Santa Barbara’s Spanish Serenade: A Luxurious, Iconic, and Intellectual Traveler’s Dream

Nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara, often referred to as The American Riviera, the Kimpton Canary Hotel offers a sublime blend of Spanish-style sophistication and luxurious comfort. This iconic hotel epitomizes the elegance and charm of Santa Barbara, providing an exquisite retreat for intellectual travelers and beach lovers alike. This hotel attracts tourists from all around the world thanks to its ideal location and its perfect embodiment of iconic Spanish-Style sophistication. Come with me to explore this elegant establishment!

Spanish-Style Sophistication and Rooftop Terrace

I was anticipating my stay at the Kimpton Canary Hotel. In my opinion, it is one of the best establishments in the center of Santa Barbara. The Kimpton Canary Hotel captures the essence of Santa Barbara with its Spanish-style architecture and beautifully designed interiors. Historic elements like original terracotta floors, exposed wooden beams, and wrought iron accents merge effortlessly with modern hues of off-white and cream, brass fixtures, and curtains that flutter in the sea breeze. This coastal gem invites you into a world where time slows, and the whispers of history blend seamlessly with the vibrant pulse of modern life. The hotel’s crown jewel is its rooftop pool, a celestial oasis offering breathtaking views of the coastline and the city, especially enchanting at sunset when the sky transforms into a canvas of fiery oranges and soothing purples. As you lounge by the pool, let the gentle breeze carry the salt-kissed aroma of the Pacific, mingling with the fragrance of blooming bougainvillea.

Guests can unwind in the hotel’s plush four-post beds, touted as some of the most indulgent accommodations available. Each night promises a restful slumber, cradled in luxury akin to the embrace of a warm summer evening. The hotel’s large open terrace is a haven for relaxation, featuring comfortable seating and a stunning view of the Santa Barbara skyline. Gather around the fire pit as the stars emerge, their light reflecting the timeless charm of this coastal paradise.

Culinary Delights and Dining Recommendations

Dining at the Kimpton Canary Hotel is an experience in itself. The hotel’s beloved Finch and Fork restaurant offers farm-fresh cuisine that delights the senses. The air is filled with the tantalizing aromas of locally sourced ingredients being transformed into culinary masterpieces. For those looking to explore local culinary gems, Flor de Maiz is highly recommended. This restaurant offers an authentic taste of Mexican cuisine with a modern twist, located just a short stroll from the hotel. Each dish is a symphony of flavors, a testament to Santa Barbara’s rich culinary tapestry.

Luxurious Accommodations: Suites and Classic Rooms

The hotel’s suites are the epitome of luxury, featuring spacious living areas, elegant furnishings, and modern amenities. Each suite is a sanctuary of comfort, with large windows that allow natural light to flood the room, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The rooms feel fresh and contemporary, featuring calming blue-green paint, white shutter-style doors leading to the bathroom adorned with hand-painted Spanish tiles above the bathtub and shower, inlaid Moroccan tiles, and wide rugs on wooden floors. Picture yourself awakening to the soft glow of dawn, the gentle hum of the city below, and the promise of a day filled with discovery. The rooms also offer a Nespresso coffee maker, two flat-screen televisions, and free Wi-Fi.

The classic rooms are equally charming, offering a cozy yet sophisticated retreat with all the modern conveniences expected by discerning travelers. Every detail, from the plush bedding to the carefully curated decor, whispers a promise of unparalleled comfort.

Elegant Lobby and Easy Access

As soon as I entered the lobby of the Kimpton Canary Hotel, I was enchanted by the welcoming ambiance with its high ceilings, beautiful Spanish tiles, and comfortable seating areas. It is a space where history and elegance converge, inviting guests to linger and savor the moment. Just a two-minute walk from the hotel, about a block away, is State Street main drag, the vibrant heart of Santa Barbara. Since COVID, this major thoroughfare has been transformed into a pedestrian paradise, free from the hustle of traffic and alive with the sounds of street musicians, the laughter of children, and the hum of conversation. This bustling street is lined with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, providing endless entertainment options. The nearby Paseo Nuevo shopping district offers a more upscale shopping experience, perfect for those seeking high-end fashion and unique finds. It features movie theaters, dining options, Nordstrom, Macy’s, and, for any makeup mishaps, Sephora.

Shopping and Unique Boutiques

Santa Barbara boasts a variety of shopping options, from unique boutiques to well-known brands. The Cost Plus World Market is a favorite for those seeking eclectic home décor and global treasures. Paseo Nuevo, with its upscale shops, provides a more luxurious shopping experience, while State Street offers a mix of trendy boutiques and local artisan shops. As you stroll through these charming streets, let the blend of ocean air and the scent of freshly brewed coffee guide you.

Experience Santa Barbara’s Charm

Staying at the Kimpton Canary Hotel not only immerses you in luxurious comfort but also places you in the heart of Santa Barbara’s vibrant culture. The city itself is a treasure trove of experiences, from the hidden gems of cozy coffee shops like Santa Barbara Roasting Co. or Handlebar Coffee Roasters, where the aroma of freshly roasted beans beckons, to the enchanting Lilac Pâtisserie in downtown Santa Barbara operated by Chefs Gillian and Alam Muralles, and its dining restaurant that brings gluten-free goodness to the dinner table at Montecito like Lilac Montecito, offering the finest food and feels like dining on the streets of Paris. Dive into the cultural tapestry of the city with visits to the Santa Barbara Museum of Art and the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara, where each artifact and painting tells a story of the region’s rich heritage.

Book Your Stay

Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, the Kimpton Canary Hotel promises an unforgettable experience. Book your stay today and let the dedicated staff guide you to adventures and experiences that will create lasting memories. Ben Daly, one of the owners, along with Alice Weller, the Marketing Manager, and Preme and Ingrid, have all been very helpful in extending our stay for an additional night!

For more information and to make reservations, visit the Kimpton Canary Hotel website. Discover the luxury, elegance, and warm hospitality that make this hotel a true gem in the heart of Santa Barbara. Note that It offers valet parking and a helpful concierge service as well.

In the words of John Steinbeck, “People don’t take trips, trips take people.” Allow Santa Barbara and the Kimpton Canary Hotel to take you on a journey of discovery, where the charm of the past meets the luxury of the present, and every moment is a celebration of the senses.

About the Author

Isabelle Karamooz, Founder of FQM is originally from Versailles, France. Isabelle harbored a lifelong fascination with exploring the world. Her journey began at 17 when she seized the opportunity to study abroad in Rhonda, Spain, igniting a passion for travel that took her across continents. From vibrant Hong Kong to picturesque Ireland, from the historic streets of Italy to the enchanting landscapes of Morocco, she embraced diverse cultures and experiences, truly embodying the spirit of a global citizen. After several years of exploration, Isabelle found a sense of home in Los Angeles, where she immersed herself in the vibrant cultural scene while working at the French Consulate. With a deep-seated love for the arts and history, she pursued her academic endeavors, earning a Bachelor's degree in History from the University of California, Berkeley. Furthering her dedication to education, she has studied to pursue a Master's program in teaching at the University of Southern California, eventually sharing her knowledge and passion as a French instructor for aspiring students at UNLV and CSN in Nevada. Driven by her passion for storytelling and cultural exchange, Isabelle founded French Quarter Magazine, where she serves as the Editor-in-Chief. In this role, she orchestrates the publication's diverse content, from conducting interviews and pitching story ideas to capturing captivating moments through photography. Currently, she is channeling her creative energies into her first English-language work, a novel that delves into the compelling life of Coco Chanel. Filled with adventure, intrigue, and a touch of romance, her debut novel promises to captivate readers with its rich tapestry of history and emotion.