Santa Barbara, often referred to as the “American Riviera,” is renowned for its stunning coastline, Mediterranean climate, and upscale lifestyle. Nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, this charming city offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and luxurious accommodations. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a lavish vacation, or a special celebration, Santa Barbara’s high-end hotels provide the ultimate in luxury and comfort. Here’s a guide to some of the most luxury hotels in Santa Barbara.
1. The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara
The Ritz-Carlton Bacara is a beacon of luxury on the Gaviota Coast, offering breathtaking ocean views, Spanish colonial architecture, and impeccable service. Spread over 78 acres, this resort features lush gardens, two miles of natural beach, and three saltwater infinity pools.
Accommodations: The resort’s guest rooms and suites invite you to engage with the Santa Barbara landscape. Drink in coastal views from your balcony or relax inside with Mediterranean-inspired designs. The Ritz-Carlton Suite and Channel Island Suite feature kitchenettes and up to two bedrooms. The pinnacle of luxury, The Ritz-Carlton Suite, offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean from its balcony, a sprawling 2,000 sq ft of space, two master bedrooms, a separate living space, a fireplace, and a kitchenette.
Dining: Each of the hotel’s six restaurants offers a unique twist on the successful pairing of ocean views and local flavors. From the modern steakhouse experience at Angel Oak with its vintage wines by the glass, to authentic Latin dishes and bold cocktails at ‘O’ Bar + Kitchen, dining at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara showcases the best of Santa Barbara. Enjoy casual dining at The Bistro or poolside snacks at The Pool Bar.
Spa: Set within the resort’s 78 acres, The Ritz-Carlton Spa encompasses 42,000 square feet and features a full selection of amenities, including a swimming pool, redwood sauna, and eucalyptus steam room. Fireside lounges and a rooftop terrace offer additional spaces to relax, restore, and enjoy the spa’s legendary Santa Barbara views. Spa services range from $150 to $800 for packages. Spa hours are 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
Activities:
- On-Site: Wine tasting, yoga classes, coastal hikes, and tennis courts. The resort offers daily one-hour access to private, professional-grade clay tennis courts, including rackets, a tennis ball machine, and a 30-minute tennis clinic with a pro for two guests.
- Tours and Adventures: The Ritz-Carlton Bacara offers an array of activities including:
- Gaviota Coast Whale Watching ($75)
- Eco-Hike (free)
- Fitness and Wellness classes ($25)
- Coastal Scene Investigation (free)
- Coastal Stargazing ($75)
- Bacara Birding Adventure ($75)
- Ambassadors of the Environment certified host Guided Eco-Hike Tour for two guests daily at 10 AM (weather permitting).
- Guided beach walk by Ambassadors of the Environment certified instructor daily at 1:00 PM (weather permitting).
- Daily one-hour yoga class for two people, yoga mat provided, class led by a certified instructor at 8:00 AM.
- Electric bike rentals available from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily for two guests for two hours, including helmet and bike lock (waiver required).
- Transportation to Sandpiper Golf Course for two guests daily (excludes reservations made within a group block).
Resort Fee Inclusions: Enhance your stay through a variety of included experiences such as Electric Bikes, Yoga Classes, Guided Beach Tours, and more. Enjoy holistic treatments inspired by the coastal surroundings at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, featuring a redwood sauna, eucalyptus steam room, and a rooftop terrace.
By incorporating these elements, this 5-star hotel in Santa Barbara offers an unparalleled luxury experience, ensuring a memorable stay in the heart of Santa Barbara’s stunning coastal landscape.
Address: 8301 Hollister Avenue, Santa Barbara, CA, 93117
Tel: +1 805-968-1800
The Ritz-Carlton Bacara website
2. El Encanto, A Belmond Luxury Resort
Perched high in the Santa Barbara hills, Belmond El Encanto offers a secluded retreat with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the city below. This historic hotel, dating back to 1918, has been meticulously restored to blend its original charm with modern luxury. The restoration process highlighted the original Spanish-colonial and Californian craftsman styles, with modern additions including a zero-edge outdoor pool and sumptuous boutique spa.
One of the most celebrated resorts on the West Coast, El Encanto has welcomed the most celebrated names from the silver screen. Clark Gable, Hedy Lamarr, Carole Lombard, and more have all sought out luxurious privacy among the elegant suites and bungalows of El Encanto.
The bungalow-style accommodations, including 90 suites, bungalows, and rooms, are adorned with elegant furnishings and private patios. Experience the next level of excellence with the Signature Suites & Villas collection, promising an exceptional level of elevated service. Find plenty of sophisticated space in the two-bed Oak Tree Suite, featuring a full kitchen, dining space, and private courtyard with fountains and a garden.
Highlights:
- Spa: The Spa at El Encanto promises a sublime escape. Experience rejuvenating treatments with luxurious skincare lines, an infinity-edge relaxation pool, and detoxifying teas or juices on the Dining Room terrace. The Spa Reception and Boutique are open daily from 10 am to 6 pm.
- Dining: Enjoy Californian cuisine with locally sourced ingredients at The Dining Room and Terrace. The new Executive Chef, Conny Andersson, has developed an indulgent selection of dishes with a plant-based philosophy, featuring ingredients hand-picked from El Encanto’s garden. Unwind with a handcrafted cocktail at the lounge or enjoy afternoon tea with a botanical twist, crafted with the Ojai-based ceremonial tea brand Magic Hour.
- Amenities: The hotel boasts an infinity-edge pool (open daily from 11 am to 5 pm with a pool menu), lush gardens, a historic lily pond, and complimentary electric bikes for exploring the scenic surroundings. The Fitness Centre is open 24 hours a day.
- Activities: Engage in watersports, including cave diving, polo, and winery tours. Enjoy a private picnic with stunning Channel Islands views and native plant landscapes at Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, featuring plush cushions, charming fringed umbrellas, and a beautifully styled tablescape (starting from $125). Meet with Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens’ Executive Director, Steve Windhager, Ph.D., and gain backstage access to the Garden’s Pritzlaff Conservation Center.
- Transportation: Our Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is on hand to take you anywhere within a five-mile radius, or you can use the complimentary bikes.
- Pet-Friendly: Your sweet pup can enjoy a gourmet canine meal, made with veterinarian-approved ingredients.
- Luxurious Comfort: Underfloor heating and wood-burning stoves warm up the cooler seasons, while marble baths invite truly decadent bathing.
Each stay includes:
- Luxury Accommodation
- Access to Electric Bicycles and Daily Outdoor Fitness Classes
- US$245 Wellness Credit per Room per Stay
- US$60 Daily Breakfast Credit per Room
Belmond El Encanto is just 9 miles from Santa Barbara Airport, making it easily accessible for a luxurious getaway. Experience rejuvenation and relaxation in one of the most beautiful five-star hotels in Santa Barbara.
Address: 800 Alvarado Place, Santa Barbara, California, 93103 USA
Tel: +1 800-393-5315
3. Rosewood Miramar Beach
Situated on one of the most pristine beaches in Southern California, Rosewood Miramar Beach offers a refined coastal retreat. This expansive resort features beachfront accommodations, luxurious amenities, and personalized service, making it a top choice for discerning travelers.
Accommodations:
- Beachfront suites with private terraces and ocean views, featuring elegant interiors, spacious living areas, and marble bathrooms.
- Special offer: 25% off Best Available Rate
- Resort Credit: USD100 per stay and USD500 for Beach House King, Beach House Suite, Miramar Suite, and Ambassador Suite Room Category, to be used across dining and spa.
Dining:
- Six restaurants and bars offering a delightful range of culinary options.
- Coastal Californian cuisine at the oceanfront Caruso’s.
- Literary-inspired handcrafted cocktails at the stylish Manor Bar.
- Various dining venues providing outstanding culinary experiences.
Activities:
- Beach yoga, water sports, curated local experiences, and a family-friendly pool.
- Forbes Five-Star Sense, A Rosewood Spa.
- Resort activity program including bocce courts and beach activities.
- Complimentary Cadillac car service within a three-mile radius.
- Dedicated concierge to arrange personalized excursions and activities.
Amenities:
- Adult and family pools.
- Vehicle-charging station.
- Pet-friendly amenities including:
- Rosewood Miramar Beach Custom Pet Amenity (Retail USD 50).
- Miramar Best In Show Competition Entry (Retail USD 250 per entry).
- Matching Owner & Pet Hats (Retail USD 100).
- Mad Dog & Englishman x Rosewood Miramar Beach bike and sidecar experience.
- Miramar Polaroid Camera.
- USD 25 Pet Food and Beverage credit per day for the pet menu.
Additional Information: Rosewood Miramar Beach has revitalized the site of the former Miramar by the Sea, a once-cherished destination for fashionable beach getaways. The name “Miramar,” meaning “to behold the sea,” aptly reflects its remarkable location on one of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in California.
With luxurious accommodations, a variety of activities, and exceptional dining options, Rosewood Miramar Beach provides an idyllic coastal retreat designed with style, grace, and glamour.
Address: 1759 South Jameson Lane, Montecito, CA 93108
Tel: +1 805-900-8388
Rosewood Miramar Beach website
4. Hotel Californian
Hotel Californian continues to redefine luxury in the celebrated American Riviera. This 121-room hotel, located in the heart of Santa Barbara’s waterfront district, is a magnet for Hollywood elite, international visitors, and locals alike. Blending Spanish Colonial Revival architecture with Moroccan influences, the Hotel Californian offers a unique and sophisticated stay.
Accommodations
Each individual guestroom is distinctly unique in its design, providing a different, captivating experience during each stay. The elegantly designed rooms and suites feature custom furnishings, marble bathrooms, and private balconies with views of the ocean or mountains. A highlight is the Magellan Suite, a 1280 sq. ft. one-bedroom suite with a king bed, fireplace, views of the Santa Ynez Mountains, and a sitting room adorned with custom furnishings, perfect for comfortable relaxation or socializing with friends.
Dining
Hotel Californian offers four distinctive dining and imbibing venues, nestled right in the middle of the food & beverage centric Funk Zone.
- Blackbird: Enjoy Mediterranean-inspired cuisine at the hotel’s signature restaurant.
- Goat Tree: A vibrant spot offering delicious fare.
- Djinn: Sip on craft cocktails at this chic library bar.
- Tan-Tan: Poolside dining including handcrafted cocktails, snacks, and appetizers with captivating views of the Pacific Ocean. Tan-Tan is the perfect rooftop pool in Santa Barbara to relax, unwind, and escape the everyday. Pool hours are 7 AM – 10 PM daily, with poolside service from 11 AM – 6 PM daily.
Amenities
The hotel’s amenities are designed to provide a luxurious and relaxing experience:
- Rooftop Pool: The rooftop pool offers panoramic views and poolside service for a truly relaxing experience.
- Majorelle Spa: This spa invites you to discover the sublimity of one-of-a-kind spa treatments tailored to your personalized expression—an essential luxury along the path to wellness. Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, Majorelle Spa features consultations from spa experts, aromatherapy, treatments, and oils inspired by Moroccan opulence. It offers signature experiences unique to this one-of-a-kind oasis, with 4 individual treatment rooms, men’s and women’s steam rooms, salt massages, baths, face, and full-body treatments.
- Fitness Center: A state-of-the-art fitness center to keep up with your workout routine.
- Unique Experiences: The hotel also offers guided wine tours and sailing excursions to enhance your stay.
Hotel Californian in Santa Barbara is the epitome of luxury, providing an exceptional experience for all its guests.
Address: 36 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101
Tel: +1 805-882-0100
5. San Ysidro Ranch
San Ysidro Ranch is an exclusive and historic hideaway nestled in the Montecito foothills, offering a tranquil and romantic escape. This luxurious property is known for its private cottages, lush gardens, and breathtaking views of the Santa Ynez Mountains.
Historical Significance: The Ranch has hosted a notable guest list including Groucho Marx, Winston Churchill, Sinclair Lewis, and John Huston, who finished writing the screenplay for The African Queen while in residence. Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh exchanged midnight wedding vows on the grounds, and Camelot began here with John and Jackie Kennedy honeymooning in the cottage that now bears their name.
Accommodations: San Ysidro Ranch offers a unique blend of privacy, peace, and tranquility in an idyllic setting. The property features 38 vine-covered cottages surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens with flowers always in bloom under a canopy of stately sycamores and gnarled oaks. Each individually decorated cottage features a gated entry with an enclosed garden and adjacent private parking. Interiors are sprinkled with antiques and original artwork, recalling a relaxed European country-home feel. Furnishings include Persian rugs, stone fireplaces, king-sized four-poster beds, oversized sunken spas, and outdoor rainfall showers.
Dining: San Ysidro Ranch offers a range of premier dining experiences, all included complimentary with each stay, showcasing a rich palette of herbs and vegetables sourced from the onsite chef’s garden.
- The Stonehouse: Housed in a 19th-century citrus packing house and honored with a Wine Spectator Grand Award, guests can enjoy a romantic ambiance with a full-bar lounge, separate dining room, outdoor terrace, and sparkling ocean views.
- The Speakeasy: For a more relaxed atmosphere, The Speakeasy serves up 1920s-inspired cocktails in a sultry setting cherished by locals.
- The Veranda: Nestled in a picturesque setting, The Veranda offers fireside dining with French doors opening onto a private stone-paved courtyard, perfect for the renowned prix-fixe lunch and special celebrations.
- The Plow & Angel: Boasts a magnificent masonry barrel-vaulted ceiling and a glass doorway leading to a lantern-lit patio beneath loquat trees, accompanied by another inviting fireplace.
Amenities:
- Award-Winning Spa: The Salon & Spa at San Ysidro Ranch provides exclusive experiences in a beautifully curated atmosphere of tranquility. Softly lit fireplaces and hand-painted songbirds dance along the walls of rooms appointed with luxurious amenities and state-of-the-art equipment. Guests can enjoy a soothing massage featuring signature oils infused with lavender, rosemary, and lemons grown in the gardens, a rejuvenating Yon-Ka® facial using luxurious, plant-based skincare from France, and essential hair care services at the Salon.
- Heated Outdoor Pool: Perfect for a relaxing swim amid serene surroundings.
- Complimentary Wine and Cheese Reception: Guests can unwind and socialize in a relaxed setting.
- Activities: The ranch offers horseback riding, hiking trails, and in-room spa treatments for guests seeking adventure and relaxation.
San Ysidro Ranch is truly a serene and romantic retreat, offering an unparalleled blend of luxury, history, and natural beauty.
Address: 900 San Ysidro Lane, Santa Barbara, CA 93108
Tel: +1 800-368-6788
6. Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara (temporarily closed!)
The Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara is an iconic destination offering a mix of Spanish colonial architecture and modern amenities. Located across from Butterfly Beach, this resort provides an idyllic setting with lush gardens, scenic pathways, and luxurious accommodations.
Highlights:
- Spa and Wellness: Pamper yourself with treatments at the luxurious spa, featuring ocean-inspired therapies, or take a dip in the oceanfront pool. The Coral Casino Beach and Cabana Club offers exclusive access to a private beach and lap pool.
- Dining: From the sophisticated Bella Vista with its Italian-influenced cuisine to the lively Ty Lounge offering craft cocktails and tapas, the dining options are exceptional.
- Activities: Tennis courts, bike rentals, guided nature walks, and access to a private beach club.
Conclusion
Santa Barbara’s high-end and fancy hotels offer unparalleled luxury, each providing its unique charm and exceptional service. Whether you prefer a beachfront resort, a historic inn, or a secluded hilltop retreat, these accommodations ensure a memorable and lavish experience. So, pack your bags and prepare to indulge in the sophisticated elegance that only Santa Barbara can offer.
