El Encanto, SantaBarbara
Built in 1910 as a private mansion, El Encanto was restored and reimagined as a luxury hotel while preserving its Spanish Colonial architecture and hillside gardens overlooking the Pacific.
- Ceremony
- 20 seated
- Reception
- 150 seated
- Nearest airport
- SBA · 20 minutes
- Open season
- June – September
- Price range
- $$$
- Rating
- 4.6 /5 · 858
El Encanto, Santa Barbara is a hotel destination wedding venue in CA 93103, USA, hosting 20 to 150 guests in the $$$ price range, reached from Santa Barbara Airport (SBA), 20 minutes. Best months: June, July, August, September.
El Encanto, Santa Barbara in CA 93103, open June–September.
Built in 1910 as a private mansion, El Encanto was restored and reimagined as a luxury hotel while preserving its Spanish Colonial architecture and hillside gardens overlooking the Pacific.
Perched on 6 acres in the foothills above Santa Barbara, this historic property offers couples a sophisticated venue with century-old character and modern hospitality.
The estate's terraced grounds, original stonework, and coastal vistas create an elegant backdrop for ceremonies and receptions.
I had a 90-minute massage with Cristianna and it was truly incredible, exactly what I needed! She was so attentive and intuitive, really focusing on the areas where I was experiencing the most pain and tension. I left feeling completely relaxed, refreshed, and like a new person. My entire spa experience from start to finish was outstanding. The staff was very warm and welcoming, and Melissa at the front desk was wonderful from the moment I arrived through my departure. The spa itself is absolutely beautiful, with so many thoughtful amenities that make the visit feel special. I can’t recommend the spa at El Encanto highly enough. I’m already looking forward to my next visit!
4 notes, from the desk.
Originally constructed in 1910 and meticulously restored to preserve Spanish Colonial design elements
6-acre private estate with panoramic views of the Santa Barbara coastline and Channel Islands
On-site accommodations with 92 rooms and suites available for guests
Multiple ceremony and reception spaces including garden pavilions and indoor ballrooms
Best held in June, July, August.
The months the weather — and the local rhythm — is kindest to a stay at El Encanto, Santa Barbara.
Check availability.
Choose a day from the calendar.
We hold dates in pencil. A first note comes back within two business days.
How the weekend usually runs.
Yours will be different — nothing below is required. Every planning begins with the three meals you most want to eat, and builds outward.
- 3:00 PMGuest arrival and check-in at hotel; welcome reception in garden courtyard
- 6:00 PMRehearsal and dinner for wedding party and family
- 2:00 PMGuest arrival and appetizer hour
- 3:30 PMCeremony in garden pavilion
- 4:30 PMCocktail hour with passed hors d'oeuvres
- 5:30 PMReception dinner and dancing in ballroom
- 8:00 AMFarewell brunch (optional) before guest departures
Things worth knowing.
SBA · 20 minutes
Guests fly into Santa Barbara Airport. The desk arranges every transfer.
$25,000
Pricing varies based on season, day of week, guest count, and menu selections. Venue rental fees, food and beverage minimums, and room blocks are negotiated individually. Contact El Encanto directly for current rates and packages.
$3,000
A one-time licence and setup fee, paid to the venue.
$185 / head
A seated dinner with wine and service, by headcount.
$400 / night
A standard room in the wedding window. Group rates on request.
June – September
4 viable months. Shoulder dates soften the light and the rates.
Asked along the way.
What is the guest capacity at El Encanto?+
The venue accommodates 20 to 150 guests depending on the specific spaces and layout selected for your celebration.
Are accommodations included with the venue rental?+
Guest rooms are available on-site at separate rates. Many couples book the hotel's 92 rooms to house wedding guests, offering convenience and continuity throughout the celebration.
What outdoor spaces are available?+
The property features terraced gardens, fountain courtyards, and manicured lawns across its 6-acre grounds, with multiple scenic locations for ceremonies and cocktail hours.
Does El Encanto provide catering and event planning?+
Yes. In-house catering and a dedicated events team manage all aspects of your wedding, from menu curation to timeline coordination.
What is the best time of year to marry at El Encanto?+
Santa Barbara enjoys mild weather year-round. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer cooler temperatures and clear skies, though the venue is beautiful any season.
In the same country.
Hold dates at El Encanto, Santa Barbara.
A note to the desk with a rough season and guest count. We hold dates in pencil for three weeks before confirmation. A reply comes within two business days, from a person by name.