Ok, at this point it's looking like I might be taking a job in Santa Barbara from mid April to July. The company will either provided housing in extended stays or give us a pretty nice stipend to find our own. Any tips on good areas to live, would like to be as close to beach/walking distance to good areas as possible but not too far from Cottage Hospital where we would be working. Any advice from locals? Thanks, everyone's advice has been so helpful lately in helping me figure out where to go, hopefully this job will work out!

Wow, what a great time of year to be in Santa Barbara! Pricey though. What is the address of the hospital?

Hi, it's at the corner of Pueblo and Bath Street (or the Children's hospital is anyway). We don't want to get stuck in horrible traffic so would like to be somewhat close but prefer to live at the beach or in good area where we can walk a lot of places. I don't really know anything about SB at this point as far as the good areas.

If your plan is to start your assignment in a few weeks, it may be easier to go with the housing that your travel company provides. Then maybe if you extend your contract, you could find something a little more to your liking.

I found a vacation rental in West Beach, supposedly between the pier and the harbor, walking distance from State Street. Does that sound good? It even has a yard for our dog!

If it looks good to you and is in your price range, go for it. Especially if they'll take your dog (who will love walking along Cabrillo Blvd.)