El Encanto, Santa Barbara
Hotel · Riviera ·
Luxurious suites, spa treatments, infinity pool, ocean views
Luxurious suites, spa treatments, infinity pool, ocean views
"Following a private purchase in July 2025, the historic resort’s dining program is getting a full revamp under former Gramercy Tavern chef Joel Viehland, who will provide direction for new menus across the dining room, terrace, and bar." - Mona Holmes
"A five star resort hotel hidden away in the hills above the Mission, with great views of the town and the ocean. Come here for a quiet and serene getaway. Enjoy some time at the pool, have a spa day, walk around the gardens, or just spend the day hidden away in one of their bungalows. Take a complimentary electric bike and make the short ride away to the mission or downtown. Also, heated marble floors in the bathrooms, and pet friendly?! Yes please." - Amanda Proudfit
"A secluded, garden-rich hillside hotel prized for lush landscaping and a tranquil, intimate atmosphere favored by visitors seeking privacy and relaxation." - Patricia Doherty Patricia Doherty Patricia Doherty is a writer who specializes in covering destinations, resorts, and cruises for Travel + Leisure and other publications. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"This is the original Hollywood hideaway with seven acres of land nestled in the foothills of the American Riviera. At El Encanto, you’ll have ocean views overlooking the Pacific Coast with the rose-colored mountains rising behind you. The property has 90 rooms but it never feels crowded; in fact, it feels private and idyllic. It has a fantastic luxe Spanish colonial charm without being annoying or precious. Whether you’re hiding away in a lush garden suite with a fireplace and a patio or just swanning around on the terrace for an al fresco farmers market lunch, it feels just right: low-key but ultra stylish. Call it what it is: a retreat."
"Located in a Belmond hotel about 40 minutes from the cruise port in Phillipsburg, this venue occupies the island’s oldest wine cellar and is booked for multi-course tastings and private experiences. On the author’s last trip she booked the 200 tasting, a tropical adventure in which she “sampled some of the world’s finest rums, learned to roll cigars, and nibbled on chocolate and cheese — it rivaled any Valentine’s Day dinner,” making it a standout, decidedly romantic splurge." - Carrie Honaker