Mud Bar at Bacara, photo by Erin Feinblatt
Our summer days are dwindling—at least according to local school calendars—which makes this a perfect time for a staycation day at our very own Bacara Resort & Spa.
I recently enjoyed the heavenly Signature Barbor SeaCreation Facial, an amazing treatment that “unites the elements—Ocean, Sun, Earth and Atmosphere—to refine pores and heal sun-damaged skin.” It was lovely. According to the literature, “utilizing precious extracts of exclusive microorganisms found in the depths of the sea, this treatment is designed for those who want to see a dramatic improvement in their skin while indulging in a strategically choreographed stress relieving massage.”
I don’t know if it was the repairing antioxidants, vitamin c, hyaluronic acid and organic seaweed extracts; the healing fingers of my lovely therapist; or just the rare treat of a quiet Sunday of complete rest, relaxation and pampering, but my skin has never looked better. Plus, a portion of the proceeds from this treatment benefits the Gaviota Coast Conservancy.
Mud Bar at Bacara, photo by Erin Feinblatt
The Bacara recently revamped its entire spa and wellness program to include an oceanview rooftop terrace for open-air massages, a self-applied marine Mud Bar, and two private lounge areas for European sunbathing and relaxation. In addition, there are a variety of new European and locally-inspired spa treatments including the signature BABOR SeaCreation Facial that I had.
Other popular services include the Organic Bliss facial (“50/80 mins Committed to planting a tree for every product sold, this facial by Eminence Organic is ideal for those deeply committed to the health of our planet. Only the freshest, most natural antioxidants, vitamins and enzyme-rich ingredients are combined to nourish and restore the skin to a new level of beauty and health.”), the Citrus Avocado Polish (“50 mins This invigorating exfoliation uses mineral salt blended with oils of avocado, orange, lemon and tangerine rind and is followed by a warm Swiss shower. Includes a shea butter lotion application.”) and the ExFoleyation (“50 mins Out of the Foley wine tasting room and into the spa, this gentle exfoliation with grape seed extracts is followed by a mineral and antioxidant rich grape seed body butter wrap designed to quench and hydrate the skin to a new level of suppleness.”).
Mud Bar at Bacara, photo by Erin Feinblatt
The Spa Café is also delicious. We tried the edamame dumplings, which were fabulous (and healthy!), as was the soba noodle soup made with rock shrimp, asparagus, snow peas and enoki mushrooms. They also have a full menu of customizable smoothies, as well as a nice selection of breakfast and lunch items.
For more information about The Spa at Bacara (8301 Hollister Ave.) including a complete list of services and amenities, visit bacararesort.com. For reservations, call 877/935-8415 or email thespa@bacararesort.com.
—Leslie Dinaberg
Originally published in Santa Barbara Seasons on August 27 2014.
