It is not surprising that Santa Barbara boasts some of the best resorts in California. The balmy weather, endless beaches and rolling hills offer perfect surroundings for a rejuvenating vacation, and since the Spanish so obligingly provided some fantastic architectural buildings to be converted, Santa Barbara was ready-made as a great resort location.

There are quite a few Santa Barbara resorts, and they all boast a very high standard of accommodations and amenities. The Four Seasons Resort and Spa in Santa Barbara is an example of this. The Four Seasons company has been committed since 1960 to providing the best in hotel and resort accommodation around the world.

The White stucco Spanish colonial building surrounded by spreading gardens, shady walkways and private cottages as well as rooms in the main building is just a step away from the beach. The spa offers a full range of facial and body treatments and some imaginative spa packages that will pamper you for hours, such as the sunset sanctuary spa package for couples, and the mother and daughter day of beauty. The Four Seasons has a full gym on site with a pool, and golfers can enjoy special privileges at the nearby sandpiper golf course

The Bacara resort, right next to the ocean and spread over 78 acres, is an exclusive haven of luxury. Its unique location makes a host of activities available, including horseback riding along the beach, surfing, ocean kayaking, sailboat, yacht and catamaran excursions and whale-watching trips. This is the Santa Barbara resort that evokes old Hollywood glamour, from the exclusive Mirò restaurant to the luxurious spa facilities. Another Santa Barbara resort, this one within easy walking distance of State St. in downtown Santa Barbara, is the Fess Parker’s Doubletree resort in Santa Barbara.

Their Spanish-style colonial resort has something for everyone, from family activities—they pride themselves on being family-friendly and pet-friendly—to sports and outdoor activities. Their friendly staff is ready to help out with suggestions on the best spots to explore in the Santa Barbara area. This resort also has great amenities for conferences and events: their outdoor Plaza del Sol, which overlooks the Pacific, can accommodate up to 1000 guests.

The hotel Mar Monte, named for the sea and mountains that surround it, is a friendly resort just steps away from the beach. Since 1931 this Santa Barbara hotel has been providing a refreshing haven for travelers. The Mar Monte blends old-world charm and 21st century luxury, with its colonial buildings, outdoor pool area lush with bougainvillea and wireless internet wherever you need it. The spa has a full range of luxurious treatments and the hotel has a fully-equipped fitness center. These are just a few of the great resorts and hotels around the Santa Barbara area, a great vacation destination known as the American Riviera.