Seaside stay .You'll be within half a mile (1 km) of More Mesa and 2 miles (3 km) of Santa Barbara Orchid Estate with a stay here. Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital and Upper State Street are also within 3 miles (5 km).
Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital - 5 min drive - 1.9 miles
Santa Barbara Orchid Estate - 6 min drive - 1.9 miles
Santa Barbara Zoo - 14 min drive - 9.6 miles
Getting around
UC Santa Barbara Station - 17 min drive
Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) - 10 min drive
Restaurants
In-N-Out Burger - 6 min drive
Starbucks - 5 min drive
Kin Bakeshop - 5 min drive
Shalhoob’s Magnolia - 6 min drive
Lighthouse Coffee - 4 min drive
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
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.
Note from host: Absolutely no smoking anywhere on the premises
Services and conveniences
Iron/ironing board
Meal delivery service
Location highlights
In a rural location
Near a health/beauty spa
Near a hospital
Near a zoo
Near the marina
Near the sea
Things to do
Birdwatching nearby
Casino nearby
Fishing nearby
Golfing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Horseback riding nearby
Ice skating nearby
Mountain biking nearby
Mountain climbing nearby
Sailing nearby
Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
Swimming nearby
Whale watching nearby
Windsurfing nearby
Winery tours nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
Garden
Unit size: 2,500 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 40
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 AM
Special check-in instructions
An adult age 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
Guests can access their accommodation through a private entrance
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Check-out instructions
The host requires you 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 trash
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.
Rules
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
Access methods
Private entrance
Pets
No pets allowed
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome.
Note from host: Please discuss with owner
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Absolutely no smoking anywhere on the premises
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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock in each accommodation.
Property is also known as
Beautiful Peaceful Romantic 10 min Downtown Santa Barbara House
Beautiful Peaceful Romantic 10 min House
Beautiful Peaceful Romantic 10 min Downtown Santa Barbara
Beautiful Peaceful Romantic 10 min
Beautiful Peaceful Romantic 10 min Downtown Santa Barbara House
Beautiful Peaceful Romantic 10 min House
Beautiful Peaceful Romantic 10 min Downtown Santa Barbara
Natures Retreat Beautiful peaceful romantic 10 min House
Natures Retreat Beautiful Peaceful Romantic 10 min House
Natures Retreat Beautiful peaceful romantic 10 min
Beautiful Peaceful Romantic! 10 min From Downtown Santa Barbara
Natures Retreat Beautiful Peaceful Romantic 10 min
Beautiful Peaceful Romantic! 10 min From Downtown Santa Barbara
Beautiful Peaceful Romantic! 10 min From Downtown Santa Barbara
Frequently asked questions
How close is Beautiful Peaceful Home away from Home Surrounded by Nature 10 mins to downtown to the airport?
This vacation home is 6 mi (10-min drive) away from the Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.
Does Beautiful Peaceful Home away from Home Surrounded by Nature 10 mins to downtown have an airport shuttle?
Airport shuttle services are not available at this vacation home.
How close is Beautiful Peaceful Home away from Home Surrounded by Nature 10 mins to downtown to the beach?
This vacation home is 5.7 mi (15-min drive) from Goleta Beach and 6.4 mi (12-min drive) from Campus Beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!
Does Beautiful Peaceful Home away from Home Surrounded by Nature 10 mins to downtown offer free breakfast?
This vacation home does not offer free breakfast.
Is there a casino at Beautiful Peaceful Home away from Home Surrounded by Nature 10 mins to downtown?
No, there is no casino at this vacation home.
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.
Is there free parking at Beautiful Peaceful Home away from Home Surrounded by Nature 10 mins to downtown?
Free parking is not available at this vacation home.
Does Beautiful Peaceful Home away from Home Surrounded by Nature 10 mins to downtown have a pool?
This vacation home does not have a pool.
Does Beautiful Peaceful Home away from Home Surrounded by Nature 10 mins to downtown have a spa?
There are no spa services available at this vacation home.
How close is Beautiful Peaceful Home away from Home Surrounded by Nature 10 mins to downtown to downtown Santa Barbara?
This vacation home is 1.4 mi away from Hope Ranch.
Beautiful Peaceful Home away from Home Surrounded by Nature 10 mins to downtown Reviews
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 100 out of 114 reviews
10 - Excellent
100
Rating 8 - Good. 11 out of 114 reviews
8 - Good
11
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 114 reviews
6 - Okay
2
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 114 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 114 reviews
2 - Terrible
1
10/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Mary P.
Oct 1, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely setting and quiet. Plenty of room for gatherings.
Mary P.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Robert B., Denton, TX
Aug 22, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
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.
Robert B.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2025
10/10 Excellent
Patrick I.
Jul 25, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
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.
Patrick I.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
8/10 Good
Stacey S.
Jul 21, 2025
Stacey S.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
8/10 Good
Joel F.
Jul 12, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Home and Location
We enjoyed the close location to downtown Santa Barbara, the beaches, and the airport.However, the owners live in the upstairs of the home. While they kept to themselves and we didn’t see/hear them, this home did lack the privacy we expect when renting a house. The laundry room was locked and off limits, and we were told to leave certain doors unlocked from our side so they could get in should there be an emergency, which left us uneasy. The fact that the house was a shared property was hidden at the very bottom of the description. You don’t have the entire home. This should have been more apparent in the listing and contract.
Joel F.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Patricia J.
Jun 17, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
A beautiful place in a beautiful location. Loved all the birds. We had a great experience.
Patricia J.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
10/10 Excellent
Rose O.
May 6, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing
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.
Rose O.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
Lyn K.
Apr 25, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely Garden Setting
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.
Lyn K.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
Jason M.
Mar 11, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
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!
Jason M.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025
10/10 Excellent
Beverly D.
Jan 5, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
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!
Beverly D.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Deborah O.
Oct 22, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful house!
We loved our stay. The house was big, clean and beautiful. Loved the yard.
Deborah O.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
Joan G., Louisville KY USA
Oct 4, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
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.
Joan G.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Tracy C., Austin, TX
Aug 18, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
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!
Tracy C.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
Eileen U.
Jul 30, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
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.
Eileen U.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
David D.
Jul 8, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
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.
David D.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Deborah A.
Jun 19, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
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!!
Deborah A.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Lyn E.
Apr 6, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
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!
Lyn E.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024
10/10 Excellent
Jeannie M.
Mar 11, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Country home
Very lovely home, well stocked and comfortable. Quiet and secluded but still close enough to every thing we wanted to do.
Jeannie M.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
8/10 Good
Michele S., Indian land, Sc
Feb 9, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
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.
Michele S.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2024
10/10 Excellent
gail s., small town, new mexico, usa
Oct 30, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
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.
gail s.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveler
Oct 2, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
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.
Verified traveler
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
10/10 Excellent
Chris J.
Sep 15, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
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.
Chris J.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
10/10 Excellent
Jonathan C.
Aug 21, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
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!
Jonathan C.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023
10/10 Excellent
Tom B.
Aug 7, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
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!
Tom B.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023
10/10 Excellent
Mark B., Minneapolis, MN, USA
Jul 31, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
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!