Let Santa Barbara be the next chapter of your love story, a place where enchanting resorts and cozy inns set the stage for a romantic getaway you and your partner will never forget. Whether it’s a romantic stroll along the coastal bluffs, a movie under the stars or an unparalleled glamping adventure, these top romantic hotels, resorts and vacation rentals in Santa Barbara offer a plethora of experiences, affirming that love is indeed worth splurging on and best celebrated in this picturesque coastal haven.
If you’re looking to up the romance scale and tie the knot in The American Riviera®, see this guide to wedding venues with accommodations.
Step into the romantic embrace of Palihouse Santa Barbara, where every second is a chance to connect and deepen your connection with your loved one. Relax in secluded poolside cabanas, enjoy the convenience in-house pantry, ensuring or explore the charming nearby Presidio neighborhood on complimentary Linus bicycles. As a pet-friendly hotel, Palihouse also ensures that your cherished pets are treated like royalty during your unforgettable getaway.
Tucked away amidst the majesticmountainsides of Santa Barbara, El Encanto beckons couples with its enchanting setting and lavish offerings. Unwind in style by the incredible pool and take advantage of the private cabanas. For a unique way to enjoy your evening evening, the hotel offers alfresco movie nights under the stars, adding a touch of magic to your stay. Dine with a view overlooking the stunning Riviera, where every meal becomes a memorable experience.
Escape to Simpson House Inn, a romantic gem nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara. This charming sanctuary offers couples cozy, beautifully appointed rooms, creating an intimate atmosphere for an unforgettable getaway. Indulge in the delightful tradition of afternoon high tea, a perfect moment to connect and savor exquisite flavors in a relaxed setting. The inn’s stunning grounds, with its beautiful gardens and peaceful ambiance, provide an idyllic backdrop for leisurely strolls or quiet reflection.
Immerse in the fairytale setting of San Ysidro Ranch in Montecito, a luxurious hideaway set amid fragrant, lush gardens and captivating natural beauty. Each private cottage, especially the famed Kennedy Cottage—where John and Jackie Kennedy honeymooned!—exudes a unique blend of elegance and historical charm. As the only all-inclusive resort in the Santa Barbara South Coast’ guests can enjoy a vacation to Santa Barbara without needing to step foot off the property (though we recommend you do!). Treat yourself to a morning massage at the resort’s tranquil spa, dine under the twinkling lights at The Stonehouseand take a midnight dip in your private outdoor spa. With its stunning ocean and mountain vistas, San Ysidro Ranch also serves as a dreamy wedding venue, offering an unforgettable backdrop for one of life’s most memorable moments.
Located just moments from the beach, The Eagle Inn is steeped in the classic charm of old Santa Barbara. This cozy inn, with many of its rooms featuring large, two-person whirlpool tubs, fireplaces and balconies, is a sanctuary for couples seeking both seaside serenity and intimate evenings. Begin each day with complimentary breakfast, then wander hand-in-hand along the nearby sandy shores of West Beach. Return to your casita, where the essence of historic Santa Barbara romance is captured in every detail.
Discover the grandeur of The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara, perched along the scenic Gaviota Coast. This luxurious resort offers couples an enchanting escape, with its adults-only pool providing a relaxing day (or many days) under the sun. Indulge in a romantic dining experience at Angel Oak, where exquisite cuisine is paired with panoramic ocean views, creating an unforgettable ambiance. The resort’s stunning coastal setting, combined with its refined Mediterranean-style architecture, makes a great setting for a romantic coastal walk through the grounds—an ideal getaway for couples seeking a mix of privacy and natural beauty in the Santa Barbara South Coast.
At El Capitan Canyon, situated in a peaceful canyon just off Highway 101, couples can delight in a unique glamping experience by choosing between a luxurious cedar cabin or adventure yurt, merging outdoor adventure with contemporary comforts. Venture out on nearby hiking trails, explore on two wheels with beach cruiser bikes or sit back and wine taste under the sun without ever leaving the canyon. In this secluded coastal setting, couples find an ideal balance of exhilarating outdoor activities and blissful romantic moments, making El Capitan Canyon a perfect destination for a couple’s retreat in nature.
Experience the elegance of Rosewood Miramar Beach, Santa Barbara’s only resort offering a front-row access to the sun-kissed sands and friendly waves of Miramar Beach. Splurge on a dinner for two at Michelin-starred Caruso’s or a variety of other on-property restaurant options—from traditional Japanese cuisine to coastal Californian dining with a view—that cater to every palate. Or, opt for a couple’s massage from the comfort of your balcony. For a truly unique experience, enjoy a bespoke picnic experience for two, meticulously curated to create unforgettable memories.
Secret Inn & Cottages beckons couples with its quaint charm and secluded ambiance. Experience the allure of a French-inspired oasis, where each cottage is a sanctuary of comfort and elegance. Wake up to the delight of homemade cuisine with a complimentary breakfast each morning, a perfect start to a day of exploring nearby State Street. The inn’s intimate setting, surrounded by flourishing gardens, offers a quiet retreat from the bustling downtown, inviting couples to unwind and reconnect in a picturesque environment.
Experience the charm of Hammond’s Beach Haven with Haller Coastal Homes, tucked away in a peaceful beach community in Montecito. This historic cottage, a stone’s throw from renowned surf spots—like Hammond’s—and Montecito’s pristine beaches, offers a home-away-from-home type of romantic getaway. Relish in a private yard, complete with a patio and barbecue and enjoy the convenience of fully-equipped amenities.
