Edhat Staff
By edhat staff
The luxurious Hotel Californian located on lower State Street was just sold to the Foley Entertainment Group.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by the Vegas Golden Knights, a National Hockey League team in Las Vegas that is owned by the same group with Bill Foley as its Chairman. Foley is no stranger to Santa Barbara County as he also owns Foley Estates and Firestone wineries.
“The spectacular Hotel Californian is a wonderful addition to our growing portfolio of entertainment and hospitality assets,” said Chairman Foley. “Hotel Californian’s reputation for five-star service perfectly aligns with the philosophy of Foley Entertainment Group and allows guests to experience true luxury at one of the finest oceanside properties in all of California. What makes the acquisition even more special for us is our family’s connection to and love for the city of Santa Barbara. It is a magnificent place.”
Foley Entertainment Group co-CEO Randy Morton also announced that day-to-day operations at Hotel Californian will continue to be led by Managing Director Warren Nocon, who joined the Hotel Californian team in 2013 managing its development from construction through the opening of the resort. Nocon will maintain oversight of all aspects of the day-to-day operations including sales and marketing, revenue management, spa, guest rooms, food and beverage and catering.
The 121-room resort spans several blocks with three buildings on State and Mason Streets close to Stearns Wharf and the Funk Zone. The venues include a rooftop deck with 360-degree views, a rooftop pool with ocean views, a ballroom, meeting and event spaces, a Moroccan-inspired spa, and a Presidential-level suite.
Included in the transaction is the hotel’s 88-seat indoor/outdoor restaurant named Blackbird. It will serve as the future home of a Foley Food & Wine Society tasting bar opening in Fall 2021.
The sale price was not disclosed.
