The limelight of Hollywood only shines so far before it begins to fade—less than 100 miles in any direction. And that’s exactly how residents of Montecito like it. Wedged between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, on the eastern edge of Santa Barbara, the affluent, celeb-favored Southern California enclave is known for its A-list residents—Gwyneth Paltrow, Jennifer Aniston, Oprah Winfrey, Ellen DeGeneres, and Prince Harry and Meghan Markle all own homes—laid-back charm, and scenic beauty.
Movies have long filmed at—or created sets to emulate—this attractive coastal destination that looks designed by Jenni Kayne Home and dressed by Jamie Haller (both of which have outdoors in town), and landscaped by Paltrow’s gardener (this is more a feeling than a fact). Houses are concealed beyond gates and hedges. The uniform is light-wash denim, a white tee, and a cashmere sweater for cooler mornings and evenings. Birds chirp in a sing-songy melody that mimics film scores. The whole town—just shy of 10 square miles—smells like eucalyptus and fresh air.
Beyond its good looks and pop culture prowess, Montecito’s wellness-leaning lifestyle and access to the outdoors provide a reprieve from the go-go-go energy of daily life. Coupled with a standout food and beverage scene, designer shopping, and luxury resorts, it’s the perfect base for exploring the best of the American Riviera.
Here’s how to plan the perfect escape to the crown jewel of Santa Barbara County.
Where to Stay
Photo: Courtesy of Rosewood Miramar Beach
Rosewood Miramar Beach is an institution in Montecito. The five-star beachfront resort unfolds across a manicured estate with stone paths and bungalow-style accommodations that feel more like a gated community than a resort. But, of course, the amenities fall squarely into the latter camp, including a private strip of sand serviced with umbrellas, chairs, and sunscreen dispensers, bocce courts, and both family and adult pools. With multiple restaurants, an excellent spa, a gym with cardio equipment that spills out onto the terrace, fire pits for s’mores, and a polished pack of shops—including Chanel, Zegna, Bottega Veneta, and Goop (the hometown wellness darling obviously has a presence)—you don’t have to leave to get the full Montecito experience.
Photo: Ivana Milenkovic
