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.

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woman reading at el encanto

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.

  • Oct 1: Dani Shapiro, "Signal Fires"
  • Nov 12: Gillian Flynn, "Gone Girl"
  • Dec 3: Dawn Tripp

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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.

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A couple cuddle on a sofa watching a black and white film at Al Fresco Movie Night on Oak Tree Suite Patio, seen from behind.

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.

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gourmet picnics in santa barbara

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.

Peruse our picnic menu

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Classic car parked beside a palm tree and wall mural of a surfing monkey

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.

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Wineries

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.

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A horse riding group strolls between the mature oaks that dot the soft yellow plains of the undulating Santa Ynez Valley.

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.

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Sailing

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.

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Virtual Mandala Sessions with Renate Hume

Regain balance and find your spiritual center with a virtual healing Mandala session with celebrated counselor, artist and author Renate C. Hume. Connect to your authentic self through mandala creation and readings, channel your creative energy and find a new path to self-discovery.

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View of the hills from the Botanic Gardens

Virtual Life Journey Coaching with Renate Hume

Take a personal journey inward and discover the answers to your questions on purpose, direction and overall wellbeing. Join our personal life coach, Renate Hume for this uplifting and clarifying experience. A unique opportunity for guided reflection, these virtual sessions are particularly powerful at times of transition and uncertainty. 

Choose from an individual online session with Renate, or a joint online session with Renate and your partner and prepare for a new look on life.

Available daily, 9am-6pm. Reserve at least 48 hours in advance.

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Sunny rows of vines with a mountain backdrop are part of a wine trail experience offered to hotel guests

Experiences at El Encanto

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