El Encanto Hotel, Santa Barbara

I had my wedding and reception on the grounds of the El Encanto at the koi pond in 1983. All our guests were blown away by the beauty and serene majesty of this classic hotel and it's magnificent grounds. Very memorable, indeed!

My grandmother lived on grounds. I spent many summers at this beautiful place. Even as a child I recognized the old world charm and grace. I learned to swim in the pool, vivdly remember home movies on the grounds by the orange trees, but my best memory; was of the koi pond and a concierge named Troy who befriended me and told me many stories of the el encanto and santa barbara, the staff was always so kind and patient to a 5 year old : )

El Encanto is a treasure. Presently closed for renovation - most of the fans of the hotel hope that it won't be too altered, and that it will soon be reopened. Always good memories - very beautiful landscaping, interesting wood cottages, excellent chef and great food. The privacy and setting are perfect. Beautiful classic tiled pool (most likely one of the things being changed/revamped), and a welcome escape from State Street. Visited twice a year until it closed for rehab, really miss it!

I lived at the hotel for 2 1/2 years in the early 80's. The charm, the views, the service, the staff were all wonderful. My cottage was up behind the tennis courts and was very private. Then I decide to rejoin the real world got married and left my "Enchanted Retreat" I highly recommend that you wenjoy some time there, enjoy the facilities. The food was Fantastic...Neat, Clean, Friendly, I hated to leave!!!! My actual dates were Jan. !980- April 1982

When I was an undergraduate at UCSB in the sixties this was a favorite place for some of the faculty members. In 2005? when I stayed there it was definitely not "up to date" but was a very interesting grand bit of the past. The cabanas were quaint but private and clean. The views are great the restaurant was good. Being on the Riviera instead of the beach meant it was also quiet. Staying here is great experience akin to the Cataracts hotel on the Nile at Aswan. A fabulous bit of history and a fascinating peek into another time and place. I do hope that the current remodel won't leave lodgers with an overly expensive and sterile experience. Can't wait to go back.

Used to live across the street on Paterna and dined there constantly and used the pool. I loved the old rooms and the ambiance. Probably could use some major updating. Compare it to the Mission Inn in Riverside, which has upgrades in a vintage way, there old rooms.

I grew up at the El Encanto Hotel. My grandmother owned one of the bungalows on the grounds furthest from the main hotel, and I've been very glad to see that the amenities added to the hotel over the years hasn't changed the ambiance any. I do miss the piano music in the evening after dinner in the foyer, however. My father lived there as a child, and young adult. It was a magical place to spend time then, and now a magical place to stay when I am in the area. This hotel holds many wonderful memories, and since it has been kept up well, it is a good place to recommend.

I thought it was a wonderful place to stay. We didn't mind driving down to State St. because the views were wonderful. Sitting in the garden relaxing and just enjoying the view was my favorite part. The room was nice and clean. A little small but it was cozy with the fireplace!

I realize it is being remodeled but this hotel has a wonderful old California feel. It really reminded me and my wife of the Eagles Hotel California...nice views and good service if a bit dated furnishings. If you want new and sterile not for you

Stayed here for one night last week. The room, while a great concept, is about 20 years overdue for an update. Musty smell every where. No air conditioning, which honestly was fine. No screens on the windows meant no fresh air. We were provided with a $10 fan. Overpriced, the kitchen ran out of brown sugar for breakfast and chickenwings. All in all, the only disappointing place we stopped at in two weeks