The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

Nice property. Here for a company reward trip. Did the job. Beautiful location, perfect for a long weekend relaxing getaway. Our dinners outside by the pool were excellent, The spa was excellent. Better suited for families or couples; as a solo traveler I wouldn’t choose a place like this - not much to do in surrounding area- but fine if you are wanting an experience to chill.

I rated this hotel one out of five because it is majorly overpriced $300 for a basic cosmetic kit and 400 for a standard massage. Also, this is not a kid friendly resort. Kids are not allowed to do anything. They can’t go into most of the facilities and are not allowed to rent bike or or sit at most locations if you have a kid under 18, they will just be able to go to the pool. There are so many better alternatives to this hotel.

This review is for Lulio. I am a bit mixed about my review. I must say our waiter Kai was incredibly attentive and a pleasure. And the spot is gorgeous. The food however just ok. We shared the halibut which was so salty I couldnt eat it and the lamb riblets which are a fun find on the menu were too fatty for my liking. The beat salad was also great although seemed like it had been sitting around in the kitchen for a while. Be prepared for a very expensive evening which perhaps is fair given the gorgeous location that close to the Ocean. And one other pet peeve.. The don't validate if you aren't staying there so be prepared for a 30 dollar valet charge!

The hotel has fantastic infrastructure and the grounds are beautiful. The rooms are comfortable as are the beds. Unfortunately management is polite but very ineffective. While there is decent staff presence none are very effective at any guest need especially front desk. The two exceptions are the parking staff and the bartenders in the main bar. I can’t emphasize enough the lack of detail initiative or presence across the 4 day stay. The fees are high along with resort fee, parking valet fee, spa fees etc etc - the value proposition is not there for the price. Too bad as there are few options in SB and again the hotel grounds are fantastic. This is very much a Ritz problem. Very inexperienced and ineffective staff.

Been coming here for the last three years with my family. The food is excellent. The grounds are impeccable the pool staff, bartenders, valet staff were all very polite and go out of their way to serve. The food options are superb: try Lulio for breakfast, Marisella for dinner and grab dinner at the bar/outside during sundown. The gym and spa is excellent as well