Summer Vacation: Santa Barbara

Summer Vacation: Santa Barbara

Want to take a vacation but don’t want to jump on a plane? Sometimes what we are looking for is right in our own backyard!

For over a century Santa Barbara has famously been referred to as The American Riviera as early visitors saw so much of a resemblance to the French Riviera. There is so much to do in Santa Barbara! Here are some five-star world-class hotel choices and a couple of four-star choices.

Belmond El Encanto

Belmond El Encanto

This five-star resort advertises itself as one of California’s most indulgent hideaways and it’s true! It’s an architectural masterpiece. Every part of its original 1920’s glory still remains, but it’s been meticulously restored. It boasts separate bungalows with fireplaces and patios, a full spa, dramatic pool and lounge areas overlooking Santa Barbara and the Pacific Ocean, award wining dining and more. Peached in the Santa Barbara foothills just above State Street it’s a quite forest setting just above downtown!

San Ysidro Ranch

San Ysidro Ranch

Located in the historic Montecito area of Santa Barbara this five star resort boasts 41 individually decorated private cottages winding along San Ysidro’s hillside creek. This romantic getaway has a rich history. It was the spot John and Jackie Kennedy chose to spend their honeymoon! Just because it’s close doesn’t mean it’s not among the best in the world!

The four Seasons Biltmore Santa Barbara The four Seasons Biltmore Santa Barbara

It doesn’t get better than this! The Biltmore is a five star resort tucked in between the beach and the San Ynez mountains spanning 22 acres! Its Spanish colonial villas and bungalows are updated but, are still reminiscent of what made this historic landmark a Hollywood favorite since the 1930’s.

The Ritz Carlton Bacara Santa Barbara The four Seasons Biltmore Santa Barbara

Located adjacent to the famous Sandpiper Golf Course this five star resort will match the best Hawaiian resorts without the flight! It spans 78 beachfront acres on the Gaviota Coast just north of Santa Barbara. Here you can escape to its two beaches, three pools or you can pamper yourself in the resort’s 42,000 square foot spa!

Fess Parker Santa Barbara Doubletree Hotel by Hilton Fess Parker Santa Barbara Doubletree Hotel by Hilton

The Fess Parker Santa Barbara is in a great East Beach location. This four star resort is close to everything and has been a favorite for years. It’s convienent of Cabrillo Pavillon, Presidio Santa Barbara, The Mission, Downtown and more!

Fess Parker Santa Barbara Doubletree Hotel by Hilton Rosewood Miramar Beach Montecoto

This five star hotel was just completed and sits on the former site of the Miramar By The Sea Hotel. It is a luxury resort with 124 rooms, and 37 spacious suites, a full wellness center and cabins lined pools, sitting on the beautiful Miramar Beach. This Caruso developed resort offers true pampering and luxury!