"It's an incredibly beautiful property, with an impressive view over Santa Barbara."
James from United Kingdom
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"I really enjoyed swimming laps in the large infinity edged pool that overlooks downtown Santa Barbara and the ocean."
J_and_A_1 from United States
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"Breakfast with a great view of Santa Barbara harbor and channel islands is a great experience."
Gene
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El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, Santa Barbara - A 1920s hilltop sanctuary with seven acres of gardens, Pacific Ocean views, and farm-to-table dining
Perched on a Santa Barbara hilltop, this 5-star sanctuary features 90 rooms, bungalows and suites spread across seven acres of landscaped gardens offering Pacific Ocean vistas. El Encanto's 1920s Spanish-colonial and California craftsman architecture has been meticulously preserved, while incorporating modern amenities including a zero-edge pool and boutique spa with seven treatment rooms. The Santa Barbara hotel's dining venues include a restaurant with indoor and outdoor terrace seating, where sustainable seafood pairs with herbs from the on-site garden and cheese made from the hotel's own cow's milk. The Belmond Hotel provides a well-equipped fitness studio offering cardio equipment and strength-training stations. A centuries-old lily pond lined with wisteria serves as a serene spot for turtle watching, while winter brings migrating Monarch butterflies. Located just 0.5 miles from the Santa Barbara Mission, the property offers complimentary local transportation within a five-mile radius.
Pros
Seven treatment room spa offering signature therapies with citrus, basil and mint essential oils
Complimentary electric bicycles for exploring the local area
Live music performances in the restaurant most evenings
Gourmet picnic baskets available for outdoor dining experiences
Custom-blended botanical teas and locally-sourced ingredients in afternoon tea service
Cons
Located 2.5 miles from Santa Barbara Amtrak station requiring transportation
12.5 miles distance from Santa Barbara Airport
“Nestled within lush gardens, this restored 1920s hotel offers an intimate getaway overlooking the Pacific; I found the blend of historic charm and modern luxury particularly compelling. Bespoke culinary experiences and wellness programs create a serene retreat, further enhanced by personalized service. Its proximity to Santa Barbara's wine country and the seven acres of landscaped gardens offer a unique cultural and relaxing experience.”
Charlotte EvansHead of Editorial at Hotelsdowntown
Select room type
Choose from double rooms, family suites, and premium stays. Enjoy breakfast, flexible cancellations, and exclusive deals.
King Room Terrace
2 persons
38 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
King Suite Terrace
2 persons
50 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Garden Bungalow
2 persons
61 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
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Check Availability & Prices
Find the best rates for your travel dates now!
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
Hotel has comfortable rooms, premium services, and a prime downtown location
Facilities: Great
8.9/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
VIP check-in/ -out
Express check-in/ -out
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Locker room
Allergy-free rooms
Smoke detectors
Electric vehicle charging station
Fire extinguishers
Key card access
Key access
Sports & Fitness
Fitness centre
Hiking
Cycling
Yoga class
Sports trainer
Aerobics
Guest Parking
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Services
Valet parking
Pet amenities available
Room service
Housekeeping
Car hire
Dry cleaning
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink
Dining
In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Picnic area/ Tables
Special diet menus
Business
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying
Children
Cots
Babysitting/Child services
Board games
Spa & Leisure
Saltwater pool
Heated swimming pool
Sun loungers
Live entertainment
Sun terrace
Garden area
Spa & wellness centre
Sauna
Pedicure
Manicure
Waxing
Body scrub
Facial
Treatment room
Body wraps
Back massage
Head massage
Full body massage
Foot massage
Make up services
Room features
Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Air conditioning
Heating
Sitting area
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Media
Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock
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Dining Onsite
El Encanto Santa Barbara invites guests to indulge in a culinary experience that marries local flavors with seasonal ingredients. The on-site dining option, featuring both indoor elegance and a charming outdoor terrace, is designed for families, couples, and canine companions alike, offering sustainable and thoughtfully crafted dishes amidst a beautiful setting.
The Dining Room
American
Ambiance
Elegant indoor dining room with a spacious outdoor terrace, equipped with heaters and blankets for cooler days.
Key Offerings
Signature dishes include smoked salmon mousse with lemon-zested crème fraiche and fresh rosemary scones accompanied by strawberry basil jam. Enjoy gourmet picnic baskets tailored for two, featuring local wine, and even canine meals made from veterinarian-approved ingredients.
Reservation
Recommended
Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, Cocktail hour
Location
800 Alvarado Place, Santa Barbara, 93103,
Explore Santa Barbara
Explore Santa Barbara
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
10 minutes walking
Displays of local wildlife and paleontology. Family-friendly with free admission days throughout the year.
Old Mission Santa Barbara
15 minutes' walk
Historic Spanish mission with stunning architecture and gardens. Guided tours available for in-depth exploration.
Santa Barbara County Courthouse
30 minutes walking
Beautifully preserved courthouse featuring Spanish-Moorish architecture. Visit for breathtaking views from the clock tower.
Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden
18 minutes walking
A serene park with diverse plant life and a tranquil pond, perfect for a peaceful stroll or family picnic.
Hiking at Seven Falls
10 minutes drive
Thrilling waterfall hike with stunning views. Suitable for adventurous spirits seeking a challenge.
Santa Barbara Beach
10 minutes drive
A relaxing sunny beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Public facilities available for beachgoers.
Yoga in the Park
10 minutes walking
Outdoor yoga classes available in local parks. Options catered to all experience levels for relaxation and flexibility.
Belmond El Encanto
3 minutes' walk
Elegant dining with stunning views. Known for farm-to-table dishes, including seafood and seasonal specials.
Loquita Santa Barbara
10 minutes drive
Spanish cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere. Signature tapas and paella perfect for sharing. Reservations recommended.
The Natural Cafe
15 minutes' walk
Casual eatery offering organic and vegetarian options. Known for smoothies and fresh salads, catering to dietary needs.
Riviera Theatre
4 minutes' walk
Intimate venue featuring live music and films. Hosts a variety of performances appealing to all ages.
Santa Barbara Bowl
15 minutes' walk
Outdoor amphitheater hosting concerts and events. Views are spectacular and the vibe is lively for music lovers.
The Good Lion
15 minutes drive
Cozy bar known for craft cocktails and local brews. Offers a laid-back vibe ideal for casual evenings out.
Getting around
<br />
City Centre
Santa Barbara 22 min · 1.1 mi
Airports
Santa Barbara (SBA) 30 min · 12.3 mi
Presidente Itamar Franco (iza) 70 min · 28.9 mi
Train
Santa Barbara Amtrak 5 min · 1.9 mi
Santa Barbara Amtrak Station 5 min · 1.9 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-23:30
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site at true.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Feedback about El Encanto Santa Barbara from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 162 verified reviews
9.2 /10
Perfect
90 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
9.2/10
Comfort
9.4/10
Facilities
8.9/10
Free WiFi
10.0/10
Location
9.5/10
Staff
9.1/10
Value for money
7.9/10
Pros
Hotel amenities
Delicious breakfast
Perfect service
Cons
Dated furniture
Guest reviews
based on 93 reviews
9.0/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About El Encanto Santa Barbara
How far is El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel from the city centre?
Santa Barbara city centre is reachable within a 20-minute walk from El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel.
Which airport is the closest to the El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel?
The closest airport to the El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel is Santa Barbara airport (20 km) and it is reachable with a 32-minute drive.
What payment methods are available in El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel?
At El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel, you can pay using Visa, American Express, and Diners Club.
What room types are available at the El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel?
Superior King Room, Premier King Suite, and Premier King Room are among the room types available at the El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel.
Is the staff at the Santa Barbara hotel multilingual?
Yes, the staff of the Santa Barbara hotel speaks Italian, Spanish, German, English, and French.
Does the El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel offer facilities for business travellers?
The El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel conveniently features conference facilities and a photocopy machine as well as a meeting room on-site.
Which facilities are available in El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel?
Top locations of El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel include a restaurant and luggage storage, whereas guests' safety will be ensured with a safety deposit box and 24-hour security service.
What spa facilities does El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel offer?
At El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel, guests can enjoy a head massage, a back massage, and a facial massage as well as visit a spa salon offering body wraps, body scrub, and pedicure.
Is there a swimming pool in the Santa Barbara hotel?
Yes, the Santa Barbara hotel features a heated swimming pool.
Which children services are provided at the El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel?
For guests staying at the El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel with their children, child care services will be extremely useful.