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Health Line
2 days ago
- Health
- Health Line
10 Benefits of Burning Sage, How to Get Started, and More
Burning sage — also known as cleansing — is an ancient spiritual ritual. Certain types of sage have antimicrobial properties and may provide additional benefits. Where did the practice originate? Distinct from cleansing, smudging has been well established as a Native American cultural or tribal practice, although not all groups practice it. We have the traditions of many Native American peoples, including the Lakota, Chumash, and Cahuilla, to thank for its use. Many other cultures around the world share similar rituals. Read on to learn more about the benefits of burning sage and how you can use it to improve your overall well-being. It may be purifying The most commonly used types of sage have antimicrobial properties, which means they may keep infectious bacteria, viruses, and fungi at bay. White prairie sage (technically a mugwort species, Artemisia ludoviciana) is both antimicrobial and antibacterial. White sage (an actual sage, Salvia apiana) is also antimicrobial. And both have been shown to repel insects. It may help relieve the symptoms of some conditions It turns out that sage may help clear the air of lots more than bugs and bacteria. Though scientifically unproven, burning sage is thought to release negative ions, which are said to help neutralize positive ions. Common positive ions are allergens like: pet dander pollution dust mold If this is the case, burning sage may be a blessing for those with asthma, allergies, bronchitis, and other respiratory conditions. However, inhaling the smoke during the cleansing process can aggravate any respiratory condition. Wait until the smoke clears before going into the room. It can be a spiritual tool Burning sage has long been used to connect to the spiritual realm or enhance intuition. In traditional cultures, burning sage is used by healers and laypeople to achieve a healing state or to solve or reflect upon spiritual dilemmas. This may also have some scientific basis. Certain types of sage, including salvia sages and white prairie sage, contain thujone. It may help dispel negative energy Burning sage may also be used as a ritual tool to rid yourself or your space of negativity. This includes past traumas, bad experiences, or negative energies from others. This may help you establish a positive environment for meditation or another ritual. Choosing to sit and let go of negative thoughts in a ritual like this sets your intention and dedication to self-improvement. Choosing to engage in ritual can be the beginning of your change in mindset. It can cleanse or empower specific objects Burning sage creates fragrant smoke, which is central to its benefits. You can use this incense to cleanse yourself or specific spaces. Or, according to some sources, you can cleanse specific objects. This can be useful with new purchases, gifts, or secondhand items. However, any item can be cleansed. If you have any concern with negative history or energy attached to a new or unfamiliar object, burning sage may help bring peace of mind and make the object more sacred to you. It may help improve your mood Tradition suggests that burning sage can literally lift one's spirits to banish negativity. Some research supports this. A 2014 study documented white prairie sage (also known as estafiate) as an important traditional remedy for treating anxiety, depression, and mood disorders in certain cultures. It may help soothe stress If burning sage can lift one's mood, it could also be a great ally against stress. A 2016 research project for the University of Mississippi established that white sage (Salvia apiana) is rich in compounds that activate certain receptors in the brain. These receptors are responsible for elevating mood levels, reducing stress, and even alleviating pain. It may improve the quality of your sleep Burning sage has been traditionally used to safeguard against negativity that could interfere with sleep. Some research suggests that sage contains compounds that could help ease insomnia. Classic garden sage (Salvia officinalis) is sometimes burned like white sage. It's also been used to improve sleep and soothe anxiety. It may help boost cognition In addition to dissipating negative energy, improving mood, and strengthening intuition, burning sage might improve your memory and focus. A 2016 review of studies noted that evidence for salvia's cognitive-enhancing benefits is promising, perhaps affecting dementia and Alzheimer's disease. However, most of these studies analyzed salvia being taken internally, not burned. More research is needed. It can create an uplifting fragrance For some, this may be the best of all benefits: Sage is a lovely incense with a divine aroma, pure and simple. It also works great as a chemical-free air freshener or odor controller. How to prepare for a cleanse Before burning sage, some recommend setting intentions if cleansing for spiritual, energetic, and negativity-clearing purposes. Remove animals or people from the room. It's also important to leave a window open before, during, and after cleansing. This allows smoke to escape. Some believe smoke also takes impurities and negative energy with it, so don't skip this step. How to cleanse your living space, an object, and more These steps apply whether you're cleansing yourself, your home, or an object. You can cleanse any of these as often as you'd like. Light the end of a sage bundle with a match. Blow it out quickly if it catches on fire. The tips of the leaves should smolder slowly, releasing thick smoke. With one hand, direct this smoke around your body and space while holding the bundle in the other. Allow the incense to linger on the areas of your body or surroundings you'd like to focus on. Using a fan or a feather can also help direct the smoke, though this is optional. Allow the ash to collect in a ceramic bowl or shell. Cleanse your home or living space In this instance, direct sage smoke over all surfaces and spaces in your home or living area. Be thorough. Some recommend working in a clockwise direction around your home, ending back where you started, especially for spiritual purposes. Others recommend counterclockwise. Do what feels best for your situation and follow your intuition. Cleanse an object Direct smoke around and over the object of your choice. This can be done to a new item, such as jewelry, furniture, or clothing, to protect or dispel it of negative energy. Items related to negative experiences or memories may also be cleansed. Some people burn sage over special objects to acknowledge the object with sacred meaning. Aromatherapy You can also light and burn sage to improve odor, fragrance, and mood. Simply waft sage smoke in and around your home. You can place the bundle in a fireproof bowl or burner and allow it to smoke for a while. What to do after a cleanse Make sure your sage bundle is completely extinguished. You can do this by dabbing the lit end into a small bowl of ash or sand. Avoid using water, since it may be challenging to reignite sage if it is extinguished by water. Check the end closely to make sure there are no more embers burning. Once it's completely put out, store it in a safe, dry place out of the sun. Are there any side effects or risks? When done correctly and respectfully, burning sage is completely safe, and the effects last after the smoke clears. Be careful with sage when it's lit. If you aren't careful, burns and even fire is possible. Have water nearby. Never leave burning sage unattended. Make sure to put your sage bundle out completely after every use. Setting off smoke alarms is common. Consider this if burning sage in a public building. People with asthma and other respiratory conditions may be more sensitive to the smoke and have adverse reactions. Always leave a window open while burning sage. Inhaling smoke can be hazardous to your health. The bottom line Burning sage has many benefits as a spiritual practice. Some research supports certain health benefits of sage, such as antimicrobial properties and enhanced alertness, but more research is needed. There is very little research on burning sage as a practice beyond the cultural practice of the ritual.
San Francisco Chronicle
02-07-2025
- Sport
- San Francisco Chronicle
Are you blaming Matt Williams for Giants' baserunning woes? Former coach won't have it
The thought was to discuss the art of coaching third base with a past master of that art. It is a relevant topic, with San Francisco Giants third-base coach Matt Williams in hot water with many fans and critics over several recent, ill-fated stay-or-go decisions. I should have known that seeking the wisdom of Tim Flannery would lead down a strange and mystical path, with a few side trips for laughs. Flannery was the Giants' third-base coach under manager Bruce Bochy from 2007 to '14. Flannery's rep: Fearless, but not reckless. Scientific, but soulful. His style? Enthusiastic. He would windmill a runner around third, then chase him home like the guy owed Flan money. Was he good? Three fat diamond rings don't lie. So, the right guy to talk to. But not easy to reach. When he's not on tour with his band, the Lunatic Fringe, Flannery and his wife Donna spend much of their time in a cabin overlooking the Pacific Ocean, in the rugged wilderness an hour's drive North of Santa Barbara. Power is by solar and propane, water is from a well, phone service is limited to texting. Flannery texts a video taken from his porch, of a friendly scuffle between a wildcat and a huge wild pig. Caption: 'Kids will be kids.' He says he is off the grid. 'We got guns and food and beans and surfboards.' I ask by text, Can we talk? His text: 'I can drive to the top of a mountain and call you at 3 o'clock, if that works.' It does, if you don't mind the wind whistling in the background. Or is it the sound of wandering souls? Flannery's cabin is in the wilds near Pt. Conception, the Western-most point in the continental U.S. 'The Chumash call this point the Gateway of the Souls, where all life enters and exits,' Flannery says. 'It's a sacred place. My favorite place in the world.' I look it up later. The Chumash name for Pt. Conception was 'Humqaq,' which means 'The raven comes.' In Chumash mythology, this point of land was the portal for dead souls to enter paradise, but in order for them to find their way, the souls had to discard their earthly eyes and receive their 'celestial eyes' from the ravens. Is it merely a wild coincidence that the most respectful denizen of this sacred place is a man who once directed lost souls towards their heavenly destination by being their celestial eyes? 'Hunter Pence would take off on a stolen base, he would never look, never know where the ball was,' says Flannery, sounding peeved. 'I would beg runners like him, 'Look, if you don't know where the ball is, you gotta promise me that as soon as you hear contact, you look at me, because you've brought me into the equation, let me try to get both of us out of this thing.' ' It was a tough job, coaching third for the Giants, as Flannery quickly learned. Halfway through his first spring training, the team attended a civic season-kickoff banquet. 'I had a couple glasses of wine and I had to go to the bathroom,' Flannery recalls. 'I went in and there was (then team owner) Peter Magowan, and he said, 'Well, you got another guy thrown out today.' And I kind of snapped on him, I said, 'Hey, if you wanted safety-first, you should have hired a school crossing guard.' ' When Flannery signed on with the Giants, he was already a seasoned third-base coach, but he studied hard under Giants legends Joey Amalfitano and Jim Davenport. He learned to play the Giants' quirky ballpark. 'Visiting players came in there, and they're dealing with the cold and the wind,' Flannery says, 'they're dealing with things they're not used to in places like Arizona and Houston, comfort areas, climate-controlled. You can sometimes take radical chances here, because you've done your homework.' Behind every green light or red light was a ton of that homework. If the Giants were in a heavy schedule with no days off and a short bullpen, Flannery would throw a couple extra ounces of caution to the wind to avoid extra innings, which would deplete the bullpen and compromise the team for days to come. Flannery watches the Giants on his solar-powered satellite TV, from his Lay-Z-Boy recliner, and he can feel the heat on Williams. It pisses him off, so recently, via social media, he engaged some of that infamous lunatic fringe of folks angry for the sake of being angry on those apps to join in the spirited debate over Matt Williams. 'I'd had enough, and I explained a few things to people, why you make decisions,' Flannery says. 'What I said to these people online was, 'For the last 15 years, this time of year, you all went on vacations, you all had picnics at the park. Matt Williams has been coaching third while you were going on your picnics, he's coached 15 years, he's probably got a pretty good idea why he sent the runner.' I can have conversation with people about this, but the only ones that really understand are former third-base coaches.' Remembering back, Flannery gets emotional, speaking loudly over the whistling wind. 'You line up nine coaches and you say, 'Who wants to coach third?' and eight guys are taking a step back. Unless you really dig it. There's times it's terrible, it's brutal. My daughter came up to San Francisco (from San Diego), it was her birthday, we were all going to go out to dinner. I couldn't go out, because I screwed up a game and I knew I screwed it up, and they were killing me on radio and TV. I told them, 'I just can't go, I can't go out in public and take this from people tonight. I'm not gonna discuss it with a plumber.' ' So Flannery sympathizes with Williams, who he says is a great third-base coach. He points out that the job is even harder now than when he coached, because pitchers don't hit, and because of the overwhelming presence of gambling, with big stakes riding on every run, even in a lopsided game. Last Sunday, heading to a music gig near Oracle Park, Flannery felt the old tension flooding back, in a good way. 'I loved it, I loved it,' he says. 'I still get, when guys make decisions, when they are in the right place to make the call, and they wait til the right moment, I get off on it. It is such an art.' For Flannery, it was also a physically-demanding job. He says he learned as a paperboy that you run faster when you're chased by an angry dog. So to make sure his baserunner knew the dog was angry, the old dog would chase him home, yelling. From his mountaintop perch on Hamqaq, Flannery screams into his phone: 'YOU'VE GOTTA F----G GOOOO!' I wonder if the crows circling nearby are listening to this strange being, and saying to one another, 'Well, that's one way to get 'em to heaven.'
USA Today
30-06-2025
- USA Today
10 things to do in Santa Ynez Valley that don't involve wine
Horseback riding at the Alisal Guest Ranch is one of the best non-wine things to do in the Santa Ynez Valley – Photo courtesy of Visit the Santa Ynez Valley Tucked between the Santa Ynez and San Rafael Mountains in Santa Barbara County, the Santa Ynez Valley is often synonymous with wine, thanks to nearly 300 wineries and tasting rooms (and a little movie called "Sideways"). But there's far more to the region than pinot noir and chardonnay. Just a two-hour drive from Los Angeles (or 45 minutes from Santa Barbara), this sun-drenched stretch of rolling hills, horse ranches, cowboy towns, and one Danish village is full of charm, wide-open skies, and plenty of things to do that don't involve vino. If you're like me, you might need a break from the tasting rooms; if you're like my friends, you have kids in tow who need to be entertained. It's good to have some balance. Here are 10 ways to spend the day around the Santa Ynez Valley without wine, including family-friendly activities, restaurants, and museums in Solvang, Los Olivos, Buellton, and surrounding areas. Plus, we offer some hotel recommendations, which you'll need, whether you're drinking wine or not. Advertisement Windmills, Danish pastries, and half-timbered architecture give Solvang its fairy-tale vibe. Wander Mission Drive through the center of town for charming boutiques, clog shops, and old-world bakeries (my favorite for Danish is Mortensen's Bakery). Duck into one of the museums — from the Hans Christian Andersen Museum to the Solvang Motorcycle Museum — or grab an abelskiver before grabbing a photo beneath the windmill in the center of town. Go full cowboy in Santa Ynez The tiny town of Santa Ynez feels like a sepia-toned postcard. Think frontier-style storefronts, dusty wooden boardwalks, and hitching posts with actual horses. But the vibe is elevated with art galleries, coffee bars, and excellent restaurants. At KJ Murphy's Custom Hatter & Mercantile, get a custom-made hat that's shaped to fit your head and styled just for you. Visit the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum to explore the Old West and the area's rich ranching history. Every June, Old Santa Ynez Days features parties, parades, and a rodeo. Learn about the native people and lands This museum and cultural center preserves the rich history and vibrant culture of the Chumash people – Photo courtesy of Mimi Fuenzalida / Santa Ynez Chumash Museum and Cultural Center At the Santa Ynez Chumash Museum and Cultural Center, go back in time before the ranchers arrived. The museum and cultural center honors the 8,000‑year legacy of the Chumash people. Designed to echo traditional tule 'ap, the LEED-certified building weaves immersive galleries, native gardens, and community‑inspired storytelling into a soulful, thought‑provoking visit. Hit the spa Pampering is part of the valley pace. Find massage services, facials, and relaxing vibes at the Lavender Barn at The Inn at Mattei's Tavern in Los Olivos. The spa at Chumash Casino Resort offers luxe treatments and private cabanas, while small boutique hotels like The Genevieve have more intimate experiences. Think eucalyptus steam, lavender oils, and vineyard views — without the vino. OstrichLand USA is a quirky, fun, and definitely unforgettable experience in the Santa Ynez Valley. Feed ostriches and emus, learn about the giant birds, and snap pics as they strut like runway models with feathers to match. It's part roadside attraction, part educational stop, and an easy hit with kids and grown-ups alike. For more animal fun, visit the farm at Vega Vineyard and Farm, where kids can feed chickens, goats, and more. Hike the trails The rolling hills around Santa Ynez Valley are filled with trails and views for days – Photo courtesy of Lesley Balla Framed by mountains and rolling hills, there's no shortage of hikes around Santa Ynez Valley, from easy walking paths to challenging hikes surrounded by wildflowers and views as far as the ocean. The in-and-out Lake Cachuma Sweetwater Trail offers stunning lakeside vistas, and the easy hike at Nojoqui Falls Park is always a popular choice. You'll find more rigorous trails with wow-worthy views along Gaviota Peak and Grass Mountain. Advertisement At Vino Vaqueros, saddle up for a guided ride through rolling hills, shady oaks, and golden meadows. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned rider, the views and pace are pure California calm. Rides are private and tailored — just you, the horse, and the Santa Ynez sun. If you do feel like sipping wine, rides come with two complimentary tastes after the trek (not during). Guests of the Alisal Guest Ranch can also enjoy horseback riding on the property. Take a hot air balloon ride Sky's the Limit Ballooning offers rides above vineyards, ranches, and coastal mountains around the valley. The two-hour experience (one hour in the air) is peaceful, magical, and a breathtaking way to see the landscape unfold. Keep your eyes peeled for foxes, deer, and other wildlife below. If you stay at the Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort in Solvang, the members-only Ranch Course is a premier setting with ancient oaks lining the fairways and mountains framing every hole. La Purisima Golf Course, located in nearby Lompoc, is a local favorite, boasting rolling terrain and a peaceful, uncrowded feel that's perfect for both casual and serious golfers. Eat like a local Bell's in Los Alamos offers some of the best food in the Santa Ynez Valley – Photo courtesy of Carter Hiyama Each town in the Santa Ynez Valley has its unique character and charm, and the restaurant scene follows suit. A few highlights include Michelin-worthy meals at Coast Range in Solvang, notable Bell's in Los Alamos, and sibling Bar Le Cote in Los Olivos. The latter has an incredible happy hour. A platter of freshly shucked oysters and killer fries are my go-to. Family-friendly stalwarts include Full of Life Foods, where pizza reigns supreme (but don't miss the seasonal menu items). For breakfast pastries, stellar sandwiches, and grab-and-go delights, get to Bob's Well Bread in Los Alamos and Ballard early. Things sell out fast! Seasonal salads, handmade pastas, and pizza are hallmarks of S.Y. Kitchen – Photo courtesy of Visit the Santa Ynez Valley Dinner at Hitching Post 2 in Buellton features Santa Maria-style steaks, hearty side dishes, and a down-home crowd; it's also the most "Sideways" famous restaurant in the valley. S.Y. Kitchen in Santa Ynez offers a unique blend of farmhouse vibes and handmade Italian specialties, including wood-fired pizzas and fresh salads. Advertisement Where to stay in Santa Ynez Valley A stay at The Inn at Mattei's Tavern is a perfect Santa Ynez Valley getaway – Photo courtesy of Lesley Balla The Inn at Mattei's Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection: This historic 1886 stagecoach-turned-luxury retreat in Los Olivos boasts a laid-back, elegant country-chic vibe. The Inn at Matttei's Tavern features reimagined cottages and studios with patios, spa, poolside cabanas, fire pits throughout the property, and a fantastic restaurant and bar. Don't miss experiences like a watercolor class under the water tower, making hats and olive oil, and the weekly winemakers' event at the bar, which brings locals and guests together for a lively happy hour. When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission. Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort: Nestled on 10,500 acres in the heart of Santa Ynez Valley, Alisal Ranch blends the Old West with modern-luxe comfort. Think cozy cottages with fireplaces, a lake for fishing, tennis, plus 50 miles of horseback trails. Nightly rates include breakfast and dinner at any of the three all-day restaurants. When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission. Fess Parker Wine Country Inn: A staple in the heart of Los Olivos, the Fess Parker Wine Country Inn features 19 boutique-style rooms, a restaurant, a garden with firepits, and a heated pool. When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission. The Skyview Hotel is full of vibes in Los Alamos – Photo courtesy of Lesley Balla Skyview Los Alamos: You'll see the big, yellow sign from Highway 101 beckoning like a retro roadside motel, but the Skyview Hotel is a boutique stay with desert-cool vibes, a refreshing pool, and starlit patios. Meeting fellow guests around the firepits is part of the charm. When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission. Hotel Ynez: A stay at Hotel Ynez is an intimate Solvang retreat featuring firepits, a heated pool, and ample outdoor lounging space. The rooms have clean lines and modern touches. When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission. Santa Ynez Valley Marriott: This Marriott in Buellton offers easy access off Highway 101, ample rooms for groups, and is a popular choice for families traveling through the area.
Associated Press
24-06-2025
- General
- Associated Press
VIrtual Tikkun™ Transforms Torah Experience
Custom Tikkuns for unique Torah scrolls remove barriers to leyning (reading/chanting) Torah 'Virtual Tikkun blends traditional Torah practice with modern technology providing a custom, online tikkun for each unique Torah scroll'— David Bayer SAN FRANCISCO, CA, UNITED STATES, June 24, 2025 / / -- Virtual Tikkun 1.0 'Where Words of Torah Take Flight™, the pioneering digital Tikkun designed to capture and accurately represent unique Torah scrolls, delivers high-resolution online images of every column in each Sefer Torah together with the Chumash text for each column. Each scroll is organized by parshiot (portions) and aliyot (readings) with in-line indicators, providing direct and intuitive navigation. Students and experienced readers alike learn and practice their readings using views of the same Torah from which they will leyn (read/chant) - including the handwritten Torah column image, Chumash text, and most importantly, the side-by-side Tikkun view. 'Virtual Tikkun blends traditional Torah practice with modern technology' said David Bayer, Founder and CEO, 'providing a custom, online tikkun for each unique Torah scroll that simplifies and accelerates the Torah experience for students and seasoned Torah readers so they can leyn with confidence.' Traditional Tikkuns provide only a standard set of images from one Torah scroll. However, every Torah scroll is handwritten by a Sofer (scribe) and can vary based on word spacing, line space, letter kerning, calligraphic script differences, and actual condition. This can lead to real-time surprises that create anxiety for students and seasoned readers, as well as burden clergy, teachers and tutors with demands for one-off Torah images (that are now provided by Virtual Tikkun) and in-person practice sessions. Virtual Tikkun also enables synagogues that are fortunate to have multiple Sifrei Torah to utilize more of their kosher Torah scrolls in ritual practice, especially pre-war scrolls saved from the Shoah that differ significantly from modern Vav Torahs. B'nai Mitzvah, adult students and Baalei Kria (Torah readers) can now learn and review their readings using the Virtual Tikkun for each unique scroll to become comfortable with their reading. Overcoming these challenges was imperative for Rabbi Amanda Russell at Congregation Beth Sholom in San Francisco: 'To bring more of our Torah scrolls into rotation for regular reading use, including several saved from the Shoah, Virtual Tikkun delivers immediate, high-quality access to images of each scroll, with the customized side-by-side Tikkun view that makes learning and chanting Torah easy and accessible. This has empowered our B'nai Mitzvah and lay Baalei Kria across the board.' Virtual Tikkun uses artificial intelligence to optimize the high-resolution images, deskewing textual lines and optimizing contrast while maintaining contextual condition information. To create the traditional Tikkun view it intelligently reads the text in each unique Torah, automatically aligning the Chumash text correctly line-by-line and identifying parshiot and aliyot for the entire Torah to guide navigation. Users can easily download or print out their reading, as well as share locations with students and colleagues. As an internet-based application, Virtual Tikkun is available on-demand across a variety of digital devices. The audience using Virtual Tikkun extends from B'nai Mitzvah to seasoned readers. Together with clergy and their teachers they expect a high level of support for their Virtual Tikkun. 'What a pleasure this experience has been. The Virtual Tikkun team has been very easy to work with, very responsive to our needs and goals,' said Susan Simon, Director of Education at Temple Beth Abraham in Oakland CA, who leads an in-house team of lay Torah readers. 'They worked quickly and efficiently when photographing our Torah and listened closely to our feedback and suggestions for new application functionality, implementing them quickly. The intuitive interface of Virtual Tikkun has made our Torah readers very happy.' Virtual Tikkun v1.0 is available today. To ensure that all synagogues can avail themselves of Virtual Tikkun pricing is structured on a sliding scale. We will be exhibiting and previewing Virtual Tikkun at the ACC-GTM 2025 conference in Washington DC, June 29-July 2. Please visit or contact David Bayer at [email protected] for more details or to schedule a demo. ### About Virtual Tikkun: Virtual Tikkun strives to make the experience of chanting and hearing Torah vibrant and alive, shared by young and old alike, by delivering a Torah tikkun experience that accelerates learning while creating comfort and confidence. We leverage advanced technology to create custom, personalized tikkuns of your unique Sifrei Torah with detailed organization, robust capabilities, and flexible, on-demand delivery. Blending tradition with modernity, the Virtual Tikkun experience supports clergy and tutors, while empowering congregants and students to broaden the Torah experience community-wide. Virtual Tikkun, Where Word of Torah Take Flight, and the Virtual Tikkun logo are trademarks of Booksandart LLC. David Bayer Virtual Tikkun [email protected] Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
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Travel + Leisure
18-06-2025
- Business
- Travel + Leisure
'The American Riviera' Is One of My Favorite Destinations in California—With a Luxury Hotel That Just Got a Multimillion-dollar Makeover
The resort is perched on a bluff, providing easy access to the beach below, unobstructed ocean views, and trails for scenic walks along the shore. The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge, where guests enjoy all-day access to breakfast, a light lunch, high tea, snacks, desserts, and drinks, is worth the upgrade. The four-story spa features 36 treatment rooms, an adult-only pool, and a serene rooftop lounge with breathtaking views. Friendly, personalized service is a hallmark of the Ritz-Carlton portfolio. Classic California hacienda-style villas with a residential feel house the resort's spacious guest rooms and suites. About 90 miles from Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, a.k.a. "the American Riviera," is still a highly sought-after Central Coast escape for world-class hotels, Michelin-level dining, wine tasting, surfing, polo, antique stores, and botanical parks where you might spot a celebrity or even royalty. However, if you venture a little further north, closer to Goleta, the scenery becomes quieter, less flashy, and less crowded. It's here, on a 78-acre coastal bluff along the Gaviota Coast, once inhabited by the Chumash, that The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara awaits. The resort's name is derived from Barbara (the patron saint of Santa Barbara) and Anacapa Island. The sprawling hotel sits atop the former Chumash village of Hel'apunitse at the mouth of Tecolote Canyon, with Haskell's Beach, a renowned surf break, below it. This year, in honor of its 25th anniversary (formerly owned by Hyatt, the hotel's management was taken over by The Ritz-Carlton in 2017), the resort has undergone a multi-million-dollar revamp of the lobby, guest rooms, restaurants, pool experience, and public spaces, overseen by the renowned hospitality design firm Meyer Davis. "What excites us most is the immediate sense of place guests will feel as they arrive,' Gray Davis, co-founder of Meyer Davis, tells Travel+Leisure . 'There's a quiet elegance throughout, with places defined by natural materials, rich textures, and a deeper connection to the land and its history. The experience is intuitive and grounded, inviting a slower pace and offering a refined kind of escape." Having grown up near the area and lived in Los Angeles for most of my adult life, Santa Barbara is an easy weekend getaway that I take advantage of as often as possible. I have stayed at every top hotel here (and so has my mom), so I picked her up on the way as a mea culpa for missing Mother's Day this year, and we headed off for a staycation adventure. Driving down a lush tree-lined road just off the 101 Freeway, we came upon the resort's grand circular entrance with a large fountain. While the vast lobby wowed us with cream-colored sofas and a stone fireplace, the real star was the Chandon Champagne trolley, where a cheerful greeter offered us complimentary bubbles. Our room wasn't quite ready, so we headed to The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge near the spa and the dedicated adult pool area. I've stayed in many Ritz-Carlton resorts around the world and have always enjoyed the all-day Club Lounge amenities available to members. We arrived during high tea and had a few finger sandwiches and pastries before a staff member escorted us to our oceanfront one-bedroom suite. Sloping pathways lead to 358 rooms and suites located within 19 villa buildings, ranging from one to four stories. Our suite was in Villa Six, not far from the spa and Club Lounge, and close to the lower-level pools and Lulio, the resort's Mediterranean restaurant with an indoor dining room decorated with woven tapestries, rattan chairs, and a warm color scheme, along with a large ocean-facing patio featuring an outdoor fireplace. While we had come to Lulio that first evening just for a snack of pita bread and tzatziki, we ended up ordering delicious black garlic meatballs, seabass, steak, and a spin on pasta alla vodka made with Greek ouzo, tomato, chili, kefalotyri cheese, and rigatoni. However, the surprise hit was the Brussels sprouts cooked in a pineapple liquid. 'The burnt Brussels sprouts work well with the sweet fruit,' chef Ren Weigang says. The dish also paired well with an olive oil martini and ouzo lemonade, as I was trying to stay on theme. I also loved seeing the local wine selection from a few longtime favorite vineyards, such as Alma Rosa, Margerum, Grassini Family, and Story of Soil. Below, my full review of the renovated The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara. A one bedroom King Suite in The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara. Ron Starr/The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara The resort's new design draws inspiration from its natural landscape. 'Our intention was to preserve the property's deep connection to place. Taking inspiration from the land, we created a design language that feels both grounded and elevated, one that honors the property's original hacienda-style architecture while reimagining it for the next generation of travelers," Will Meyer, co-founder of Meyer Davis, tells T+L. Here, accommodations range from king guest rooms to the signature Ritz-Carlton Suite and Channel Islands Suite. The timeless decor features soft earth tones, terracotta tiles, reclaimed wood furniture, and walls lined with modern artworks. The connecting rooms in our oceanview suite allowed my mom and me to spread out comfortably (the two terraces were also a nice perk). The sectional sofa in the living area was converted into a bed, and complemented by another bathroom with a shower, closet space, and a small desk. The main bedroom included a four-poster mahogany bed, a fireplace, a love seat, and a small table, while the bathroom offered dual vanities, ample closet space, and a deep soaking tub. Plush Frette robes and slippers, along with Diptyque toiletries, rounded out the suite's luxe touches. We also got a kick out of the elaborate towel art on the bed—swans one night and dogs the next. Guests enjoy Mediterranean seasonal fare and refreshing cocktails at Lulio. Ron Starr/The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara With three full-service restaurants and bars, a grab-and-go coffee shop, and a poolside snack bar, in addition to The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge, there were plenty of diverse dining options during our stay. Lulio also serves daily breakfast, offering an abundant buffet of pastries, fruits, salads, charcuterie, and an egg station. We ordered duck confit hash from the à la carte menu, a chef's specialty. Light, shareable bites and sandwiches are available at the poolside SunBar menu, which also offers a few fun options for kids, including flatbread, chicken wings, chips, and guacamole. Off the lobby, 'O' Bar & Terrace, named in honor of the single-letter Chumash word for water, treated us to one of the best meals: blackened mahi mahi fish tacos, grilled prawn bucatini with zucchini in a beurre blanc sauce, and Goat Bubbles sparkling rosé. For sweeping coastal views, head to Marisella, the newest restaurant by chef Danny Grant of Maple Hospitality Group, who has worked in Michelin-starred kitchens worldwide and was Food & Wine 's Best New Chef in 2012. The California mission-style space, which officially opens to the public at the end of this month, features a large marble bar and several dining areas, including an ocean-view patio, private dining room, a speakeasy-style wine cellar, and a Bluffs Room with an open kitchen view. The menu blends Italian and California coastal flavors, inspired by the Amalfi Coast and Mediterranean cuisine. Highlights include hamachi crudo, carpaccio with caviar, tableside salt-crusted branzino, and spaghetti alla Nerano with summer squash and cheese. The drink options are a nod to Italian aperitivo culture, alongside a wine selection of classic Italian varietals. At the hotel porte-cochere, we discovered a new coffee shop that offers artisanal coffee and pastries, snacks from local businesses like Rori's Artisanal Creamery, along with supplies ranging from sunscreen to candles. The main pool at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara. Ron Starr/The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara The resort features three pools, including one in the spa, along with a gym equipped with workout machines, free weights, and personal training options. Unless you have a specific daily workout routine you wish to follow, you can easily get plenty of cardio exercise by walking around the hilly grounds and climbing the long, winding staircases adorned with Spanish tiles, taking you from your villa to the lobby, pools, spa, and various dining and drinking spots. (We adopted the detox-to-retox approach and regret nothing.) Additionally, I took the beach walk several times at my leisure, but guests can also enjoy it in a group or with a guide—just check the daily fitness schedule. A naturalist-led hike through the resort's nature reserve is also an excellent option for staying active. Classic wellness offerings, such as yoga and Pilates classes, as well as sound baths and circuit training, are also available. Exterior of the spa and spa pool. The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara The four-story spa boasts 42,000 square feet, 36 treatment rooms, a redwood sauna, an eucalyptus steam room, and a whirlpool hot tub. This is also where you will find the adult-only pool, flanked by black-and-white striped umbrellas. While waiting for your therapist at the Serenity Lounge, you can unwind with Therabody LED face masks, jet boots, and smart goggles with virtual reality-guided meditation. Don't leave without checking out the views from the rooftop lounge. While my mom had a pedicure in the salon downstairs, I opted for the Sleep Ritual treatment. It started like a standard massage, but also included a guided breathing segment and a visualization exercise to help quiet my mind and release physical tension and emotional anxieties. The idea is to switch off and restore balance, ensuring a blissful night's sleep. I wish I could say I slept like a baby that night, but I had too much caffeine that day—complimentary teas in my room and The Art of Tea in the Club Lounge, plus a chocolate truffle latte in the coffee shop—so it was my own fault. I also couldn't stay for the entire two-hour treatment because of a work call. What did almost put me to sleep was the deep tissue full-body hot stone massage. The resort has two family-friendly pools and hot tubs. Cabanas with private fridges and TVs are also available for booking. Additionally, a kids' club offers seasonal activities and programming (ages five through 12), including arts and crafts and outdoor games. If you want to stay close to shore and engage in an educational activity, consider the naturalist-led tour of Haskell's Beach, which includes a discussion on local wildlife, neighboring ecosystems, and unique flora and fauna. The resort's Jean-Michel Cousteau-trained naturalist can also take guests on a two-hour Ellwood Bike and Hike through an eucalyptus grove and along ocean bluffs. Birding adventure tours are another good option, while night owls might want to explore the coastal stargazing activities. The hotel has several accessible accommodations, including a Garden-Level Guest Room and a Fireside King, both with large balconies or patios, wheelchair-accessible vanities, hearing kits upon request, lowered night guards and outlets, and roll-in showers. Guests with disabilities can also take advantage of the jitney cart service to navigate the resort's grounds. The outdoor spaces incorporate sustainable landscaping with native plants, reflecting the region's commitment to environmental preservation . During the construction of the original Bacara Resort & Spa, archaeologists collaborated with Chumash descendants of Hel'apunistse to preserve and protect the cultural area, as well as identify areas that Chumash can use today for ceremonial purposes, plant gathering, and community events. The resort's arrival entrance. Jim Bartsch/The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara This is an all-encompassing village-like resort, so you really don't need to leave the grounds. There is a wealth of activities, dining options, and a beautiful beach, but when you do decide to explore further, the Sandpiper Golf Course is just next door, and the hotel provides transportation. Grab an electric bike and cruise to the Ellwood Mesa Butterfly Preserve or ride along the bike path. If you decide to travel by rail or plane, the Amtrak Goleta train station and the Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) are about 10 minutes away. The small airport services a handful of major airlines, including Alaska Airlines and American Airlines, which operate from major U.S. cities such as Chicago and Seattle. The Marriott Bonvoy membership perks are vast—from Silver Elite benefits, which include late checkout and complimentary Wi-Fi, to Gold, Platinum, Elite, and Ambassador member benefits, such as a welcome gift, room upgrades (based on availability), and 4 p.m. late checkout (based on availability). Guests who book their stay with certain American Express or Chase cards receive a welcome amenity and breakfast credit for two, a daily $100 credit to be used only in Lulio, priority early check-in, a $100 incidental credit, complimentary Wi-Fi, and complimentary 4 p.m. late check-out, and upgrade based upon availability. Access to The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara starts at $200 per guest and includes a dedicated concierge, as well as all-day meals and drinks. Nightly rates at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara start from $499 based on seasonality and availability. Every T+L hotel review is written by an editor or reporter who has stayed at the property, and each hotel selected aligns with our core values.
