El Encanto, Santa Barbara

Everything was perfect at Hotel El Encanto! From the atmosphere, beautiful views, comfort to the overall experience, I truly couldn’t have asked for more. But the BED deserves its own review! I travel a lot and have stayed in many hotels, and this is honestly the best bed I have ever slept in. It feels like sleeping on a cloud, the bed literally sucks you in and makes you never want to get up! The combination of the mattress, pillows, and overall comfort was absolutely incredible. I’m definitely coming back!

My husband and I stayed at El Encanto for a quick weekend getaway. When we arrived, our room wasn't quite ready, so Angel helped us with a few drinks while we waited while we explored the grounds. After an hour or so, Angel contacted us to let us know that they'd like to upgrade us, but we'd have to wait a bit longer for the room to be ready. We had no issue with that as we enjoyed additional cocktails while waiting. It was definitely worth the wait! Our room was spacious, nicely decorated with an outdoor patio. Breakfast was included in our stay and we enjoyed sitting on the outside patio of the restaurant overlooking the water in the distance. Service was great, but we have to do a shout out to David who made my husband excellent mochas. David was new to El Encanto, but you couldn't tell. His service was top notch and he made sure to perfect the mocha! We also used the steam room in the spa facilities and the pool during our stay. We didn't use them for long, but it was nice to be able to sit by the pool. El Encanto also offers shuttle service into town, but we were only able to use it 1 out of the 3 times we wanted to. You can let them know you want to use the shuttle 20 min or so beforehand, but they don't schedule it for you that far in advance. So, even if you ask 30 min ahead of time, you still may not be able to get the shuttle. When we were able to get a ride, Eric our driver was excellent. We did partake in drinks at the bar, and Angelica and Katie were spectacular. We participated in a drink making session and were pleasantly surprised with the options that they made for us. I love gin and the Eastside was a really nice, refreshing drink. I don't drink much bourbon, but the Paper Plane was really good to me as well and I'd consider ordering another one! Overall, our stay at El Encanto was relaxing and well worth it for us. We had exceptional service from Angel at the front desk through our entire stay. He made sure we were well taken care of and seemed truly appreciative that we chose El Encanto. Angelica was the best bartender; made great cocktails, but also very down to earth and great to chat with. Ryan who helped us with our luggage and car also was quick and friendly. David also made memorable mochas! El Encanto is far enough to feel a bit secluded, but close enough to quickly get into town for dinner. We can't wait to go back!

Our stay at El Encanto was wonderful. We enjoyed our beautiful room, pool and a restaurant. The service was fantastic everywhere we went and a special thank you for Adilya. She went above and beyond. She was very welcoming and made our stay truly special. We look forward for our next stay ❤️

For $1500 a night our room was awfully small and musty. The windows were very small. It felt like I was in a closet all weekend. The terrace was very small and the cushions were dirty and dusty. We didn’t really utilize that space. The upside is the service was incredible and everyone we encountered was helpful and kind. The gardens are gorgeous. I Don’t feel the need to have to return.

El Encanto IS enchanted, celebrating 100 years this year and is a historical site. We received tasty bourbon and lemon "Welcome" drinks upon arrival, they were so delicious that I ordered them at dinner, I guess I'm a bourbon girl after alll. It's so beautiful here, I highly recommend it if you stay in Santa Barbara! Great staff and gorgeous grounds. You can smell jasmine as you walk through brick pillars near the lilly pond, which is just loaded with plant life. The massage yesterday was very relaxing and the eucalyptus steam room was much needed afterwards. The food was delicious and is 19.5/20 on the Michelin Restaurant Guide. We loved the fresh baked loaf of sourdough bread with a special herb oil butter before dinner, I loved my short ribs. I can't wait to see Talking Head's lead singer David Byrne tonight! A bucket list concert for sure! What a wonderful treat! ❤️🍀🙏🌹🇺🇲🎉 Stay happy and relaxed my friends! 🥂