Beautiful Peaceful Home away from Home Surrounded by Nature 10 mins to downtown
(Owners occupy upstairs unit with private exterior entrance. No shared space.. )
If you’re looking to get away to a quiet, peaceful comfortable place to-- relax, “work from home” or explore our beautiful City and surrounding areas, come to 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.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue grill
Mountain view
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Gather used towels and store extra beds
Remove personal items and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and return the keys
If any furniture ( interior or exterior),pillows, bedding, flashlights, hangers, etc., are moved or removed from rooms please return to original locations.
Take out any recycles and dispose of items in blue recycle cans, throw empty plastic bag in beige trash can.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
No loud music or TV after 10pm. Pls be respectful
Guests must do their own dishes and empty trash and recycles
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
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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
About the area
Santa Barbara
Located in Santa Barbara, this holiday home is in a rural area and by the sea. Earl Warren Showgrounds and Santa Barbara Natural History Museum are local attractions and those in the mood for shopping can visit Upper State Street and La Cumbre Plaza. Ucsb Labyrinth and Santa Barbara Botanic Garden 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.
Santa Barbara Orchid Estate - 5 min drive - 3.0 km
Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital - 6 min drive - 3.0 km
Santa Barbara County Courthouse - 13 min drive - 11.8 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
Kin Bakeshop - 5 min drive
Lighthouse Coffee - 4 min drive
Shalhoob’s Magnolia - 6 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.
How much does it cost to stay at Beautiful Peaceful Home away from Home Surrounded by Nature 10 mins to downtown?
As of 4 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Beautiful Peaceful Home away from Home Surrounded by Nature 10 mins to downtown on 25 Apr 2026 start from £361, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Beautiful Peaceful Home away from Home Surrounded by Nature 10 mins to downtown?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Beautiful Peaceful Home away from Home Surrounded by Nature 10 mins to downtown?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Beautiful Peaceful Home away from Home Surrounded by Nature 10 mins to downtown?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
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 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.
The property was beautiful and the owners were very hospitable. We highly enjoyed our stay!
laurel r.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Jun 2020
Hi Laurel, Thank you so much for your review. It’s greatly appreciated. We enjoyed meeting you and your family and you’re welcome back anytime!
Warm regards,
Cathy and Jim
Cathy and Jim’s home is tucked away in secluded spot but still easily accessible to everywhere. Wonderful woodsy with lots of wildlife. Perfect spot for the grandkids to have a Yahtzee tournament with the “old folk”. Cathy was very responsive to any requests and a delight to spend a few minutes conversing with her about her background in the entertainment industry. Make sure you take the time for a short visit, she was delightful.
We had a great time in this beautiful home thanks to Cathy & Jim! The house was clean and beautiful, but also in the perfect location to take a walk to the awesome private beach If we ever are back in the Central Coast, this will be our place to stay.
mindy b.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Mar 2020
Thanks so much for your great review Mindy. We’re looking forward to drinking the lovely wine you left for us!
We do so appreciate the respect with which you treated our home and would welcome you back any time!
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.
Cathy's home was the perfect place for my family to stay during preparations for our son's wedding. It was beautifully relaxing at the end of several wonderful but exhausting days. Cathy was a gracious and responsive host who happily shared her family history when we asked about the photos on her wall.
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.
Robert V.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Jul 2023
Thank you, Bob, for your lovely review and especially for the text below you sent us explaining what happened with your review. We so appreciate that you made the effort to explain. You were great guests and are welcome anytime.
Just want to thank you for all the effort you took with VRBO to adjust your rating to 5 star. It worked. Yay!
Not often are the photos as good as the actual property but in this case they are. We loved this home, the location and the amenities including a wonderful kitchen and cosy spacious living room. We had a great stay
Susan C.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Jan 2022
Thank you so much for taking the time to post this lovely review of your stay at Nature’s Retreat. We’re so glad you enjoyed your time here and welcome you back anytime.
Great location in nature’s backyard, very comfortable, very quiet, with walking access to the ocean. If you like just hanging out in a peaceful relaxed setting, with easy access to biking, hiking, and or beaching, this is the place for you.
Dana H.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 24 May 2022
Thanks so much for your review. We’re so glad you enjoyed your stay at Nature’s Retreat and greatly appreciate the respect with with you treated our home.
You’re welcome back anytime!
Lovely home with all the amenities needed for our family gatherings. Outdoor BBQ and patio, full kitchen, living area was spacious and comfortable. Host was very responsive and available. Looking forward to staying here again!
Gladys M.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Aug 2021
Thank you for your lovely review Gladys. We’re glad Nature’s Retreat served your family well and look forward to welcoming you back for your Christmas visit!
Location is perfect - a mile walk to the beach. Home is beautiful, inside and out. Relaxing on the patio was peaceful with bunnies and hummingbirds. The entire stay was excellent.
Lisa G.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Mar 2020
Hi Lisa. We’re so glad you enjoyed your stay with us. We hope you enjoyed Santa Barbara’s great Fiesta! Thanks so much for leaving our home in such great shape, almost as if you’d never been there. That’s always much appreciated.
You’re welcome to return anytime!
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.
We had a great time at Cathy and Jim’s house. We loved the location with a beautiful walkway to the beach and the cleanliness of the property. We had initially missed that the owners live in the property and thought that may be an issue. But it really was not an issue at all. The property was exactly what we expected based on the description online. We really appreciated that Cathy provided plenty of towels and even beach towels for everyone. We look forward to coming back in the future.
This home is in a lovely, quiet garden setting. We were five adults and one infant and there was plenty of room for all of us. The home was quite clean and comfortable, and while the owners live upstairs we rarely heard any sounds at all from their quarters. The location was close to town and grocery and other stores were close by. There are several easy walks nearby to a bike path or towards the bluffs overlooking the ocean. A very nice location for a visit to Santa Barbara.
Lovely property and really quiet. It was a gem. My family stayed for a week during a family wedding. It was perfect and we were extremely comfortable. Great deck in the back. I’d love to stay longer
Heidi G.
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Aug 2021
Heidi, thank you for your very nice review. We’re so glad your family enjoyed their stay here and were able to experience what we hope all our guests will experience - the peace and quiet and natural beauty of the setting.
We’d welcome you back anytime!
This is a lovely home--beautiful furnishings, everything you'd want in a kitchen and a hydrangea-filled backyard. The owners have recently added a great new barbeque, which we used quite a bit! Also, the owners were wonderful to deal with. Highly recommended!
Linda R.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Mar 2020
Thank you so much for this great review. We enjoyed having you as our guests and really appreciate your respect for our home. We hope you return. You’d be very welcome!
We spent the New Year’s weekend at this beautiful property. It was exactly as advertised and thus the great reviews. Cathy was most responsive and the entire booking and checkout process was easy, and the communication was excellent. We would not hesitate to book again. We had a wonderful time.
Jeff b.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Jan 2022
Thank you so much, Jeff, for your lovely review. We enjoyed having you all stay for your special New Years weekend and especially appreciate the respect with which you treated our home during your stay. It was immaculate when you left. What a lovely surprise. Thank you for choosing Nature’s Retreat for your holiday and you’d be welcomed back anytime!
About the host
Hosted by Cathy
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