Entire apartment

Iconic, Unique Home in the Heart of Downtown SB!

Photo gallery for Iconic, Unique Home in the Heart of Downtown SB!

A hallway with a wooden floor, a mirror, a potted plant, and artwork on the walls.
A multi-story building with balconies, a clock, and decorative elements.
A bedroom with a large bed, wooden dresser, and a mirror. There are two windows with colorful curtains, a balcony with chairs, and a view of greenery.
A staircase with patterned steps leading to a landing, a decorative archway, and a row of colorful vases.
A narrow stairway with a metal railing, leading to a higher level. There are decorative elements like a blue vase and a red pot on the walls.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire apartment

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 494 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View map
Santa Barbara, CA
  • Place, Presidio Santa Barbara
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Lobero Theater
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Santa Barbara County Courthouse
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Airport, Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal)
    ‪17 min drive‬

Room options

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About the area

Santa Barbara

This apartment puts you in the heart of Santa Barbara, within steps of Rafael Gonzalez House and Santa Barbara Historical Museum. .Apartment features a washer/dryer, free WiFi and a TV. In-room dining is easy with a kitchenette that comes equipped with a fridge, a microwave and a stovetop. A coffee/tea maker, a hairdryer and an iron/ironing board are also available. Bathrooms are shared.

What's nearby

  • Santa Barbara Historical Museum - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Presidio Santa Barbara - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Lobero Theater - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
  • Santa Barbara County Courthouse - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Granada Theatre - 10 min walk - 0.9 km

Getting around

  • Santa Barbara Station - 19 min walk
  • Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal) - 13 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Dune Coffee Roasters - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Cajé - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Mother Dough Bagels - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Blenders in the Grass - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪California Pasta - ‬8 min walk

About this property

Iconic, Unique Home in the Heart of Downtown SB!

El Jardin Pequeno

Enter the wild and wacky world of Jeff Shelton!

Holiday Rentals of Santa Barbara is proud to manage a home built by this world-renowned, Santa Barbara local architect, with a one-of-a-kind way of looking at the world. His ingenious fusion of whimsical artistry and vibrant function culminate in some of the most well-recognized buildings and happy homes in city centre Santa Barbara.

El Jardin Pequeno is the two bedroom one bathroom home located on the second level of a 4-story building known as “El Jardin,” in the heart of city centre Santa Barbara. From street level, ascend the colourful steps that lead to a memorable retreat with plenty of personality. Morrocan tile, bright use of hand tooled glass, and custom wrought iron in varying shapes, are just the beginning of the signature style that makes staying at a Shelton-designed home a lively and fun experience for each and every guest.

Cosy up on the blue velvet couch for film night in front of a large flat screen tv. Whip up a yummy meal in the super-efficient KITCHENETTE with dual burner induction cooktop, microwave, and raised bar, please note there is no oven. One of the most stunning features is the unique suspended dining table with a smooth piano finish, and an irregular whimsical shape that makes game night or mealtime amusing. Hidden away is a full-capacity front-loading washing machine and dryer, perfect for extended stays or to keep towels ready for the next oceanfront outing.

A sunny bedroom with a queen-size bed has the added sleeping convenience of a twin bunk bed to sleep four guests comfortably. In a second bedroom, enjoy a restful night's sleep, or a well-deserved breakfast in bed, in the comfortable queen-size bed. From either room, enjoy mountain views over Santa Barbara's red tile roofs, or awake to sunrise casting a warm glow over the city. A shared hall bathroom completes the offerings of this cool city apartment-style retreat. As is typical with many Santa Barbara homes, this property does not have AC. Open windows and the use of fans allow ocean breezes in to keep the house cool during hot summer months.

Head out the front door to explore all that Santa Barbara has to offer. Take a self-guided tour of the other Shelton-designed homes, gather organic ingredients for dinner at the local Farmer's Market, sip tasty wines in the Funk Zone, or simply stroll over to nearby State Street, alive with energy and world-class shopping, eateries, galleries, theatre and more.

Treat yourself to a memorable stay at El Jardin Pequeno, for the fun of it!

Additionally available upon special request is a third bedroom suite at ground level that can accommodate two more guests. A king-size bed, television, bathroom with walk-in shower, and ample size closet appoint this private suite nicely. [Additional rates may apply]

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the apartment: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchenette

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 shared bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table

Entertainment

  • Piano
  • Stereo
  • TV with cable/satellite channels

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washer/dryer

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Concierge services
  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In the city centre
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo
  • Near the marina

Things to do

  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Horseback riding nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Mountain climbing nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Snorkelling 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

  • Unit size: 1,008 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 25

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

An adult aged 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
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

Rules

Guests are required to submit their signed contract and initial payment to Holiday Rentals of Santa Barbara no later than 24 hours after booking.
Reserving guests will be required to complete a secure ID verification during the booking process. Failure to do so will result in void reservation.

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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
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
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 professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession. On-site 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 all accommodation.

Property is also known as

Vrbo Property
300590

Frequently asked questions

Are there any beaches close to Iconic, Unique Home in the Heart of Downtown SB!?

The closest beach to Iconic, Unique Home in the Heart of Downtown SB! is West Beach (1.7 km).

Does Iconic, Unique Home in the Heart of Downtown SB! have a pool?

No, this apartment doesn't have a pool.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at Iconic, Unique Home in the Heart of Downtown SB!?

No, Iconic, Unique Home in the Heart of Downtown SB! does not offer an airport shuttle service.

What time are check-in & check-out at Iconic, Unique Home in the Heart of Downtown SB!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM. Check-out time is 10:00 AM.

Are pets allowed at Iconic, Unique Home in the Heart of Downtown SB!?

No, pets are not allowed.

Iconic, Unique Home in the Heart of Downtown SB! Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 38 out of 43 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 43 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 43 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 43 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 43 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful host, outstanding home, fantastic location. Great for families or groups. Totally awesome. Stay here! 25 stars!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location, beautiful property

Loved everything about our stay. They place was clean, comfortable and the location was perfect!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
From a partner site

10/10 Excellent

what a great place

This well-appointed, architectural treasure was perfect for our family of four. Although the kitchen did not have an oven and only a two-burner stove-top, it was easy to find meals we could prepare. The interior decorations were top-notch and made us feel we were in luxury. It was not a stark vacation rental found in many, many other locations. The communication while we were there was outstanding.
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful property!

Great property and fabulous location.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

Loved this place! Walking distance to state st and all the food!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location and unique property

We liked the location and unique look of the property. Would stay there again.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay near downtown SB

My family and I enjoyed our stay at the apartment. The building architecture was interesting and the location was great. The apartment itself was spacious and a comfortable layout for my family. Would definitely stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Easy Breezy stay in SB

Besides the amazing architecture of the building this spot's location and easy functionality made our quick holiday trip a breeze.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location, fabulous house.

Wonderful time on this beautiful home.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect getaway

This was a wondeful property for a quick family getaway. Beautiful architecture, very clean, responsive property manager, walking distance to restaurants and beach. Will stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

We had a blast in this cool pad in the heart of downtown S.B.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Such a beautiful, interesting property. Beds were really comfy. Loved the windows in bedroom u could open wide and get the sea breeze. The shopping on State street is amazing. We UBER and was about 6.00. I feel parking would have been more(beach town parking!!!) stay here. It was quiet and average price for the area.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful stay

Our stay was wonderful. The architecture, the space, the location, we were surprised! Santa Barbara is a great place to be and with this appartment, it makes it complete. Highly recommended!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

Accurate description on VRBO. Great location for walking to downtown. Comfortable beds and great towels. Kitchen is small but well stocked.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Super nice property

The condo was beautiful, clean, and as advertised.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We were not able to stay at our VRBO upon arrival due to an occurrence that was out of everyone’s control. Erik, the owner, took care of my two adult sons and I. He put us in a wonderful hotel. We do look forward to staying in the property in the future.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location and well done interiors! Due to the unique building any windows and doors left open can be accessed by anyone from the street or in upper units.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice stay, easy walking distance

Property was very clean and an quick walk to restaurants and shopping. We rented the third bedroom almost solely for the extra bathroom. Would recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quick toR

Great location. Beautiful building. Super quiet and comfortable
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location - clean and comfortable

The place was just what we wanted: easy and close by, clean and spacious enough for the three of us. One highlight is the large dining table because we are board gamers and had a great spot to play! The one bathroom (as advertized) was big and easy to share.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best Location

We had a great stay at this property. The location was perfect as you could walk eveywhere. 10 mins to State St and 20 mins to the beach. Also a fabulous coffee shop just around the corner. Highly recommend.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful downtown apartment.

Fantastic downtown location. We (2 couples) were very comfortable, even though we stayed during an unusual Santa Barbara hear wave. Short walk to every Santa Barbara attraction. Well-appointed apartment with plenty of space. Overall, a great place to stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

SB escape

Roomy, eclectic environment. Loved the design and decor. Great location for restaurants, bars, shopping and the SB Bowl, but in a residential area.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Unique Experience

Such a beautiful building inside and out!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful apartment

Wonderful apartment in an historic and artistic building in Santa Barbara. Very clean and tidy, with nice furnishings. We loved the place, as it was within easy walking distance of downtown, and was very quiet at night. 100% would return!
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024