Chantal Borciani revisits her original stay at Bacara on California’s Central Coast—now The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara—and explains why its oceanfront setting and unusually spacious spa still make a compelling restorative stop.
Then and now
This is a restored archive review based on Chantal Borciani’s original visit. The resort later became The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara. Her first-person impressions are preserved; names, treatments, prices, schedules and access arrangements should be checked directly before travelling.
Words by Chantal Borciani
Set on California’s Central Coast, a short drive from Santa Barbara, Bacara had immediate star quality when I visited. Mediterranean-inspired buildings stepped through 78 oceanfront acres, with hacienda-style rooms, private cabanas and terraces looking towards the Pacific.
A spa with room to breathe
The scale was striking. The spa occupied its own multi-level building, creating genuine separation from the rest of the resort. Its courtyard pool, relaxation spaces, steam and sauna facilities made it possible to spend a substantial part of the day there rather than simply arriving for a treatment and leaving.
The current Ritz-Carlton spa information continues to describe a 42,000 sq ft sanctuary with an adults-only pool, redwood sauna, eucalyptus steam room, cold plunge, fireside lounges and rooftop terrace. Treatment bookings include access to the spa amenities, subject to current terms and availability.
Chantal’s treatment memory
The historical treatment menu drew on herbs and oils associated with the surrounding Gaviota coast. My choice used warm, fragrant compresses alongside massage. The heat made deeper work feel more comfortable, and afterwards I lingered with tea on a sofa overlooking the pool.
Outdoor treatments on the ocean-view terrace were another memorable feature of the earlier offer. These experiences, and the treatment names attached to them, may have changed; anyone drawn to the open-air setting should ask the spa what is currently bookable.
Movement, pools and the wider stay
At the time of my visit, the programme ranged from beachside yoga and Reformer Pilates to personal training and studio classes. The resort’s current information lists a fitness centre, instructor-led classes, tennis and three outdoor pools. Some activities may carry a charge or have age and reservation requirements.
Editor’s Picks
- Best for: couples or friends seeking a coastal resort with a destination-scale spa.
- Spa signature: adults-only pool, rooftop terrace and extensive heat and relaxation facilities.
- Stay longer for: ocean walks, pool time, fitness and Santa Barbara’s food-and-wine scene.
- Ask before booking: treatment access, day-spa availability, class charges, pool rules and any facility closures.
Beyond the spa, the appeal was simple: Pacific views, pools, gardens, restaurants and enough space to find a quieter corner. In the evening, a glass of local wine by the fire pits felt like a natural conclusion to the day.
Planning a stay today
The property is now presented as The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara. Its position makes it suitable for a restorative coastal stay or a stop on a wider California itinerary, but road times vary substantially with traffic and should not be planned from the historical estimates in the original article.
Check the current experience
Review today’s spa hours, treatments, appointment rules and facilities directly with the resort.
“The lasting luxury was not simply the treatment menu, but the space: ocean air, quiet corners and enough time to slow down.”
Chantal Borciani
Independent-booking notice: This article provides editorial guidance rather than live availability. Accommodation, spa treatments, activities and transport are booked independently with third-party providers under their own terms and protections.
Wellbeing note: Discuss pregnancy, allergies, injuries, health conditions and accessibility requirements directly with the spa before booking treatments or heat experiences.