Hey Ya All, back at the ranch another summer! Well lemme tell you things are definitely amiss here at the ole' Alisal ranch. Back 14 years ago when I first went to Alisal, it was a MAGICAL place. Just brimming with fun and splendor. However, I have some real issues with them now. 1) They charge $700 bucks a night to stay at the ranch. Which is up there with most five star resorts. However, this is not a 5 star hotel. 2) They have the same decor (exactly) as they had 14 years ago. Let me tell you the bathrooms are one step below a Motel 6. Motel 6 is actually better. This year the wall paper (yes wall paper) was peeling off the bathroom. Does no one check this stuff out. And remember, this place ain't cheap 3) Coffee- come on! Anyone heard of cowboy coffee? This place has coffee that is one step above water. Where is the strong brewed stuff! Things I love about Alisal 1) 5 star dining every night. We are talking all the steak, potatoes, chocolate cake and wine you could possibly eat. And every night you stay there they have a fantastic dinner planned. 2) 5 star breakfasts. Wonderful french toast, eggs, pancakes, huevos rancheros, sausage, etc. 3) The old Saturday night BBQ poolside is always fun. And they have a great BBQ of every kind of meat you could think of. They start BBQing around 3pm so the meat is too die for! 4) The ambiance is spectacular. I love the rolling grass, hills and great outdoor feeling you get at Alisal. I am sure we will keep bringing our kids here for many more years, but seriously, they need to remodel. read more

I am one of those fabled people who have been going to Alisal since I was four. There are so many things I've experienced: - Spending hour upon hour in the arts and crafts room. - Brisk morning Haywagon rides into the Oak Tree-covered hills of the Santa Ynez Valley to the best pancake breakfast in existence. - The acid-tongued (and hilarious) cowboys (real ones who work the Ranch, not some teenagers dressed up!) singing songs around the campfire. - Fishing at the lake with my dad, and staff-led BBQ nights at the lake with the other kids, including ample S'mores! - My mom giving me the big speech about trusting me to go play on my own, all the while never realizing that was only because we were at the Alisal and it's an incredibly safe place to let your kids run free. - First kiss at the golf course at night...and later, site of my first sneaked beer! - Signing our room number for a seemingly endless parade of hot dogs and Alisal Specials - Alisal Specials! Yum! - Cooling off in the pool in August and warming up in the pool in December! - Getting a few days without TV or phones feels so much better than you are imagining right now (and I am addicted to my computer and DVR)! Trust me, you will remember what it is like to feel your brain working as it ought to instead of like just another machine. - And when you aren;t feeling rustic...the centrally located and always-empty library has a TV, two computers with internet, and phones...as well as a usually-stocked Brandy cabinet. - The gorgeous view of the stables just before evening sets in. - Hot tub! - Partying at the staff living quarters (turns out they don't just take care of you when you're a little kid!) - Mmmm...clam chowder to start followed by meat, meat, mashed potatoes, and meat! - A double-shot of ping pong/pool in the rec room and a double shot of shuffleboard/pick-up volleyball (grass court) - Tennis lessons down by the surprisingly abundant courts along the creek. - Becoming old enough for cocktails by the fire in the Oak Room, listening to the good musicians or playing my own drunken (and awful) take on "Hey Jude", and having the bartenders stay as late as we wanted. - Receiving a wedding invitation just a few weeks ago from one of my best friends -- someone I have only known for five days at a time once a year for the last twenty years. My Alisal Friend. - Oh, and for those of you who can actually peel yourself away from the Ranch, the stunning Dutch Village of Solvang (which seems to be on the Food Network every other day for one culinary masterpiece or another) is just down the street! - The wonderful staff deserves extra notice. Shirley was activities coordinator when I was young, and the current activities director was a teenage employee there 15 years ago under Shirley, almost like the passing of an apprenticeship. The staff truly treats their jobs with reverence and, not unlike the cowboys who give riding lessons and tend to the Ranch's livestock, seem intent on making Alisal not just look the same as it did fifty years ago, but BE the same from the inside out. Alisal is so much more than these Disney-fied resorts which seem planned and built in a day. Like all the great places to spend one's time, Alisal has many layers to enjoy, from the natural beauty its surrounded by to its history to the staff to the friends you make (because of their policy that one can reserve the same week every year, you end up knowing most of the people there in one way or another.) Especially for families with young kids, I cannot recommend this magical piece of California history enough! read more

The Guest Ranch is a beautiful place - fabulous horses and wranglers. The rooms are wonderful and cozy. The ambiance still feels off to me as the ranch has grown with the ever changing times. The staff that works at the Spa really did go the extra mile to correct a mistake. However, the easier solution would have been to credit my account and call it a day. But their dedication to making it right does not go unappreciated by this reviewer. read more

Well, where do I begin? My husband and I were needing a vacation with our busy work schedules. All we had time to fit in was a long weekend. With Q3 over and not much time to get away, we searched local get always. Solvang was only a 4 hour drive from San Diego. Perfect, not too long, as I have 3 young boys. Arrived at Alisal Ranch and couldn't have been greeted with a warmer welcome. The staff was extremely helpful and so friendly. Our room was set up PERFECT. A crib in outer bedroom and 3 twin beds in the joining family room. We paid for the all-inclusive package (a must). That literally included everything...boat rental, fishing poles, horseback riding, hay rides, petting zoo, tennis, golf, and so much more. Now, for our boys...large swimming pool, playground, horseback riding, crafts and a super fun game room. Oh, let's not forget about all your meals. We enjoyed our visit so much that we will make sure to make this an annual visit. HIGHLY RECOMMEND this place for every family! read more

All of these reviews are upsetting to read. I have been coming to the Alisal for 15 years, and have grown to have an Alisal family that I absolutely love- that includes the families we've become close with, the wranglers like Tony, Kay and Wendy , and the wait staff like Vince who just got engaged! The staff here is incredible; the horse back riding is beautiful and taught by very trained people. The breakfast rides have these amazing circular pancakes, and the dinner is spectacular (I recommend the oatmeal pie for dessert!) Yes, the decor is not great, but it is imitating a cowboy-rustic feel. I have never had a problem with it- I have stayed in many fancy places and anything much fancier than what they have now would be weird. Some things could be updated, but I also like that it all stays the same, comforting, familiar and like home every year. Also, a few years ago they built a gym and spa! There is truly no reason to leave the ranch now, other than to go wine tasting or find some better lunch food (Chuckwagon Grill is the one part of the food service that is not spectacular) So, I suppose there are a couple of cons but they have never detracted from my time at Alisal. I sit at dinner every night with my family and 4 other families- our Alisal family is much bigger than my own! The people, the activities, and the way Alisal always feels like this fun, active, incredible home makes the experience so worth it. I love being here. I can't wait to come here with my kids (I'm currently only 22) when I'm older, and I know the people of my week will come too because this is the sort of place you save up the cash to come to. It's perfect for every age, and people do such a variety of things. Two friends of mine wake up at least 3 times a week to go fishing at 5am at the lake!!! Another barely ever comes to the pool and just sits on the porch near his house on the entrance drive, loving the view. Another friend who couldn't be at Alisal this year posted a Facebook status a few weeks ago while we were all there saying how much he missed it and tagged over 20 people because that's the kind of close place this is. This place is incredible, and a vacation I will hopefully never miss. read more

Probably more like a 4.5. I stayed at Alisal for three days this December, and certainly did not find the rooms to be as described below. They were exceedingly clean, and huge - I was in #68, which is a 2 room suite with 2 baths. The construction looks to be mid 1960s but is well kept up and nicely remodelled. Our bathrooms were large, well fitted out and very clean with excellent amenities. There was some poorly done latex caulking around one of the tubs, but that's the only negative I could find. It was wonderful having a wood fire morning and night. Additionally we did not find that we were being nickeled and dimed. Our package was all inclusive for golf and riding. The only extra cost was $49.00 for an additional person on one ride, which seemed fair. I STRONGLY suggest taking advantage of the off season "Round-Up Vacation". For $350/night you get any room plus golf, riding, spa access, and breakfast and dinner! We rode horses till we practically passed out. Get "Big Rig" if you can. He rides like a cadillac, smooth cruising. The food here is outstanding. Particularly the beef, for those who eat beef. Breakfasts are wonderful. Service is top drawer. These folks treat you well. The only complaint I'd have is the outmoded jacket requirement in the dining room, but that's a source of comedy I suppose. I strongly disagree with the reviews below. The Alisal is a wonderful place for families who want a spectacular vacation in one of the premier parts of the world. Just don't come to this place intending to be cheap. It costs a LOT to run a resort of this quality, and you'll pay a fair price to enjoy it. read more

Second chances are golden: So we tried again the hotel, and let me tell you, sometimes you need to give people a second chance. It was really beautiful!!! The food was delicious, and they do know how to make a Kir Royale ;) When we came the room was ready, this time we got a suite, and it was worth it, I know it's a bit pricy BUT it's worth it! Believe me!!! If your staying with your whole family is amazing!! They have ping pong tables, billiard, a lovely pool, where you can order anything ( extra bonuses) and we tried this time to fish, wow I mean WOW we saw an eagle!!!! And their nest!! We caught blue gill, and a bunch of other fish!!! Even thought we picked a bad timing for fishing we had a blast! Our guide Randy was super nice! He helped us with everything, including getting rid of my fear of touching fishies :s.... anyway the room was cozy and clean! And I can't recommended enough. As well as the people working there they really made our stay golden!!! read more

Spent a wonderful hour in the spa at this resort. Erica is an amazingly talented masseuse. One of the BEST massages we've ever had. Highly recommended. Judi in the spa front office was so good to us and very helpful and friendly. The grounds surrounding this place are beautiful. read more

Alisal Ranch - Blissful Spa day at the Alisal Guest Ranch Resort. - Resorts Near Me - Solvang, California

Ok....lot's to say here. Best best thing, and the reason we booked our family vacation here, is that there are no televisions in the rooms and technology is not prevalent. It feels good to be there, take in the beautiful, peaceful surroundings, enjoy our family, and meet other families just spending time. The kids were active and engaged and delighted all day long, and it was a complete blessing that they had no technological distractions or handicaps. We had a great time. Lots of outdoor activities. We did archery, air rifles, fishing, horseback riding, swimming, crafts, ping pong, billiards, line dancing, and more. We ate dinner sans kids in the dining room several nights which was nice. The resort has fun dinner plans for the kids most nights as an option (pool party, hay ride, s'mores, etc.). The food was good. They have the American meal plan which is breakfast and dinner included. Lunch on property was their Chuck Wagon cafe which was typical fare including milk shakes, burgers, sandwiches, and the like. The kids had tons of activities to do to keep them occupied. Alisal staff planned lots of fun games for the kids - penny dive, scavenger hunt, water balloon toss, frisbee golf, tie dye, and more - which our children loved. Lots of other kids too. Our favorites was archery with Dale and the Rodeo. Bill was a great private riding instructor. One important note is that most activities are an extra charge above room and food plan. They do add up quickly. The rooms were below expectations, especially given the price we paid. Rustic and campy in the rooms that have not been redecorated. It was centrally located which was nice, but they need upgrading to justify the cost in my mind. Also, we had to move rooms twice (big pain). The second room we had was updated but smaller, but nearly the same price as our first room (they charge a premium for upgraded rooms). They give returning guests their room and dining table so first timers are likely to be bounced around a bit. All in all it was a great week of family time and activities, but was on the expensive end of vacations. read more

My husband and I recently found this gem of a place and have been vacationing here 2-3 times per year for the last three years. I cannot understand the bad reviews to be honest. I can't say we've ever had a problem with anything. It is a truly magical place to visit. We've stayed at San ysidro ranch and I have to say the food at Alisal is leaps and bounds better! The ribs are AMAZING! A lovely bottle of syrah to welcome you in the room and all the activities are optional, so if you want to be very busy you can and if not that's ok too! Personally we find the decor utterly charming and wouldn't change anything. We are always treated so wonderfully here and it truly is a place to forget your worries and enjoy your vacation!! I can't wait until our next visit! read more

We brought our 9 year old twins here for the weekend. We all had so much fun. There is so much to do. We started out fishing and started catching fish within 5 min. We liked the idea that it was catch and release. The guys working there were so helpful and so nice. You can just see how much they love what they do. We must have caught 8 or 9 fish in an hour. The kids then got Archery lessons and had a blast. The service at this place is AMAZING. We are so looking for coming back very soon! We didn't go on any of the horse back riding tours this time, but we will next time. Thank you to everyone at Alisal for your hospitality. read more

This place is amazing for getting away from the world, and should only be visited if that is your goal. (No in room phones or TVs) The grounds are beautiful, tranquil and inviting, and there is a petting zoo...oh, and miniature horses!! That said, the biggest impression on me was the staff. Great people, really anxious to be helpful and very kind. I really enjoyed the time away. The draw here is the trail rides, and with 16 square miles, they offer variety few places in California can match. My biggest suggestion is that you get a package deal and save a ton of money on the room and something like unlimited golf and/or trail rides...especially during the off-season. read more

I've been coming here since I was very young, around 7 years old and I love it! I am a technology junkie, so you'd think I wouldn't like the fact that there is bad cell service, and no TV in the room but its just the opposite. I love it! You can really spend quality time with your loved ones here. The rooms are beautiful, as is the ranch and there's tons of stuff to do. You can golf, ride horses, fish, go antique shopping in Solvang, play tennis, and more! They also have really great food, which is included in your price. This place is great for families or for a romantic getaway. I can't recommend it more! read more

I love this place the best part is fishing thats why my husband and I go there. However since last year they have increased pricing up 25%, i stayed this past weekend and there was a thunder and lightning storm which cause a power outage around 10am on Saturday we checked out Sunday at 12pm and still no electricity and no updates from management or even trying to help guest at night with proprr room lighting was not easy with my 2yr old being in a blackout room. read more

I recently stayed at Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort and had the most amazing time!! The setting is so beautiful, the staff so gracious & accommodating and I had the best massage ever! The food is exceptional! I loved visiting nearby Solvang and the wonderful wineries nearby.So much fun and I feel rejuvenated! read more

Another fabulous weekend at Alisal. Perfect girls weekend to relax, unwind, enjoy and unplug! Planning on returning again and again!

I've been coming to Alisal Ranch since I was 2 years old and it gets better every year! This year specifically we arrived on a Friday and left on a Monday. Day 1: Dinner and Bingo night (I won, woo hoo!) Day 2: Breakfast Horseback ride (a must), pool time, golf, BBQ night, and Musical Chairs (the adult version gets pretty competitive) Day 3: Gym, pool time, golf, dinner, no ranch event Sunday nights Day 4: Breakfast and then we leave There are many other activities that we didn't participate in, fishing, rodeo night etc. Definitely a perfect family vacation. My only thing is that I wished there were more healthy food options (cooked sans butter, etc) but I guess splurging is part of being on a vacation. read more

So much fun! My kids loves the archery, pool, petting zoo, hikes, and zip lining. The food is fantastic. They have so much to do and the people are so kind and generous. The rodeo was also fun to watch. The rooms are also very big and nice. The only reason I gave it four stars instead of five was the price. It was VERY expensive. Be sure to pack as much as you can in to make it worth the price. read more

Most relaxing place in the world! I can't say enough great things about the service, view, activities, family-friendly atmosphere and, well, everything. 5-star luxury meets dude ranch. It's not cheap, but you get what you pay for. read more

I stayed at this place twice before in the last 10 years and loved it, it was an amazing experience well worth the money. It definitely has gone downhill. First of all, THERE IS NO AIR CONDITIONING. They do not mention anywhere when booking. My previous stays were during the colder months, but this stay was in a 100 degree heat. The front desk told us that the wall units are only for the disabled and the elderly, however, we saw plenty of other cottages where people had them who were not elderly or disabled. The front desk gave us 2 keys of different size and shape but assured us that they would both work. Guess what, only one did. When we went back to exchange the nonworking key, they tried to convince us that this key was for the safe, which, btw, is a numeric button one. It gets better. The bellhop who took us to the room (because, btw, you cannot drive up your car to most cottages, which is inconvenient) did not know how to operate anything and was useless (he did suggest "ice outside the library," so helpful). The room was decorated poorly and was extremely outdated, felt like the early 70s, not something you expect for over 1K a night. The highlight of the room was, besides leaving it, was a tin impression of the pig head about the coffee maker. The "champagne" that we ordered for our arrival was prosecco. The flowers that we also ordered was a scary-looking bouquet with dry sticks and half-dead flowers. There are no phones in the room to quickly call the front desk, we had schlep there every time we had a question or a problem (which was a few times). The room that was called a "Suite" was in reality a "Loft" with a curtain to divide the sleeping areas. Now about the hidden charges. The room charge was $775 per night, plus the following fees that they surprise you with at checkout: " $155 service charge, $70 bed tax, per day. The boat was supposed to be $50 according to their posted prices, but they charged us $60. At our first dinner (the food was excellent), we were told by the manager that we get $36 credit for the drinks per night and encouraged us to switch our drinks order to more expensive wine. At checkout, we were surprised with all of our drinks charges that were under $36 per night credit. The person at the front desk had no clue what we were talking about, but reluctantly agreed to honor the $36 charge, but did it for only one night. The staff at the resort have no training about the resort and where things are located. They also like to argue with the customers apparently at any opportunity that presents itself. For instance, when asked where our picnic basket was that was supposed to be ready by 7:30 (at 8 a.m.), we were told that it would be ready at our designated time. We had to point out again that it was due by 7:30 a.m. Turns out, they forgot to make it at all and had to make after we asked. The bellhop at the end of our stay asked how our stay was, and when I said it was not good, he laughed in response, not even "I'm sorry to hear that." Now, about a few positives. The best one was leaving this place. Again, the food was great, especially at dinner. The breakfast horseback ride was great as well, except that they serve breakfast in a beehive, it feels like. There were swarms of yellow jackets there, which made me eat my food much faster than usual. The barn interacting with animals experience was wonderful, cannot describe it in words, they had goats, calves, rabbits, chickens, and pigs. The animals were well-kept, clean, and friendly. Overall, not worth a return visit anymore. read more

I've been going to Alisal for years--every Memorial day some family friends join us there for the weekend to catch up and enjoy each others company. Everything about Alisal is great--the food, the pool, the service... so many memories have been created because of Alisal. I learned to ride horses and fish here--even drive a golf cart! One of my favorite activities at Alisal is the hayride up to the Adobe where you get fresh breakfast (eggs, protein, pancakes, fruit...). You can also ride a horse up to the Adobe. My one complaint is that the last time we were there the management had just changed and we saw several small, but noticeable changes at Alisal. Some of them were understandable, but others were not (for example, the lunch bbq/grill was closed on Monday at 2 pm when it was always open in the past). But it's still alisal, and we love it! If you come, ask for the alisal special (OJ, Cherry Grenadine, Sprite). read more

See all

Loved our first visit to Alisal in 2018, but when we came again this year the resort was 'taken over' by a private group called the YPO (young presidents organization) and they are as pretentious as they sound....rude, loud, obnoxious, not at all friendly. My daughter tried to play with one of their kids in the pool and the parents called their kid over, gave my daughter a dirty look and made their kid sit out until we left! We will never go back if that organization is hosting an event there at the same time. read more

Had the best weekend getaway with my husband here. We had a wonderful stay and had an above and beyond service and experience here. They even upgraded us to a 2 bedroom suite which was recently beautifully renovated. Thank you everyone for making our experience so marvelous and we are sure to be back many times in the future! read more

Alisal Ranch - Our private lesson! - Resorts Near Me - Solvang, California

The rooms can be updated by simply putting hey bath shower instead of a shower and a bath great place to get away Time seems very slow and relaxing there is plenty of things to do on the ranch if you like what they offer the food is very big they can easily cut down on the portions for breakfast but they are still enjoyable here if they didn't visit great place for families to get away from the city read more

Alisal Ranch - Resorts Near Me - Solvang, California

See all

Reset Alisal is a unique opportunity to escape close to home, The perfect blend of peace and activity. Ideal for couples and families alike. It is a rare vacation that can capture romantic beauty of fireplaces and lush, green mountainside and the wholesomeness of simpler times. Truly unmatched. I returned months after my first visit and immediately was thankful for the decompression, As removed as you feel, you are minutes from quaint downtown Solvang- a wine lovers favorite. read more

I am very sorry to say Alisal is not even close to what it used to be. My son was home for a few days, and we decided to treat him to a stay at Alisal. I have been going to Alisal since I was a child (I am 60), as have my husband and our son. We were put in a room near the dining hall - which was no problem, except that instead of seeing the beautiful sycamore trees, we saw a huge tent that had been used for a wedding the previous day. The next day (Saturday), workers spent a noisy day taking down the tent. A large corporate event also began on Saturday and took over the Ranch. We were not able to sign up for horseback riding. When we questioned this, we were rudely told that we should have signed up weeks before arriving. That was NEVER the policy and I doubt it would have made a difference as the wedding and corporate event reserved all the horseriding spaces. Also, our dining experience was less than satisfactory. Previously, we were assigned a lovely table in the main dining room. On this trip, we were shuffled around to several tables and eventually put in a dark corner near stacked-up highchairs. For each meal, the receptionist incorrectly thought we were a party of two and acted like we were trying to get a free meal for our son. It was humiliating to stand there while the receptionist called the front desk for every meal to ensure we were not trying to cheat. Once the receptionist confirmed (over and over) that we had, indeed, paid for three people, we were put at an overflow table. The food was served by bus staff and not a waiter. The only high point was our trip to the lake - it was wonderful. It turned out the staff at the lake had been there for eight years and recognized us. When I asked about the changes, I was advised the ranch was under new management. Overall, we felt ignored in favor of the huge wedding and corporate event. A formerly magical experience is no longer at the Alisal. It now is extremely overpriced for what is offered. It seems (though I don't know this to be true) that group events are now favored over individual guests. It is a shame. read more

What a lovely, relaxing place. Was treated to a massage at the spa which was excellent!! All types of activities including swimming, golf, tennis, fishing, hiking, horse-back riding just to name a few. A big thank you to all the wonderful, friendly staff from front desk to activities to housecleaning. The food was delicious....dont forget to try their Alisal oatmeal pie!! Would go back in a heartbeat! Excellent place for a family trip too read more

Beware of loosing your valuables at The Alisal, especially when taking a break from golf. Most people put their wallets and watches in their golf bag, then leave the golf bag on the cart for five minutes. It seems that there is an employee who has developed a like for gold Rolex watches among other things! Management does not seem to care. read more

Do NOT stay here!!!! My fiancé and I have stayed at hotels all over the world and we were shocked to find out the rooms do not have air conditioning just plastic fans. The rooms look like motel six and the price to stay here is OUTRAGEOUS! It was $750.00 for ONE night. Horseback riding is $85.00 per person doesn't even include it in the resort fee when the rooms look horrible. Also, there is no tv as well. The customer service was terrible. We will never stay here again, save your money. We checked out the next day and stayed at the Four Seasons Resort amazing place and same price! Do not stay here! I never write reviews but I felt that people need to know what this place is like before they spend a lot of money for nothing. read more

I absolutely loved it. Tranquil, serene, oak trees and horses everywhere, a cottage overlooking the creek with a fireplace and sunken tub...sigh...if I could click my heels three times, I'd be back there now. I found the Alisal such a lovely place to unplug and check out. I adored that all of their guest rooms and cottages had fireplaces, but no TVs. The setting was most compelling--just gorgeous and filled with calm. But perhaps my favorite part of this resort was that it felt like a real ranch resort...not the standard over-the-top Four Seasons kind of resort. My guess is the high room rates go toward upkeep of the land, as opposed to having super-cool & edgy designed lounge chairs and spa services. Dinner and breakfast in the dining room was good, and the musician playing in the bar was fun and completely entertaining. What is absolutely worth mentioning is the kindness of the staff. They don't just "sell" you the veneer of a down-home experience, they live it. I was aware they required a 2-night minimum for any stay. However, I was only going to be in town for one night, as I was attending a funeral nearby the next day. When I called and asked if they'd be willing to make an exception given the circumstances, they didn't miss a beat in saying, "of course." Proof that Santa Ynez Valley is NOT the Napa Valley, and I'm so glad. When I arrived hours later, they upgraded my cabin. The next morning, I struggled to find a taxi to take me to the funeral (I suppose anyone who lives near Solvang or Santa Ynez would think it's hilarious that some urbanite from Oakland thought there was cab service in town). After the front desk tried to find me a taxi with no success, I received a call in my cottage from the assistant to the general manager of the ranch. He'd overheard the front desk staff trying to arrange for my transportation to the church in the valley, and offered to drive me himself. As the world could be a small place, turns out he knew the family gathering for this particular funeral. Although he wasn't attending the service, he was kind enough to take me into town and get me there on time, and offered to pick me up and bring me back to the ranch. So kind and above-and-beyond. During our ride, I learned a lot about the ranch and it's history of families who return every year for their annual visit. Sounds good to me. If you like Portola Valley, Woodside, Boulder Creek, etc...and ever find yourself in the Santa Ynez valley...check out the Alisal. read more

This place is awesome, no TV was an added bonus although i almost had a heart attack when i got there and figured this out. in all fairness it is on their web page.... i just didn't read that part. the food was excellent, the drinks were great. the grounds are beautiful the rooms are spacious and very comfortable, the best bed ive slept on in any hotel.... yes even you Ritz Carlton marina del rey :) we participated in almost all of the activities but our favorite was the lake. those guys are awesome up there, a lot of fun. 1 person stood out the most during our stay, Jtrain up at the lake (Jeremy as you city slickers may call him) is the man. He sang this song that is guaranteed to catch you fish... it goes like this, "Fishy Fishy in the brook, come and bite my little hook" we never caught so money fish in our lives all inside of 2 hours. request this song if you go fishing, i guarantee you catch fish too.... your welcome buddy, see you next year. read more

For the yuppie in you who wants to reconnect with its cowboy roots (or not). My sister got married here back when they still let people do that (30 years ago? She's ancient). The Alisal has a pretty lake, a pretty tennis court complete with tennis pros, a pretty golf course, and lots of pretty oak trees. It also comes at a pretty penny (wocka wocka wocka). I really don't recommend shelling out the benjamins to stay here (in their "cabins", dressing for dinner), but I do recommend sneaking in to make use of the nice pool. Just don't say I told you. Make sure you get a drink from the poolside snack shop and grill and tip the kid behind the counter - that once was me. If Pam is behind the bar, get her to make you a drink and tell you some good gossip. And if you're really lucky, you might see Carl Karcher and the whole Carl's Jr. clan as he celebrates birthday #108 or something like that. read more

For $700 per night: 1. No TV and wi-fi that barely works. 2. Voices at night (not ghosts but the folks in the adjacent room) 3. A lumpy bed with bed sheets that barely qualify as linen (bring your own sleeping bag). Not worth $700 per night. Maybe $200 at best. read more

Beautiful grounds, but many of the staff we encountered were sullen and uninterested in helping. Note: I updated my rating from 2 to 4 stars after we received a great response from the GM after a detailed email to him about our concerns. The property is beautiful, and some of the staff, particular the wranglers and animal folks, are exceptional. It's unfortunate for them, and for the property as a whole, that there are a few bad apples who really let them down. read more

Alisal is a very special place. It's not just a hotel, its an adventure. No TV, no phones, horseback riding and bbq dinners. It's such a throwback in time to a simpler more restful time. The setting is beautiful, the rooms are not luxurious but what you would expect on a ranch yet very clean. Service is excellent. It's all inclusive so a full breakfast and dinner is included in the price. I would highly recommend for families to make it a tradition. read more

Just got back from Spring Break with my daughter at Alisal -- had a great room (no signs of issues others mention), food was good, service was great - room was modern and quiet. Maybe Anonymous P., Tony K, Madison A, and Brian G. would all be happier at an Embassy Suites or Motel 6 -- if you go to Alisal for the AC, TV and internet, you've come to the wrong place. I found all the staff helpful, the trail rides lots of fun, tennis courts in great shape, pool well maintained, amenities just fine. Hadn't been there for 10 years, but I'll be back soon. read more

We were referred by friends who have been staying at the Alisal for 30 years. I was a little nervous as it is pricey and the rooms have no TV or phone, but I am telling you this place is truly "magical". I was in heaven the entire time. The horseback riding is the absolute best. The wranglers are so friendly and helpful. They make the rides a pleasure. The breakfast ride is a "must".this place is so serene and relaxing. The food is truly 5 star! I think for what you get, 5 star food, horseback riding, golf, tennis, pool, etc., it is worth the price. I felt like crying when I had to leave. I will be back! read more

My wife has been going here since she was 5 years old and our family has gone every year for the last 13 years. However we probably won't ever return. The last time we went it was clear the new general manager cares more about her bottom line then her guests. It's really sad that the owners let this happen, it used to be such a special trip and we all felt like family. The General manager has lost some incredible staff including the lead wrangler. Our last trip was so disappointing in how far down hill everything has gone. House keeping was slow and often did not get to our room until after 3:00. The grounds were not well kept compared to years past, the amazing staff that has left we're replaced by inexperienced people who did not seem to get the guests. The general manager is rude and disconnected from the long history of the families who have come through the Alisal. Sadly our family won't be returning after years and decades. read more

My husband and I wanted a Covid safe getaway to celebrate his birthday and The Alisal Guest Ranch was the perfect place! We got a very good price on a golf package but it included so much more! A delicious beakfast and dinner was included each of the three days we stayed there, as well as alcoholic beverages at dinner! There were also many amenities we didn't take advantage of (horseback riding, pool, lake and fishing, spa) but provided a beautiful backdrop to this amazing property! The two golf courses we played were very enjoyable and beautiful, especially the private Ranch Course. Our room was spacious and comfortable and we enjoyed the fireplace each night. The staff went out of their way to assure that all of our needs and wants were met. A big shoutout to Primo in the dining room, who was funny and very attentive. Yadera in housekeeping helped us immensely as my husband left his laptop charger in the room and she had it mailed it back to us right away! All in all I would HIGHLY recommend The Alisal Guest Ranch as a wonderful getaway destination! We will definitely go back again! read more

this place is obviously for people that have been coming here for generations. If you are not part of that crowd, you are not welcome. The bingo tonight people "held seats" for their friends. The bbq by the "lake' (stagnant pond) had reserved seating for "friends". the trail rides (only reason we came) was overbooked, we could not get a horse. stepford wives meet dirty dancing meet way way back. worst of all three. horrible waste of money...!!! read more