Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara

The Biltmore Santa Barbara is a legendary five-star resort, widely considered the epitome of luxury and elegance on the "American Riviera." Located in the picturesque Montecito area of Santa Barbara, the hotel spans the Pacific coastline, offering its guests the atmosphere of a historic estate. It is not just a place to stay, but a true architectural masterpiece in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, harmoniously integrated into the landscape of the USA.

The complex occupies an expansive area adorned with lush tropical gardens, ancient trees, and exquisite rose gardens. White-washed facades with terracotta roofs, elegant arches, and cozy courtyards create a unique charm. The hotel offers accommodation in elegant rooms and secluded cottages, where classic design meets modern comfort of the highest level.

Currently, The Biltmore is undergoing a massive transformation. Since the beginning of 2025, a deep reconstruction has been underway, aimed at updating the infrastructure while preserving its historical heritage. The renovated resort is expected to open its doors to travelers in 2026, featuring new water features and a restaurant from the famous Nobu chain.

For details regarding the upcoming opening or event bookings, you can use the official contact channels. Please note that until the major renovation is completed in 2026, personal visits to the grounds may be limited.

A stay at The Biltmore Santa Barbara offers guests a rich choice of activities, from serene relaxation to sports. One of the main highlights is access to Butterfly Beach—one of the cleanest and most beautiful beaches in the region, perfect for surfing, swimming, or long walks along the water's edge. For sports enthusiasts, the grounds feature three lighted tennis courts, as well as croquet and mini-golf areas.

The world-class spa center, covering more than 900 square meters, deserves special attention. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in a world of tranquility, choosing from a variety of treatments, or relax in the sauna or steam room. After the major update in 2026, the list of amenities will expand to include a massive "lazy river" pool and a picturesque waterfall, making family vacations even more engaging.

Dining experiences at the hotel have always been exceptional. The Art Deco-style Tydes restaurant is famous for its seafood and panoramic ocean views, while the cozy bar with a fireplace is the perfect spot to end the day to the sound of live music. Guests also receive exclusive access to the historic Coral Casino Beach & Cabana Club, where they can swim in a 50-meter pool overlooking the Channel Islands.

The legendary hotel is located at 1260 Channel Dr in the prestigious Montecito neighborhood. If you are traveling from downtown Santa Barbara, the drive takes only about 10–15 minutes. The route runs along the coast, offering picturesque ocean views.

For travelers arriving by air, the most convenient option is Santa Barbara Airport (SBA), located 19 kilometers from the resort (approximately 20 minutes away). The drive from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) takes about 1.5–2 hours, depending on traffic. Taxis and rideshare services are the easiest way to reach the hotel gates directly from the terminals.

Public transportation is available via local bus routes to Montecito, though you will need to walk from the nearest stop to the complex itself. If you enjoy long walks, you can reach the resort from Santa Barbara's central waterfront by walking along the shore for about 35–40 minutes, enjoying the sea breeze.

The history of this site began in 1927 when architect Reginald Johnson brought the Santa Barbara Biltmore project to life. Construction cost a staggering $1.5 million for that time. The building became a benchmark of the Spanish Colonial Revival style, harmoniously blending elements of Mediterranean and Moorish architecture.

Over the decades, the hotel changed hands several times, even being part of the Marriott chain before coming under Four Seasons management in 1987. A new chapter in the Biltmore's history began in 2000 when it was acquired by billionaire Ty Warner. He invested hundreds of millions of dollars into a meticulous restoration to return the resort to its former glory and historical charm.

An essential part of the complex is the Coral Casino Beach & Cabana Club, built in 1937. This private club, located directly across the street from the main building, served for decades as a favorite retreat for the Hollywood elite and American aristocracy, preserving the atmosphere of "Old California."

The hotel has been closed since March 2020, but this is merely a temporary lull before a grand return. The current renovation promises to transform The Biltmore Santa Barbara into an even more impressive space with modern amenities, while fully preserving its unique historical appearance and status as an architectural jewel of the coast.

If you plan to visit The Biltmore Santa Barbara as a sightseeing stop to admire the architecture and stroll through the gardens, 3–4 hours will be sufficient. This is enough time to explore the grounds, visit the rose garden, and soak in the luxury atmosphere over a cup of coffee or lunch at one of the restaurants.

However, to truly experience the spirit of the "American Riviera," it is worth considering this location for a full vacation. Guests typically spend several days here, combining beach relaxation at Butterfly Beach with visits to the spa and tennis courts. Keep in mind that until the official opening in 2026, access to the grounds may be restricted by renovation regulations.

At present, The Biltmore Santa Barbara is temporarily closed due to extensive renovation work. The property is scheduled to resume guest operations in mid-2026.

Typically, after reopening, the resort will operate 24/7 for staying guests. The operating hours for individual restaurants, the spa complex, and the beach club may vary depending on the season, so it is recommended to check for current information on the hotel's official website before planning a visit.

The resort's location in one of the most picturesque corners of the coast makes it an excellent starting point for exploring local beauty. A stroll through the surrounding area will introduce you to the cultural and natural heritage of the region.