Montecito Hotels

Rosewood Miramar Beach is a bright, airy refresh of a property that dates back to 1876. There’s history here—it was formerly the storied Miramar by the Sea—and so much beauty and comfort you (almost) won’t want to leave the property. Guest rooms are done up in shades of cream and blue, and each has a private terrace with deck chairs made for lounging and ocean-gazing. If you’re coming with kids, go for a bungalow suite. On site, don’t miss Michelin-starred Caruso’s: Chef Massimo Falsini does a prix fixe menu of California-inspired Italian dishes. (You’ll lose your mind over the carbonara; the chef’s from Trastevere.) Or join the small family-style dinners on a seaside patio at Caruso’s FrontMare, where you can mingle with Falsini (he moves his kitchen outdoors for the occasion) and other guests—or book the table out for your group. Edomae-style AMA Sushi is a highlight, too. The property is also home to a goop store—it’s a jewel box of G. Label by goop dresses, beachwear from our favorite brands, and the best of clean beauty. As for the rest of your time? Two pools and a beach concierge make…

This Four Seasons hotel sits along Montecito's best beach, and it occupies a rambling set of Spanish Colonial bungalows and buildings that are lushly landscaped in a way that makes every room feel like a hideaway. Though the on-site pool is lovely, the members-only Coral Casino Club is right across the street, which boasts an Olympic-size swimming pool that's great for kids.

Inarguably, this is one of our favorite hotels in the world—we're not alone, either, as John and Jackie spent their honeymoon at SYR, and Sir Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh tied the knot in the gardens. Set against the Santa Ynez Mountains, on an olive and lavender tree studded estate that was originally built as a citrus farm in the 19th century, you’ll find 38 secluded bungalows. Each cottage comes equipped with a fireplace, private patio (many have outdoor hot tubs and rain showers), and wonderful extras, like heated bathroom floors. Though it’s big with honeymooners, we never need a big reason to come, as it’s the type of place where the occasion is the stay. Among many other things, the ranch is famous for its impressive collection of rare wine and spirits which can be sipped inside the property's 1920s-inspired speakeasy. Situated in the farm’s former citrus packing house, the stone-walled restaurant offers either creek or ocean views. The menu focuses on fancy comfort food—and revolves around the offerings from the ranch’s gardens. Bonus: The wineries of Santa Ynez and Santa Maria Valleys are less than an hour…