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, 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.

𓇼 INDOORS 𓇼

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 bedrooms, 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.

𓇼 BEDROOMS & BATHS 𓇼

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.

The Spa Room is an open mezzanine-style bedroom that overlooks part of the living space below and centers around an in-room ozonated hot tub. It features a queen bed, fireplace, and its own bathroom with a sculptural walk-in shower (the heart of the whale). 

Because of the open mezzanine design and in-room spa features, this space is best suited to guests who love unique architecture and don’t mind some audio/scent connection to the living area below, though visually private. 

𓇼 KITCHEN & DINING 𓇼

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 refrigerators and Italian Bertazzoni oven and microwave. The main kitchen features a two-burner gas stove.

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

𓇼 OUTDOOR SPACES 𓇼

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 Spa Room
• 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

𓇼 MORE DETAILS 𓇼

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

Two parking spots available for each room.

WiFi is available throughout the home.

The sauna and hot tub can accommodate 2–4 people.

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