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Planning Your Trip
Combining all the best elements of California, Santa Barbara features breathtaking beaches, cultural sophistication and opportunities to explore the outdoors. Whether you plan to hike, dine, shop or simply relax, here’s what to bring to this beachfront hotel.
If your Santa Barbara plans include time in wine country, pack lightweight, mix and match pieces in natural fabrics, flat or wedge heels, a light jacket, sunscreen, a sun hat, and a refillable water bottle for sunny days. As our resort spans an Upper and Lower Village across a gently sloped hillside, comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the grounds—though our club cart service is available upon request should you prefer an easier way to get around.
Coastal Comfort: What to Know Before You Arrive
Santa Barbara enjoys mild to warm weather year-round; however, seasonal coastal fog is a signature part of our microclimate. The combination of ocean air and marine moisture can create a thick, lingering fog that sometimes doesn’t lift until late morning or early afternoon, depending on the season. Light layers are recommended to keep you comfortable as the day transitions from cool marine air to bright sunshine.
Sunscreen is a must—choose a broad-spectrum, water-resistant formula to stay protected while enjoying the pools or the ocean. Water-friendly sandals are ideal for the spa and pool, and your preferred workout attire will prepare you for the fitness center, four tennis courts, and our selection of yoga and Pilates classes.
Our beaches remain in their natural state to preserve the surrounding kelp forests and protect the wildlife that depends on them. This untouched shoreline is part of what makes Bacara so serene and allows the local marine ecosystem to thrive—a reminder that the beauty of our setting comes from living in harmony with the coast. You may come across the natural phenomenon of tar build up on our shores which is a result of natural oil seeps from the ocean floor. Tar sighting can differ in size and may end up on your shoes or feet. Not to worry – we provide tar removal wipes in all of our rooms for easy, seamless removal.
Outdoor Adventure
Santa Barbara abounds with nature and ways to enjoy it, whether hiking, biking, sailing, surfing, golfing, kayaking or horseback riding. Here’s what to bring.
Take hiking boots or sturdy running shoes to check out the amazing hiking trails, from Douglas Family Preserve overlooking Arroyo Burro Beach to the panoramic views 1,800 feet above the city at Inspiration Point.
Ocean temperatures are lower here in winter and spring, when surfers and other sea-goers tend to wear wetsuits. But you can happily wear your swimwear for ocean adventures through summer and early fall.
Whether you’re heading for the tennis court, a hiking trail or out on the ocean, sun protection is essential. A dry bag will keep tech essentials, wallet and keys safe from the water.
Weekend Getaway
Santa Barbara is a favorite escape from the bustle of cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco. This is what insiders bring.
Casual sophistication defines California style. Don’t bring anything too stuffy or formal — think athleisure and sportswear for day, and relaxed eveningwear such as flowy dresses, sandals, button downs and dressed-up denim for night.
Pack light, while putting some thought into your accessories — stylish sunglasses, watches, jewelry and handbags can be rotated with your daily outfits to add impact.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential for strolling Santa Barbara’s Urban Wine Trail and eclectic neighborhoods, like the Funk Zone and palm-lined State Street, on foot.
Resort Essentials
The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara is a Mediterranean oasis at the edge of the Pacific. With natural beaches, lush coastal landscaping, luxurious accommodations, and a world class spa at your doorstep, you only need a few thoughtful essentials to make the most of your journey.
Our 78-acre resort spans a beautifully terraced hillside—from the Upper Village to the Lower Village—so comfortable walking shoes are recommended for navigating the pathways and enjoying the scenic overlooks. Distances can feel more extended due to the elevation changes, and getting from one village to the other can be a leisurely trek. For ease and convenience, our club cart transportation is available throughout the day to assist with travel between venues, guest rooms, and amenities.
Reservations at the right places let you make the most of your time in Santa Barbara. Here is where you should book ahead, whether you’re arriving for a weekend getaway of wine tasting and hiking, or a summer vacation spent golfing, dining and relaxing at the spa
Santa Barbara has world-class beaches and wine, but its food scene is equally impressive. Featuring talented chefs and stunning local ingredients, the city boasts excellent options all along the spectrum from holes-in-the-wall to five-star dining. On property, make a reservation at Lulio, the resort’s destination for fresh, Mediterranean-inspired fare highlighting local produce and sustainable seafood, or at 'O' Bar & Terrace, where coastal California cuisine is served in a casual-yet-refined dining atmosphere overlooking the majestic Pacific Ocean. In town, don’t miss The Lark, an artisanal foodie haven in a former fish market in the Funk Zone, and Bouchon, a favorite for local wines and exemplary California-style French fare.
The Spa at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara is a renowned wellness retreat, designed to rejuvenate, relax and restore you at every turn. Your spa concierge will work with you to customize your perfect mix of treatments, from BIO and sustainable medical Dr. Babor facials to full-body treatments that moisturize, detoxify and polish. If there’s one thing you must reserve, it’s the Golden Hour Collagen Massage, an extraordinarily indulgent treatment for your skin. Follow it up with a glass of bubbly on the rooftop that overlooks the ocean for the ultimate in relaxation, Santa Barbara style.
No reservation is needed to enjoy Santa Barbara’s abundant sunshine and beauty, but a bit of advance planning will make the most of your stay. In advance, arrange tee times for golf at the nearby Sandpiper Golf Club, as well as horseback riding, biking, hiking and other activities. Experienced surfers should head to Rincon Beach, where the sport’s best athletes have ridden the waves. Beyond the beach, Ganna Walska Lotusland is a stunning botanical paradise with more than 15 separate gardens. Advance reservations are required.
California’s central coast boasts some of the world’s finest cool-climate wines, most notably chardonnay, pinot noir and syrah. There are around 200 wineries in the Santa Barbara area where you can tour the vineyards, production areas and tasting rooms, but you can also sample the region’s finest wines on foot. The Urban Wine Trail gathers nearly 30 of Santa Barbara County’s finest winemakers all within blocks of the beach and downtown, so you can stroll and sip. Most do not require reservations but check with the individual wineries to confirm hours and information. The Ritz-Carlton Bacara is also pleased to partner with many local wineries and vintners that offer complimentary tastings to our guests. Stop by the concierge for a full list. Salud!
Santa Barbara invites impromptu exploration. But when a couple’s retreat or family getaway calls for a roundup of the region’s finest experiences, these action-packed itineraries will set you on the right path.
Family Vacation Fun
Known as “The American Riviera,” Santa Barbara offers close proximity to nature at its finest — from spectacular sandy beaches to dolphin and whale watching in the Pacific Ocean to gorgeous gardens. Thanks to the overall laid-back feeling of the city, kids of all ages are welcome pretty much everywhere, including restaurants that are sure to please discerning young palates. Whether they are into watersports, museums or the great outdoors, there are activities and sights to please everyone in the family. Time to start planning your perfect week in Santa Barbara.
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Morning
Early Start. Head to Mission Market, the coffee shop at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara, for a breakfast that has something to offer for everyone in the family. Fuel up on pastries and a selection of breakfast items (along with coffee for the adults) before you leave for your morning excursion.
Midday
Set Sail. Take a jaunt down to the Santa Barbara Harbor for a ride aboard what may just be the region’s most adorable water taxi, known affectionately as Lil’ Toot. The 15-minute narrated boat rides between the harbor and Stearns Wharf provide stunning ocean views as well as transportation to a destination worth exploring. Enjoy souvenir shopping, delicious seafood and incredible scenery along the waterfront before your return trip.
Afternoon
Scream for Ice Cream. McConnell’s may be well-loved at all their scoop shops in California (and in grocery stores around the country), but it all started in Santa Barbara. The company began in 1949 and is still in its original dairy. Visit its large location on State Street to get a taste of the iconic ice cream, filled with local ingredients, like strawberries and rhubarb.
Evening
Dinner Al Fresco. There may be few things more quintessentially Californian than enjoying an oceanside feast outdoors. Cap off your first day in Santa Barbara with dinner at the waterfront, where family friendly options are aplenty. You can’t go wrong at Brophy Brothers Clam Bar & Restaurant, where clams and oysters are served alongside kid favorites like burgers and fries.
Morning
Nordic Delight. Vacation is the time to splurge, and what better way to start the day than with a fresh pastry just out of the oven? Andersen’s Restaurant & Bakery has been beloved by Santa Barbara locals for over 40 years for their European and Nordic menu, heavy on the house-made baked goods. Settle in for a charming breakfast on their outdoor patio in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, including a traditional Danish kringle or butter ring.
Midday
Zootopia. The Santa Barbara Zoo is home to 146 species of mammals, reptiles, birds and insects with over 500 exhibited in naturalistic habitats. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved in the fun, from feeding the giraffes to exploring Kallman Family Play Area to climbing the Rock Wall.
Afternoon
Wheels Up. A great way to explore downtown Santa Barbara and the harbor is by bike. Rent them for the afternoon for the whole family from Wheel Fun Rentals, and use their self-guided tour map to check out the city from a new vantage point.
Evening
Outdoor Dining. Did someone say pizza party? The younger members of your family will love the brick-oven flatbreads at Lulio at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara while the adults can choose from a selection of thoughtfully prepared seafood dishes, salads and Mediterranean-inspired favorites. Enjoy the breeze off the ocean while dining on the waterfront terrace (the wood fireplace and covered, heated patio means you can enjoy it year-round.)
Morning
Whale Watching. Head out on a morning cruise to see the magnificent creatures off the coast of Santa Barbara and around the Channel Islands. Depending on the season, you might see dolphins, humpback whales, blue whales or gray whales. The cruise generally takes a few hours, so make sure everyone in your party brings a hat and sunblock along with their cameras and binoculars.
Afternoon
Late Lunch. The sun begins to lower in the sky, signaling that it’s the perfect time for an afternoon meal and a dip in the pool. Head to SunBar by the Main Pools for a family-favorite, hand-held treat – and maybe some poolside drinks for Mom and Dad.
Evening
Curtain Rising. The Lobero is California’s oldest continuously operating theater, having been founded in 1873. It was rebuilt in 1924 and is considered one of the architectural gems of the city. Drop the kids off at the Ritz Kids/Ambassadors of the Environment Center – where they’ll enjoy activities, movies, meals, and more – and enjoy a parent’s night out at the theater.
Morning
Caffeine Fix. What happens when two former professional cyclists fall in love and open a coffeehouse? Handlebar Coffee, which has gained an enthusiastic following since opening in 2011. They roast their own beans every week and bring in fresh pastries and bagels daily. Enjoy your breakfast outside in the historic Presidio State Park across the street.
Midday
Clang Clang. Keep the focus on history with a trolley tour through downtown Santa Barbara. The 90-minute tour leaves from 1 Garden St. daily at 10 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m., granting ample time to sightsee and explore. A particularly scenic stop is at East beach which has a panoramic view of the mountains rising up from behind the sand.
Afternoon
Wharf Walk. Stearns Wharf is a highlight of Santa Barbara, with a mix of shops, restaurants and activities. Not only is Stearns Wharf the oldest working pier in California, but it is also the top attraction in the city. Get treats at Mother Stearns Candy shop or ice cream at the Great Pacific Ice Cream Company, then stroll the pier.
Under the Sea. Also on Stearns Wharf is the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center, which takes a deep dive into the region with interactive exhibitions and the chance to interact with sea creatures. Those with an appetite for adventure won’t want to miss the live shark touch pool.
Evening
Seafood Feast. As the sun sets, settle in for a seafood dinner at the Santa Barbara Shellfish Company. The menu focuses on simply prepared, fresh-from-the ocean options like crab cakes, cioppino in a bread bowl and a Santa Barbara shrimp cocktail. Get there early to avoid a potential wait for a bigger group.
Morning
Day Break. For those who are serious about donuts, look no further than Hook & Press. With options on the menu like gourmet donuts, seasonal delights, and delicious breakfast sandwiches, you can expect something to please every palate. After their bellies are full, take a peek at the famed turtle fountain that sits in the center of the courtyard.
Midday
Beach Time. No visit to Santa Barbara is complete without time on the beach (or at the pool for those who prefer their water without sand). Choose from two pools and a two-mile long beach at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara for a fun-filled day of sun, surf and play.
Afternoon
The Mission. Old Mission Santa Barbara was established in 1786 and continues to be a vital part of the community. Still home to Franciscan friars and an active parish, the Old Mission is a landmark and historic site worth visiting for the architecture, history and 12 acres of landscaped gardens that surround it. Ask the concierge to arrange a picnic to take along with you and enjoy a family lunch on the mission’s lawn, next to the stunning rose garden.
Evening
Big Finish. Every great trip must come to an end, but why not go out with a bang at a top-notch dinner at Marisella? Chef Danny Grant blends Amalfi Coast tradition with the richness of California’s land and sea. Savor handmade pastas, wood-grilled seafood and meats, and expertly crafted martinis in a beautifully appointed setting overlooking the Pacific.
The Perfect Weekend
Situated about 100 miles north of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara lives up to its nickname of “The American Riviera” with dazzling beaches, stunning nature and an array of vineyards. The city is the perfect weekend getaway for relaxation, culture, good food and plenty of wine. Make sure to spend time on (and in!) the water, from boating to stand-up paddle boarding. And architecture buffs will want to see the historic sites and Spanish-influenced designs in the area. Get ready for a jampacked, but ultimately relaxing, 48 hours in Santa Barbara.
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Morning
First, Coffee. Start your Saturday with a carefully brewed cup of coffee from locally roasted beans at Dune Coffee. The team behind the café also runs Dune Coffee Roasters, ensuring the highest quality level of coffee. Choose from their selection of freshly baked pastries, including seasonal kouign amanns, muffins and Danishes, to go with your espresso.
Green Thumb. The locals in Santa Barbara love the weekly Saturday Farmers Market for the abundance of local produce and flowers (plenty to find from local meat and dairy producers too.). A perfect souvenir to take with you is a jar of raw honey from one of the nearby apiaries.
Midday
Time Travel. Just outside of Santa Barbara in neighboring Montecito is the Casa del Herrero, a beautifully preserved Spanish colonial revival style estate from the 1920s originally owned by inventor George Fox Steedman. Take a 90-minute guided tour of the property, including the historic house, art objects and the former blacksmith’s studio on-site. Leave time to stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens.
Afternoon
Glass Half Full. If you don’t have time to take a full tour of the wine country, the Urban Wine Trail is the perfect solution. With over 25 tasting rooms in downtown Santa Barbara, you can savor the best of the region all within walking distance. With food trucks scattered along the route on the weekends, you can snack as you stroll or arrange for a guided tour by car or pedicab.
Evening
Funk Zone. Head to the vibrant arts and shopping district named, yes, the Funk Zone, for dinner at The Lark, which focuses on a family-style approach to locally sourced foods. Their wine list celebrates local wineries, and the vegetable-forward dishes on the menu shine (the crispy Brussels sprouts starter is well-loved).
Morning
Sunday Brunch. Time to treat yourself with an indulgent brunch at The Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach, a local favorite in a stunning oceanfront setting. Post-breakfast, enjoy a walk on the beach to work off the decadent breakfast and bubbles.
Midday
Zone Out. Santa Barbara is famous for its pristine coastline, so head for two-mile stretch of beach that lines the edge of The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara property. Or, if you like an ocean view without the sand, you can set up at one of the two zero-edge pools facing the water. Grab lunch or a cold beverage without leaving at the adjoining SunBar.
Spa Select. If you need even more relaxation than staring at the ocean, head to the 42,000-square-foot spa and wellness center on the property. Choose from a selection of services, ranging from the signature massage to a Custom Facial. Or just enjoy quiet time at the adults-only pool in the center.
Afternoon
Harbor Master. The Santa Barbara Harbor is a hub for the city, with an active marina, a maritime museum, and shopping and restaurants. Take a stroll to soak up the late afternoon sun and the charm of the harbor. If you want a more active excursion, you can go kayaking or paddle boarding from the harbor as well.
Evening
Sunset Sail. Work up an appetite for dinner with a sunset cruise off the harbor. If you’re lucky, you’ll get a look at more than the waves, with the chance to see sea lions, dolphins or whales. Enjoy two hours of gorgeous scenery on a classic sailboat (times change with the sunset).
Fine Dining. Wrap your weekend up with a top-notch dinner at Marisella, where Chef Danny Grant blends Amalfi Coast tradition with the richness of California’s land and sea. Savor handmade pastas, wood-grilled seafood and meats, and expertly crafted martinis in a beautifully appointed setting overlooking the Pacific.