Had the most fantastic birthday at Alisal! Started with a great bbq the night before, then a hayride to a pancake breakfast in the gorgeous hills, canoeing on the lake, biking, swimming and a fantastic dinner. What a great experience! Thanks to everyone at Alisal Ranch for a memorable and wonderful time!
conorp254
Place is a 10 all day. Food is a 10- Wear a jacket or they may give you one to wear. Ribeye and Salmon are melt in your mouth orgasm. Bartenders are a 10 drinks are so goooood- happy hour with live guitar will make you smile til your face hurts. Grounds are picture perfect. Features of the lake, the horses, the farm animals, the grassy areas to play wiht your family is just so peaceful. Kids stuff is just right- some crafts and games. The staff at the front desk are beyond kind. Brooks Garcia specifically in sales is the shining star at this property. I am not the type to review a property but I found after his exceptional hospitality I had to submit something to show my appreciation. Go - you wont regret it- you will only want rebook...
mgmcQuade
This dude ranch has tons of unique offerings for the area (horseback, archery/air rifle lessons, electric-mountain bike tour, etc.) and makes it hard to believe you’re only a 40-minute drive from Santa Barbara. Couldn’t have asked for a more pleasurable stay at Alisal. Special thanks to EARL for the guided bike tour around much of Alisal’s 10k+ acres, sharing tons about the property’s history along the way. Thanks also to RON for going above and beyond to make our stay extra special, from greeting us by name when seeing us around property to building a fire in our room to cap off both nights (they only use oak wood from trees grown on property!). And lastly a huge thank you to WILL for his professionalism and thoroughness helping coordinate a truly unforgettable couple of days! Alisal’s team provides a 5-star experience and a must-visit when in the area.
Douglas C
Alisal is a beautiful resort, but the management is ugly. We loved the setting and the facility, but the problems started with confusion in getting our reservations. Then, when the torrential rains washed out the golf course, they lied to us about the availability. Finally, they overcharged us on our bill. Great place to visit, but hold onto your wallet and verify everything that they say...get it in writing.
Mary Housel
Good food, reasonable pricing, was unexpectedly charged a service charge of 20% which would have been fine if I realized it before leaving an additional 20% tip. Not too happy about that.
AJBehrens
Old school ranch with western charm and beauty. Jackets required at dinner sets the scene of a time gone by. The food is always excellent, in fact, we've never experienced anything mediocre on the breakfast or dinner menu. And the service is what you would expect. Horseback riding is just the beginning- both daily and after dinner activities help to keep the family having fun all day long without the need for television or devices. Excellent golf course and tennis/pickleball program. Just can't imagine a better way to spend one week of every year.
Kevin K.
Cozy in winter, resplendent setting outdoors in nature in summer. Expert bartender Chris works the room. Waitstaff have there for years and are very friendly. Food is just perfect American comfort food but note they have some vegan options too like the quinoa vegetable bowl.
JeffR351
This was our second trip to Alisal and once again, we loved it! This time we enjoyed the BBQ Bootcamp, which was fabulous. The chefs were so talented and fun, and the food was so delicious! This trip, my husband and I also enjoyed playing golf at the River course. While I am not a golfer, I enjoyed the beauty of the area. Going back to Alisal next year but this time we are bringing our grandkids to enjoy all that Alisal has to offer!
LizU7231
Recently stayed at the Alisal with my husband and had a very nice time. We stayed in a studio which was beautiful and very clean. We loved the vibe of the resort. We did the horseback riding to breakfast and absolutely loved it. The food at the resort was pretty good, especially breakfast at the Adobe. The main disappointment we had was that the service was lacking. For this price point, you’d expect the employees to be very warm and friendly…the kind of employees that you never forget their name. This was not the case. When we checked in, the lady at the front wasn’t too friendly and we were told that Saturday night there would be a cook-off, which there never was. We had multiple servers rotating at our table for breakfast/dinner and it got kind of confusing. Overall it was a nice stay and we’d love to come back again one day.
Z6611OBdaniellew
Alisal is truly a special place that meets the interests for everyone. This was our first time at the ranch and it certainly won't be our last. Riding horses, the animals at the barn, golfing, food, and property were exceptional. We brought our 5-year-old who continues to ask when we can go back. Most of all, the staff was so warm, friendly and personable. We hope this will be an annual tradition for years to come.
A beautiful property with wonderful accommodations, food, and amenities. The cowboy breakfast and horseback ride was beyond wonderful! We were fortunate enough to have individualized attention for a super fun pickle ball lesson that we didn’t want to end, and the massage service was fantastic! The gym has everything you could want. The pool is first class. This is clearly a world class ranch and resort. Thank you for a beautiful experience!
jeffgX2812PP
We planed a guys golf trip and we were pleasantly surprised. From the accommodations to the bar & dining, it was all top notch. We played horse shoes, billiards, corn hole, etc and had a great time. The golf at the ranch course was also a lot of fun! We’ll definitely be coming back with the families as there is a ton of activities to do…
D5193EHnancyp
Alisal is the best place in the world! My family (including me) has been going for 66 years. We love it, and now my son goes with me; he has gone since he was 3 weeks old! I personally have been through two husbands as well as a lifetime of work!
jvaughan
The Alisal is such an amazing getaway. The rooms are cozy with wood burning fireplaces, the food is to die for, and both the golf and horseback riding, among others, are unforgettable experiences. The staff was incredibly kind, humorous, and concierge worked overtime with me to make our engagement unforgettable (she said yes). Already planning our next visit!
Maureen Denny
Perfect setting for the perfect wedding. No matter who you are, there are delightful activities (or rest) for whatever your heart desires
Had the most fantastic birthday at Alisal! Started with a great bbq the night before, then a hayride to a pancake breakfast in the gorgeous hills, canoeing on the lake, biking, swimming and a fantastic dinner. What a great experience! Thanks to everyone at Alisal Ranch for a memorable and wonderful time!
Place is a 10 all day. Food is a 10- Wear a jacket or they may give you one to wear. Ribeye and Salmon are melt in your mouth orgasm. Bartenders are a 10 drinks are so goooood- happy hour with live guitar will make you smile til your face hurts. Grounds are picture perfect. Features of the lake, the horses, the farm animals, the grassy areas to play wiht your family is just so peaceful. Kids stuff is just right- some crafts and games. The staff at the front desk are beyond kind. Brooks Garcia specifically in sales is the shining star at this property. I am not the type to review a property but I found after his exceptional hospitality I had to submit something to show my appreciation. Go - you wont regret it- you will only want rebook...
This dude ranch has tons of unique offerings for the area (horseback, archery/air rifle lessons, electric-mountain bike tour, etc.) and makes it hard to believe you’re only a 40-minute drive from Santa Barbara. Couldn’t have asked for a more pleasurable stay at Alisal. Special thanks to EARL for the guided bike tour around much of Alisal’s 10k+ acres, sharing tons about the property’s history along the way. Thanks also to RON for going above and beyond to make our stay extra special, from greeting us by name when seeing us around property to building a fire in our room to cap off both nights (they only use oak wood from trees grown on property!). And lastly a huge thank you to WILL for his professionalism and thoroughness helping coordinate a truly unforgettable couple of days! Alisal’s team provides a 5-star experience and a must-visit when in the area.
Alisal is a beautiful resort, but the management is ugly. We loved the setting and the facility, but the problems started with confusion in getting our reservations. Then, when the torrential rains washed out the golf course, they lied to us about the availability. Finally, they overcharged us on our bill. Great place to visit, but hold onto your wallet and verify everything that they say...get it in writing.
Good food, reasonable pricing, was unexpectedly charged a service charge of 20% which would have been fine if I realized it before leaving an additional 20% tip. Not too happy about that.
Old school ranch with western charm and beauty. Jackets required at dinner sets the scene of a time gone by. The food is always excellent, in fact, we've never experienced anything mediocre on the breakfast or dinner menu. And the service is what you would expect. Horseback riding is just the beginning- both daily and after dinner activities help to keep the family having fun all day long without the need for television or devices. Excellent golf course and tennis/pickleball program. Just can't imagine a better way to spend one week of every year.
Cozy in winter, resplendent setting outdoors in nature in summer. Expert bartender Chris works the room. Waitstaff have there for years and are very friendly. Food is just perfect American comfort food but note they have some vegan options too like the quinoa vegetable bowl.
This was our second trip to Alisal and once again, we loved it! This time we enjoyed the BBQ Bootcamp, which was fabulous. The chefs were so talented and fun, and the food was so delicious! This trip, my husband and I also enjoyed playing golf at the River course. While I am not a golfer, I enjoyed the beauty of the area. Going back to Alisal next year but this time we are bringing our grandkids to enjoy all that Alisal has to offer!
Recently stayed at the Alisal with my husband and had a very nice time. We stayed in a studio which was beautiful and very clean. We loved the vibe of the resort. We did the horseback riding to breakfast and absolutely loved it. The food at the resort was pretty good, especially breakfast at the Adobe. The main disappointment we had was that the service was lacking. For this price point, you’d expect the employees to be very warm and friendly…the kind of employees that you never forget their name. This was not the case. When we checked in, the lady at the front wasn’t too friendly and we were told that Saturday night there would be a cook-off, which there never was. We had multiple servers rotating at our table for breakfast/dinner and it got kind of confusing. Overall it was a nice stay and we’d love to come back again one day.
Alisal is truly a special place that meets the interests for everyone. This was our first time at the ranch and it certainly won't be our last. Riding horses, the animals at the barn, golfing, food, and property were exceptional. We brought our 5-year-old who continues to ask when we can go back. Most of all, the staff was so warm, friendly and personable. We hope this will be an annual tradition for years to come.
Restaurantji Recommends
A beautiful property with wonderful accommodations, food, and amenities. The cowboy breakfast and horseback ride was beyond wonderful! We were fortunate enough to have individualized attention for a super fun pickle ball lesson that we didn’t want to end, and the massage service was fantastic! The gym has everything you could want. The pool is first class. This is clearly a world class ranch and resort. Thank you for a beautiful experience!
We planed a guys golf trip and we were pleasantly surprised. From the accommodations to the bar & dining, it was all top notch. We played horse shoes, billiards, corn hole, etc and had a great time. The golf at the ranch course was also a lot of fun! We’ll definitely be coming back with the families as there is a ton of activities to do…
Alisal is the best place in the world! My family (including me) has been going for 66 years. We love it, and now my son goes with me; he has gone since he was 3 weeks old! I personally have been through two husbands as well as a lifetime of work!
The Alisal is such an amazing getaway. The rooms are cozy with wood burning fireplaces, the food is to die for, and both the golf and horseback riding, among others, are unforgettable experiences. The staff was incredibly kind, humorous, and concierge worked overtime with me to make our engagement unforgettable (she said yes). Already planning our next visit!
Perfect setting for the perfect wedding. No matter who you are, there are delightful activities (or rest) for whatever your heart desires