Santa Barbara, a gem on California’s Central Coast, offers not just stunning beaches and vibrant culture, but also some of the best glamping experiences in the region. For those who crave the serenity of nature but prefer the comforts of modern amenities, Santa Barbara’s glamping sites provide the perfect retreat. Whether you’re looking for yurt glamping, luxurious cabins, or a family-friendly campground, Santa Barbara has it all. Let’s look at the best options for glamping in Santa Barbara.
Why Choose Glamping in Santa Barbara?
Glamping offers a unique way to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing the comforts of modern living. Here are some reasons why glamping in Santa Barbara should be on your bucket list:
- Scenic Beauty: Nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara offers breathtaking vistas, diverse wildlife, and pristine beaches.
- Mild Climate: With its Mediterranean climate, Santa Barbara provides ideal weather for outdoor activities year-round.
- Luxury Accommodations: Santa Barbara glamping sites offer amenities such as plush bedding, private bathrooms, gourmet meals, and even Wi-Fi, ensuring you stay connected while enjoying nature.
Let’s explore some of the top glamping spots in this beautiful area, including Cachuma Lake, El Capitan Canyon, and Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground.
El Capitan Canyon: Luxury Glamping Amidst Nature
El Capitan Canyon offers a luxurious glamping experience amidst 350 acres of oak and sycamore trees along the seasonal El Capitan Creek. This site is perfect for those who want to enjoy nature without compromising on comfort.
Accommodation Options:
- Cedar Cabins: Featuring peak ceilings, private bathrooms, kitchenettes, and a variety of bed arrangements (king, queen, double beds). Some cabins include private bedrooms and sleeping lofts.
- Adventure Yurts: Circular canvas and wooden lattice structures with a domed skylight, raised wooden floors, and comfortable bedding. Shared modern bathroom facilities are nearby.
Amenities:
- Cedar Cabins: These glamping cabins are equipped with private picnic tables and fire pits with removable grills.
- Yurts: Include queen bed, twin day bed with trundle, electricity, mini-fridge, microwave, ceiling fan, and space heater.
Nearby Activities:
- Hiking Trails: Explore private trails with stunning views ranging from popular Selma Rubin Trail to the llama and goat farm.
- Beach Cruiser Bicycles: El Capitan Canyon provides adult beach cruiser bicycles complimentary to guests.
- Swimming Pool & Playground: heated swimming pool is centrally located in the Canyon. The playground with a slide, swings & jungle gym is adjacent to the pool. The pool is open from 10 am to 7 pm.
- Canyon Wine Tastings: Seasonal events at the Market lawn.
- Deli & Dining: Hearty breakfasts, hand-crafted pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and more.
Official website for reservation
Harmony’s Glamping
- Location: 1970 North San Marcos Rd., Santa Barbara, California, United States 93111.
- Available Sites: Fire Burning Hot Tub (4 guests), Indian TeePee (2 guests), Luxury Yurt (2 guests with kitchen), and Creekside Fairy Dome (2 guests). Each site is secluded and equipped with a hot shower, propane fire pit, camp kitchen, and comfortable queen bed.
- Amenities: The wood-burning hot tub is freshly filled for each guest and situated along the creek for a natural hot/cold plunge experience. Morning yoga and relaxing massages are available for a rejuvenating stay.
- Nearby Attractions: Cold Springs Tavern (historical stagecoach stop with live music and BBQ), wine tasting in Solvang or on Stearns Wharf, shopping and dining on State Street, and beaches including Ledbetter, East Beach, Butterfly, and Hendry’s Beach (dog-friendly). Additional activities include visiting Painted Cave and hiking at SaddleRock, Lizards Mouth, and Hot Springs.
- Travel Tips: A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for the mountainous and bumpy dirt road. A Jeep Wrangler is available for rent via Turo for easier access.
- What’s Provided: Cooking essentials (salt, pepper, olive oil, paper towels), utensils and tableware for two, and additional cookware. Drinking water is available on-site.
- Additional Tips: Bring an ice chest for perishable items.
For a serene glamping experience that combines comfort and nature, Harmony’s Glamping offers a unique retreat in Santa Barbara.
Cachuma Lake: Yurt Glamping Paradise
Nestled in the Santa Ynez Valley, Cachuma Lake offers a spectacular glamping experience with its well-appointed camping yurts. These cozy structures provide a unique blend of comfort and rustic charm, making them one of the best glamping spots in Santa Barbara.
Yurt Features:
- Comfortable Accommodations: Each yurt at Cachuma Lake features platform beds, sleeping 3 to 6 guests, with options like small, medium, and large yurts. The interiors are equipped with lockable doors, inside lighting, heating, and screened windows.
- Stunning Views: Set on the bluff with easy access to the lakeshore, these glamping yurts sites offer breathtaking views, especially during sunset and sunrise.
- Essential Amenities: Each yurt includes a picnic table, BBQ, fire ring, water spigot, heater, electric outlet, indoor lighting, and a locking door. Large yurts offer additional comforts like vinyl mattress pads, bunk beds, and close proximity to restrooms, showers, and playgrounds.
- Pet-Friendly: Up to two pets are allowed in each yurt, making it a great spot for the whole family.
Yurt Sizes and Locations:
- Small Yurts: Poppy, Sage, Pine (14 to 16 feet, sleep 3-5)
- Medium Yurts: Lupine (16 feet, sleeps 6)
- Large Yurts: Oak, Sycamore, Redwood (24 feet, sleep 5-6)
- Locations: Western side (Poppy, Sage, Lupine) for stunning sunsets, Eastern side (Oak, Sycamore, Pine, Redwood) for beautiful sunrises over the lake.
Rates:
- Large Yurts: $120 (April 1 – September 30), $100 (October 1 – March 31)
- Medium Yurts: $100 (April 1 – September 30), $85 (October 1 – March 31)
- Small Yurts: $90 (April 1 – September 30), $75 (October 1 – March 31)
- $35 penalty fee for late check-out
- Vehicle Entry – Day Use $10
- Canoe / Kayak Launch $5
- Dogs – Day Use and Overnight – per dog, per night (current rabies vaccination required) $3
- Dogs – Overnight Cabins Only – per dog, per night (current rabies vaccination required) $20
- Basic Camping – April 1 through September 30 (See Note 1) $35
- Basic Camping – October 1 through March 31 (See Note 1) $30
- shower is $1 for 3 minutes of hot water
Additional Info:
- Check-In/Check-Out: Check-in at 3 pm, check-out at 11 am.
- Quiet Hours: 10 pm to 7 am.
- Prohibitions: No barbecues on porches, no swimming or water-skiing in the lake, no unattended food, and no smoking in or near the yurts.
- You need to bringing all the necessities of tent camping, just not the tent.
- All Yurts and their decks are non-smoking.
- Keys must be returned to avoid a $25 charge.
- boats and kayaks are available for rental.
- Campfires are permitted in established firepits and approved containers. Open ground fires are not allowed.
For reservations, visit Santa Barbara Parks Reservations.
Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground: Family-Friendly Glamping
Located in Buellton, just a short drive from Santa Barbara, Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground offers a range of glamping options, including vintage trailers, safari tents, and luxurious cottages, ensuring a comfortable stay for all types of campers.
Accommodation Options:
- Cabins, Campers, and Campsites: Fully furnished with modern amenities, these options cater to both first-time glampers and seasoned RV campers.
Amenities:
- Pools and Jacuzzis: Relax in the poolside cabanas or enjoy the expertly groomed bocce courts.
- Wi-Fi: Complimentary access throughout the site.
- playground for kids
- fully furnished gas-powered fire pits
- dog-friendly policies
- On-Site Dining: Feather & Fire restaurant serves everything from personal pizzas to family-style chicken dinners. Food trucks are also scheduled regularly.
Nearby Attractions:
- Ostrichland U.S.A: Get up close with over 100 ostriches and emus.
- Avila Beach: A short drive away for a coastal escape.
- Mendenhall’s Museum of Gasoline Pumps & Petroliana.
- Hans Christian Andersen Museum.
- Santa Barbara Zoo, Channel Islands National Park, and more.
Official website for reservation
Activities to Enjoy While Glamping
Santa Barbara’s diverse landscape offers a plethora of activities to enjoy during your glamping adventure:
- Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the Santa Ynez Mountains or the coastal bluffs. Popular trails include the Inspiration Point Trail and Rattlesnake Canyon.
- Wine Tasting: Santa Barbara County is home to some of California’s best wineries. Take a day trip to the Santa Ynez Valley to sample local wines.
- Beach Activities: From sunbathing and swimming to surfing and paddleboarding, Santa Barbara’s beaches provide endless entertainment.
- Wildlife Watching: Visit the Channel Islands National Park for a chance to see dolphins, sea lions, and a variety of bird species.
- Cultural Experiences: Explore the Santa Barbara Mission, art galleries, and museums to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Tips for a Memorable Glamping Experience
- Pack Smart: While glamping accommodations provide many amenities, it’s still important to pack appropriately. Bring layers for changing weather, sturdy footwear for outdoor activities, and any personal items you may need.
- Book in Advance: Santa Barbara glamping sites can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Make your reservations well in advance to secure your spot.
Whether you’re seeking a serene yurt experience by the lake, a luxurious stay in a cedar cabin, or a family-friendly adventure at an RV resort, Santa Barbara’s glamping sites offer a unique way to connect with nature while enjoying modern comforts. Book your glamping adventure today and discover the natural beauty of Santa Barbara in style!
