With their keen eyes for unforgettable images, actor Jeff Bridges and his wife, Susan—a lifelong photographer—take movie lovers and camera buffs behind the scenes in their tandem exhibitions at the Tamsen Gallery
For photographer Emmanuelle Pickett, rodeo is a way of life, and it’s in those little moments behind the scenes where you find the real gold
One of the most striking aspects of artist David Florimbi’s work is his use of the color blue.
Santa Barbara was hardly in the surfing spotlight in 1979 when Texas native Jimmy Metyko came to study at Brooks Institute of Photography.
Photographer Kerry Wheeler takes us from the mountains to the sea in his cinematic hometown
Generations of polo players and ponies carry on the traditions of more than 100 years at the Santa Barbara Polo Club
Welcome to the newly renovated Hotel Santa Barbara. Step into our beautiful new chapter, where rich history meets modern luxury in the heart of downtown.
What’s Now
SUSAN READ CRONIN’s sculptures are guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Visual puns, clever juxtapositions, playful takes on animals, plants, and body parts (noses!)
The latest addition to the arts district, DOM’S TAVERNA, brightens up a historic building that once served as the headquarters of the California Electric Company
An exciting exhibition, The Impressionist Revolution: Monet to Matisse From the Dallas Museum of Art, now on view at the SANTA BARBARA MUSEUM OF ART (SBMA), focuses on Impressionism’s rebellious origins and its extraordinary influence on the art world
A festive crowd gathered downtown at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art to toast Santa Barbara Magazine’s 50th anniversary and to celebrate the publication of its winter Culture Issue.
A drive through Carpinteria is never complete without a stop to see what ceramicist MIRI MARA is bringing to life at the wheel.
The art scene in Santa Barbara is becoming more global, as evidenced by the recent opening of SEIMANDI & LEPRIEUR GALLERY, helmed by French couple Fanny Seimandi and Julien Leprieur.
“You come here, and there’s a certain magic. We want every guest to feel that,” says Alia Rocher.
This February, Santa Barbara filmgoers will xperience our international film festival like never before.
In Partnership
Montecito’s top real estate team, Riskin Partners Estate Group is not just a name, it’s a promise—one of trust and authenticity, collaboration and community, values and vision.
Capturing the essence of the Santa Barbara lifestyle, Wendy Foster is a local institution, a legacy lifestyle brand with an impeccable reputation as an arbiter of good taste and a collection of urbane local stores under one vibrant umbrella.
The gold standard of residential builders, Leonard Unander Associates, Inc. (LUA) is behind some of the most exceptional high-end homes in Montecito and Santa Barbara.
Susan Read Cronin
Bronze sculptures with humorous and allegorical themes
Bronze Limited Edition of 60 ~ 3.5” H x 3.5” W x 7” D
Block Party
Enjoy a rambling tour of downtown’s home stores; you’ll be sure to discover something special to brighten your day (and your abode)
Ideas for reveling in the Southern California lifestyle abound in the boutiques here, plus the beach is just across the way
Everyone seems to know everyone else in this low-key, close-knit beach town with a penchant for vintage wares
Under the gaze of the Topa Topa Mountains you’ll find a big design destination with a small-town charm
Wine, windmills, and wide-open spaces set the stage for design-detailed lodging, home, and garden havens
In Partnership with Santa Barbara Magazine
This elegantly and fully remodeled contemporary estate is a masterclass in modern design. Sweeping mountain views, incredible natural light, and striking volume conjure the sense of a zen retreat. Set on 2.39 acres, this home seamlessly blends modern luxury with indoor-outdoor living. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame breathtaking views, while expansive terraces, a newly rebuilt pool, and a rooftop deck offer stunning spaces to relax and entertain. The reimagined kitchen/family room is the heart of the home, featuring custom Leicht cabinetry, three spacious islands, brand-new luxe appliances, and lighting. A 3,000-bottle wine cellar, serene primary suite, and state-of-the-art upgrades elevate this stunning property. A rare blend of style and craftsmanship, this is Hope Ranch living at its finest. Presented by Riskin Partners Estate Group | Offered at $9,250,000 Learn More
Welcome to Rincon Point—an exclusive, gated oceanfront enclave just south of Santa Barbara, gracefully nestled along the coastline. This exquisite 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence has been thoughtfully updated with premium, high-end appliances. Mere steps from the sand, the lush, secluded backyard offers a serene oasis complete with an alfresco dining area, a sun-kissed deck with lounge seating, an outdoor shower, and a charming play area. Inside, the home’s modern architecture is bathed in natural light, with soaring ceilings and a refined, airy ambiance that invites relaxation and effortless entertaining. Rincon Point is a truly enchanting locale, where the rhythm of the ocean and the splendor of nature take precedence over everyday concerns. Famed for its world-class surf and breathtaking beaches, this coveted community offers a lifestyle few places can match. Opportunities to own within Rincon Point are exceedingly rare—don’t miss your chance to claim a slice of coastal paradise. Presented by Emily Kellenberger & Associates | Offered at $3,795,000 Learn More
Resting atop a private, gated knoll above Santa Barbara, this sleek contemporary residence—owned by legendary actor Christopher Lloyd—commands sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, Channel Islands, and Santa Barbara Harbor. Recently reimagined with crisp lines and a modern sensibility, the two-bedroom, two-bath main home offers effortless indoor-outdoor living, with floor-to-ceiling glass capturing every sunset. Expansive decks set the stage for evening cocktails or tranquil mornings above the clouds. A detached one-bedroom guest retreat with its own living room or office offers a chic, versatile space for visitors or creative pursuits. Where timeless design meets cinematic vistas, this property embodies sophistication, seclusion, and world-class beauty. Presented by Ron Brand | Offered at $5,995,000 Learn More
Perched above Pepper Hill, the Jack Warner Estate commands breathtaking views of the ocean, coastline, and mountains—hallmarks of the Montecito experience. From sunrise over the Santa Ynez Mountains to sunsets that illuminate the Pacific, each moment captures nature at its most sublime. Designed for effortless living, the home transitions seamlessly to a pool and spa, a loggia with fireplace, a fruit orchard, and a bocce court—each space thoughtfully oriented to embrace the panoramic landscape. Expansive glass walls flood the interiors with sunlight, dissolving the boundaries between indoors and out. Every detail reflects timeless elegance and relaxed sophistication, creating a sanctuary where design and nature exist in perfect harmony. Presented by Robert Kemp | Offered at $24,900,000 Learn More
Escape to timeless elegance in Montecito’s exclusive Riven Rock. Set on 5.5 acres of breathtaking grounds, this extraordinary estate blends old-world grandeur with modern sophistication. Masterfully restored and expanded by Van Acker Construction, the 16,668-sq-ft English Country masterpiece offers seven luxurious bedroom suites, 13 bathrooms, and exquisite architectural details throughout. Designed for both grand entertaining and private retreat, amenities include a subterranean 8-car auto gallery with a chauffeur’s garage, two guest houses, a resort-style pool and cabana, gym, playroom, and a world-class culinary kitchen. The incomparable primary suite boasts a 1,220-sq-ft attic-turned-closet. Surrounded by citrus orchards, gardens, and walking paths, this is more than a home—it’s a legacy of refined living in one of Montecito’s most coveted enclaves. Presented by Gary Goldberg | Offered at $34,900,000 Learn More
Tucked away on a spacious and level ±1-acre parcel, this gated Montecito estate embodies the essence of a true luxury compound. The property features two thoughtfully designed residences — including a newly built ±1,200 sq ft ADU — set amid expansive, park-like grounds that are ideal for multi-generational living, entertaining family and friends, or creating income opportunities. Located in the coveted Cold Spring School District, this retreat is perfectly situated between Montecito’s upper and lower villages, just minutes from pristine beaches and scenic hiking trails. Architectural plans by A34 Studios are available, with a land-use permit already secured for the future expansion of the main residence. Presented by the Dusty Baker Group | Offered at $5,295,000 Learn More
Perched in the coveted hills of Montecito, this newly renovated estate showcases sweeping ocean, island, and mountain views from nearly every vantage point. A private gated drive leads to the grand main residence, where soaring ceilings, wide-plank wood floors, and arched French doors evoke timeless elegance. At the heart of the home is a spectacular chef’s kitchen that seamlessly connects to both formal and casual living areas, including a dining room designed for entertaining. The luxurious primary suite features dual bathrooms and closets, complemented by three additional ensuite bedrooms. Two charming guest houses offer comfort and privacy for visitors. Designed for year-round enjoyment, the estate’s grounds include an outdoor kitchen, sparkling pool and spa, lush gardens, and multiple terraces that embrace the breathtaking natural surroundings. Presented by Riskin Partners Estate Group | Offered at $29,995,000 Learn More
This coastal view estate captures relaxed sophistication and natural beauty. Set on over two acres of lush, landscaped grounds, the 8,000+ square foot home blends luxury with the ease of Santa Barbara living. Designed for both everyday comfort and grand entertaining, it features five bedrooms, eight bathrooms, and an open floor plan. Sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Ynez Mountains define the experience, with nearly every room opening seamlessly to the outdoors. Clean lines, a new seam-lined metal roof, fresh siding, and expansive windows frame the scenery like living art. Sunlight fills wide hallways and soaring ceilings, while gallery-style walls await fine art collections. Multiple outdoor fireplaces and fire pits create cozy gathering spots, and amenities like a pool, tennis court, bocce, and garden spaces invite relaxation—all within the serenity of your private estate. Presented by Patrice Serrani | Price upon request Learn More
Awaken to the rhythm of the waves at this timeless Montecito beach retreat, cherished by one family for generations and now ready to welcome new memories. At its heart, a striking redwood living room with a fireplace glows in the sunset, framing sweeping ocean views. Doors open to an ocean-view terrace on one side and a garden on the other, offering seamless indoor-outdoor living. The main residence features two bedrooms and two baths, combining comfort with a rare connection to the sea. A detached guest suite provides added privacy and flexibility for family or visitors. Surrounded by vibrant landscaping, the grounds flow effortlessly to the sand, while close proximity to Montecito’s Lower Village and the Rosewood Miramar enhances the coastal lifestyle. Presented by Cristal Clarke | Offered at $12,500,000 Learn More
ESCAPE TO OJAI VALLEY GOODNESS Breathe in the beauty of Ojai’s oak-studded 220-acre retreat, filled with fresh-air pursuits and surrounded by the Topatopa Mountains. Come savor Forbes Five-Star cuisine at Olivella (one of six original dining outlets), indulge in our Forbes Five-Star Spa Ojai, play golf on an American classic, and find your idyllic retreat amid famed Ojai views. Bring friends, family, and lovers of all things Ojai for an iconic getaway that truly stays with you.
Book Club
Tomes to keep you dreaming
“From Under the Truck” is Josh Brolin’s raw memoir of a feral Central California childhood and the long fallout that followed. He recalls growing up on a chaotic ranch with his reckless mother, brushes with violence, addiction, and jail, and the unlikely path to Hollywood stardom. Moving back and forth in time, Brolin turns fragmented, often brutal memories into a jagged reflection on grief, love, fatherhood, and the uneasy work of becoming whole.
“Dirtbag Billionaire” tells the story of Yvon Chouinard, the unconventional climber who built Patagonia, made a fortune, and then gave it away. David Gelles shows how Chouinard’s anti‑authoritarian streak and love of wild places pushed Patagonia to prioritize workers, the environment, and activism over endless growth. The book examines whether Patagonia’s experiment—donating most profits to climate causes and rejecting traditional ownership—offers a real model for more responsible business.
“Unplugged” follows Tom Freston from wandering traveler to architect of MTV’s global youth culture revolution. He recounts hitchhiking and hustling abroad, launching a clothing business from South Asia, then helping build MTV before running a vast constellation of TV networks and finally Viacom. Candid and fast‑paced, the memoir blends music, media, and adventure to argue that embracing detours, risk, and cross‑cultural connection can be its own unconventional route to lasting success.
“Pub Theory” is Jeff Shelton’s compact manifesto for reviving neighborhoods by restoring the humble pub—or any intimate, walkable gathering place—to the heart of urban design. With playful drawings and plainspoken commentary, he shows how car‑first planning isolated homes from everyday needs and from one another. His solution is to seed small pubs and third places through suburban fabric, turning streets into social rooms and shifting communities from drive‑through zones into walkable, lived‑in environments.
“California: Dream State” curates C Magazine’s best over 20 years, spotlighting luxurious homes, hidden gems, and influencers across Canyon, Coast, Valley, City, Garden, Mountain, and Desert. Vivid photos reveal Malibu retreats, Sonoma vineyards, Topanga domes, and desert oases, blending architecture, art, and lifestyle into a portrait of California’s dreamy essence. It’s a love letter to the state’s diverse beauty and innovative spirit.
“Women” collects more than 250 Annie Leibovitz portraits into a powerful, slipcased two-volume celebration of female lives. From celebrities and CEOs to athletes, activists, and anonymous workers, the images chart an evolving landscape of womanhood, looking at how women inhabit authority, intimacy, and vulnerability. Essays by Susan Sontag, Gloria Steinem, and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie frame the photographs as an ongoing conversation about how women are seen—and how they see themselves—in the 21st century.
Macduff Everton’s expanded “The Book of Santa Barbara” uses panoramic photos to showcase the city’s beaches, hills, missions, gardens, and people—from pioneers to protesters. With Mary Heebner’s captions, Pico Iyer’s foreword, and Nick Welsh’s afterword on recent upheavals, this 376-page second edition balances paradise with real life, blending archival shots and new images to affirm the town’s enduring allure, quirks, and community amid change.
After surviving the 2018 Montecito mudslide, Mary Firestone interviewed trauma survivors and now shares her own harrowing story in Trusting the Dawn (Sounds True, $26). The book lends a fresh take on healing modalities, focusing on connection, hope, and choosing joy. Firestone says, “Experiencing extreme growth, positive change, and a new, wondrous perspective on what it means to be alive can contribute to a more connected, dynamic life on the other side [of trauma].”
In Partnership with Santa Barbara MagazineGreat Schools
From Pre-Kindergarten through 12th Grade, throughout Santa Barbara
At ANACAPA SCHOOL, learning starts with community. Our inclusive, tight-knit community fosters close relationships and provides diverse opportunities for personal growth.
CRANE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL is a co-educational Kindergarten-8th Grade independent school located on 12 beautiful acres in Montecito, California.
FUSION ACADEMY SANTA BARBARA: Where Personalized Education Meets Coastal Excellence. In the heart of Santa Barbara’s vibrant coastal community, Fusion Academy offers an elevated private school experience for grades 6–12.
THRIVING TOGETHER — At LAGUNA BLANCA, you step into a community where every student is truly seen and supported, from Early Kindergarten through Grade 12.
OJAI VALLEY SHOOL is an independent boarding & day school for 300 students — Pre-K through 12th grade — on two campuses in Ojai.
Equip your student to live a life of purpose at PROVIDENCE, Santa Barbara’s only Christian school serving preschool through 12th grade.
THE RIVIERA RIDGE SCHOOL provides student-centered, inclusive and individualized learning opportunities for every student.
Founded in 1976, SANTA BARBARA MIDDLE SCHOOL is an independent co-educational day school specializing in grades 6-9.
SOUTH COAST MONTESSORI offers an authentic Montessori program for children 3 months through 12 years old.
THE WALDORF SCHOOL OF SANTA BARBARA is committed to providing a healthy, broad, reverent education that honors the head, heart, hands—the whole—of the child.
THE CURRENT ISSUE
THE CURRENT ISSUE
Santa Barbara Magazine
Winter 2025
Voted Best City and Metropolitan Magazine
Maggie Awards, Western Publications Association