Luxury Getaways in Santa Barbara: Where to Stay on the American Riviera

What if you could indulge in the glamour of the Riviera without crossing an ocean? Santa Barbara, fondly dubbed “The American Riviera,” is a paradise on California’s central coast that entices year-round sunshine, ocean views, and just the right touch of luxury.

It’s a destination that works in every season. beachfront resorts, vineyard escapes, and five-star service all within reach, all at a slower, more luxurious pace. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a multi-generational trip, a relaxing weekend getaway or something spontaneous, here are our top picks for where to stay in Santa Barbara.

Belmond El Encanto

Tucked into the hills above Santa Barbara, Belmond El Encanto is a 1920s gem that delivers privacy, discreet luxury and timeless charm. The bungalow-style suites, lush gardens, and infinity-edge pool give it a residential feel, while still offering all the high-touch details of a Belmond stay. It's especially ideal for couples or anyone who prefers being a little removed from the buzz, without compromising on service or scenery.

El Encanto

San Ysidro Ranch

Set on 500 acres in Montecito, San Ysidro Ranch has long been a go-to for those seeking total seclusion. The cottages here feel more like personal homes than hotel rooms, many come with outdoor rain showers, fireplaces, and private hot tubs. There's history (JFK honeymooned here), impeccable food, and an unmatched sense of quiet. Ideal for honeymoons, anniversaries, or anyone in search of an actual break.

San Ysidro Ranch

Rosewood Miramar Beach

KJT Travel Advisor, Madelyn just returned from Rosewood Miramar Beach and here’s her insider take on one of California’s most stunning beachfront resorts.

Set along Montecito’s coastline, the property feels more like a private estate than a resort, white cottages, manicured lawns, and direct beach access. It’s well-suited for both couples and families.

Every room category includes a spacious marble bathroom with dual vanities, soaking tub, and walk-in shower. The Beach House rooms offer oceanfront views, while rooms farther from the main path provide added privacy and quieter mornings (but note the railway on-site!)

There’s no formal kids’ club, but family-friendly details are built in, like s’more kits, beach games, and weekly programming. 

Dining includes Caruso’s, a Michelin-starred Italian restaurant; AMA Sushi, offering an omakase experience; and The Revere Room for all-day meals with ocean views. Cabana Bar and Miramar Beach Bar offer more casual, beachside options.

On property, guests can surf at sunrise, book time at the Forbes Five-Star spa, browse curated shops, or explore nearby wine country. The experience is designed to feel elevated but relaxed, nothing overcomplicated, everything intentional.

The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, Auberge Resorts

About 40 minutes inland, Los Olivos and the Santa Ynez Valley wine country offer a different pace and a lot of wine. Mattei’s Tavern part of the Auberge Resorts is your luxe base for that and its a great combo with a beach stay. Originally a 19th-century stagecoach stop, it’s now a stylish retreat with 67 rooms and a central tavern that draws both guests and locals.

You’re surrounded by vineyards, tasting rooms, and golden light. We recommend private tastings at Star Lane or Brave & Maiden, followed by a slow evening around the fire pits back at the inn. This is where coast meets countryside without losing the luxury touch.

The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern

Four Seasons Biltmore (Reopening Late 2025)

The grande dame of Montecito returns in late 2025 after a full renovation. The Biltmore will reopen with upgraded rooms, new dining (including a Nobu), and revamped family and adult-only pool areas. Expect restored Spanish Colonial architecture and a refreshed take on beachfront luxury. We can't wait to visit and tell you all about it!

Whether you’re craving the ocean breeze and spa days, hillside hideaways, or vineyard views with a glass in hand, Santa Barbara delivers the best of the Riviera, without the transatlantic flight. It’s close enough for a spontaneous getaway, yet styled for the kind of slow, meaningful travel that stays with you.

The Biltmore

Whether you're craving spa days, vineyard views and private tastings, or sunset walks and ocean breezes, Santa Barbara delivers the ultimate California luxury escape, no passport required.

Ready to plan your own California escape?
Let us help you choose the perfect stay, get the best perks, and unlock the kind of travel magic that turns a weekend trip into a forever memory.

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KJT Picks: Family Golf Vacations

 
“Teach ‘em young”Monterey Peninsula Golf Course, 2019

“Teach ‘em young”

Monterey Peninsula Golf Course, 2019

 
 

Combining a vacation with one of your favorite hobbies is a win-win. Golf is one of those hobbies perfect for travel with resorts specifically catering to golf pros and enthusiasts.

We plan plenty of father-son golf trips, corporate golf retreats, golf-focused bachelor weekends, etc. but is it possible for dad to get a golf vacation and family vacation in one? We think so. Personally, it is how we prioritize a lot of our family vacation planning since most of our family members are big fans of the sport.

Below are some of our favorite U.S. resorts for great golf and family fun. Want to add any of your favorites or plan a family, golf-centric vacation? A lot of our clients have had their international bucket-list golf trips cancelled in 2020 but the socially-distanced sport is a great bet for travelers wanting to explore stateside. Drop us a line at Bonjour@katejohnsontravel.com; we’re here to help!

 

Kiawah Island

Kiawah, South Carolina

Ocean Course, Hole 13

Photo Credit: The Sanctuary Hotel

This beautiful island outside of Charleston, South Carolina is home to six 18 hole golf courses. 

Accommodations: Guests can stay at the oceanfront Sanctuary Hotel, resort villas, private homes, or the ocean course cottages. 

KJ Travel Amenity at Sanctuary Hotel: Daily breakfast for two and $100 resort credit.

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Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach, California

Photo Credit: Houston Johnson

Of course the no. 1 public course in America had to make the list. Four 18 hole courses with three of them along the Pacific Ocean. 

Accommodations: The Lodge at Pebble Beach, Spanish Bay, and Casa Palmero offer advantages to getting tee times, but nearby Carmel Valley also has great hotel options including the family-friendly Carmel Valley Ranch and more romantic Bernardus Lodge & Spa.

KJ Travel Amenity at select resorts include $100 resort credit, upgrade at time of booking and complimentary breakfasts.

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Pelican Hill

Newport, California

North Course, Hole 17

Photo Credit: The Resort at Pelican Hill

Two 18 hole courses exclusively for members and hotel guests

Accommodations: Multi-bedroom villas and bungalows are available at Pelican Hill Resort situated along HWY 1 close to several state parks and beaches.

KJ Travel Amenity: Daily breakfast and $100 credit to be used on Golf or Spa.

PGA West

Palm Springs, California

Mountain Course, Hole 6

Photo Credit: La Quinta Resort & Club

With five 18 hole semi-private championship courses you can play a different course every day.  

Accommodations: La Quinta Resort & Club offers spacious guest rooms as well as multi-bedroom villas  and kids activities.

KJ Travel Amenity: Daily breakfast for two and $100 resort credit.

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Torrey Pines

San Diego, California

Photo Credit: The Lodge at Torrey Pines

Two 18 hole courses in beautiful La Jolla that overlook the Pacific Ocean.

Accommodations: The Lodge at Torrey Pines with spacious guest rooms and suites, many with terraces that overlook the courses and easy access to nearby hiking trails. A bonus for family trips when golf isn’t happening is the nearby San Diego Zoo and Legoland. 

KJ Travel Amenity: Complimentary daily breakfast and $100 resort spa credit.

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Sea Island Golf Resort

Sea Island, Georgia

The Plantation Course

Photo Credit: The Lodge at Sea Island

Three 18 hole courses and a 17,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art Golf Performance Center.

Accommodations: The Clositer and the Lodge at Sea Island have spacious rooms and multi-bedroom suites. Private homes and cottages are also available. The private island offers five miles of beach, a tennis center, Yacht Club and children’s programming.

KJ Travel Amenity: Complimentary daily breakfast and $100 resort credit.

Kapalua Bay

Maui, Hawaii

The Bay Course

Photo Credit: The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua

On the island of Maui, Kapalua Bay has two 18 hole courses, one of which, the Plantation Course, is recognized as the best course in Hawaii. 

Accommodations: You can’t go wrong with either beachfront resort, Ritz Carlton Kapalua or Montage Kapaula both with expansive hotel properties, ocean view guest rooms, multi-bedroom suites and residential-style accommodations.

KJ Travel Amenity: Complimentary daily breakfast and $100 resort credit, upgrades upon availability.