El Encanto
Santa Barbara, California
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About the Hotel
Perched serenely above the American Riviera on lush, terraced gardens with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, El Encanto in Santa Barbara is a historic luxury retreat that captures the essence of California coastal living. Originally opened in 1918, this iconic hillside property blends Spanish-colonial charm with contemporary comforts across its intimate collection of California-styled suites and bungalows nestled amid seven acres of verdant landscape. Guests are invited to explore winding garden paths, relax by the pool overlooking the sea, or venture into downtown Santa Barbara’s vibrant culture, boutiques, and beaches just minutes away—making El Encanto a tranquil yet well-situated haven for both relaxation and discovery.
Location
El Encanto
800 Alvarado Place
Santa Barbara, California
93103
Nearest Airport: SBA
Features and Amenities
- General Information
- Non-Smoking Property
- Pet Friendly
- Dining
- Outdoor Dining
- Private Dining
- Wine Cellar
- Room Service
- Afternoon Tea
- Coastal Cuisine
- Restaurants
- On-Site Amenities
- Concierge
- Pool
- Shoe Shine Service
- Spa Services
- Laundry Service
- Heated Pool
- Library
- Gift Shop
- WiFi
- Bicycle Rental
- Garden
- Terrace
- Multilingual Staff
- Valet Parking (fee may apply)
- 24-Hour Front Desk
- Steam Room
- Infinity Pool
- Tennis Academy
- In-Room Amenities
- Private Patios or Balconies
- Turndown Service
- Air Conditioning
- In-Room Safes
- Mini Bar
- Iron/Ironing Boards
- Marble Bathrooms
- Flat-Screen Televisions
- Luxury Linens
- Coffee & Tea Facilities
- Rain Showers
- Work Desks
- Activities
- Bicycling
- Hiking
- Sailing
- Tennis
- Mountain Biking
- Snorkeling
- Nature Walks
- Fitness Classes
- Surfing
- Meditation
- City Tours
- Horseback Riding
- Business
- Conference Facilities
- Family
- Children's Programs
- Nearby
- Historic Sites
- Shopping
- Museums
- Restaurants
- Beach
- Nightlife
- Interests
- City
- Hotels
- Signature Perks
Reviews for El Encanto
Birthday celebration
We just left after 4 nights of celebrating my husband’s birthday with friends. Wow! what a great hotel. our suite had incredible views and the vibe was just great. Every time we returned to the hotel we were welcomed like family. Huge shoutout to Hugo and Linda! They were so sweet and helpful. We can’t wait to come back.
bbk-3
Lunch and pool day
I had an amazing time at lunch and the pool. The servers gave excellent service and would 100% recommend this place for a day trip.
Kristen F
WOW
We stayed at El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel for a romantic getaway, and it was exactly what we were hoping for — private, quiet, and beautifully done without feeling over the top. The bungalow layout makes a big difference. It feels secluded and intimate, with plenty of space to relax together. Coffee on the patio in the morning and a glass of wine overlooking the ocean at sunset were simple but memorable highlights. Service was polished but never intrusive. The team struck the right balance — attentive, efficient, and genuinely welcoming. Dinner on property was excellent and made it easy to settle in and stay put for the evening. The setting above Santa Barbara gives you incredible views while still being just minutes from town, so it’s easy to explore during the day and retreat back to calm at night. If you’re looking for a romantic escape that feels special but still comfortable and understated, El Encanto delivers. We’d absolutely return.
john s
Great getaway in Santa Barbara
Beautiful hotel and restaurant in the hills above Santa Barbara. Great service and the views were killer.
MarqueC00
One of the best hotels in California
Absolutely fantastic property. Beautifully well done modern touches while keeping the old school feel . Restaurant , pool and bar were delicious. The team there makes you feel so at home that you don’t ever want to leave. Definitely returning soon!
Stephen T
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