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El Encanto Santa Barbara

5.0 star property
Colonial hotel with 2 restaurants and a full-service spa

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Photo gallery for El Encanto Santa Barbara

2 restaurants, breakfast, lunch, dinner served; Californian cuisine
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1 bedroom, premium bedding, down comforters, minibar
2 restaurants, breakfast, lunch, dinner served; Californian cuisine
Suite, Terrace | 1 bedroom, premium bedding, down comforters, minibar

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Breakfast available
  • Bar
  • Spa
  • Parking available
  • Room service

Explore the area

View in a map
800 Alvarado Place, Santa Barbara, CA, 93103
  • Place, Mission Santa Barbara
    ‪12 min walk‬
  • Place, Santa Barbara Zoo
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Place, West Beach
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Airport, Santa Barbara, CA (SBA-Santa Barbara Municipal)
    ‪14 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Deluxe Double Room

Deluxe Double Room | 1 bedroom, premium bedding, down comforters, minibar

Deluxe Double Room

  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

View all photos for Suite, 2 Bedrooms (Camellia)

1 bedroom, premium bedding, down comforters, minibar

Suite, 2 Bedrooms (Camellia)

  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Bungalow (Garden)

Bungalow (Garden) | 1 bedroom, premium bedding, down comforters, minibar

Bungalow (Garden)

  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Suite (Hummingbird)

Suite (Hummingbird) | 1 bedroom, premium bedding, down comforters, minibar

Suite (Hummingbird)

  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Suite, 1 Bedroom

1 bedroom, premium bedding, down comforters, minibar

Suite, 1 Bedroom

  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Superior Room, 1 King Bed

1 bedroom, premium bedding, down comforters, minibar

Superior Room, 1 King Bed

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Premier Room, 1 King Bed

1 bedroom, premium bedding, down comforters, minibar

Premier Room, 1 King Bed

  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Room, 1 King Bed, Terrace

Room, 1 King Bed, Terrace | 1 bedroom, premium bedding, down comforters, minibar

Room, 1 King Bed, Terrace

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Premier Room, 1 King Bed, Terrace

Premier Room, 1 King Bed, Terrace | 1 bedroom, premium bedding, down comforters, minibar

Premier Room, 1 King Bed, Terrace

  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Premier Suite, Terrace

Premier Suite, Terrace | 1 bedroom, premium bedding, down comforters, minibar

Premier Suite, Terrace

  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Suite, Terrace

1 bedroom, premium bedding, down comforters, minibar

Suite, Terrace

  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

View all photos for Suite, 2 Bedrooms, Terrace

1 bedroom, premium bedding, down comforters, minibar

Suite, 2 Bedrooms, Terrace

  • Sleeps 5
  • 2 King Beds

View all photos for Suite (Vista)

Suite (Vista) | Living area | 42-inch flat-screen TV with cable channels, TV, iPod dock

Suite (Vista)

  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Suite (Wishing Well)

1 bedroom, premium bedding, down comforters, minibar

Suite (Wishing Well)

  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Suite, 2 Bedrooms (Wishing Well)

1 bedroom, premium bedding, down comforters, minibar

Suite, 2 Bedrooms (Wishing Well)

  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Suite, 2 Bedrooms (Vista)

1 bedroom, premium bedding, down comforters, minibar

Suite, 2 Bedrooms (Vista)

  • Ocean view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Suite, 2 Bedrooms (Oak Tree)

1 bedroom, premium bedding, down comforters, minibar

Suite, 2 Bedrooms (Oak Tree)

  • Sleeps 5
  • 2 King Beds

View all photos for Suite (Camellia)

1 bedroom, premium bedding, down comforters, minibar

Suite (Camellia)

  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed

Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed | 1 bedroom, premium bedding, down comforters, minibar

Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed

  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

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About the neighborhood

Santa Barbara

Located in Upper Riviera within a mile (2 km) of Mission Santa Barbara, El Encanto Santa Barbara is within 2 miles (3 km) of other popular sights such as El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park. This 92-room, 5-star hotel has 2 restaurants, a full-service spa, and an outdoor pool.

What's nearby

  • Mission Santa Barbara - 12 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • Santa Barbara Bowl - 17 min walk - 0.9 miles
  • Santa Barbara County Courthouse - 4 min drive - 1.2 miles
  • Santa Barbara Zoo - 6 min drive - 3.2 miles
  • West Beach - 6 min drive - 2.5 miles

Getting around

  • Santa Barbara Station - 15 min drive
  • Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) - 17 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪IHOP - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪CAJÉ - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Secret Bao - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬4 min drive

About this property

El Encanto Santa Barbara

Colonial hotel with 2 restaurants and a full-service spa
At El Encanto Santa Barbara, guests enjoy a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and a 24-hour gym. Valet parking is available for USD 40.00 per night, and there's also a free beach shuttle. Multilingual staff at the 24-hour front desk can assist with concierge services, luggage storage, and securing valuables. If you like to take your furry friend along on your adventures, this pet-friendly property offers food and water bowls and pet-sitting services. Other amenities at this luxury hotel include a sauna, free WiFi in public areas, and conference space.
Guests can expect free WiFi and 42-inch flat-screen TVs with cable channels. Beds are dressed in premium bedding and pillow menus, and bathrooms offer hair dryers and free toiletries. IPod docks, minibars, and espresso makers are also standard.
Recreational amenities at the hotel include an outdoor pool, a sauna, a 24-hour fitness center, and complimentary bicycles.

Children under 16 years old are not allowed in the swimming pool without adult supervision.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Spa at El Encanto has 7 treatment rooms including rooms for couples and outdoor treatment areas. Services include deep-tissue massages, facials, body wraps, and body scrubs. A variety of treatment therapies are provided, including aromatherapy, hydrotherapy, and reflexology.

The spa is open daily. Children under 18 years old are not allowed in the spa without adult supervision. Guests under 16 years old are not allowed in the spa.

Awards and affiliations

Eco-Certified Property
This property participates in EarthCheck, a program that measures the property's impact on one or more of the following: environment, community, cultural-heritage, the local economy.

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Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • In-room WiFi speed: 50+ Mbps
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Electric car charging station on site
  • Free beach shuttle
  • Secured valet parking on site (USD 40 per night; includes in/out privileges)

Food and drink

  • Daily full breakfast available 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM for a fee: USD 30 per person
  • 2 restaurants
  • A bar/lounge
  • A poolside bar
  • Coffee and tea in common areas
  • Couples/private dining

Restaurants on site

  • The Bar
  • The Dining Room
  • The Lounge
  • The Pool
  • The Terrace

Things to do

  • 24-hour gym
  • Evening entertainment
  • Fitness classes
  • Free bicycle rentals
  • Full-service spa
  • Outdoor pool
  • Sauna
  • Shopping
  • Yoga classes

Family friendly

  • Fenced pool
  • In-room babysitting (surcharge)
  • In-room crib
  • Microwave on request
  • Outdoor pool
  • Supervised activities for children (surcharge)

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • ATM
  • Free newspapers in lobby
  • Gift shop/newsstand
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Multilingual staff
  • Porter/bellhop
  • Tour and ticket assistance
  • Turndown service
  • Wedding services

Business services

  • 32,292 square feet of conference space
  • 7 meeting rooms

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • In a state park
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Picnic area
  • Pool loungers
  • Pool umbrellas
  • Terrace
  • Vegetable garden

Full-service spa

  • 7 treatment rooms
  • Aromatherapy
  • Body scrubs
  • Body wraps
  • Couples treatment rooms
  • Deep-tissue massages
  • Facials
  • Hydrotherapy
  • Manicures/pedicures
  • Outdoor treatment areas
  • Reflexology
  • Spa open daily

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Assistive listening devices
  • Braille/raised signage
  • No elevator
  • Visual fire alarm

More

  • 2 floors
  • 32 buildings
  • At least 10% of profits reinvested in community and sustainability
  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • At least 80% organic food
  • Ballroom
  • Banquet hall
  • Biodegradable coffee stirrers available
  • Biodegradable drinking straws available
  • Built in 1918
  • Colonial architecture
  • Comprehensive food waste policy
  • Comprehensive recycling policy
  • Fireplace in lobby
  • Local artist showcase
  • Locally-owned and organized tours and activities
  • No plastic coffee stirrers
  • No plastic drinking straws
  • No plastic soft drink bottles
  • Reusable cups
  • Reusable tableware
  • Smoking not allowed
  • Vegan dining options
  • Vegetarian breakfast available
  • Vegetarian dining options

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Blackout drapes
  • Down comforter
  • Free crib
  • Hypo-allergenic bedding
  • Pillow menu
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Bathrobes
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Heated bathroom floor
  • Shampoo
  • Slippers
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 42-inch flat-screen TV with premium cable channels
  • iPod dock
  • Streaming services

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Electric kettle
  • Espresso maker
  • Free bottled water
  • Late-night room service
  • Microwave on request
  • Minibar
  • Toaster

More

  • Air conditioning (climate-controlled)
  • Cleaning products are eco-friendly
  • Connecting rooms available
  • Desk
  • Desk chair
  • Eco-friendly toiletries
  • Free daily newspapers
  • Free international calls
  • Free local calls
  • Free long-distance calls
  • Heating
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Iron/ironing board
  • Laptop workspace
  • Laptop-compatible safe
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime
Early check-in subject to availability
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before noon
Contactless check-out available
Late check-out subject to availability
A late check-out fee will be charged
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

An adult age 18 or older must assume all liability for the booking
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 175 per pet, per night
  • 2 total pets
  • Food and water bowls and pet-sitting services are available
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • One child 17 years old or younger stays free when using existing bedding
  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for USD 57.0 per night
  • Free cribs/infant beds are available

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Fee for full breakfast: approximately USD 30 per person
  • Secured valet parking fee: USD 40.00 per night (in/out privileges)
  • Pet fee: USD 175 per pet, per night
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Late check-out is available for a fee (subject to availability)
  • Rollaway bed fee: USD 57.0 per night

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
Cashless transactions are available
Parties and events are allowed on site
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and window guards
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: noon
  • Minimum check-in age: 21
The front desk is open 24 hours a day, and checking out is easy with express services. Driving? This property offers valet parking (fees apply), along with a car charging station.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
  • The credit card used at check-in for incidentals must be in the name of the primary guest who made the reservation.
  • Parties and events are allowed on site.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and window guards.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Reservations need to be made in advance for massage services and spa treatments. Contact the hotel at the phone number listed on your booking confirmation.
  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • Connecting or adjoining rooms can be requested, but all rooms are subject to availability. Contact the property using the phone number on your booking confirmation.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

Belmond El Encanto
Belmond El Encanto Hotel
Belmond El Encanto Hotel Santa Barbara
Belmond El Encanto Santa Barbara
Belmond Encanto
El Encanto
El Encanto Belmond
El Encanto Hotel And Garden Villas
Belmond El Encanto
El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, Santa Barbara Hotel
El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, Santa Barbara Santa Barbara
El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, Santa Barbara Hotel Santa Barbara

Frequently asked questions

What's there to see near El Encanto Santa Barbara?

This hotel is situated in Upper Riviera within a short 16-minute walk of Mission Santa Barbara and also 18 minutes on foot from Santa Barbara Natural History Museum. You'll also find Santa Barbara Bowl and Santa Barbara Harbor within a short drive.

How much does it cost to stay at El Encanto Santa Barbara?

As of Oct 18, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at El Encanto Santa Barbara on Nov 12, 2025 start from $743.75, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Will I be able to park at El Encanto Santa Barbara?

Yes, secured valet parking is offered for USD 40.00 per night with in/out privileges. Electric car charging is also available for guests.

Is a spa located at El Encanto Santa Barbara?

Spa at El Encanto is the hotel's spa and services include deep-tissue massages, hydrotherapy, and reflexology.

Does El Encanto Santa Barbara include a casino on the premises?

No, El Encanto Santa Barbara doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at El Encanto Santa Barbara?

No, this hotel doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool.

Is El Encanto Santa Barbara good for couples?

This boutique hotel offers many amenities for couples such as an outdoor pool and some guestrooms include fireplaces and in-room massages.

Does El Encanto Santa Barbara have a hot tub?

No, but guests can enjoy a sauna at this hotel.

Does El Encanto Santa Barbara have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

Yes, El Encanto Santa Barbara has 2 restaurants, and serves a full breakfast each morning for a surcharge.

Will El Encanto Santa Barbara allow pets to stay for free?

Although they can't stay for free, pets are welcome at El Encanto Santa Barbara for a fee of USD 175 per pet, per night. The property also provides pet-sitting services and food and water bowls.

Are there connecting rooms at El Encanto Santa Barbara?

Yes, you can book connecting guestrooms at this hotel for your group or family vacation.

Where is the closest airport to El Encanto Santa Barbara?

The closest major airport to El Encanto Santa Barbara is Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA), which is 9.8 mi away (17 minutes by car). Another top airport is Santa Ynez, CA (SQA), which is located 28.8 mi away (46-minute drive).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at El Encanto Santa Barbara?

Yes, some guestrooms at this hotel offer either a furnished balcony or a deck where guests can enjoy ocean or garden views.

Does El Encanto Santa Barbara offer wedding services?

If you plan to exchange vows during your trip, consider the wedding services available at El Encanto Santa Barbara.

El Encanto Santa Barbara Reviews

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 424 out of 524 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 50 out of 524 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 29 out of 524 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 16 out of 524 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 5 out of 524 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.4/10

Staff & service

9.2/10

Amenities

9.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.4/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

4/10 Poor

Justine

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Victoria, McLean

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mitchell

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Natury and relaxing. Service is great
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Julie

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Service,ambiance and beautiful rooms and cottages
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rhonda

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Staff and service was truly remarkable! Loved my stay
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robin

Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Chantal

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

The Gem of the Central Coast

El Encanto is my favorite destination. It’s luxurious, friendly and down to earth. My husband and I are celebrating our ten year anniversary. This is where we had stayed when we got married and have made several returns since. The atmosphere and ambience never disappoints. And not to mention, the cuisine is phenomenal. I love this hidden gem nestled in the hills of Santa Barbara.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dwight

Liked: Amenities
.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Andreea

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful, tranquil property.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Matt

Beautiful and peaceful
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Josephine

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Grounds are beautiful, room is lucxurious but also cozy and of course clean, this place was a relaxing sanctuary, Food is great and valet parking is efficient. However, it was a bit pricey compared to 5 star hotels in major cities like the luxury hotels we stay in Beverly Hills.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Marc Aaron

Liked: Property conditions & facilities
staff and service was excellent our dining experience was less than average
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

8/10 Good

brian

Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

David

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Thi

Stayed 1 night in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

John

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This property was excellent. Staff and accommodations were great. Would highly recommend
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kara

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Amazing location and exceptional service. Wonderful experience! Highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

2/10 Terrible

Thomas

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Gene

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
As always, this place is super nice, very attentive staff and very relaxing. Breakfast with a great view of Santa Barbara harbor and channel islands is a great experience. The restaurant has excellent food but I can't say the pricing is justified, normal high end hotel pricing I guess. A couple minor annoyances such as room AC not working to expectations but the room temp was still OK, just not as cool as we like for sleep
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Greg

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Amazing property!!!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Eliza

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovely in every way
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Margaret

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This property exceeds every expectation. The service was exemplary. Everyone, from the front desk staff to room service to the gardeners, is friendly and courteous and helpful. The grounds are exquisitely maintained. The rooms are generously proportioned with upper end amenities. Staying here will spoil you for any other property.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

8/10 Good

David

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

8/10 Good

Stephanie

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Gorgeous property and very friendly staff. We came on a holiday weekend so they were at full capacity so it was difficult getting a lounge chair at the pool. I’m sure that’s not always the case. I feel like this property should be no kids under 13. People pay a lot of money to spend their vacations here and no one wants to listen to screaming kids .
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bradley

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024