Santa Barbara has been known for its gracious hotels and inns for more than 100 years. Many early guest came to “take the cure” in the local mineral springs or benefit from the crisp ocean air. The first public lodging facility in the City was the Lincoln House (now known as the Upham Hotel), which was built in 1871 and boasted ten bedrooms, three bathrooms and an adjacent stable for guest’s horses and buggies. In 1893 a hacienda was built in the Montecito foothills and the San Ysidro Ranch welcomed its first guests. Both the Upham Hotel and the San Ysidro Ranch are still housing guests.
Bacara Resort & Spa
Frequently a celebrity hideaway and resting on nearly 80 beachfront acres, this luxury Mediterranean village-style hotel is 15-20 minutes north of Santa Barbara. It offers 311 rooms, 49 suites, multiple pools and restaurants, a world-class spa, tennis and the well-known Sandpiper Golf Course. 8301 Hollister Avenue, Goleta, (805) 968-0100
The Biltmore Hotel
The pinnacle of classic hotel & resort luxury at beautiful Butterfly Beach in prestigious Montecito. A sophisticated blend of Old World charm and world-renowned Four Seasons service and amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness facility, 11 room spa, tennis courts, 2 gourmet restaurants and guest privileges at the adjacent legendary Coral Casino Beach & Cabana Club. The only hotel in the Santa Barbara area to earn the AAA Five Diamond Award (for the past 6 years!). Only 1% of hotels receive this top rating. 1260 Channel Drive, Montecito, (805) 969-2261
Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
A sprawling 24-acre beachfront resort hotel just ½ mile from downtown Santa Barbara and Montecito. Accommodations and amenities appropriate for an intimate getaway, family vacation, corporate retreat or convention. With 360 rooms & suites, swimming pool, tennis courts, spa and numerous restaurants. 633 E. Cabrillo Blvd, Santa Barbara, (805) 564-4333
Harbor View Inn
A luxury beachfront boutique resort hotel near Stearn’s Wharf and the Santa Barbara Harbor. Among the amenities are an ocean view pool with full food and beverage service and an adjacent fitness center, 96 Rooms & suites, a full-service spa, and Jeannine’s by the Shore Restaurant. 28 W. Cabrillo Blvd., Santa Barbara, (805) 963-0780
Ramada Limited
Newer two story hotel midway between the City of Santa Barbara & the Airport, 126 spacious rooms, award winning fresh water lagoon, pool, use of the Goleta Valley Atletic Club, complimentary continental breakfast, mention the SB Association of Realtors and get 20% discount. 4770 Calle Real, Santa Barbara (805) 964-3511
San Ysidro Ranch
An ultimate romantic hideaway for over a century, “The Ranch” hosted the wedding of Vivien Leigh and Sir Laurence Olivier, and was the honeymoon retreat for John and Jackie Kennedy. Awarded the “Best Hotel in America” by Forbes Traveler in 2009! There are 41 individually decorated private cottages and suites nestled along a creek and tree-lined paths. Among the amenities are outdoor hot tubs and rain showers on private patios, stone fireplaces, hand-selected antique furnishings and fine linens, pool, fitness center and in-room personalized spa services. The Ranch also hosts 2 world-class restaurants. 900 San Ysidro Lane, Montecito, (805) 565-1700
Simpson House Inn
Nestled on an acre of English gardens and built as a private estate in 1874, the inn is just blocks from the heart of downtown Santa Barbara. Featuring 15 rooms, suites and cottages; fireplaces; personalized in-room spa services; guest privileges at Santa Barbara Athletic Club; gourmet breakfasts, wine tasting and hors d’oeuvres, afternoon tea and dessert buffet. 121 E. Arrellaga Street, Santa Barbara, (805) 963-7067
Upham Hotel
A 58-room (and garden cottages) historic landmark, built in 1871, combining the intimacy of a bed & breakfast inn with the amenities of a fine hotel. Breakfast, late afternoon hors d’oeuvre & wine included with in room rate. Renowned Louie’s Restaurant on-site; a short walk or ride to all that downtown Santa Barbara has to offer. 1404 De La Vina Street, Santa Barbara, (805) 962-0058
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