Belmond El Encanto
EST. PRIOR TO 1930
800 Alvarado Place, Santa Barbara, California

Belmond El Encanto
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A premier destination since the 1920's, "The Charm" of Santa Barbara continues to dazzle guests today.
Sitting high in the hills of Santa Barbara amid lush gardens and a pool with views of the Pacific, choose from a veritable list of venues and retire to your luxurious bungalow at the end of the day.
The Lowdown
Type
BallroomBoutique HotelGardenHotel / Resort / SpaRestaurant / Private Dining
Views
CityscapeCoastlineGardenLandscaped GroundsOceanPool
Style
Classic
Coastal
Elegant
Sophisticated
Spanish
Best type of Celebrations
Baby Shower
Charity Event
Corporate Event
Group Getaway
Product Launch
Holiday Party
Rehearsal Dinner / Welcome Reception
Retreats: Corporate, Spa, Wellness, Etc.
Wedding Ceremony
Wedding Reception
Anniversary
Engagement Party

Venue Setting

Reopened in March 2013, this iconic luxury hotel has been meticulously restored to capture all the romance and glamour that endeared it to both the local Santa Barbara community and visitors alike. Ninety-two quintessential, California-styled suites and bungalows dot the lush, terraced grounds featuring seven-acres of gloriously landscaped gardens with sweeping views of Santa Barbara and the Pacific Ocean. Original architectural features have been lovingly restored, including the historic, trellised-lined Arbor and Lily Pond. Modern additions to the expansive outdoor swimming pool and new beautifully appointed boutique spa enhance the El Encanto journey for today's luxury-seeking guest. Sumptuous contemporary cuisine delights with organic and locally sourced ingredients. In essence, the hotel's charming setting atop a commanding hilltop perch offers the ultimate secluded retreat, creating an eclectic and authentic ambiance for romance and rediscovery.

Capacity

Seated
200
Buffet
200
Standing
220
Fees
(Prices listed here are estimates only & are subject to change)
Price range

Does this include catering fees?

Yes

Estimated price per head

from $75 to $600

Insurance

Additional Insurance Is Not Required To Host An Event Here

Connect
Call Venue
Event Logistics and Amenities
(Essential event logistics and amenities to ensure a seamless and memorable experience for you gathering)
Celebrations hosted here since
Prior to 1930
Curfew
12 AM
Venue spaces
Indoor & Outdoor Venue Spaces Available
Catering
Client Must Use The Catering Provided By The Venue
Alcohol
Provided By Venue For Fee – You Must Use The Venue For All Alcohol Services
Corkage/Bottle Fee – You Can Bring Your Own Alcohol For A Fee
Music
Indoors & Outdoors
Smoking
Non-smoking Venue
Accommodations
70 guestrooms, 22 suites
Amenities
  • Bridal Suite/Changing Rooms Onsite
  • Valet Parking
  • Wifi
  • Dining Chairs
  • Dining Tables
  • Onsite Restrooms
Venue Features
The scene:
Our property is located in Santa Barbara's American Riviera, nestled on seven-acres of gloriously landscaped gardens with sweeping views of Santa Barbara and the Pacific Ocean from its commanding hilltop perch.
Design:
California Craftsman architecture and Spanish Colonial Revival Villas dot the lush terraced grounds. Along with our historic trellised lined Arbor and lily Pond.
Awards & Notables
Awards, recognitions, or noteworthy achievements associated with the venue.
Belmond El Encanto is the only Forbes Five Star property in Santa Barbara.
Food Restaurants, Cafes, Bars, Lounges
This section provides insights into our diverse culinary and social offerings.
The Dining Room features artisanal ingredients and exceptional flavors blend to create an unforgettable dining experience. Executive Chef Leo Andres Ayala treats you to inspired California Coastal cuisine.Each dish is created with locally-sourced seasonal produce. Expect herbs directly from the chef's garden and Belmond El Encanto cheese, each block made from the milk of Ellie, the resort's cow.
Celebration Locations
This section outlines the various spaces available within the venue for different types of events.
Riviera Ballroom
The Ballroom is 3,000 square feet, with five glass doors that lead out to a covered heated patio area and lush gardens.
Max capacity: 300- Reception, 160- Dinner
Price range: $15,000 to $50,000
Channel Islands Room and Terrace
Channel Islands Room and Terrace is a private indoor outdoor space on the top level of the main building on the property.
View: Channel Islands boasts panoramic veiws of Santa Barbara and the pacific ocean.
Max capacity: 150- Reception, 65- Dinner
Price range: $1,500 to $7,000
Arbor and Lily Pond
The Arbor and Lily Pond is an all outdoor location.
View: Lush gardens
Max capacity: 200- Reception, 150- Dinner
Price range: $2,000 to $25,000
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Belmond El Encanto
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