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From474US$ /night
Check-in
20Dec2025Select date
Check-out
21Dec2025Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About Resort

800 Alvarado Place, Santa Barbara, California, United States, 93103
-
Near the Pacific Coast cliffs
Perfect
9.3
9.7
/10
4.6
4.5
/5

El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, Santa Barbara is a 5-star luxury hotel with a Booking.com rating of 9.2/10. It features seven acres of landscaped gardens, a zero-edge swimming pool, and a full-service spa offering various treatments. This Santa Barbara hotel embodies the elegance of Spanish colonial architecture blended with modern artistry.

Rooms & Amenities

Accommodations at El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel include 90 rooms, bungalows, and suites, each featuring marble bathrooms, underfloor heating, and private terraces. The rooms are designed in a blend of California Craftsman and Spanish Colonial styles while incorporating local furnishings and modern conveniences.

Dining & Leisure

Dining options include the terrace restaurant offering coastal-inspired dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy light bites at The Lounge, which features crafted cocktails and views of the Pacific.

Activities & Local Area

Leisure amenities comprise a well-equipped fitness center, destination spa with various treatments, and outdoor fitness classes. Local attractions include the Santa Barbara Mission, just half a mile away, and over 270 wineries in Santa Ynez Valley, 30 minutes away.

Services & Events

El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel offers complimentary transportation within a five-mile radius and guidance for local activities such as hiking and biking excursions. The hotel features event spaces for corporate meetings and weddings, providing a serene backdrop complemented by views of the Pacific Ocean.

Must-do experiences

  • Stroll through the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden for stunning views.
  • Try the Santa Barbara beach burrito at La Super Rica Taqueria.
  • Visit the historic Santa Barbara Mission for beautiful architecture.
  • Explore the Funk Zone for local art galleries and wine-tasting rooms.
  • Don't miss the Santa Barbara Farmers Market for fresh local produce.
View all

Select your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
King Room Terrace
2 persons
38 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
Garden Bungalow
2 persons
61 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Fireplace
Premier King Room Terrace
2 persons
50 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Fireplace
Superior Suite Hummingbird
2 persons
74 m² 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Fireplace
Click button to see more rooms
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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

  • No smoking on site
  • On-site car park
  • Handicap 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

Experience the enchanting dining options at El Encanto Santa Barbara, where local flavors and sustainable ingredients come together in a serene setting. With an elegant dining room and a charming outdoor terrace, guests can indulge in a culinary journey that celebrates the best of American cuisine.

The Dining Room

American
Ambiance
A warm and inviting space featuring an elegant indoor dining room and a spacious outdoor terrace, complete with heaters and blankets for cooler days. Family friendly yet romantic, it caters to various dining occasions.
Key Offerings
Savor dishes made from sustainable seafood paired with homegrown herbs and local cheese. Delight in picnic baskets filled with seasonal treats, such as smoked salmon mousse and fresh rosemary scones, ideal for enjoying with local Californian wine.
Reservation
Recommended
Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, Cocktail hour

Location

800 Alvarado Place, Santa Barbara, California, United States, 93103
Map view
800 Alvarado Place, Santa Barbara, California, United States, 93103
Nearby
Riviera Theatre
290 m
Mall
San Marcos Building Courtyard
210 m
Restaurants
Belmond El Encanto
220 m
800 Alvarado Pl
Explore Santa Barbara
Explore Santa Barbara
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
10 minutes walking
The museum showcases local wildlife and natural history, ideal for families with interactive exhibits and a planetarium.
Old Mission Santa Barbara
Old Mission Santa Barbara
15 minutes' walk
A historic landmark with stunning architecture and gardens, offering guided tours to learn about its rich history.
Franceschi Park
Franceschi Park
14 minutes' walk
Beautiful park featuring panoramic views of Santa Barbara, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic.
Santa Barbara County Courthouse
Santa Barbara County Courthouse
30 minutes' walk
An architectural gem with vibrant murals and a clock tower lookout, offering free admission and stunning views.
Hiking at Seven Falls
15 minutes' drive
Challenging hike featuring scenic waterfalls; great for thrill-seekers looking to experience nature firsthand.
Yoga at Santa Barbara Yoga Center
10 minutes' drive
Relaxing yoga classes in a peaceful studio setting, catering to all levels and offering workshops for wellness.
Surfing Lessons at Santa Barbara Beach
10 minutes' drive
Exciting surfing lessons with local instructors, ideal for beginners or experienced surfers looking to catch waves.
Belmond El Encanto
Belmond El Encanto
3 minutes' walk
Fine dining with Californian cuisine and stunning views; reservations recommended for a memorable experience.
Loquita Santa Barbara
10 minutes' drive
Spanish-inspired cuisine with vibrant tapas and refreshing cocktails, featuring a lively atmosphere and outdoor seating.
Mesa Burger
10 minutes' drive
Casual and family-friendly burger joint known for gourmet burgers and gluten-free options; a local favorite.
Riviera Theatre
4 minutes' walk
Historic venue showcasing live performances and classic movies; a cozy spot for date nights or cultural events.
Santa Barbara Bowl
Santa Barbara Bowl
15 minutes' drive
Outdoor amphitheater featuring live concerts; a popular venue for music lovers with an intimate atmosphere.
The Good Lion
10 minutes' drive
Charming cocktail bar offering creative drinks and a relaxed vibe; great for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Getting around
City Centre
Santa Barbara22 min  ·  1.8 km
Airports
Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA)30 min  ·  19.8 km
Presidente Itamar Franco Airport (iza)70 min  ·  46.5 km
Train
Santa Barbara Amtrak5 min  ·  3.0 km
Santa Barbara Amtrak Station5 min  ·  3.0 km

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback from previous guests about their experience.
Guest reviews
5.0/10
based on 5 reviews
9.3
9.3/10 based on 80 reviews
Bill
United States, March  2025
7.0/10

I just had the most very nice stay at El Encanto! The service was great, with every staff member going above and beyond to make me feel welcome. The only downside was the pool area wasn't very spacious, making it a little noisy at times. Overall, I left feeling pampered and completely relaxed.

Rooms
10.0
My room was immaculate and beautifully furnished. I loved the fully stocked minibar and the special touches like the complimentary wine and unique tea.
Service
10.0
The staff was amazing! They were not just attentive but truly invested in making my experience nice, from the valet to the restaurant service. I especially appreciated how friendly and helpful everyone was.
Location
10.0
The hotel is nestled in the hills above Santa Barbara with stunning views of the ocean and city. The landscaping is amazing and creates such a peaceful atmosphere.
Dining
10.0
Dining here was a delight! The breakfast spread was amazing, with perfectly cooked eggs and delicious pastries. The dinner options were equally impressive, making it hard to want to eat anywhere else.
Facilities
10.0
The hotel's facilities were well-maintained and offered everything I could need, including room service and a lovely spa. The serene ambiance added to the overall experience.
Philip
United States, February  2025
5.6/10

I had a truly wonderful stay at El Encanto, with its stunning views and cozy ambiance. While the restaurant service could have been quicker and friendlier, the very nice accommodations and the beautiful grounds made it worthwhile. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing getaway with an intimate atmosphere that's ideal for special occasions.

Rooms
10.0
My room was beautifully furnished and spacious, with luxury details like a fireplace and heated bathroom floors. It was a comfortable and elegant retreat.
Service
8.0
The staff was attentive and welcoming, enhancing my experience overall. However, the restaurant service was a bit slow, which was disappointing given the high expectations.
Location
10.0
Perched in the hills overlooking Santa Barbara, the location provided amazing scenic views. The tranquil surroundings made my stay even more enjoyable.
Dining
8.0
Dining here was a treat, especially brunch, which was really good. The dishes were well-prepared, but the service pace during dinner could use improvement.
Facilities
10.0
The hotel's amenities were impressive, from the luxurious spa services to the beautifully landscaped grounds, creating a serene escape.
Jeff
United States, January  2025
5.2/10

My stay at El Encanto was largely enjoyable, highlighted by the stunning views and well-appointed room. However, the pool service was quite disappointing, which detracted from the overall experience.

Rooms
10.0
My room was spacious, stylish, and elegant, sitting atop one of the bungalows surrounded by beautiful gardens. The furnishings were luxurious, and I appreciated the modern conveniences.
Service
6.0
While the overall service was friendly, it fell short at the pool. I noticed that the staff seemed overwhelmed, leading to long waits for service and missed opportunities for orders.
Location
10.0
The hotel's mountainside location offered amazing views of Santa Barbara and felt like a serene escape. A complimentary shuttle made it easy to explore downtown as well.
Dining
8.0
Dining on the patio was a treat, especially with such magical views. However, I did experience slower service than expected during breakfast, which was a bit disappointing.
Facilities
7.0
The facilities were well-maintained, although the pool area didn't seem large enough during busier times. I hoped for better service at the pool to make full use of the lovely surroundings.
Laura
United States, December  2024
5.8/10

I had a nice stay at El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, with amazing views and luxurious accommodations, though there were a few hiccups. My room was a bit small, and I found the bathroom layout challenging. Additionally, the breakfast did not impress me, but dinner was a substantial improvement.

Rooms
8.0
My room, while cozy, featured a lovely patio with an ocean view. though the bathroom setup felt cramped. The closet being in the bathroom was less than ideal, as my clothes ended up damp after a shower.
Service
9.0
The staff was attentive and friendly, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere throughout my visit. Their personalized service truly made me feel valued.
Location
8.0
Nestled in the picturesque hills of Santa Barbara, the hotel's location is perfect for morning walks to soak in the stunning views. Though the pool area could have been cleaner and better maintained.
Dining
7.0
While breakfast fell short in flavor and creativity, dinner exceeded my expectations with delicious options. I found the food at the hotel's restaurant noteworthy.
Facilities
6.0
The grounds were beautifully landscaped, enhancing the hotel's charm. however, I did notice some areas that needed maintenance, including the pool area.
Joan
United States, November  2024
5.8/10

My stay at El Encanto was beautiful, marked by stunning landscapes and luxurious accommodations. However, I encountered some service hiccups that affected my overall experience. The pool, which I was particularly looking forward to, was disappointingly cold due to a broken heater. Despite these issues, the room was magnificent, and the picturesque views made my stay worthwhile. 🌊🌺

Rooms
10.0
My bungalow was incredibly spacious with elegant decor and high-end amenities. The large bathroom and cozy fireplace added a touch of luxury that made my relaxation time even more enjoyable.
Service
6.0
While the staff were friendly and attentive, service at times felt unhurried. It took a while to receive assistance at the pool and during meals, which I felt could be improved.
Location
10.0
Perched on a hill, the location offers amazing views of Santa Barbara that truly enhance the experience. It's a tranquil spot, making it a perfect getaway from the city's hustle and bustle.
Dining
8.0
The dining experiences were good, with gourmet dishes that pleased my palate. However, I experienced delays in service, especially at breakfast, which was a bit frustrating.
Facilities
6.0
The facilities were well-maintained, and I enjoyed the lush landscaping surrounding the hotel. While the amenities were great, the pool area was a letdown due to its cold water.
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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 USD 45 per day.
Internet
is available in for free.
Children & extra beds
Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1. 
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Languages
English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese
Number of rooms:
94
Former name
El Encanto by Orient-Express
FAQs
About El Encanto Santa Barbara
What are the check-in and check-out times at El Encanto Santa Barbara?
Check-in is at 16:00 and check-out is at 11:00.
Is parking available at El Encanto Santa Barbara?
Private parking is available on-site for 45 USD per day, and reservation is not necessary.
What dining options are available at El Encanto Santa Barbara?
The hotel features an on-site restaurant with an outdoor terrace and a cozy bar serving handcrafted cocktails.
Which attractions are located near El Encanto Santa Barbara?
Nearby attractions include Santa Barbara Mission (approximately 2 km) and Santa Barbara Botanical Gardens (about 3 km).
What amenities are included in the rooms at El Encanto Santa Barbara?
Rooms include complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen satellite TV, a minibar, air conditioning, and a fireplace.
Does El Encanto Santa Barbara offer spa services?
The hotel has a full-service spa with a variety of treatment options including massages and facials.
What fitness facilities does El Encanto Santa Barbara provide?
The hotel features a well-equipped gym and a saltwater pool open year-round.
How far is El Encanto Santa Barbara from the center of Santa Barbara?
The hotel is approximately 5 km from the center of Santa Barbara.
What are the transportation options to reach El Encanto Santa Barbara from the nearest airport?
The hotel is 20 km from Santa Barbara Airport, and airport transfers can be arranged.

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El Encanto Santa Barbara

9.3
Perfect80 reviews
1.8 km from center
427 US$
474 US$
per night
Mobile-only price