Welcome to Montecito
Affluent coastal sanctum cloaked in understated elegance
Lying east of Santa Barbara, Montecito boasts of lavish estates and deluxe homes tucked behind lush, tree-lined entrances on quiet streets draped in a casual, relaxed ambiance. Its front yard of the stunning Pacific coastline imbues the neighborhood with seaside serenity, while set against the backdrop of the magnificent Santa Ynez Mountains. Home to a well-heeled population of megastars, affluent families, and renowned CEOs, the residents of Montecito are most drawn in for the enviable seclusion and prestige of this elite locale filled with uncrowded beaches and posh venues for social engagements and leisurely getaways.
The peaceful town is flush with outstanding schools, exclusive country clubs, and ritzy world-class resorts, alongside a cluster of boutiques, restaurants, and high-end shops. Year-round sunshine keeps outdoor living alive, and residents enjoy easy access to hiking trails leading into the mountains, sandy beaches, and lots of fascinating attractions. With one of the hottest real estate markets in coastal California, Montecito homes are characterized by their striking architecture and detailed designs, running the gamut from Mediterraneans to Cape cod Colonials, Italian Palazzos, and Normandy castles.
What to Love
- Quiet streets draped in tranquility
- Posh resorts and country clubs
- Gorgeous natural scenery
- Enviable privacy behind gated estates
- Sunny days all year long
- Served by top-rated schools
Local Lifestyle
Dedicated to maintaining its natural aesthetic and laid-back personality, luxury in Montecito is neither snobbish nor ritzy. Locals are unified in their love for the finer things plus wonders of nature, hence taking advantage of the sunny, year-round weather with hikes along its meandering trails, shopping sprees on the enticing Coast Village Road, and cocktails on the terrace of the Four Seasons Resort.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Coast Village Road pulses at the heart of Montecito, playing host to the community’s finest boutiques, deluxe hotels, high-end shops, and restaurants. If you’re out for some new shoes and clothes, then browse the racks at Baske California. For sophisticated jewelry and gifts, there are few places to match Lily.
Dine at Lucky’s for upscale steak and seafood dishes in a remarkable setting draped with tinges of old Hollywood glamor. Craving pizza with varied toppings or a refined plate of meatballs? Walk into Bettina and place your order. At Honor Bar, guests are treated to a New American menu featuring a lamb burger, macho salad, fried chicken sandwich, and deviled eggs among other delights. Finish your meal with a cocktail or glass of wine, and remember you can certainly bring your dog along! Don’t miss the taste of chicken enchilada rice and beans with margaritas or micheladas at Los Arroyos, and Sakana serves unique rolls with sake on a no-reservation basis, so be sure to stop in for some spicy tuna rolls or salmon sashimi.
Things to Do
The celeb-studded Butterfly Beach is one of the most beloved by Santa Barbara locals, boasting a pristine shoreline with gentle waves ideal for swimming, kayaking, or surfing, or just sunbathing on the sand.
Explore the beautiful gardens of lotusland, and take pictures amid clusters of various flowers. Locals who love college sports are often found cheering on the Westmont Warriors at various men’s & women’s basketball games. Head out for a mid-morning hike to the pools on the Hot Springs Canyon Trail, then book a reservation for a weekend getaway at the five-star Rosewood Hotel on Miramar Beach, where you can treat yourself to a spa session and elegant dining in a home away from home. Feel the magic of sensational vocalists and instrumentalists participating on the campus of La Sierra University in celebration of The Montecito International Music Festival—an event standing as an homage to contemporary music masters beautifying the world with their artistry and talent.
Schools
Montecito is home to some of California’s highly acclaimed educational institutions, both public and private. Top neighborhood choices include: