This fall, The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara, celebrates 25 years as an oceanside village set on a 78-acre coastal bluff. Nestled overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, the resort has undergone a multi-million-dollar revitalization.
Enhancements include the outdoor terraces and pool decks. There are three zero-edge swimming pools. The main pool has new lounge chairs and umbrellas, along with upgraded private cabanas for up to six guests. These shaded spaces also come with an attendant, mini refrigerator, lounge chairs and curated amenities.
Around the oval pool, main pool and spa pool for guests 18 + years old, the landscaping leans more to native plants, sustainable practices and materials that blend with the bluff-top ocean setting.
Chef Danny Grant is now at the helm of The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara's signature fine dining restaurant, Marisella. The menu is a blend of Amalfi Coast tradition with California's bounty of land and sea delights.
Savor coastal Italian dishes that include handmade pasta, local caught grilled seafood, and high-quality meats in a stunning setting. Sit outside at sunset to watch the sun dip down into the Pacific Ocean.
There are two new dining venues near the main resort pool. The new SunBar is a stylish poolside eat-and-drink venue with different menus depending on the day, sunset and season. Get a dose of Santa Barbara's sunny charm while enjoying a cold beer, light cocktail or glass of local wine. Pair with some shareable bites and handheld classics.
Every Thursday through Saturday starting at 5 to 8 p.m., SunBar becomes Sushi at Sunset, a spot where locals and guests can enjoy some of the best Asian inspired dishes, sashimi, nigiri and sushi with a So Cal creative touch.
Formerly the resort’s Bistro restaurant is now the new Lulio. Its name draws on the Latin word for July.
This stylish and inviting Mediterranean inspired indoor-outdoor venue is open as an all-day gathering space for hand-crafted mezze items, salads and flatbreads, as well as heartier entrees and desserts.
The evening club lounge at The Ritz-Carlton Club redefines the luxury hotel experience. Exclusively for upgraded guests, a signature personalized team cater to guests epicurean desires. Often referred to as a 'hotel within a hotel,' the dedicated Concierge, private Club Lounge and unique amenities, plus exclusive experiences immerse guests into the best of the destination.
There are five different food and beverage presentations daily at The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge. Start your day with a hot and cold breakfast, special juices, and coffee from a customized LAVAZZA machine. Later in the day a light lunch is displayed, followed by Afternoon tea with cookies and pastries.
One can make a meal from the array of Hors d'oeuvres, wines, beers and cocktails presented at sunset. Desserts and cordials are served in the later evening, along with freshly baked cookies, seasonal fruit and candy throughout the day.
Also new for the 25th anniversary debut is the stunning arrival area and entrance lobby. Now this space offers a more open-air luxury welcome home ambiance.
The coastal Mediterranean design includes ironwork, terracotta tiles, organic textures woven in designs to reference early California heritage and layered lush greenery. The beautiful design details were created by a team from the renowned firm Meyer Davis Studio.
All the 358 guest rooms and suites reflect luxury residential-inspired elegance. Spanish tile on floors and stairs, richly layered textiles and natural woven textures, carved stone, aged leather, and rug motifs inspired by the local Chumash people, all pay homage to Santa Barbara's history and culture.
Signature oceanfront suites have been elevated with high-end bath amenities, new coffee makers and large screen televisions. Many rooms have cozy fireplaces and an outdoor door opening out to a Santa Barbara garden.
The heartbeat of the resort is the 42,000 square foot spa. Guests can enjoy a warm indoor whirlpool soak, relax in an eucalyptus steam room and redwood sauna before or after a treatment. There are multiple relaxation lounges that include a fireside lounge and outdoor rooftop terrace.
Luxury spa rituals draw on the scenic California landscape for inspiration. The coastal relaxed vibe is ideal for girlfriend getaways, couples weekend escapes or just to pamper yourself.
To celebrate the resort's 25th anniversary, the spa is offering a Silver Lining Facial. This luxurious, limited-edition treatment celebrates Bacara's milestone year. As the resort has been rejuvenated, the facial features silver-infused products, including MicroSilver, to firm, revitalize and restore the skin's natural radiance.
Spa therapist Iidiko is an expert at facials. She has been at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara for 10 years.
Evenings are a defining moment at the resort. Every evening around 5 p.m., a California mission-inspired bell rings on The Village Lawn. Guests are invited to pause for a moment of reflection and gratitude. It's an opportunity to honor the day's events and beautiful surroundings, while setting a meaningful intention for the day ahead.
Enjoy the taste of a complimentary house-made sangria, crafted with locally sourced wines, seasonal fruits and warming spices. Available at 'O' Bar to toast to presence, purpose and the beauty of pause.
Throughout the year, The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara hosts a calendar of events that include the upcoming, 'Wellbeing Escape - Nourish, Reflect and Receive.' Classes will help you stay relaxed and healthy for the upcoming holidays and new year. This special event begins on November 13 through November 16.
Other weekly events include eco-hikes, Bacara Birding Adventures, Arts & Crafts, biking, beach walks, shore exploring and coastal stargazing in the evening.
Now is the time to see the resort's new refresh and celebrate the resort's 25th anniversary.
