I've been coming to Santa Barbara for many years, but this is the first time I was able to schedule the Captain's Cottage. Other places I had stayed previously in West Beach had been somewhere between 'pretty good' and ‘outright dismal.’
So when I arrived at ‘the Cottage’ I was immediately relieved to see how comfortable and attractive and private the place was.
But, it was only as I started exploring the kitchen and the bathroom, it sunk in how well maintained and managed this place is. I don't know whom to credit, whether it's the property owner or the management company—Vacation Rentals of Santa Barbara. Undoubtedly both. No shortcuts anywhere. All the dishes matched and the silverware, again, was complete (not the usual rummage sale assortment). Similarly the bathroom was amply laid out and immaculately clean and well supplied, including dedicated beach towels.
Outside the apartment is a private courtyard with outdoor dining furniture. And there are even bicycles in the garage with tires perfectly inflated and ready for one's ride along the coastal bike path.
Usually one determines a date to travel and then hopes to find something in that time period. For me, I will check the schedule of availability of this wonderful destination and plan my trip accordingly. West Beach is my preferred neighborhood, because it doesn’t require having a car. If this apartment is indicative of the quality of VRoSB management, then the good news is there are many other options available.