Set in the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains, Montecito is an affluent neighbourhood north of Los Angeles. The neighbourhood is an enclave for celebrities, with leafy streets, luxe mansions and easy access to the beach. Upmarket cafes and boutiques make Coast Village Road a favourite with fashion fans.
Things to do in Montecito
Coast Village Road is the beating heart of Montecito. The lively thoroughfare is lined with trendy cafes where you can enjoy organic brunches, smoothies and artisan coffee. Enjoy lunch on an outdoor patio and sip Napa Valley wine with your evening meal.
The shopping in Montecito is fantastic, with independent boutiques selling designer clothing, jewellery and homewares. Many of the products are made in California and showcase the creativity of the Golden State.
Tours of Casa del Herrero take you behind the scenes of an elegant Spanish Colonial manor. The estate was built in the 1920s and is set in beautifully manicured gardens. Now a National Historic Landmark, Casa del Herrero recalls Montecito in the Roaring Twenties.
Filled with more than 3,500 plant species from around the world, Lotusland is one of the most enchanting botanical gardens in California. Prickly cacti, lush ferns and fragrant lilies are just some of the plants on show in the 15-hectare gardens. Visit in July and August to see the namesake lotuses in full bloom.
Butterfly Beach lures sunseekers in with its golden sand and a secluded atmosphere. Swaying palms line the foreshore and add to the idyllic feel. Soak up the sunshine on the sand, cool off in the rolling surf and keep an eye out for celebrities walking their dogs on the beach.
Getting there
Montecito is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. Parking is available along Coast Village Road and in Montecito Village. Los Angeles International Airport is a 1.5-hour drive down the coast.