Ritz-Carlton Bacara Is The Opulent Jewel Of California’s Coastline

Snuggled between the shimmering Pacific Ocean and the sleepy Santa Ynez Mountains is the 78-acre Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara resort. The location of the resort is one of the coveted aspects of the property—it is the only oceanfront resort in Santa Barbara that has direct beach access.

The name Bacara is a fusion of two words. The first part of the name is from Santa Barbara and the second part is from Anacapa Island, an island off of the coast of the resort. This sacred land was once home to the Chumash Native Americans; the Chumash meaning of Anacapa is mirage—which is what the resort seems like when driving up to its magnificent fountained courtyard.

19 villas are nestled throughout the lush property. With a unique Spanish-style design, each of the 358 suites is beautifully appointed with a deep bath and a private patio wrapped in colorful bougainvillea. The piece de resistance is the four-story, 42,000 square foot holistic wellness retreat. It is one of the largest and most comprehensive health spas in California with everything from private Pilates classes to rooftop massages overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Guests are encouraged to visit the spa and enjoy the complimentary use of the gym, whirlpool, steam and dry saunas during their stay. The spa is home to the calm and quiet adult-only pool where relaxation and rejuvenation awaits. 

The property is both kid and pet-friendly. For the active family, the list of adventures is quite extensive. There are two kid-friendly pools, along with a cute “beach” for little ones. For families who want some privacy, getting a cabana at the top pool is a fantastic way to spend the day. There, guests have a cabana attendant who takes food and drink orders. Along with a cozy space where families can dine at a table, watch TV, or nap, the cabana comes with a plethora of chilled drinks and a beautiful fruit platter.

Older kids are encouraged to surf or sail at the beach where The Ritz-Carlton offers watersports rentals including surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. For families who prefer land activities, they can get one-on-one attention from the resident tennis pro, or play a round of golf at the adjacent championship golf course. 

Adventurers of every age will love the on-property nature trail. Along the path, guests will discover curated information about the Chumash Native Americans and the different plants and herbs—that still grow on the property—that they used. Sprinkled throughout the resort are lawn games that guests can play at any time.

When it comes to indulging, there is no shortage of places to dine. The property has five distinct venues ranging from five-star service to casual poolside delights. Angel Oak is the premier dining location and chef Alexander Bollinger pushes the limits of the traditional steakhouse and has created a superb menu that showcases the best of California’s bounty. For more casual dining, there is the Bacara Bar, The Bistro, Blend, pool bar, and room service. 

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara is only a few hours from San Francisco, but a world away. The drive is beautiful and easy, and once guests arrive at the resort, the exceptional ladies and gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton wonderfully tend to every aspect of having a magical, memorable stay.

Photos courtesy of the Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara.