The Santa Barbara Whale House

Welcome to The Whale House, a one-of-a-kind and otherworldly retreat in the magical hills of Santa Barbara. Swim inside a 75-foot indoor-outdoor saltwater pool in this sculptural 1970s home inspired by Gaudí.

This extraordinary home blends spa-like relaxation with sculptural design, featuring a hand-carved sauna, a hot tub in one of the bedrooms, driftwood outdoor shower, and lush landscaped grounds.

Featured in The New York Times, Dwell, The Los Angeles Times, and HBO’s Zillow Gone Wild.

A short walk to the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden and a quick drive to downtown Santa Barbara.

A favorite retreat for couples, creatives, and small groups drawn to architecture, nature, and quiet moments to unwind.

With open staircases and sculptural design elements throughout, the space is best suited for adult guests and is not is not suitable for children.

𓇼INDOORS𓇼

Walking into The Whale House feels like entering a living work of art.

When you walk through the front door, you’re welcomed by a small indoor pond and sculptural stairway connecting the home's different levels. Each area flows organically into the next, creating an experience that feels both playful and peaceful. From here you can descend to the sauna and pool, climb up towards the two bedrooms and hot tub, or enter the main living level.

The main level features the living room, fireplace, kitchen, dining area, patio, and powder room. This is an inviting space for gathering, cooking, and relaxing after a day exploring Santa Barbara.

Below the main level is the spa area featuring the dramatic 75-foot saltwater pool, grotto, and sauna, creating the feeling of your own private bathhouse retreat.

Above, two bedrooms offer quiet, restful retreats, including one featuring an ozonated hot tub nestled within the space, allowing you to soak and unwind in total privacy.

𓇼BEDROOMS & BATHS𓇼

The Whale House comfortably accommodates up to four guests in the main house, with an additional private guest suite across the courtyard that sleeps three guests.

All bedrooms feature organic EarthFoam mattresses, designed for exceptional comfort and restorative sleep.

• Top Floor Bedroom: completely private and featuring a queen bed, fireplace, desk and its own bathroom, including a free standing soaking tub.

• Mezzanine Bedroom: features an in-room hot tub and overlooks part of the living space below, queen bed, fireplace and bathroom including a sculptural walk-in shower.

• Private Courtyard Suite: Separate entrance with kitchenette and bathroom, featuring a king bed and a lofted single bed.

*Each bedroom has its own bathroom for privacy and convenience.

𓇼KITCHEN & DINING𓇼

The kitchen and dining area provide a comfortable space to cook, gather, and share meals. Feel free to enjoy the sunrise paired with a freshly brewed cup from the Jura coffee machine.

The kitchen is thoughtfully equipped with premium European appliances, including Fisher & Paykel and SMEG refrigerators and Italian Bertazzoni ovens and microwave. The main kitchen features a two-burner gas stove, while the guest house kitchen includes a four-burner stove, offering flexibility whether you’re preparing a simple breakfast or cooking a full meal.

The dining table seats six and provides a welcoming place to slow down, share meals, and connect after a day exploring Santa Barbara.

𓇼OUTDOOR SPACES𓇼

One of the most special aspects of The Whale House is its built-in spa experience.

• 75-foot indoor/outdoor saltwater pool
• Hand-carved sauna
• Ozonated hot tub in the bedroom
• Outdoor shower
• Peaceful spa-like atmosphere throughout the property

The grounds have been recently landscaped with a mix of exotic and native edible and medicinal plants, creating a lush environment that complements the home's organic architecture.

Whether you begin your morning with a swim or end your evening in the sauna, the home invites deep relaxation.

Explore the property and you'll discover:
• A staircase lined with passionfruit vines
• A path leading down to a seasonal creek
• Quiet outdoor spaces for reflection and relaxation

𓇼MORE DETAILS𓇼

The house boasts AC and Heat in all bedrooms and the living room to ensure comfort year-round.

Parking is available on-site for up to six vehicles.

WiFi is available throughout the home

The sauna and the hot tub accommodate 2-4 people.

For those musically inclined, a piano and other instruments are located in the Private Courtyard Suite.

Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions about the home or the surrounding area. We look forward to welcoming you to The Whale House.

Follow us & tag us on IG: @santabarbarawhalehouse