your exercise and hike up to Knapp's Castle in Los Padres National Forest, a landmark ruined mansion that makes for an excellent photo op.
To hike or not to hike, that is the question
There's no shortage of ways to soak up the fresh sea air at your Summerland vacation rental. Toro Canyon Park has plenty of trails, with even more in the sprawling Los Padres Forest beyond. If hiking's not your thing, head to the beach for some swimming, suntanning, and surfing, or enjoy a scenic horseback ride along the surf (sunrise and sunset are particularly great times). You might even spot some whales off the coast. Film buffs will want to visit during the annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival. In town, you'll find plenty of shopping and some prime antiquing.
So much summer, they had to name it Summerland
You'll be treated to pleasant temperatures and nearly year round sunshine at your Summerland vacation rental. Highs are pleasantly in the 60s and 70s all the time. Lows can dip into the mid-40s overnight between December and February, so be sure to pack layers, especially if you plan to catch the stunning sunrises and sunsets. You'll see almost no rain between June and September, just warm ocean breezes (all the better for those outdoor activities). They might get snow way up in the mountains, but you'll almost never see the white stuff in town.
Bluff your way into the perfect vacation
Summerland sits on coastal bluffs above the beaches and crashing ocean waves. To the north you'll find forests and mountains that are home to black bears, bobcats, coyotes, and mountain lions. The areas east and west of town are both prime wine-producing regions. Off the coast to the south are the Channel Islands, dotted with oaks and Torrey Pines, and home to sheep and goats, migrating birds and bald eagles, and waters full of rays, fish, eels, sea lions, and hosts of other sea creatures. The area produces a natural black tar, so bring sturdy shoes.
Transportation to and around Summerland
The nearest airport is in Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA), located 13.7 mi (22 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you can also fly into Oxnard, CA (OXR), which is 27 mi (43.4 km) away.
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