Santa Barbara's Bacara Resort Feels Like Spain in California

Located on 78ac of beachfront property, the Bacara Resort has been a luxury retreat since it first opened in 2000. In the fall of 2017 it was rebranded as a Ritz-Carlton property following a multimillion dollar renovation. The renovations preserved the red tile roofs and white stucco walls that characterize the Spanish colonial design of the resort’s villas, while also providing some much-needed upgrades.

The hotel’s 358 rooms each have a wrought-iron balcony that overlooks either the ocean or the gardens. The rooms are outfitted with Mediterranean-style decor, complete with terracotta floors and blue accents.

Nestled between the Santa Ynez mountains and the ocean, the resort is minutes away from downtown Santa Barbara and boasts two of its own private beaches. Despite its proximity to the city, it’s seemingly designed so that you never want to leave. There are three saltwater pools, a 42,000sqft spa, a private hiking trail and five on-site restaurants.

The restaurants range from the more casual Blend coffee shop to Angel Oak, a steakhouse with an ocean view (naturally). Given its proximity to the area’s wine region – and in keeping with the Mediterranean vibes – the resort has its own extensive wine cellar, which holds more than 12,000 bottles. There is also an on-site tasting room.

The spa includes a redwood sauna, eucalyptus steam room, rooftop terrace and adults-only pool. Again in line with the Mediterranean theme, the spa uses products by Barcelona brand Natura Bisse for their facials. For guests looking to maximize their time inhaling the fresh ocean air, the Pacific Breeze massage is done on the rooftop terrace. Sparkling wine is included.

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