The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

There were a few service snags despite the beautiful property and pleasant stay. Our key cards didn’t have club lounge access set up correctly, so we had to go to the front desk several times before they finally worked. At checkout, texting valet to bring our car never got a confirmation. We also asked the front desk to send a shuttle back up to the lobby, but that wasn’t confirmed either. As we left, we saw an older couple, probably in their late 70s, waiting for a shuttle too. In the end, they had to walk uphill with their luggage. The room itself was perfect, with an ocean view, a double balcony, and just a 30-second walk to the beach. Check-in went smoothly, and the team shuttled us to our villa, which is a bit of a walk. We ate at the O Bar Terrace, which was decent but nothing fancy, and room service was decent too. It’s a beautiful place and a good option for a quick getaway. I’ll definitely return, though for the price I’d expect more punctual service from start to finish. I hope it’s better next time.

The grounds are lovely, but the room, service, and lack of hospitality were extremely disappointing for a luxury brand at this price. When we arrived around 2:30 PM, I was traveling with my elderly mother, who was exhausted and needed to rest. We were told nothing could be done and had to wait until after 3:30 PM for a room. I understand official check-in times, but paying Ritz prices should come with service, compassion, and flexibility, and none of those were offered. At checkout, I asked for just a 30-minute courtesy extension, from 11:00-11:30 AM, and was denied again. The refusal felt rigid and unwelcoming for a high-end resort. The room had several quality problems. The area rug was visibly dirty and needed cleaning or replacement. There were no basic vanity items like toothbrushes or Q-tips, and although robes were provided, there were no slippers. The sofa bed sagged badly and was extremely uncomfortable, with a thin, low-quality blanket that felt wrong for a luxury resort. Because of the sofa bed, I asked for a rollaway and was charged $50, which felt unreasonable. After we finally got the room, our luggage took over an hour to arrive. The jacuzzi was underfilled, so water splashed aggressively while we tried to use it, making it uncomfortable instead of relaxing. This didn’t feel like a Ritz-Carlton experience, and certainly not worth the premium nightly rate.

Returning with our daughter to the place where we once quietly hoped our family might grow made the stay unforgettable. Two Octobers ago, we left the Bacara wondering if our family might grow. This week, we were back with our daughter, laughing together on the balcony with the ocean breeze behind her. The resort has meaningfully evolved, and it still feels personal. We can’t wait to return. The changes go well beyond a cosmetic refresh. What once felt a little dated now has a lighter, cleaner, more intentional California coastal feel. Updated finishes, lighting, and design bring the property into the present while keeping its architectural charm. The grounds also look sharper and more carefully maintained. The pool experience is much better too, with substantial cushioned beds replacing the old metal loungers. Club Level has improved noticeably, with a stronger, more varied selection presented with more care. It now feels like what Ritz-Carlton Club should be. New Club Manager Lacey has clearly raised the standard, making guests feel like more than VIPs. Ana and Martin were warm and polished, and a pleasure to see each day. Dining has changed just as dramatically. Marisela and Lulio, the new restaurant concepts replacing Angel Oak and The Bistro, have upgraded the property tremendously. The culinary direction feels modern and confident, and the service matches it. Valet was excellent. At $75 a day, expectations are high, and they delivered: water was offered regularly, recommendations came proactively, and Jimmy always had our car ready when we headed out. As Bonvoy Platinum members, we appreciated the new complimentary daily coffee perk. The property feels like it’s operating with renewed pride and clear, reinvigorated leadership. In our view, the Bacara is performing at a level worthy of regaining its 4th Forbes Star and a 5th AAA diamond, and positioning itself for even further recognition.

Service at all four restaurants was excellent, and the food was quite good. The three temperature-controlled pools were pleasant even in slightly cool weather. The property is lovely, though it’s starting to show some age. The valet messaging system wasn’t working during our stay, and even though the app showed rooms available, we weren’t offered an upgrade.