The Hotel Californian, a 121-room Spanish-colonial-style beacon on State Street and the Waterfront, opened in 2017 and has since blended harmoniously into the frivolity of the Funk Zone.
Although a night’s stay is quite expensive, Santa Barbara residents don’t have to be a celebrity to enjoy the luxury of this architectural wonder.
Below are some lovely seasonal offers to help you enjoy the amenities of this Moroccan oasis without paying the price of a pajama party.
Sunset Sessions
I’m even hesitant to write about this evening rooftop party, as it feels like a lovely little unearthed gem shining in the heart of SB, undisturbed by overcrowding. On the other hand, this event is just too good not to share.
As the sun begins to disappear behind the Santa Ynez Mountains, the music gets louder on the Mirador rooftop of the Hotel Californian. Every Sunday from 5pm to 9pm through September 1st, talented DJs spin incredibly groovy sets with a 360-degree view of the mountains, ocean and city in the background.
I’ve always admired the dramatic beauty of the mountains’ proximity to the sea in Santa Barbara. The stunning hotel is bathed in the pink and orange light of the setting sun, the sea sparkles, and the mountains are illuminated. This event makes you feel as if you’re being overwhelmed by the beauty of Santa Barbara. Drinks like the refreshing Guava Margarita or Margerum Riviera Rose are the perfect accompaniment to the sounds and sights. If you work up an appetite while dancing and chatting, delicious snacks are also available.
The night I was there, we were treated to a set by David Hohne, and the lineup for the rest of the summer will surely keep the impeccable vibe going through Labor Day.
With the nights getting shorter again in just a few months, the Sunset Sessions are the perfect opportunity for locals and visitors to celebrate how lucky we are to be in this magical place.
Saturday sessions
For another trip to the rooftop, this time in the fitness area, check out the Majorelle Saturday Sessions. Classes range from Mat Pilates to Full Body Burn and the instructors are all experienced fitness professionals. The best part is that all of these classes are free, so all you need to do is sign up on the website to secure your spot.
The morning I walked up the stairs to the beautiful Serena rooftop to join a mindfulness yoga class, it was slightly overcast—perfect for working up a little sweat without brooding. The salty ocean air, ocean views, and light breeze added an extra element of calm to the grounding Vinyasa class.
Our teacher, Maddie, was friendly and professional. Her voice and calm yet powerful demeanor led our class of all levels through a dynamic and well-thought-out flow. At the end, as I lay in Savasana and looked up at the clouds and palm trees in the sky, all my worries were no longer so great, but gently melted away with each breath.
Recharged for the day, I rolled up my mat and couldn’t wait to check the schedule to see what was on offer the next week. Saturday sessions are held year-round on Instagram Live and are offered in person on the rooftop at Serena through October.
Even though summer is coming to an end, the Hotel Californian continues to focus on wellness and fun.
