Best Pool Hotels in Santa Barbara

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara in Goleta, California, has all the essentials of a luxury seaside resort – a spa, several infinity pools, multiple dining venues and, of course, dramatic Pacific Ocean views. The Ritz's 358 luxurious guest rooms feature gas or wood-burning fireplaces, marble showers and private patios or balconies, not to mention flat-screen TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi. When it's time for a meal, head to the oceanfront restaurant, Angel Oak, to feast on steak, seafood and more. Many guests are quick to note that the prices here are steep, especially if you indulge in a spa treatment or a fancy meal. But overall, visitors say they very much enjoyed their stay, chalking their good times up to excellent customer service and the property's relaxed atmosphere. Because of this hotel's Marriott ties, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and use points by staying here.

With stunning views of the Pacific Ocean from its shorefront perch east of downtown Santa Barbara, the Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara is consistently lauded by guests for its friendly staff and stunning decor. The Spanish Colonial Revival structure houses 207 spacious guest rooms and suites that feel bright and airy and feature large windows and views of the 22-acre property, and visitors say that the down bedding adds an extra dose of luxury. Recent guests also praised the in-house spa for its extensive list of treatments, but should you desire some rest and relaxation without the additional cost, a day spent by the outdoor pool should do just fine. If you're traveling with kids, let the resort's certified staff provide them with a host of supervised activities while you enjoy a romantic meal at Tydes (if you like seafood) or Bella Vista (if you prefer your Californian cuisine infused with some Italian flair).

In the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, the Kimpton Canary has the entire city at its front door. Though they say the ideal location is a definite plus, recent visitors are more charmed by the character of and service at this boutique hotel. A member of the Kimpton brand, the hotel offers unique stylings with hand-painted tiles and wrought-iron accents throughout the property, and guest rooms house elegant four-poster beds and hardwood floors. Accommodations also come equipped with amenities such as HD flat-screen TVs, rainforest showers and high-speed internet (which Kimpton Karma loyalty club members can access for free). The hotel's rooftop pool is also a hit with guests, who describe the views as spectacular. What's more, you can take in the scenery with a drink at the rooftop's lounge. If you're craving something more filling, try the farm-to-table cuisine served at Finch & Fork.

The Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort sits along the Pacific Ocean within walking distance of Santa Barbara's shops, restaurants and shoreline, but many guests feel that they never have to leave the premises. Visitors can spend time at the resort's pool, tennis court and fitness center, or can use the complimentary bicycles to explore the area. The property also houses the Spa Del Mar, which offers a long list of massages and skin treatments. Come mealtime, you'll have your pick of four on-site eateries. As for accommodations, visitors describe the guest rooms as spacious, equipped with amenities such as flat-screen TVs, minibars and balconies or patios. Here, Hilton Honors loyalty club members can earn or use points here.

Recent guests said the Harbor View Inn's location is its main selling point. Located at the entry to Stearns Wharf, the property sits across from the beach and just a short walk from downtown Santa Barbara, California. Some travelers note that room rates here are fairly steep, especially when compared to larger properties nearby. However, guests are quick to praise the employees –particularly the concierge – for their eagerness to help you enjoy your time in Santa Barbara. Staff members are efficient when it comes to arranging dinner plans and suggesting things to do in the area. Meanwhile, every room has a patio or balcony to allow guests to breathe in the sea air. And outside their quarters, guests can be found lounging poolside, enjoying massages in Spa Beaumontia or enjoying dinner and the view at Eladio's Restaurant & Bar.

If you're looking for a hotel that embodies the laid-back SoCal spirit, The Kimpton Goodland is for you. Situated in Goleta, California, about 9 miles west of Santa Barbara, the hotel features rooms outfitted with unique accents like a framed California state flag, eccentric textures and coastal wood furnishings they also come equipped with flat-screen TVs, yoga mats and record players. Forgot to pack your vinyl? The hotel's Record Concierge is at your service. When you're not grooving to tunes in your room, see what the DJ is spinning at the outdoor pool. Though most recent guests appreciated the Kimpton Goodland's fun, funky vibe, others found all of the on-site events (especially the poolside DJ) to be a bit too noisy. A tip from past guests: ask for an inward facing room to avoid the commotion. Some reviewers even used the term "yuppie" to describe their fellow travelers, but most were charmed by the retro surf decor and especially loved the on-site restaurant, Outpost. Here again the hotel stays true to its location, serving up California cuisine made from local ingredients. Another caveat past guests highlighted: the $25 resort fee, which covers self-parking, evening cocktail hours, fitness classes and access to live music events, among other amenities. The fee doesn't cover Wi-Fi, but if you're a member of Kimpton's Karma Rewards program, you'll receive complimentary Internet access.

At a place where dogs receive in-room massages, you know their owners will be equally pampered and doted upon. According to travelers, such is the case at San Ysidro Ranch. Several different types of accommodations are available, the most prestigious being the Warner Cottage and the Kennedy Cottage (JFK and Jackie's 1953 honeymoon digs). Even if you're not laid up in those ultra-luxe digs, recent visitors say you'll still be more than comfortable. Guest cottages offer a sense of seclusion and a cozy atmosphere with four-poster beds, Persian rugs and stone fireplaces. Along with its intimate setting, the hotel hosts two restaurants. The Stonehouse serves up flavorful regional cuisine and Plow & Angel dishes up hearty plates of comfort food (the restaurant is famous for its mac and cheese). San Ysidro Ranch is in the Montecito foothills of California, about 5 miles northeast of downtown Santa Barbara.

Although it doesn't hug the Santa Barbara coast – you'll find this hotel on the northern fringes of the city – Belmond El Encanto earns praise for its beautiful setting and excellent views. The property's suites all feature private terraces or patios looking out toward the ocean, along with hardwood floors, marble bathrooms and, in some cases, fireplaces. Although the outpost's homey accommodations may be hard to leave, the property houses a number of amenities worth checking out, such as The Spa at El Encanto, an infinity-edge swimming pool and 7 acres of gardens to explore. And recent guests sing the praises of the California cuisine served at the Dining Room. Visitors can also opt for light American fare at The Lounge.

Nestled near downtown Santa Barbara, just three blocks east of State Street, this 23-room inn caters to couples looking for a quiet getaway. Recent guests praised the classic Spanish architecture and spacious rooms that include either a garden patio or private balcony. Rooms are also equipped with gas fireplaces, free Wi-Fi access and marble bathrooms with separate showers and soaking tubs. Although there's no on-site restaurant, the inn offers amenities like complimentary breakfast daily. Guests can also take advantage of in-room spa services or relax by the pool in the inn's private garden. And while recent visitors recommended the accommodations, they cited the personable and helpful staff as a main reason for repeat stays.