El Encanto Santa Barbara | Dog-Friendly Luxury Hotel

75 photos

El Encanto Santa Barbara Exterior photo This is a bright, outdoor photograph taken on a sunny day, likely in a scenic location overlooking a body of water.

In the lower portion of the image, there are several white outdoor umbrellas set up, suggesting a restaurant, patio, or lounge area.

El Encanto Santa Barbara Exterior photo This is a bright and elegantly decorated room, featuring a large window that serves as a beautiful focal point.

The room has neutral, light-colored walls and is flanked by tall, floor-to-ceiling curtains in a warm, textured beige or tan fabric, addi

El Encanto Santa Barbara Exterior photo This is a beautiful, bright outdoor photograph showcasing a wooden deck area with a covered porch structure.

Here's a detailed description:

* **Setting:** The photo appears to be taken on a sunny day, looking out from a covered patio or porch. Lu

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Key details

About the Hotel

800 Alvarado Place, Santa Barbara, 93103

Near the Pacific Coast

Perfect

9.0

9.7

/10

4.5

Loved by El Encanto Santa Barbara guests

Fine views

Spacious rooms

Charming atmosphere

Excellent service

"It's an incredibly beautiful property, with an impressive view over Santa Barbara."

James from United Kingdom

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"I really enjoyed swimming laps in the large infinity edged pool that overlooks downtown Santa Barbara and the ocean."

J_and_A_1 from United States

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"Perched atop a hill, the property offers breathtaking views and an atmosphere of pure charm."

Yvonne from United States

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Guests of the 5-star El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel can easily reach Riviera Theatre, located nearly 5 minutes' walk away. Offering valet parking and concierge service, the hotel also has Wi-Fi in the rooms.

Location

The Santa Barbara Wine Collective stands about 3 km away, and Chaucer's Bookstore is 2.9 km from this hotel. The El Encanto offers proximity to natural sights like Skofield Park (2.2 km) and the lush Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden (1.5 km).

Guests might as well visit Sylvan Park, which is approximately a 5-minute drive away. You can easily find the Casa de la Guerra Historic House Museum 2.1 km from this accommodation.

The hotel is 100 metres from Lasuen & Alvarado bus stop and about 3 km from Santa Barbara Amtrak train station in Santa Barbara.

Rooms

The rooms at El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel have climate control. Some of them comprise a balcony and a kitchenette, appointed with a writing table. Guests are welcome to use a kitchenette with a coffeemaker, a refrigerator, and a washing machine in a bungalow.

Eat & Drink

The pool bar will set you up nicely for enjoying your stay. The Dining Room and Terrace is adjacent to the property, 50 metres away.

Leisure & Business

Also, to relax and unwind, the El Encanto Santa Barbara features a treatment room and a sauna as well as a heated swimming pool. Guests are invited to partake in fitness classes at a 24-hour fitness centre available on site. While staying at this Santa Barbara hotel, make sure you visit a spa salon or indulge in a head massage, a couples' massage, and a facial massage.

“El Encanto, with its meticulously restored 1920s architecture and lush gardens overlooking the Pacific, whispers understated luxury; the serene spa and unique afternoon tea service are especially tempting. It's an intimate Santa Barbara retreat that blends historic charm with modern indulgence; I believe couples seeking a romantic escape will find it exceptionally appealing.”

James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Dogfriendly-hotels

Location: Perfect

9.5/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

Children's AmenitiesInfant Paradise

Traveling with our baby was easy. They provided a crib with baby soaps, blankets, and even a cute hummingbird toy.

Olivia from Canada

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DiningPhenomenal Cuisine

The food is amazing! The restaurant went out of its way to ensure we had a memorable experience. I'll be back!

Ricardo from Brazil

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Room FeaturesTerrace Delight

The room included two terraces, comfy chairs, and gorgeously gardened grounds, even in December.

Mei from China

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Sports & FitnessInvigorating Workout

I enjoyed swimming laps in the large infinity pool overlooking the ocean. The gym has nice equipment and great views.

Ken from United States

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Select your room type

The hotel provides many room choices—family rooms, doubles, and pet-friendly suites—with breakfast, free cancellation, and special offers

King Room Terrace
2 persons
38 m²
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
King Suite Terrace
2 persons
50 m²
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Garden Bungalow
2 persons
61 m²
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details

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Rates & availability calendar

See current prices and availability for your chosen dates!

July 2026 - July 2027

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Check-in/ Check-out

Facilities

Hotels feature amenities designed to keep both you and your pet comfortable

Facilities: Great

8.9/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
On-site car park
Handicap parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
VIP check-in/ -out
Express check-in/ -out
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Locker room
Allergy-free rooms
Smoke detectors
Electric vehicle charging station
Fire extinguishers
Key card access
Key access

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre
Hiking
Cycling
Yoga class
Sports trainer
Aerobics

Guest Parking

Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Services

Valet parking
Pet amenities available
Room service
Housekeeping
Car hire
Dry cleaning
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Picnic area/ Tables
Special diet menus

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Babysitting/Child services
Board games

Spa & Leisure

Saltwater pool
Heated swimming pool
Sun loungers
Live entertainment
Sun terrace
Garden area
Spa & wellness centre
Sauna
Pedicure
Manicure
Waxing
Body scrub
Facial
Treatment room
Body wraps
Back massage
Head massage
Full body massage
Foot massage
Make up services

Room features

Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Air conditioning
Heating
Sitting area
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Cookware/ Kitchen utensils

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Dining Onsite

Nestled in the enchanting El Encanto Santa Barbara, The Dining Room offers a delightful blend of American flavors with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Guests can savor the charm of both an elegant indoor space and a family-friendly outdoor terrace, bringing a taste of local brilliance to every meal.

The Dining Room
American with a focus on vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options
Ambiance
An inviting indoor dining space complemented by a spacious outdoor terrace with heaters and blankets for cooler days, making it ideal for families and romantic gatherings alike.
Key Offerings
Signature dishes include smoked salmon mousse with lemon-zested crème fraiche and fresh rosemary scones paired with strawberry basil jam. Indulge in sustainable seafood matched with homegrown herbs, and enjoy gourmet picnic baskets featuring local Californian wine or bubbles.
Reservation
Yes
Open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and cocktail hour.

Location

800 Alvarado Place, Santa Barbara, 93103

Explore Santa Barbara

Nearby Attractions and Activities

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

10 minutes walking

Natural history exhibits and a planetarium offer insights into local wildlife. A great family-friendly activity with free admission days.

Old Mission Santa Barbara

15 minutes walking

Historic site with beautiful gardens and exhibits detailing local history. Guided tours highlight its rich significance and architecture.

Franceschi Park

14 minutes walking

Scenic park features walking trails and panoramic city views. Ideal for a peaceful afternoon picnic or a family stroll.

Santa Barbara Zoo

10 minutes driving

Home to over 500 animals, this small, charming zoo focuses on conservation and education. Great for families and kids of all ages.

Hiking at Seven Falls

10 minutes driving

Challenging hiking trails lead to stunning waterfalls. Perfect for thrill-seekers looking for adventure amidst nature's beauty.

Spa Day at Salt Cave Santa Barbara

10 minutes driving

Relaxing experience in a unique salt cave, offering wellness treatments that rejuvenate the mind and body. Reservations recommended.

Cycling along Santa Barbara Beach

10 minutes driving

Enjoy scenic views while biking along the beachfront path. Rentals available nearby to bask in the sun and fresh air.

Belmond El Encanto

3 minutes walking

Elegant dining with Californian cuisine and stunning views. Signature dishes include fresh seafood and farm-to-table specials.

Loquita Santa Barbara

10 minutes driving

Spanish-style restaurant with vibrant tapas and paella. Happy hour is a highlight, featuring unique cocktails in a lively ambiance.

Santa Barbara Public Market

10 minutes driving

Casual dining atmosphere with diverse food vendors offering global cuisine. Great for groups with varying tastes and dietary needs.

Riviera Theatre

4 minutes walking

Historic theater offering a wide array of performances including films and live shows. A cozy venue perfect for movie buffs.

Santa Barbara Bowl

15 minutes walking

An open-air amphitheater known for spectacular concerts. Great vibe, exceptional acoustics, and a stunning backdrop make it memorable.

San Marcos Building Courtyard

3 minutes walking

Charming courtyard space that hosts local events, markets, and performances. Family-friendly atmosphere with vibrant community spirit.

Local transport and travel tips

City Centre
Santa Barbara 22 min · 1.8 km
Airports
Santa Barbara (SBA) 30 min · 19.8 km
Presidente Itamar Franco (iza) 70 min · 46.5 km
Train
Santa Barbara Amtrak 5 min · 3.1 km
Santa Barbara Amtrak Station 5 min · 3.1 km

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 16:00-23:30

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site at true.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.

Children & extra beds

Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Languages

English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese

Number of rooms:

Former name

El Encanto by Orient-Express

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about El Encanto Santa Barbara from previous guests about their experience.

Review score

Based on 162 verified reviews

9.2 /10

Perfect

90 %

Recommend

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Comfort

9.4/10

Facilities

8.9/10

Free WiFi

10.0/10

Location

9.5/10

Staff

9.1/10

Value for money

7.9/10

Pros

Delicious breakfast

Excellent service

Spacious room

Peaceful location

Cons

Dated furniture

Small pool area

Noisy guests

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FAQs

About El Encanto Santa Barbara

How far is the El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel from the city centre?

Santa Barbara city centre is reachable within a 20-minute walk from the El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel.

What is the nearest airport to the 5-star El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel?

Santa Barbara airport lies within 20 km of the 5-star El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel and is reachable with a 32-minute drive.

What payment methods are available in the El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel?

At the El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel, you can pay using American Express, Visa, and Diners Club.

What are the room types offered by the 5-star El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel?

The 5-star El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel provides such room types as Superior King Suite, Premier King Suite, and Superior Queen Suite.

Does the Santa Barbara hotel staff speak foreign languages?

Yes, the staff of the Santa Barbara hotel can assist you in Spanish, Italian, English, German, and Portuguese.

Does the 5-star El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel provide business facilities?

Yes, the 5-star El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel comprises a meeting room as well as conference equipment and a photocopy machine.

Which facilities does the El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel provide?

Top locations of the El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel include a storage room and a restaurant, whereas guests' safety will be ensured with a safety deposit box and 24-hour security.

What are the spa options at El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel?

Guests of El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel can relax with a head massage, a couples massage, and a facial massage or body wraps, body scrub, and spa service offered at a spa salon.

Is swimming pool available at the Santa Barbara hotel?

Yes, the Santa Barbara hotel features a heated pool.

Which children services are offered at the 5-star El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel?

For guests staying at the 5-star El Encanto Santa Barbara hotel with their children, child care services will be very useful.