If you had the means to buy or build a home anywhere in the world, where would you choose? Since the late 1800s, many of these fortunate folks have chosen Montecito, California — a small community (population 9,000) blanketing the foothills at the eastern edges of the city of Santa Barbara. Today, many celebrities live here, at least part-time, including Oprah, Kevin Costner, Prince Harry and Meghan, Gwyneth Paltrow.
It’s a gorgeous setting. Elegant yet casual. Spectacular views in practically every direction. A place where celebs can try to live a “normal” life without the paparazzi hounding them every second. Plus, there’s lots to do here. Beaches, surfing, hiking trails, gardens, and hey, the city of Santa Barbara, with a full schedule of cultural activities, is right next door.
Not everyone here is monied, of course. Montecito residents represent an eclectic group of ‘60s bohemian relics, equestrians whose families once rode horses around the neighborhood for transportation, and just plain “normal” folks who like to live here.
Here we give you some places to explore to get a sense of the Montecito magnet.
Jeannine's Restaurant & Bakery, Coast Village Road, Montecito, CA, USA
Lotusland, Cold Spring Road, Montecito, CA, USA
Pierre Lafond Market & Deli, San Ysidro Road, Montecito, CA, USA
Butterfly Beach, Montecito, CA, USA
Casa del Herrero, East Valley Road, Montecito, CA, USA
San Ysidro Ranch, San Ysidro Lane, Montecito, CA, USA
Rosewood Miramar Beach, South Jameson Lane, Montecito, CA, USA
Mad Dogs and Englishmen Montecito
Best Places for Breakfast in Santa Barbara
Montecito Coffee Shop
Guests have gathered at a collection of tables on a shaded porch surrounding San Ysidro Pharmacy in Montecito’s Upper Village since 1984, but Montecito Coffee Shop’s roots date back much farther — to 1929, when it was a combo pharmacy and soda fountain on what’s now Coast Village Road). Popular menu items include fluffy buttermilk pancakes, scrambles, omelets, and soft breakfast tacos. They roast their own turkey breast daily, so watch for dishes that include it.
Best Things To Do in the Morning in Santa Barbara
Lotusland
Starting in 1882, horticulturalist R. Kinton Stevens planted many species of trees and plants on his tranquil nursery property in the Montecito foothills. Polish opera singer Madame Ganna Walska bought the estate in 1941 and spent the remainder of her life (nearly 45 years) developing incredible theme gardens across the 37 acres. Lotusland opened to the public in 1993. Today more than 3,000 plant species thrive in 15 themed gardens, including Australian, Japanese, cacti and aloes, a water garden with lotus and water lilies, and some of the world’s oldest and rarest cycads.
Docents lead two-hour walking tours — you can also book a self-guided visit. Advance reservations are required. Check the website for ticket release dates so you can pounce as soon as they open up.
Best Places for Lunch in Santa Barbara
Best Things To Do in the Afternoon in Santa Barbara
Park the car and spend the afternoon walking about. Here are a few destinations to consider:
• Butterfly Beach, leashed dogs allowed.
• The Upper Village – browse for titles in Tecolote Book Shop, park yourself on a bench under the oaks in The Village Green.
• Coast Village Road – Montecito’s main drag, lined with small shops, restaurants, art galleries.
Or…pedal around by bike. Rent a bike or sidecar at Mad Dogs and Englishmen (details below) and cruise along the country roads and bike paths.
Casa del Herrero
Casa del Herrero, the “House of the Blacksmith,” is one of the finest standing examples of Spanish Colonial Revival Architecture in America. It’s also a time capsule of Montecito in the 1920s and 1930s. Guided tours happen Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10 am and 2 pm year-round.
Best Places for Dinner in Santa Barbara
Best Places to Stay in Santa Barbara
Bonus Pro Tips
If you spot a celebrity, do what the locals do: MYOB and stay chill. Let them live their lives in peace. Resist the urge for an Ussie.
