Secluded romance with a splash of country living is the essence of what makes San Ysidro Ranch such a coveted retreat. This lush Santa Barbara hotel is approved by celebrities from across the decades—just take Kennedy Cottage for reference. Aptly named after John and Jackie Kennedy spent a historic honeymoon at this very dwelling in 1953, its timeless antique furnishings complement the French doors that open onto the resort’s largest terrace that has an unbeatable view of the vast Pacific Ocean and the Channel Islands. San Ysidro Ranch leaves no grand nor minute detail behind; the outdoor rain shower and sunken hot tub make a stay at this luxurious suite quite unforgettable.

Located along the iconic Cabrillo Boulevard, Santa Barbara Inn embodies the beloved Spanish Revival-style architecture and boasts lush, sweeping grounds. The Anacapa Suite’s interior design whisks you away to a tropical paradise—featuring a Santa Barbara twist—with its cane-accented décor and rows of palm trees peeking in from just beyond all three private balconies. Enjoy a soak in the luxurious tub before a delicious meal of coastal Californian cuisine at this Santa Barbara hotel’s signature restaurant, Convivo.

Elegant and classy describe what you’ll see when you step inside Montecito Inn’s largest suite, The Apartment. Adorned with modern details that are both pleasing to the eye and inviting, kick back and relax next to the fireplace, take in the views from the impressive balcony or simply delight in the glory of the steam shower for a relaxing night in. For an intimate omakase meal for the senses, head downstairs for a unique dining experience at Sushi by Scratch Restaurants.

Photo by Cory Phillips

Private garden patio? Check. Rainfall shower? Check. Sophisticated, cottagecore-esque look and feel? Check. The Oak Tree Suite at El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, has all the bells and whistles to make for a dreamy stay in Santa Barbara. As a restored 1920s gem, this property combines both history and elegance in every detail. Make a splash in the zero-edge swimming pool overlooking the coastline, peruse the gardens or indulge in a fresh and locally sourced feast at The Dining Room, El Encanto’s premiere restaurant.

Splendor meets convenience at this hidden Presidio neighborhood gem. Palihouse Santa Barbara’s prized suite, El Apartamento, provides a bright and airy atmosphere and unique amenities such as a cozy fireplace and a Nespresso coffee machine to fill out its spacious 823 square feet. Soak up Santa Barbara’s bountiful days of sunshine and take in the views of the lush courtyard from one of this Santa Barbara hotel suite’s two balconies. And, you can even bring your pup; they’ll get the VIP (Very Important Pooch) treatment.

Luxury awaits at Rosewood Miramar Beach’s Ambassador Suite. Located on the second floor of the resort’s central hub, Manor House, the 1,885-square-foot quarters offer serene views of both the Great Lawn and Miramar Beach. Once you check in, you won’t even have to leave your suite: Take advantage of the ample surroundings and book a relaxing in-suite spa treatment or savory private dining experience. Explore the grounds and find yourself at Caruso’s, the hotel’s double-Michelin-starred gem (one classic Michelin Star and one Michelin Green Star—Santa Barbara’s first). And, there’s nothing like wrapping yourself in the warm embrace of Rivolta Carmignani linen sheets at the end of a long, blissful day of exploring The American Riviera®.

As the only guest room in Hotel Californian’s State Building, this Spanish-style urban escape is a fresh breath of grandeur. Located on the edge of the Funk Zone and just minutes from the ocean (which you can see from the corner balcony of the Alcazar Suite), this iconic hotel makes for an even more iconic Santa Barbara stay. The Alcazar Suite leaves no stone unturned when it comes to extravagant details—from the marble rain shower to its eclectic modern take on the Spanish-style tile. Expansive seating and dining areas make this abode a comfortable space for much longer than your average vacation.

The Channel Island Suite at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara offers two full stories of Santa Barbara-style extravagance. Though it’s listed as one suite, the massive 3,700-square-foot layout of the Channel Island Suite creates the level of privacy comparable to booking two separate rooms. Each bedroom within this suite boasts a terrace (one with a dining area and fireplace), elegant modern décor, beautifully crafted bathrooms and endless panoramic views of Goleta’s gorgeous coastline. Cook a delicious meal with local Santa Barbara bounty (think: California spiny lobster, uni, spotted prawn and fresh produce) in the suite’s expansive kitchen or dine on elevated coastal cuisine at the hotel’s Angel Oak.

Photo by Don Riddle

If you’re looking for a modern-chic and Baja California-inspired atmosphere, Drift Santa Barbara delivers. While just three stories tall, Drift Santa Barbara boasts an incredible view of downtown State Street from its spacious penthouse suite. The Drift Penthouse features highly detailed yet minimalistic interior design and amenities (from bright and inviting linen accents to the uniquely distinct bathrobes), wide sliding glass doors that open up to the wrap-around balcony and a lavish king-sized bed. And, there’s an additional room adjacent to the penthouse that can be reserved to allow for even more living and resting space. To top it off, visit the hotel’s two dining options, Dawn Café and Dusk Bar, conveniently located just downstairs.

Photo by Erin Feinblatt

The secluded and charming abode, Pendle Cottage at Simpson House Inn, invites guests to feel at ease in its tranquil garden setting located in the heart of Santa Barbara. This adults-only boutique hideaway is perfect for those wanting to truly unwind during their next vacation to The American Riviera®. Pendle Cottage features a loft bedroom with a king bed, a wood-burning fireplace and a patio with an enclosed fountain courtyard. A bonus: Enjoy complimentary breakfast, refreshments, wine and hors d’oeuvres and assorted desserts daily.

Photo by Frank Valenciana

The Casitas at Santa Barbara’s beloved The Eagle Inn undoubtedly contribute to what makes Santa Barbara such an idyllic and inviting destination. As one of the property’s most esteemed accommodations, Casita Santa Rosa is certainly a stay to write home about. Equipped with stunning vaulted wooden ceilings and complimentary breakfast served right at the table of the casita, Casita Santa Rosa serves as both your well-deserved beachside haven and your cozy home-away-from-home.