Tiffany, Author at Haller Coastal Homes - Page 2 of 5

Labor Day weekend is the perfect time to bid farewell to summer with a memorable getaway, and there’s no better place to do it than Santa Barbara, CA. Nestled between the stunning Pacific coastline and the scenic Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara offers an array of activities that cater to every interest. Whether you’re a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone seeking relaxation, Santa Barbara is a coastal paradise with something for everyone. And with Haller Coastal Homes, your stay will be as exceptional as your adventures.

Beach Day Bliss

Santa Barbara’s pristine beaches are a must-visit during Labor Day weekend. Enjoy the sun, sand, and surf at West Beach, where you can rent paddleboards or kayaks, or simply relax with a good book. Leadbetter Beach is another great spot, especially for families, with its gentle waves and ample picnic areas. You can enjoy the beach chairs and coolers available at our rental homes, or you can even hire local business Santa Barbara Together put together the ultimate beach day setup for you and your friends, providing all the essentials for a relaxing and enjoyable day at the beach. Their service includes large canopies, umbrellas, lounge chairs, side tables, towels, a cooler with ice, and beach games (smash ball, cornhole, and/or children’s sand toys), plus additional options for florals, charcuterie, catered lunch, and personalized wine tasting. Current guests of Haller Coastal Homes can receive 15% off their beach day set-up (see our Concierge Partners page for more details).

Wine Tasting

Santa Barbara is renowned for its wine country, and Labor Day weekend is the ideal time to explore it. Take a scenic drive through the Santa Ynez Valley and visit some of the top wineries, such as Sunstone Vineyards, Peake Ranch, and Fess Parker Winery. Many wineries offer special events and tastings over the holiday weekend, so be sure to check out their schedules or book a guided tour. Tour companies will handle your transportation and allow you to customize your stops and tastings, plus provide details on local attractions and history. We’ve partnered with a few of our favorite tour companies, such as Rooted Vine Tours, Santa Barbara Country Wine Tours, and Captain Jack’s Tours, to offer discounts for our current guests. See our Concierge Partners page for more details.

Outdoor Adventures

For those who love the great outdoors, Santa Barbara offers numerous walking, hiking, and biking trails. The Douglas Family Preserve provides breathtaking ocean views, while the Rattlesnake Canyon Trail offers a more challenging hike with stunning scenery. For a unique experience, consider renting a bike and riding along the Cabrillo Bike Path, which hugs the coastline and offers beautiful vistas. If you’re interested in a guided tour, we recommend reaching out to Cal Coast Adventures or Santa Barbara Adventure Co., both experts in the area and will be sure to show off all of Santa Barbara’s natural beauty. Current guests can save on tours with either company – visit our Concierge Partners page to learn more.

Cultural Experiences & Dining Delights

Santa Barbara’s rich cultural and dining scenes are another highlight. Visit the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara, often referred to as the “Queen of the Missions,” and take a stroll through its beautiful gardens. Or, visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Art and the Funk Zone, a trendy district filled with galleries, wine tasting rooms, and eateries. When you’re hungry and ready to savor some local dishes, enjoy fresh seafood at Stearns Wharf, get a taste of California cuisine at local favorites like Barbareño, or sample local and international flavors at the vibrant Santa Barbara Public Market. One of our favorite ways to get a taste of all this culture and food is to join the Eat This, Shoot That! tour, which brings you to the best foodie destinations in the area while teaching you the tips and tricks of food photography. Current guests can use the promo code 10HCH for $10 off each public tour ticket purchase, or save $50 off any private group experience by using the code 50HCH.

Stay with Haller Coastal Homes

Our Santa Barbara vacation rentals offer the perfect blend of luxury and comfort, providing you with a home away from home during Labor Day weekend. Whether you’re looking for a cozy beachside home for the family or a modern stay near downtown, we have the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. Book now and make this Labor Day one for the books!

On July 1, 2024, a new law, SB 478, took effect in California, reshaping the landscape of pricing transparency for short-term rentals, hotels, and other accommodations. This law mandates that the total price of a booking must be displayed upfront, inclusive of all fees that were previously listed separately. This means that cleaning fees, service fees, and other similar charges must now be bundled into the initial price shown to customers.

What Does SB 478 Mean for Vacation Rental Guests?

The primary goal of SB 478 is to promote transparency in pricing and eliminate the frustration many consumers feel when confronted with hidden fees at the end of the booking process. Here’s what you need to know:

How Does SB 478 Impact the Vacation Rental Industry?

For accommodation providers, this law requires adjustments in how prices are displayed for California guests but does not necessitate a change in the overall pricing structure. Independent vacation rental property management companies (such as Haller Coastal Homes) as well as booking sites (such as Airbnb or Vrbo) must now ensure that all costs are included in the initial price displayed to California customers. This involves updates to websites, booking platforms, and internal pricing systems to comply with the new regulations.

Why SB 478 is a Win for Guests

  1. Clearer Pricing: You get a clear, upfront understanding of what your stay will cost, including any fees that would have previously been added at the end of the booking process.
  2. Better Comparisons: With all costs included in the displayed price, it’s easier to compare different accommodations without having to account for hidden fees. It’s easier than ever to see how booking direct saves money!
  3. Improved Trust: Knowing that the price you see is the price you pay helps build trust in the booking process and the providers themselves.

SB 478 marks a significant step towards greater transparency in the accommodation industry in California. While it changes how prices are presented, it does not increase the costs for consumers. You will still pay the same amount as before, but now you have the peace of mind that comes with knowing all fees are included in the upfront price. To save even more, book directly from property management websites.

Plan your vacation to Santa Barbara today by browsing our available rentals and booking directly with Haller Coastal Homes.

At Haller Coastal Homes, we’re always looking for ways to enhance the vacation experience for our guests. We’re thrilled to introduce our latest initiative: Concierge Partners! This exciting new offering highlights trusted partners and local businesses, ensuring that your stay with us is as enjoyable and convenient as possible.

What are Concierge Partners?

Our list of Concierge Partners is designed to connect our guests with top-tier local services and businesses during their stay in Santa Barbara. These services include luggage storage, pet and child care, baby gear rental, local tours, equipment rentals, special occasion planning, and more. We’ve carefully selected partners who share our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Whether you’re looking for shopping recommendations, recreational activities, or special services, our partners are here to provide exceptional experiences during your stay.

Our Trusted Partners

We’ve selected a variety of local Santa Barbara businesses to cater to all your vacation needs. Here are just a few of the highlights:

Exclusive Discounts

To make your stay even more enjoyable, several of our Concierge Partners offer exclusive discounts to Haller Coastal Homes guests. For example, save on Santa Barbara wine tours with Rooted Wine Tours or Santa Barbara Wine Country Tours. Current guests can find discounts and promo codes directly within their Happy Stays Guest Portal (linked within the Arrival Instructions email), or you can peruse our Concierge Partners page and contact us directly for listed discounts you are interested in. It’s our way of saying thank you for choosing Haller Coastal Homes and supporting local businesses.

How to Access Concierge Partners

Accessing our Concierge Partners is easy. Visit our Concierge Partners page on our website to explore the full list of partners and the services and/or discounts they offer. You’ll find detailed descriptions, contact information, and links to their websites for more information.

Experience the Best of the Coast

With our list of Concierge Partners, we’re bringing the best of the coast directly to you. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, our partners are here to enhance your experience. Discover local gems, enjoy exclusive discounts, and make the most of your stay with Haller Coastal Homes. Plus, we will be adding new businesses and concierge services all the time! So be sure to check back for new recommendations and promotions.

We can’t wait to welcome you and help you create unforgettable memories. Book your stay with us today and experience the difference our Concierge Partners can make!

Planning your trip to Santa Barbara, CA? Known for our stunning beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful Mediterranean-style architecture, Santa Barbara offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re planning for your vacation to include a relaxing beach day, a wine-tasting tour, or an adventurous outdoor excursion, packing the right items will ensure you make the most of your vacation. Here’s a quick guide on a few specific items we recommend adding to your Santa Barbara packing list – and where to get them in town if you forget!

Swimsuits and Flip Flops

Santa Barbara is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in California. Pack a couple of swimsuits so you can alternate between beach days, and don’t forget your flip flops for easy, comfortable walking on the sand and around town.

Forgot to pack it? Stop by one of Santa Barbara’s many surf shops to pick up a new suit and sandals, such as Channel Islands Surf Shop or Surf N Wear Beach House. 

Activewear

Whether you’re hiking in the Santa Ynez Mountains, biking along the coastline, or enjoying a morning jog on the beach, comfortable and breathable activewear is a must. Pack moisture-wicking tops, shorts or leggings, and supportive athletic shoes to stay active and comfortable.

Forgot to pack it? Downtown Santa Barbara is full of activewear stores for men and women, including lululemon, Vuori, and Dryworld Brands. 

Hat and Sunglasses

With plenty of sunshine year-round, a wide-brimmed hat and a good pair of sunglasses are essential. These will protect you from the sun while adding a touch of style to your beachwear and city strolls.

Forgot to pack it? Head over Hats Unlimited or Sunglasses Hut to find the perfect style.

Sunscreen

Santa Barbara’s sunny climate makes sunscreen a non-negotiable item. Bring a high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, especially if you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors.

Forgot to pack it? You can find sunscreen at local convienence stores or surf shops, or you can stop by Sephora or Blue Mercury to browse higher end brands. Both are located downtown, in or near Paseo Nuevo mall.

Beach Bag or Daypack

While most of our rentals are equipped with a travel wagon, cooler, and other beach necessities, a versatile beach bag or a daypack is perfect for carrying your essentials. Use it to pack towels, sunscreen, snacks, and other beach gear, or for storing water, maps, and a light jacket when exploring the city and hiking trails.

Forgot to pack it? REI is our recommendation for versatile daypacks that can be used for hiking and more. For beach bags, check out the Riviera Towel Company, who offers several straw, jute, and canvas options. They also have a beautiful selection of Turkish towels and accessories!

Reusable Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is key, especially when you’re out in the sun. Bring a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste and keep yourself refreshed throughout the day, plus many places in Santa Barbara offer water refill stations.

Forgot to pack it? You can find reusable water bottles at convienece and grocery stores, but we also recommend REI for the largest selection.

Reading Book

Relaxing on the beach or lounging by the pool is the perfect time to catch up on your reading. Pack a book or two from your reading list to enjoy during your downtime. A good read complements the serene environment perfectly.

Forgot to pack it? The Book Den (one of California’s oldest bookstores) is located downtown, while Chaucer’s Books on upper State Street carries over 150,000 titles.

Yoga Mat

Santa Barbara’s natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop for a peaceful yoga session. Bring a lightweight, travel-friendly yoga mat so you can practice yoga on the beach, in parks, or even at your Santa Barbara vacation rental, embracing the tranquility of your surroundings.

Forgot to pack it? You can visit Yoga Soup’s studio shop to pick up a mat or even sign up for a class while you’re in town!

By adding these essentials to your Santa Barbara packing list, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy all the city has to offer – from its scenic beaches and outdoor activities to its laid-back, luxurious vibe. And don’t forget to review the amenities already available at your vacation rental! At Haller Coastal Homes, we do our best to outfit each property with items you will need and enjoy during your stay. 

 

Our picturesque coastal city of Santa Barbara thrives on tourism dollars. However, the City of Santa Barbara is now working on a new ordinance that could drastically change the landscape of short term vacation rentals (STVRs) as we know them, inside the coastal zone. This proposed ordinance seeks to restrict vacation rentals in all areas of the coastal zone except West Beach and East Beach, potentially eliminating the ability for homeowners to rent their homes located inside the coastal zone. These short term vacation rentals provide much needed lower cost, visitor serving accommodations which are in line with the Coastal Act. 

At $900/night for a standard hotel room in summer with $50/day in additional parking fees and only sleeping 2, this would not be a lower cost accommodation for travelers. When visitors instead choose a short term vacation rental with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, at an average of $400/night, the property can accommodate 2 families and/or more than one couple. These vacation rentals also do not typically come with fees to park, etc. The ability to cook meals at home also allows those on limited budgets and restricted diets to enjoy the coast at a fraction of what it costs to stay in a coastal hotel in Santa Barbara. Important to also note, most of these properties are either second homes that owners share when they are not in town or primary residences owners rent while traveling. Therefore, these properties would sit vacant part of the year. As well, they are most definitely, not affordable housing.

What happened?

The City of Santa Barbara lost a court case back in 2019 and lost on appeal to the second district court which affirmed the decision. This lawsuit addressed the city’s ban on short term vacation rentals in the coastal zone of Santa Barbara. The California Coastal Commission stressed in this decision that both the city needed a Coastal Development Permit to change the “density and use” of the land and that the CCC did not agree with this arbitrary “interpretation” of STVRs being hotels. Since 2019, the City of Santa Barbara cannot enforce within the coastal zone on short term vacation rentals if the rental is collecting and remitting the TOT/TBID taxes and has no credible nuisance reports filed. In 2020, the California Coastal Commission also reiterated in a letter to the City Council that STVRs cannot be banned in the coastal zone, are a residential use and in fact, the hotel definition they are relying on to ban them, is not a CCC approved ordinance. So, in an effort to comply with the CCC and at the same time finally address regulations for STVRs in the coastal zone, the city is now working to develop an ordinance that will possibly pass the CCC requirements as outlined in the Coastal Act. Banning them is not an option but heavily restricting them seems to be the intention.

The City’s Proposal

The City of Santa Barbara is currently developing this ordinance that aims to curtail vacation rentals in most of the coastal zone within the city. While certain beachfront areas like West Beach and East Beach might be spared, other beloved coastal neighborhoods could see a significant reduction in rental opportunities or a complete ban altogether. This ordinance is only in the preliminary phases, but without proactive involvement from stakeholders like you, it could soon become a reality.

Why Should You Care?

If you own a property in the coastal zone, periodically rent your home as a short-term vacation rental or maybe just enjoy visiting Santa Barbara’s stunning coastal areas, this ordinance directly impacts you. Whether you see STVRs as a way to supplement income, support local tourism, or simply appreciate the flexibility they offer for travel, the potential loss of this option could affect everyone involved.

Why Your Involvement Matters

Your voice can make a difference. After attending this first meeting, there were only 3 of us there that spoke up regarding these proposed regulations and ideas. In 2016, we had a similar City Council meeting and it was standing room only with people forced outside the chambers. It was a packed house full of hosts in support of STVRs and against a ban back then. With the feel of a sort of Groundhog Day this meeting reminded me of 2016 but no one was there? By joining our new SBSTRA (Santa Barbara Short Term Rental Alliance) stakeholder outreach group and/or following and participating in public forums, you have the chance to shape the future of short term vacation rentals in Santa Barbara and the development of this new ordinance. Expressing your support for reasonable and responsible regulation that balances community needs with the benefits of short term vacation rentals is crucial.

Take Action Today!

Join our Facebook Group, read our blogs, go to our dedicated SBSTRA website that is being updated with crucial information. Bottom line, this may be your last chance to help preserve and shape this new ordinance the City of Santa Barbara is developing for the coastal zone of Santa Barbara.

Our Final Thoughts

Santa Barbara’s coastal zone is a jewel that attracts visitors locally, from around the nation and world-wide. Short term vacation rentals in Santa Barbara play a vital role in accommodating these visitors, granting them affordable access to the coast and supporting local businesses.  As discussions continue regarding the future of STVRs in Santa Barbara, your engagement is more important than ever! Together, we can work towards solutions that uphold the unique character of Santa Barbara while ensuring that short-term vacation rentals remain a viable option for homeowners and visitors to Santa Barbara alike. Let your voice be heard and help create a future where Santa Barbara’s coastal beauty remains accessible to all. Let us know if you wish to be a part of our working outreach group that could help shape this new ordinance! 

The SBSTRA Team

Here is where the city seeks to limit access and only allow STVRs:  East Beach and West Beach. The issue is that most if not the majority of these homes already have zoning that is allowed even for “hotel” use. So essentially it does not change much from the existing coastal ordinance in place but the good news is they are working to make the process not a “hotel conversion”.

Recent Articles, Court Findings and Rulings:

Time for a Change for Santa Barbara’s Short-Term Rental Policy?

About Those Short Term Rentals

California Coastal Act Trumps Local City Regulations Banning Short-Term Housing Rentals

California Court of Appeal Holds City’s Ban on Short-Term Rentals in Coastal Zone Constituted An Amendment Requiring Coastal Commission Approval

Current Position of CCC on Affordable Housing in the Coastal Zone

Planning a vacation is an exciting experience, but unexpected events can disrupt even the best-laid plans. Purchasing trip insurance for your stay with Haller Coastal Homes provides a safety net that ensures peace of mind and financial protection. Here are some compelling reasons why trip insurance is a smart investment when booking your vacation rental in Santa Barbara:

Financial Protection Against Cancellations

Life is unpredictable. Whether it’s a sudden illness, a family emergency, or an unexpected work obligation, cancellations can happen. Without trip insurance, travelers run the risk of possibly losing part or all of their vacation investment. Trip insurance can reimburse these costs depending on your coverage, safeguarding your investment.

Coverage for Travel Interruptions

Trip insurance isn’t just for cancellations; it can also cover interruptions. If your trip is cut short due to an emergency, insurance can cover additional transportation costs and reimburse unused rental nights. This ensures you aren’t financially burdened by unforeseen events that cut your vacation short.

Protection Against Weather-Related Issues

Santa Barbara is known for its beautiful weather, but like any destination, it can experience unexpected weather events. Trip insurance can provide coverage if severe weather conditions force you to cancel or cut short your vacation. This is especially valuable for peace of mind during fire season or other adverse weather conditions.

Easy and Affordable

Purchasing trip insurance through Haller Coastal Homes is straightforward and affordable. Through our partnership with Rental Guardian, guests can purchase 2 different policies at time of booking on our website. The process is quick, and the peace of mind it provides is invaluable. Remember, trip insurance must be purchased within 48 hours of booking to be effective.

Conclusion

Investing in trip insurance for your Santa Barbara vacation with Haller Coastal Homes ensures that unexpected events won’t derail your plans or finances. From cancellation coverage to protection against emergencies, trip insurance provides comprehensive benefits that safeguard your vacation investment. Purchase the perfect trip insurance for you from Rental Guardian within 48 hours of booking and enjoy your getaway with confidence, knowing you’re covered.

For more information on the trip insurance options available, visit Haller Coastal Homes Trip Insurance.

Disclaimer: Haller Coastal Homes is not a trip insurance company. Guests must check with the trip insurance carrier for all policy inclusions/exclusions prior to booking. Haller Coastal Homes does not guarantee all reasons for cancelling will be covered through the selected policies. Guests that purchase trip insurance will deal directly with Rental Guardian and their carrier in the event of any unforeseen cancellation and any refunds due through the insurance carrier.

Santa Barbara is the perfect destination for family fun this summer, offering a variety of family-friendly events and activities for all ages. In 2024, a few of our favorite annual events are back with exciting new offerings that are worth marking on the calendar:

50th Anniversary of the Summer Solstice Celebration

From June 21st – 23rd, Santa Barbara will celebrate the 50th anniversary of its iconic Summer Solstice Celebration. The festivities kick off with a grand parade at noon on Saturday, featuring whimsical floats, colorful costumes, and lively performances as it makes its way down Santa Barbara Street to Alameda Park. The event culminates in a three-day festival at Alameda Park with live music, food vendors, a beer garden, and more. There will also be a dedicated area for kids (newly named Solstice FUNtopia), featuring the Kids Zone, CommUnity Stage and Imaginarium. It’s the perfect kickoff and celebration of summer, and we’re expecting spectacular weather! If you’re looking for a place to stay, our Villa Castillo units are located in Downtown Santa Barbara and within walking distance from the parade route and Alameda Park.

4th of July Fireworks

On July 4th, Santa Barbara’s waterfront will light up with a spectacular fireworks display over the ocean and palm trees. During the day, families can celebrate at the waterfront with a number of fun activities, food vendors, and live music at the West Beach bandstand (sponsored by the PARC Foundation). The highlight of the evening is, of course, the 20-minute fireworks show at 9pm, launched from West Beach. Local radio station KjEE (92.9 FM) will simulcast the fireworks soundtrack.  In our opinion, there’s no better place for families can enjoy the beach, have a picnic, and take in the festive atmosphere surrounding our nation’s independence. Plus, with several rentals in West Beach, your family can be walking distance to all the excitement – or even watch the fireworks from your vacation home!

Free Movies at the Santa Barbara Courthouse

Every Friday evening from July 5th to August 23rd, the Santa Barbara Courthouse’s beautiful Sunken Gardens transforms into a free, open-air cinema. The Free Summer Cinema series presents movies under the stars, including Jaws, 50 First Dates, and Mamma Mia! to name a few. Bring your blankets, low-back chairs, and a picnic basket full of snacks to enjoy classic films in a unique and historic setting. This event is a wonderful way to spend a relaxing evening with loved ones.

More Family-Friendly Activities

Beyond these marquee events, Santa Barbara offers an array of other family-friendly activities, including visits to the Santa Barbara Zoo, exploring the MOXI Museum, and enjoying the beaches and parks that make this coastal city a delightful summer destination. Plan your visit and make unforgettable memories with your family this summer! When you stay in one of our Santa Barbara vacation rentals, you and the family will be central to all the fun our city has to offer.

Santa Barbara’s dining scene continues to flourish with a variety of new, recently opened restaurants, each bringing unique flavors and experiences to this coastal city. Whether you’re a local foodie or a visitor eager to explore, here’s a look at some of the most exciting new additions to Santa Barbara’s culinary landscape.

Best BBQ

BBQ lovers, rejoice! Best BBQ, hailing from Santa Paula, has opened its doors on State Street. Known for its mouth-watering barbecue, this spot promises to satisfy your cravings with expertly smoked meats and classic sides. We’ve heard their famous chili beans and house made bbq sauce are big hits! Located at 716 State Street, Best BBQ is walking distance from our Villa Castillo rentals — perfect for eating in or taking it to-go.

Silvers Omakase

For sushi aficionados, Silvers Omakase offers an exquisite dining experience by Chef Lennon Silvers Lee and his team. This high-end omakase restaurant presents meticulously crafted sushi made with the freshest ingredients, including Tanada Isehikari rice from Doyuuno farm, will be served outside of Japan for the first time ever. Each meal is a culinary journey, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in top-tier sushi in a refined setting​. Silvers Omakase is located at 224 Helena Avenue in the Funk Zone. Stay at any one of our West Beach vacations homes to be within walking or a short driving distance.

Bruxie

Bruxie brings their famous fried chicken waffles to downtown Santa Barbara. The entire menu consists of unconventional waffle sandwiches, delicious chicken tenders, and artisan custard shakes for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Their innovative menu and casual atmosphere make it a great spot for a quick bite or a leisurely meal​ when you’re shopping on State Street. Bruxie is located at 12 W. De la Guerra Street.

Cookie Plug

Recently opened on State Street, Cookie Plug is a fun stop for families or anyone with a sweet tooth! Their menu boasts several unique cookie flavors as well as “cookies stacks” that are “part cookie, part cake, and part brownie.” They even sell ice cream cookies and custom cookie cakes in case you’re celebrating a special occasion during your Santa Barbara vacation. Cookie Plug is located in downtown Santa Barbara, at 918 State Street.

Whether you’re looking for classic BBQ, exquisite sushi, or innovative comfort food, there’s something new and exciting to try during your next trip to Santa Barbara. Make sure to visit these spots during your stay at one of our luxury rentals, where you can relax and savor every moment (and bite!).

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