As close as you can get to the French countryside without leaving Santa Barbara.
Guests staying in any of the 38 cottages will be reluctant to leave the lounge-lined pool, crackling fireplace in the main living room, fresh California fare at the Stonehouse Restaurant, and the 15,500-bottle wine cellar.
Travel + Leisure, July 2025And the ranch continues its legacy as a celebrity refuge, as modern-day A-listers use this tucked-away spot to truly hide out and escape—which is what you should do too.
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68th place.
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21st place
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Hotels Own Introduction
A Storied Legacy
San Ysidro Ranch has long been a retreat for history’s most illustrious figures. Groucho Marx, Winston Churchill, and Sinclair Lewis once walked its paths, while John Huston completed the screenplay for The African Queen within its serene embrace. It was here that Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh exchanged midnight wedding vows, and where John and Jackie Kennedy began their Camelot-era honeymoon in the cottage that now bears their name.
An Idyllic Escape
Nestled in the picturesque foothills of Santa Barbara, San Ysidro Ranch offers an unparalleled sanctuary of privacy, tranquility, and natural beauty. Thirty-eight vine-covered cottages sit among lush, meticulously landscaped gardens, where vibrant flowers bloom year-round beneath the shade of towering sycamores and ancient oaks. Strolling through citrus groves and olive trees, past a lily pond framed by fragrant magnolias, jasmine, and orange blossoms, guests experience a true hidden paradise.
Culinary Excellence
The Ranch provides an exceptional dining experience, with all meals included in each stay. Herbs and vegetables are hand-selected from the onsite chef’s garden, ensuring fresh, vibrant flavors in every dish. At The Stonehouse, housed in a historic 19th-century citrus packing house and recognized with a Wine Spectator Grand Award, guests dine in an enchanting atmosphere. A full-bar lounge, elegant dining room, and ocean-view terrace set the stage for unforgettable culinary moments.
A Haven of Relaxation
The Salon & Spa at San Ysidro Ranch offers an exclusive retreat, blending luxurious amenities with an ambiance of serenity. Fireplaces flicker softly, while hand-painted songbirds adorn the walls, creating a space of refined tranquility. State-of-the-art treatments and world-class service complete this intimate escape, ensuring every stay is a rejuvenating experience.