Introduction to Montecito
Nestled along the California coastline, Montecito is a small town with a population of fewer than 10,000 residents, yet it boasts an outsized reputation thanks to its stunning natural surroundings and high-profile residents.
Situated in Santa Barbara County, Montecito is perfectly positioned between the sparkling Pacific Ocean and the majestic Santa Ynez Mountains, offering breathtaking views in every direction.
This picturesque town is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere, lush landscapes, and a sense of exclusivity that attracts some of the world’s most famous faces. From Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to Oprah Winfrey and Ariana Grande, Montecito has become a sought-after haven for celebrities seeking privacy and luxury.
Its close proximity to Santa Barbara provides residents with easy access to vibrant cultural attractions, while the town itself is home to beautiful beaches like Fernald’s Point and Butterfly Beach, making Montecito, California, a truly exceptional place to call home.
ADAM LEVINE AND BEHATI PRINSLOO'S NEW MONTECITO MANSION
Adam Levine and Behati Prinsloo sealed the deal on their new Montecito home, known as “Oakview.” Selling for $52 million, this off-market deal comes shortly after the pair priced their Pacific Palisades estate for $57.5 million.
The Oakview property lies within the heart of Montecito, neighboring other celebrities who have fled to this seaside haven. Originally built for Rob Lowe in 2009, the home was renovated in 2019 when it was owned by Jack and Julie McGinley.
The estate extends over 3.4 acres of land with 6 bedrooms, 11 bathrooms in the main house, a two-bedroom guesthouse with 2 bathrooms, and 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom in the pool house. The home features large windows that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. This is considered one of the most expensive celebrity homes in the area.
The Scarface Estate
Known as “El Fureidis,” this unique property is most famously known for its appearance in Al Pacino’s 1983 film “Scarface.” Built by Bertram Goodhue, this estate has a main house and two guest houses, providing three bedrooms.
The seller, Pradeep Yohanne Gupta, is an accomplished businessman who made the purchase of “El Fureidis” several years ago, adding to the estate’s notable past ownership.
Mr. Gupta and his family have decided to place the estate for sale on the market as they are based out of Austen Texas and have been unable to travel to Montecito as much as they would have liked since Covid. However, the family has an immense fondness for the property and its lush gardens that span over acres of land.
Take a closer look at the estate’s stunning features in each photo included above, which showcase the grandeur and historical significance of this iconic property.
Larry’s Hedgerow Hideaway
The legendary Larry David buys a French Normandy cottage-style home in the Hedgerow neighborhood of Montecito. David purchased the property for $5.7 million. The home has four bedrooms and four bathrooms, spanning over 1/5 acre of land. Famous Montecito architect, George Washington Smith, built this quaint cottage from the ground up in 1929. The authenticity of the home is well preserved as modernized updates have been made throughout the house. Wood beams, fireplaces, and chandeliers bring an element of warmth and coziness to each room. A sophisticated library offers a quiet retreat for reading or study, adding to the home's inviting atmosphere.
Natalie Portman’s Toro Canyon Retreat
An off-market transaction took place last year as Natalie Portman completed the sale and purchase transfer of her Toro Canyon property in Montecito, California. Portman sold the 10.4-acre property for $8 Million to David Kalt, cofounder of OptionsXpress.
The 4 bedroom, 5 bathroom home was built by the famous architect, Barton Myers in 2008. A modern concrete pool resides in the backyard beside beautiful oak and Eucalyptus trees. The included photos showcase the home's striking design, highlighting its luxurious features and unique architecture.
Huge windowed garage-style doors act as walls. When the walls are up, the home transforms into an indoor-outdoor space, perfect for the California sunshine. The sale of Natalie Portman's property generated significant public interest, drawing attention to the exclusive Montecito real estate market.
Marcus Lemonis Lists his Ennisbrook Escape
Marcus Lemonis
Marcus Lemonis is best known for his role as the host of “The Profit,” a show where Lemonis helps struggling businesses. Lemonis is now listing his Ennisbrook estate for $24.9 million. With 5 bedrooms and 8 bathrooms, this home provides plenty of space in one of the best locations in Montecito. The original architect, Warner and Gray, built this home in the 1980s, but it has since been renovated by Becker Studios. The renovation included the addition of solar panels for improved energy efficiency and a retractable roof that enhances natural light and ventilation. The estate also features a tennis court as one of its luxurious outdoor amenities. With ample indoor and outdoor living space as well as a pool and garden, this property pairs a stylish, chic aesthetic with the comforts of a family home.
Oceanfront Properties: The Ultimate Celebrity Retreat
Montecito, California, is synonymous with luxury living, and nowhere is this more evident than in its breathtaking oceanfront properties. These estates offer the ultimate retreat for celebrities who crave privacy, exclusivity, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Among the most iconic is Oprah Winfrey’s house, a sprawling compound known as the Promise Land. This Montecito estate spans 42 acres and features a neighboring horse ranch, tennis courts, a pool house, and a tranquil koi pond. The property also includes orchards and a two bedroom guest house, making it a true sanctuary in Santa Barbara County.
Ariana Grande is another star who has fallen for Montecito’s coastal charm. She purchased the Porter House, a Tudor style home originally built from two barns dating back to the 1700s in Surrey, England. With vaulted ceilings, five fireplaces, and rustic decor, this montecito home exudes both history and warmth. Grande’s intimate ceremony with Dalton Gomez took place here, adding to the property’s celebrity allure.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have also chosen Montecito as their family home, settling into a Mediterranean-style mansion with nine bedrooms and 16 bathrooms. Their estate is surrounded by century old olive trees, a rose garden, a children’s cottage, and a tea house, creating a peaceful oasis for the royal couple. The main house is complemented by luxurious guest houses and outdoor spaces perfect for entertaining or relaxing in the California sun. Their famous interview with Oprah Winfrey was filmed at this very montecito estate, further cementing its place in pop culture.
Rob Lowe’s estate is another standout among Montecito’s celebrity homes. Located near Butterfly Beach, his property features a main house, multiple guest houses, and a swimming pool, all with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Lowe has remarked on how the arrival of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle has brought even more attention to this small town, making it a hotspot for small town celebrities.
Gwyneth Paltrow and Brad Hall have also invested in the area, building a montecito home with a retractable roof, solar panels, and sustainably sourced hardwood floors. Their family-friendly property is designed for both comfort and style, offering luxurious features and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi are well-known for their real estate ventures in Montecito, including the historic Rancho San Leandro estate, which they repurchased in 2020. The couple has owned several other properties in the area, including a Tudor style home that was later sold to Ariana Grande, showcasing the ever-evolving landscape of celebrity homes in Montecito, California.
From the sprawling compounds of Oprah Winfrey and Prince Harry to the historic charm of Ariana Grande’s Porter House, Montecito’s oceanfront properties represent the pinnacle of luxury and privacy. With their unique blend of architectural beauty, natural surroundings, and exclusive amenities like tennis courts, pool houses, and rose gardens, these estates continue to attract high-profile residents and small town celebrities alike. It’s no wonder that Montecito, California, remains one of the most coveted destinations for those seeking the ultimate celebrity retreat.
Montecito’s Appeal to Celebrities
Montecito’s magnetic pull for celebrities lies in its perfect blend of natural beauty, luxury, and privacy. The town’s secluded estates, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s no wonder that stars like Oprah Winfrey, Ellen DeGeneres, and Ariana Grande have chosen Montecito as their sanctuary. Residents enjoy not only breathtaking ocean views and lush mountain backdrops but also access to high-end amenities, from luxury shopping to gourmet dining, all just minutes from Santa Barbara. The area’s expansive properties and gated communities provide the privacy and security that celebrities crave. The Montecito area is renowned for its high-value real estate market, with celebrities frequently buying, selling, and flipping multimillion-dollar properties. Meanwhile, the laid-back, small-town vibe allows them to enjoy a more relaxed pace of life. Whether it’s unwinding on a private terrace, exploring scenic hiking trails, or simply enjoying the company of fellow small town celebrities, Montecito offers an unparalleled lifestyle for those in the spotlight.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Montecito, California, stands out as a unique blend of natural splendor, luxury living, and celebrity allure. With its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Ynez Mountains, this charming town has become the ultimate destination for those seeking both privacy and prestige. The impressive roster of celebrity homes, from sprawling Montecito estates to elegant guest houses and pool houses, showcases the area’s commitment to comfort, style, and exclusivity. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of sustainably sourced hardwood floors, outdoor fireplaces, or simply the chance to be neighbors with icons like Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, Oprah Winfrey, or Ariana Grande, Montecito offers a lifestyle unlike any other. As more celebrities and discerning residents continue to make this town their home base, Montecito’s reputation as a haven for luxury and tranquility only grows stronger, making it one of California’s most coveted communities.
