What's to like: The pinnacle of romantic retreats in the United States, this history-filled 550-acre retreat overlooking the scenic Montecito coast has hosted a who's who of high society, world politics and Hollywood over the decades, including newlyweds John and Jacqueline Kennedy in 1953. Today, the San Ysidro Ranch stands as a deep study in ultra-luxury – past and present – where cascading gardens, bucolic vine-covered cottages and attentive staff details set the stage for timeless love stories. Each of the 38 accommodations is individually decorated, with hand-selected antique furniture, original artwork, handmade four-poster beds and stunning bathtubs (most cottages also have private patios with plunge pools, oversized hammocks and dining areas.) The grounds are dotted with olive and oak trees, lavender fields, lemon tree pergolas and rose gardens, framing trails that reach coveted creature comforts like a heated hillside pool , a full-service spa, an award-winning restaurant, The Stonehouse, and under the radar celebrity hangout, The Speakeasy at Plow & Angel.
Romantic factor: Enjoy a private candlelit dinner in the property's most historic space, a truly old adobe cottage dating back to 1825, choosing from the same sublime farm and ocean-to-table menu of The Stonehouse (Santa Barbara Diver (Caught sea urchin, seared Santa Barbara abalone with homemade squid ink capellini and line-caught Channel Dover sole are three must-dos.) Organize a tasting in the secret cellar, nestled behind the Ranch.™'s more than 12,000 bottles, and sip a sip while a designated sommelier guides you through flights of fine French and local wines. Venture off-property for hiking and enriching activities in the Santa Barbara wine country.
Get there: 90 minutes' drive from Los Angeles International Airport
