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El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel, Santa Barbara vs The Waterman

Both properties are rated very highly by reviewers writing for major publications. On balance, Belmond El Encanto is the choice of most writers compared to The Wayfarer. Belmond El Encanto scores 95 with accolades from 15 sources like Oyster, The Telegraph and Hideaway Report.

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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The Waterman
The Waterman
7 / 10
12 East Montecito Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
From $169 /night
  • Free Internet
  • Free Breakfast
  • Laundry Service
  • Concierge
  • Laundy Room
  • Pool
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Gayot Gayot
"Guests can choose from 31 modern private and shared accommodations with full en-suite bathrooms. All enjoy access to a community kitchen and heated outdoor pool." Full review
Condé Nast Traveler Condé Nast Traveler
"The Wayfarer has both shared and pri- vate rooms—along with free Wi-Fi, a Spanish colonial–style communal kitchen, and a heated pool." Full review
Fodor's Fodor's
"Rates include breakfast, use of the community kitchen, and access to the outdoor heated pool and a sunny deck with reclining lounge chairs." Full review
Afar Magazine Afar Magazine
"Part hostel and part hotel, The Wayfarer is a sweet spot for those who want a playful, not-too-fussy place to rest their heads after a long day of traveling." Full review
The Telegraph The Telegraph
8.0
"Definitely in a category of its own." Full review