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El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, Santa Barbara vs Blue Sands Inn

Both properties are rated very highly by reviewers writing for major publications. On balance, Belmond El Encanto scores significantly higher than Blue Sands Motel. Belmond El Encanto scores 94 with accolades from 12 reviewers like Frommer's, Gayot and Fodor's.

El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, Santa Barbara
El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, Santa Barbara
9 / 10
800 Alvarado Place, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
From $524 /night
  • Pet Friendly
  • Bar/Lounge
  • Free Internet
  • Room Service
  • Shuttle Bus
  • Laundry Service
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Time Out Time Out
"Marvel at the stunning views and serene privacy in this historic hilltop hideaway." Full review
Star Service Star Service
"This hotel is tucked into a tony residential enclave, hovering above the Santa Barbara Mission, minutes from the pier, distinguished dining and State Street shopping. " Full review
Frommer's Frommer's
"The hotel has an intimate feel, with 92 luxury bungalows that overlook the city and the ocean, nestled among winding paths and gardens." Full review
Gayot Gayot
"This French country-style hotel is set high in Santa Barbara's Riviera neighborhood on ten lush acres overlooking the town and Santa Barbara Channel." Full review
Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
"We suggest making time for the farm-to-fork restaurant: the bounty of vegetables and herbs from the on-site garden... the aged white cheddar made with milk." Full review
Oyster Oyster
Luxury
"A gorgeous historic landmark in the hills... that preserved its character while adding modern perks to luxury bungalows." Full review
Jetsetter Jetsetter
"The crown jewel of Santa Barbara sparkles with lush gardens, a pool, spa and modern Cali cuisine." Full review
Afar Magazine Afar Magazine
"It was by far one of the best hotels we've stayed in the whole world over." Full review
The Telegraph The Telegraph
9.0
"This exclusive, one-time haunt of Roosevelt and award-winning Spanish Mission Revival-style gem is where old money Angelenos come to chill when LA gets too hot." Full review
goop goop
"Perched on an olive tree-studded hillside overlooking the Pacific ocean, the Belmond El Encanto is more than deserving of its Forbes five-star accolades." Full review
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Blue Sands Inn
Blue Sands Inn
7 / 10
421 South Milpas Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
From $0 /night
  • Pet Friendly
  • Free Internet
  • Pool
  • Free Parking
  • Kitchenette
  • Air Conditioning
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Lonely Planet Lonely Planet
"This tiny two-story motel may be a bit kitschy, but who cares when you’re just steps from East Beach? Ask the affable owners for an upgraded room." Full review
Rough Guide Rough Guide
"Looks like your average roadside motel at first, but this spot is actually the city’s best deal for accommodation."
Gayot Gayot
"This small motel with minimal landscaping is among the city'€™s best options for budget travelers --- particularly families."