The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

The whole experience we had here was truly amazing. From Marcos at the Front Desk, Dorothy at concierge helping us get set up with Nick at Tennis, to Kai at Lulio with truly outstanding service. Everyone on the team here truly cares about our experience and I cant thank them enough for helping me make this experience perfect for my girlfriend.

The Ritz Bacara is a beautiful resort perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific. The Spanish Colonial architecture and expansive, well kept grounds create a very relaxing atmosphere. The property is spread out and feels like a true resort. The staff throughout our stay was consistently friendly, attentive, and eager to help, as you would expect from the Ritz. The rooms are very spacious and comfortable. Ours were very quiet, with large balconies. The large bathroom had plenty of space. The only issue we encountered was that our TV never worked during our stay, despite our reporting it several times. One of the highlights is the natural beach directly in front of the resort. It is ideal for long walks, stretching for more than a mile in either direction. Be aware that this part of the California coast has natural tar deposits, so don't be surprised if you end up with tar on the soles of your feet. It's not a swimming beach, though. The resort also has a nice family pool and a beautiful spa. The spa is excellent, although the facilities are comparable to other luxury resorts and priced accordingly. There are several restaurants on site. We particularly enjoyed the Mediterranean restaurant, Lucca, which offered very good food and service. The Italian restaurant, Marsella, was less impressive. While the setting and ocean views are beautiful, the service felt rushed; our entrées arrived before we had finished our appetizers, and the food was more stylish than memorable. The main consideration is the location. The resort itself is the destination, and that's how it should be approached. There is relatively little to do immediately outside the property. We borrowed the complimentary electric bikes and rode toward the coast near UCSB, but much of the ride passes through fairly unremarkable neighborhoods on busy streets before reaching the beach. If your goal is to spend time exploring shops, restaurants, and attractions, you'll probably be happier staying in Santa Barbara or Montecito. If, instead, you're looking to relax, enjoy beach walks and the pool, and spend most of your time on a beautiful resort property, the Ritz Bacara is an excellent choice.

Dinner served by the amazing Lina was impeccable! The best meal and service I have had in a while! We can't wait to return!

I can't recommend my massage therapist, Nancy Jane, enough!!! She was so kind and went out of her way to make me feel special for my birthday. Not to mention her pressure was the best pressure and she just has a magic touch. I booked a 50 min, but will definitely be booking an 80 min massage with her next time, because of how amazing and relaxing it was. The spa was beautiful, as well. I especially loved the different tea options and the very top of the spa in the outdoor corridor was so peaceful and stunning with a beautiful view of the ocean, Spanish style rooftops and palm trees. So grateful for my experience here at the Bacara spa and would highly recommend it to anyone, especially my massage therapist, Nancy Jane!

We stayed here for two nights as part of a California road trip. I had a conference in Goleta, which made it convenient. We booked a “Club Lounge” room which was near the spa and the club lounge. The room was comfortable and quiet. Special shoutout to the amazing staff at the Club Lounge, who made us feel like old friends: Alex, Ave, Jaden, Tram, Nora, and Harry—all warm, welcoming, and professional—super impressive, each one. Also to Dante in Reception—same comments apply. We look forward to our next stay here!