Nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the shimmering Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara exudes a charming blend of Spanish colonial architecture and vibrant coastal culture. Known as the “American Riviera,” its sun-kissed beaches, lush gardens, and trendy downtown area make it a delightful destination for families and couples alike. Here, the luxury hotel scene is as captivating as the surroundings, offering an array of opulent retreats that cater to discerning travelers. At El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, guests are treated to hillside views and exquisite dining, ensuring a serene escape just moments from downtown. Meanwhile, The Ritz-Carlton Bacara enchants with its sprawling beachfront estate and top-notch spa facilities, creating an idyllic sanctuary for relaxation. For a taste of modern luxury in a historic setting, the Hotel Californian provides a stylish blend of contemporary comforts and Mediterranean-inspired design, perfect for families seeking adventure and indulgence. Explore our collection of Santa Barbara Luxury Family Friendly Hotels and start planning your unforgettable getaway today.
Superb
76 reviews
Nestled high above the shimmering Pacific, El Encanto Santa Barbara offers an enchanting escape where romance meets serenity. The air is infused with the scent of blooming jasmine and ocean breezes, while panoramic views serve as a breathtaking backdrop to your intimate getaway. This hillside sanctuary combines classic charm with modern luxury, making it the perfect haven for couples and solo travelers alike.
Spa Breaks - Indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the full-service spa, where soothing melodies blend with the gentle rustle of palm fronds, creating a tranquil atmosphere that lingers long after your session ends.
Romantic Retreat - Each spacious room invites you to unwind, featuring cozy fireplaces and private sitting areas that overlook lush gardens, allowing you to savor quiet mornings with a warm cup of coffee while basking in nature's beauty.
Outstanding Location - Ideally positioned just minutes from the vibrant heart of Santa Barbara, explore nearby attractions like the historic Mission and sprawling Botanical Gardens, or embark on scenic coastal walks lined with fragrant wildflowers.
Guest Experiences - As guests strolled through the beautifully maintained grounds, they often paused to soak in the stunning vistas—every sunset felt like a private show, with laughter echoing from the poolside and the soft clinking of glasses as friends toasted to cherished memories made in this serene hideaway.
Very Good
145 reviews
Nestled between the rolling hills and the azure coast of Santa Barbara, The Ritz-Carlton Bacara offers a haven of refined luxury and intimate romance. Every corner whispers elegance, from the sweeping ocean views visible from your private balcony to the soothing sounds of waves lapping at the shore, creating an idyllic backdrop for unforgettable moments.
Ocean Escape - Immerse yourself in breathtaking vistas where the sky meets the sea. The resort's direct access to the beach invites morning strolls along soft sands, punctuated by the scent of salty air and the gentle caress of ocean breezes.
Spa Sanctuary - Unwind at one of the largest spas on the West Coast, where the serene atmosphere is accented by calming aromas and tranquil music. Indulge in rejuvenating treatments that leave you feeling blissfully renewed, all while enjoying exclusive access to an adults-only pool and a stunning rooftop terrace.
Culinary Delights - Savor exquisite dining at multiple venues, with each dish crafted to delight the senses. From signature cocktails at the ‘O’ Bar & Terrace to sumptuous breakfasts featuring local ingredients, every meal becomes a celebration of flavors against a backdrop of enchanting ocean views.
Guest Experiences - Picture yourself waking up to the gentle rustle of palm trees and the distant sound of waves, stepping out onto your spacious balcony with a steaming cup of coffee in hand, savoring the tranquility of your surroundings before the day begins. Guests have reveled in these little moments of peace, often describing how the sunsets paint the sky in hues of orange and pink—a perfect end to their pampered days.
Very Good
231 reviews
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Santa Barbara, the Hotel Californian beckons travelers with its enchanting blend of modern luxury and coastal charm. Just moments from the sun-kissed sands, the hotel's design whispers elegance, while its atmosphere invites relaxation and romance, making it a perfect sanctuary for couples and adventurers alike.
Outstanding location - Positioned steps away from the lively Funk Zone, you'll find art galleries, quaint shops, and tantalizing eateries all within a leisurely stroll, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture effortlessly.
Spa breaks - Escape to the Majorelle Spa, where soothing aromas of essential oils fill the air as you unwind in the serene steam room or luxuriate in an outdoor lounge, basking in the gentle California sun.
Boutique - Experience the stylishly curated interiors that blend modern sophistication with warm touches, creating spaces that feel both chic and inviting, perfect for those seeking a unique aesthetic during their stay.
Guest Experiences - Guests have marveled at the immaculate rooms, often highlighted by beautiful balconies that invite the gentle sea breeze, while the rooftop pool's ambiance transforms into a tranquil oasis under the stars, providing the perfect backdrop for evening relaxation.
Very Good
96 reviews
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Santa Barbara, the Kimpton Canary Hotel invites you into a sanctuary where luxury meets laid-back California charm. Imagine stepping into an oasis adorned with chic decor, plush linens, and sun-drenched terraces that whisper romance, offering breathtaking views of the coastal landscape—a perfect backdrop for intimate escapes or leisurely adventures.
Rooftop Relaxation - Soak up the sun at the rooftop pool, where the gentle sound of splashing water mingles with laughter, creating a serene ambiance. As you recline on a stylish lounge chair, the horizons expand before you, revealing captivating sunsets that paint the sky in hues of gold and pink.
Culinary Delights - Experience culinary artistry at Finch & Fork, where farm-fresh ingredients transform each meal into a celebration of local flavors. The tantalizing aroma of gourmet dishes wafts through the air, inviting guests to indulge in scrumptious seafood paired with exquisite Central Coast wines.
Chic and Comfortable Accommodations - Each guest room is a haven of tranquility, featuring sumptuous Canopy beds draped in soft white linens that promise restorative nights. The thoughtful touches, like plush bathrobes and yoga mats, invite you to unwind and rejuvenate in style after a day of exploration.
Guest Experiences - Guests often rave about the exceptional service, sharing stories of how staff went out of their way to ensure their comfort, from surprising them with snacks during wine hour to setting up cozy spots for sunset viewing. The intoxicating scent of fresh coffee mingling with the salty sea breeze adds to the enchanting morning ritual as travelers start their day.
Fabulous
525 reviews
Nestled between the golden sands of Santa Barbara's stunning coastline and the majestic backdrop of the mountains, Santa Barbara Inn offers a serene escape where romance and relaxation intertwine. With its modern elegance and intimate ambiance, this boutique hotel invites couples and luxury seekers to unwind in style, while enchanting ocean views create a picturesque setting for unforgettable memories.
Beach Life - Just a two-minute stroll from the beach, guests are lured by the rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the shore, creating a perfect backdrop for leisurely walks at sunset or tranquil afternoons under the sun.
Outstanding location - Positioned conveniently near local landmarks, explorers can easily venture into the vibrant heart of downtown Santa Barbara, indulging in designer shopping, charming cafés, and cultural treasures just moments away.
Total relaxation - The inviting outdoor pool and hot tub beckon with the promise of refreshing dips and peaceful retreats, while lush surroundings enhance the feeling of secluded bliss, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
Guest Experiences - One guest cherished the delightful ambiance created by the bar staff, describing how they were greeted like old friends, their laughter mixing with the clinking of glasses as they savored cocktails with hints of citrus wafting through the air, a fitting prelude to their evening adventures.
Fabulous
1632 reviews
Nestled along the enchanting Santa Barbara coastline, Harbor View Inn exudes a romantic charm that beckons couples, honeymooners, and discerning travelers alike. With serene ocean views and luxurious comforts, this chic retreat offers an idyllic escape where the gentle sound of waves mingles with the scent of salt in the air, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of relaxation and romance.
Chic Relaxation - Unwind by the outdoor pool or soak in the hot tub, where vibrant sunsets paint the sky, offering the perfect backdrop for intimate conversations and cherished memories.
Boutique Beach Life - Just a leisurely stroll from Stearn’s Wharf and East Beach, indulge in sun-soaked days filled with sandy toes and the invigorating ocean breeze, all while enjoying the convenience of nearby local eateries and wine-tasting adventures.
Spa Serenity - Experience total rejuvenation at Spa Beaumontia, where soothing scents and calming treatments invite you to unwind completely, allowing time to melt away amidst an oasis of tranquility.
Guest Experiences - As you step into your spacious room, you're greeted by the soft rustle of crisp linens and the inviting aroma of sea air wafting through the open balcony doors—a soothing reminder of the ocean just beyond. While navigating the lush grounds, you might discover delightful nooks adorned with art, perfect for a peaceful moment or a cheeky selfie with friends.
Superb
203 reviews
Nestled in the enchanting Ojai Valley, Blue Iguana Inn offers an exquisite retreat where luxury and nature intertwine. Surrounded by vibrant gardens and framed by the majestic mountains, each moment here feels like a step into a serene oasis, perfect for romantic getaways or solitary rejuvenation.
Romantic Break - With intimate corners adorned in rustic elegance and soft lighting that sets the mood, this boutique hotel whispers romance at every turn. Sip morning coffee at your private terrace, enveloped by fragrant blooms and the gentle rustle of leaves.
Total Relaxation - The outdoor pool, embraced by lush greenery, invites you to unwind in its crystalline waters. Here, the sun filters through palm fronds, creating dappled shadows as you relax on a cozy lounge chair, savoring the sweet scent of jasmine in the air.
Outstanding Location - Just two blocks from downtown, the inn perfectly balances seclusion with accessibility, allowing guests to explore local treasures while enjoying peaceful retreats. Stroll hand-in-hand through vibrant markets or embark on breathtaking hikes in the picturesque hills.
Guest Experiences - One guest recalled the charm of their spacious room, where unique lighting options transformed the atmosphere into a cozy sanctuary. They reveled in quiet moments, soaking in the delightful scents of blooming flowers wafting through the open window—a perfect blend of comfort and tranquility.
Fabulous
73 reviews
Nestled in the charming village of Solvang, Hotel Ynez is a haven of tranquility that envelops you in an ambiance of modern elegance and rustic charm. With its lush gardens and serene outdoor spaces, this luxurious retreat invites couples and solo travelers alike to unwind and reconnect in a picturesque setting where every detail whispers relaxation and romance.
Romantic Break - Whisk your partner away to an intimate escape, where cozy fire pits flicker under a starlit sky and hammocks sway gently in the breeze, beckoning you to steal a quiet moment together amidst nature’s beauty.
Total Relaxation - Indulge in leisurely mornings surrounded by the scents of freshly baked pastries wafting through the air, as you savor breakfast with a view of vibrant gardens, setting the tone for a day of blissful leisure.
Outstanding Location - Strategically placed near local treasures, enjoy effortless access to biking trails and renowned eateries, allowing you to explore the rich tapestry of Solvang's culture while basking in the luxury of your tranquil sanctuary.
Guest Experiences - As you stroll through the property, the delightful aroma of fresh coffee mingles with the soft rustle of leaves, inviting you to pause for a moment; guests often cherish evenings spent around the comforting warmth of fire pits, sharing stories while their furry companions relax at their feet.
Fabulous
171 reviews
Nestled among the sun-kissed hills of Ojai Valley, the Ojai Valley Inn exudes an enchanting blend of historic charm and modern elegance. With its Spanish Colonial architecture, tranquil gardens, and the whisper of eucalyptus leaves in the breeze, this upscale resort offers a sanctuary where luxury and relaxation harmoniously coexist.
Total Relaxation - At Spa Ojai, guests are enveloped in warm, exotic rooms that beckon for pampering, from indulgent massages to rejuvenating treatments, all set against a backdrop of serene landscapes and gentle sounds of nature.
Romantic Getaway - The intimate ambiance of the Inn provides the perfect setting for couples; imagine cozy evenings by a crackling fireplace, sipped wine under a starlit sky, or leisurely morning strolls through meticulously landscaped grounds filled with fragrant blooms.
Outstanding Location - With stunning mountain vistas and close proximity to local attractions, the Ojai Valley Inn serves as a delightful base for adventure seekers and cultural explorers eager to dive into the vibrant community and breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds them.
Guest Experiences - One morning, as the sun streamed through the large windows, the aroma of freshly baked pastries wafted from the breakfast buffet, awakening senses and enticing leisurely breakfasts in a vibrant atmosphere full of laughter and clinking cups, while attentive staff ensured every detail was just right.
Superb
1335 reviews
Nestled in the enchanting embrace of Solvang, Corque Hotel beckons with its chic sophistication and romantic allure, making it the perfect sanctuary for discerning travelers. Just moments away from the charm of Old Mission Santa Ines, this boutique gem is a seamless blend of luxury and warmth, where every detail whispers elegance and relaxation.
Total relaxation - Unwind by the shimmering outdoor pool or soak in the soothing hot tub as the sun sets over the Santa Ynez Hills—a tranquil escape designed for serenity seekers and romance alike.
Outstanding location - Tucked away from bustling thoroughfares yet mere steps from the vibrant heart of Solvang, guests revel in easy access to local markets, unique shops, and delightful eateries, all while enjoying a peaceful atmosphere that feels like home.
Spa breaks - Indulge in rejuvenating moments at nearby wellness retreats, where the scent of lavender and eucalyptus dances through the air, creating an oasis of calm just minutes from your luxurious room’s inviting comforts.
Guest Experiences - Upon entering their elegant room, many guests have remarked on the refreshing aroma of crisp linens, a gentle reminder of the hotel’s pristine cleanliness. One visitor noted the delight of sinking into plush beds after a long journey, the soft quiet broken only by the distant laughter from a nearby wine tasting.
Fabulous
264 reviews
Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Westlake Village, the Westlake Village Inn beckons with an irresistible blend of elegance and charm. Here, tranquil gardens whisper secrets of romance while Mediterranean-inspired architecture invites you to unwind in a serene oasis, making every moment feel like a private getaway.
Romantic Hideaway - Escape into intimacy with cozy rooms featuring inviting fireplaces and serene garden views, perfect for couples seeking solace and connection away from the bustle of everyday life.
Culinary Escape - Savor culinary delights at the newly redesigned Mediterraneo, where each dish is inspired by European bistro traditions, creating memorable meals that linger in your senses long after the last bite.
Chic Leisure - Take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean-style pool surrounded by pavilions, or unwind in the hot tub as gentle sounds of nature create a blissful soundtrack to your relaxation.
Guest Experiences - As dusk settles over the property, guests have found joy in sipping exquisite wines at Stonehaus, where the aroma of freshly baked pastries mingles sweetly with laughter, making it impossible not to indulge in another slice of wood-fired pizza.
Guest Review: We stayed in the North Tower, the rooms are newer, clean and comfortable. The location is amazing, the pool is a bit of a walk, but fine.
Guest Review: Staff was kind and knowledgeable. Room was comfortable and clean. It was very quiet. I love the location. Have stayed several times before it became a Marriott property. I usually go when the Solvang Theater is open and the hotel is an easy walk to the theater and really everywhere in town. Will stay at the Corque again and will recommend it to anyone going to Solvang. Also happy with the new restaurant that has opened next door.
Guest Review: Great location beautiful room and the bar restaurant was very nice as well
Guest Review: Love the reception staff. Very professional and helpful. Mackenzie and Bootsie were awesome.
For a luxurious family getaway, consider El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, Santa Barbara and The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara. Both offer exceptional amenities, stunning views, and activities that cater to families, ensuring both relaxation and fun during your stay.
If you're looking for breathtaking views suitable for families, check out Hotel Californian, known for its stunning coastal sights, and Harbor View Inn, which offers picturesque harbor views. Both hotels create memorable experiences for the whole family.
Yes! Santa Barbara Inn is perfect for families wanting a beach break with direct access to the shore, while Blue Iguana Inn provides a charming atmosphere near the beach, ideal for kids and parents alike.
Couples traveling with kids will appreciate the blend of luxury and family-friendly options at Kimpton Canary Hotel, an IHG Hotel, featuring spacious rooms, and Ojai Valley Inn, where families can enjoy both elegance and kid-friendly activities amidst beautiful surroundings.
Families on a budget can find good options such as Hotel Corque, which combines comfort with affordability, and Westlake Village Inn, offering value without compromising on quality, making it easier to enjoy all that Santa Barbara has to offer.