Experiences
Savor the sun-splashed sights of Santa Barbara
Boutique wineries, coastal sailing trips, polo matches: there’s a vast array of things to do in Santa Barbara. Whatever your dream Californian adventure, El Encanto is the perfect gateway into the golden state.
FESTIVE SEASON
With an unparalleled location along the Santa Barbara Coast, breathtaking interiors and star-studded history, El Encanto offers an iconic winter destination for holiday retreats.
Discover a series of exciting activities, from calligraphy to challah-making, candle workshops to a holiday market.
Lunch With An Author
Our alluring oasis has long been a magnet for the creatively inspired. The new literary club celebrates this history, inviting notable authors and writers to bring their inspiring perspectives and love for old and new books to new generations.
Includes a signed copy of the novel, three-course lunch, coffee and tea, complimentary valet parking. Price: $95 per person, 12pm to 2pm.
- Nov 12: Gillian Flynn, "Gone Girl"
- Dec 3: Dawn Tripp
50 Shades of Pinot
The full-bodied richness and variety of red wine makes it a thrilling medium for artistic expression. Discover the nuance in shade and depth under the guidance of a wine painting expert as you create your own masterful painting with wine pigment hues of gold, pink and burgundy.
The experience takes place in the Chef's Garden or in the privacy of your own patio. We'll serve artisanal charcuterie and glasses of wine by local vintners for you to enjoy during this "sip & paint" experience—a perfect way to tap into your creative spirit.
Beginner and advanced levels welcome. Advanced booking recommended.
50 Shades of Pinot
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Prefer to talk? You can call us on 1 805 845 5800
Alfresco movie night
Here’s looking at you, kid: watch your favorite stars under the stars with an alfresco movie screening. Relax on your private terrace and tuck in to popcorn, artisanal candies and mocktails. A celestial atmosphere awaits.
Alfresco movie night
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Artisanal picnic baskets
Whether you’re pining for a Maine lobster roll or Bento-style fare, El Encanto's gourmet picnic baskets are perfect for a lazy afternoon.
Take your delectable meal to the historic Santa Barbara Mission. Head to the California coast. Or enjoy an exclusive visit to Lotusland, a local hidden gem of botanical gardens in Montecito. In our grounds, pair your picnic with lawn games at the Lily Pond and Arbor. Sit comfortably by the wishing well, or on the terrace of your private cottage.
Artisanal picnic baskets
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Prefer to talk? You can call us on 1 805 845 5800
Four-Day Santa Barbara Discovery
Experience the wonders of Santa Barbara from El Encanto. Our local experts have put together an unforgettable four-night itinerary to show you the very best of the American Riviera. Anticipate outdoor adventures, a toast to the Wine Trail and leisurely bike rides along the shore.
Four-Day Santa Barbara Discovery
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Terroir Tour
Experience the best of Santa Barbara Wine Country with this custom winemaker's tour.
Visit winemakers such as Luna Hart, Story of Soil, Donnachadh Vineyards and Stolpman Vineyards, to name a few. Then enjoy a curated wine and culinary experience crafted exclusively for our guests.
Terroir Tour
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Prefer to talk? You can call us on 1 805 845 5800
Central Coast Ranch to Winery
Embark on a ranch to winery journey at the renowned Fess Parker estate and connect with the finest landscape and produce on the Central Coast.
Enjoy a scenic breakfast before being whisked away from El Encanto by private car to the Santa Ynez Valley. Then take a 75-minute horseback trek through the valley, arriving at Fess Parker Winery. Savor a delectable wine tasting, accompanied by an irresistible cheeseboard spread and enjoy the gift of a bottle of Fess Parker pinot noir to take home.
Return to El Encanto for the ultimate wind down—a soothing spa massage and a glass of bubbles.
Central Coast Ranch to Winery
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Prefer to talk? You can call us on 1 805 845 5800
Sailing the Santa Barbara Coast
Santa Barbara is a haven for water-sports and sailing.
From kayaks and paddle boards to chartered sailboats and yachts, venture onto the waves and explore one of the most stunning coastlines in the world.
Set off on a guided tour or take paddle board and sailing lessons from the Santa Barbara Marina. Our concierge is on hand to arrange the experience of your choice.
Advance booking recommended.
Sailing the Santa Barbara Coast
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Prefer to talk? You can call us on 1 805 845 5800
Experiences at El Encanto
More to Discover
Wineries
Explore Santa Barbara’s Urban Wine Trail via a series of nearby tasting rooms.
Or journey to Santa Ynez Valley, just a 30-minute drive away. Here you’ll find more than 270 wineries producing regional favorites including Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Wineries
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Prefer to talk? You can call us on 1 805 845 5800
Outdoor Adventures
California is a world-class sporting destination, and for good reason. Experience the ridges and bluffs of the Santa Ynez Mountains. Grab a surfboard and head down to Rincon Point. For something more leisurely, paddle board along the coast at sunset. Ask our concierge about local golfing ranges—there’s no shortage of scenic options.
Outdoor Adventures
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Prefer to talk? You can call us on 1 805 845 5800
Shopping
Of all the indulgent things to do in Santa Barbara, a little boutique browsing is essential.
Take one of our complimentary electric bikes into fashionable downtown Santa Barbara. Discover independent labels and artisanal souvenirs, or simply window shop as you soak up the sun.
Shopping
Thank you for your interest in Belmond.
Prefer to talk? You can call us on 1 805 845 5800