
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

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.
What’s Now
There goes the little king,” says Ryan Dobosh, owner of Buellton’s bright new coffee shop, as his toddler son, Roger, bursts into the kitchen with his mother, Grace Gates.
Creativity takes center stage at the new Artiste Winery & Gallery in historic Santa Ynez.
Twenty years ago, Dale Hampton, the pioneer Santa Barbara County grape grower, planted 20 acres of Syrah near Los Olivos
In the heart of downtown Santa Ynez, a 100-year-old barn that once housed a saddle shop has found new life as The Hardt—a design studio, workshop, and event venue.
In continued celebration of our 50th anniversary special edition Summer issue, Santa Barbara Magazine hosted an afternoon of high goal polo at the Santa Barbara Polo Club
“I feel like I’m in a daily trance with the mountains, trees, springs, creeks, ocean, and dark night skies”
Artist LULU DE KWIATKOWSKI (aka Lulu DK) and designer NATALIE MARTIN have finally merged their respective talents.
Internationally renowned designer JOHN SALADINO (1939–2025) died at his Montecito home on July 26, 2025, at the age of 86.
Although cookbook author and master gardener VALERIE RICE has had plenty of success in the food world on her own, chairing an event that felt like a celebration of all the women who inspire her in the industry was a recent career high point.
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.
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

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
Sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands take center stage in this exquisitely rebuilt single-level home atop Campanil Hill. Set on a full acre of ocean-facing land, the property is enveloped by lush landscaping, along with mature avocado and citrus orchards—offering a rare blend of privacy, location, and comfort. Reimagined in 2016 by Litchfield Construction, the 2,503± sq ft residence embraces a distinctly modern spirit, with clean architectural lines, abundant natural light, and thoughtfully designed spaces that maximize the breathtaking vistas. Currently configured with a spacious primary suite and a large artist’s studio, the flexible layout can easily accommodate up to three bedrooms, plus a dedicated office. Presented by the Dusty Baker Group | Offered at $5,495,000 Learn More
Perched on a knoll amid lush coastal scenery, this traditional New England estate marries timeless design with exceptional craftsmanship. Designed by renowned architect Peter Becker, the home features distinctive oval “porthole” windows inspired by Monticello, a soaring 14-foot cathedral ceiling crafted from 54 custom panels, and materials thoughtfully sourced over five years. Completed in 2012, the residence offers 4 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, 7 fireplaces, and a 3-level elevator. Highlights include a chef’s kitchen outfitted with Viking appliances, a media room, a 640-bottle wine cellar, and a walk-in safe. A separate guest wing ensures privacy for visitors. Outdoors, enjoy a bocce ball court, wood-fired pizza oven, multiple patios, and a 3-car garage—with space to accommodate 25+ additional vehicles. A rare blend of luxury, architectural heritage, and California charm. Presented by Gary Goldberg | Offered at $11,875,000 Learn More
Set on over 2.5 acres in Montecito’s prestigious Pepper Hill enclave, this extraordinary estate is the final residential masterpiece by renowned architect Jack Warner. The single-level home spans approximately 7,500 square feet and features five bedrooms and five and a half bathrooms, along with soaring 18-foot ceilings and sweeping 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean, coastline, and Santa Ynez Mountains. Expansive walls of glass create a seamless connection to the outdoors, while bronze sculptures by Aristides Demetrios add an artful rhythm to the living spaces. The landscaped grounds include a stunning pool and spa, citrus orchard, bocce court, fire pit, and a tranquil lemon arbor. A three-car garage and ocean-view loggia complete this rare opportunity to own a piece of Jack Warner’s enduring legacy. Presented by Robert Kemp | Offered at $29,500,000 Learn More

Book Club
Tomes to keep you dreaming
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 a bright, heartfelt, humorous memoir, 3 Sisters, 3 Weeks, 3 Countries (Still Talking)(BookBaby, $15), Elizabeth Moore Kraus proves that sometimes it takes being a half world away (specifically Ireland, England, Scotland) to rediscover things about yourself and the people—in this case three sisters in their 60s, Liz, Les, and Rie—you love. “Eat, Pray, Love this is not,” the author says. “Think more along the lines of Eat. Laugh. Lost. That’s something the Moore sisters do, oh, so very well.”
A Map to Your Soul (Rodale Books, $26), by Dr. Jennifer Freed, sheds light on the elements (fire, earth, air, water) that manifest in each of us. The guide helps readers discover their personal map, with self-care rituals to design their best life. “I wanted to share a pathway to full self-expression, turning gifts and strengths into community contribution,” says Freed, Goop’s resident psychological astrologer. “Getting elemental is the best way I know to teach the fundamental and worldwide basics of astrology.”
All Signs Point to Paris (Mariner Books, $29) is a rom-com-like memoir of one woman’s search for a second chance at love. Author Natasha Sizlo—“divorced, broke, freshly heartbroken, and reeling from her father’s death”—is gifted a session with L.A.’s most sought-after astrologist, who tells her that an ex is “the one,” because his birthdate and birthplace (November 2, 1968; Paris, France) line up with her astrological point of destiny. The nonbeliever says, “Oui” and books a ticket to Paris with her sister and two besties for the trip of a lifetime.
California Elegance: Portraits From the Final Frontier (Mondadori, available at Chaucer’s Books) profiles people who have shaped the destiny of the Golden State, including scientists, politicians, designers, firefighters, and, appropriately, treasured local denizen Mahri Kerley, who has elegantly helmed the venerable Chaucer’s Books since 1974.
For a taste of eye candy, pick up Michael Haber: The Elements (Art/Society Publishing, available at Field + Fort), a large-format tome featuring a curated collection of images snapped by the talented local lensman during the course of his awardwinning career producing stunning commercial campaigns for the likes of The Gap, Old Navy, and Tommy Bahama. Don’t miss the author’s book signing on December 11, 3-6 p.m., at Summerland’s Field + Fort.
Artist Symeon Shimin (1902-1984)—whose work includes an important mural at Washington’s Department of Justice building and the movie poster for Gone With the Wind—is being rediscovered thanks to The Art of Symeon Shimin (Mercury Press International, available at Tecolote Book Shop). The book is edited by his daughter, UC Santa Barbara dance professor emerita Tonia Shimin, with essays by local arts writers Charles Donelan and Josef Woodard.
(Flatiron Books, available at Chaucer’s Books) is an insightful (and often witty) firsthand account by UC Santa Barbara student Via Bleidner detailing her experiences attending high school in the land where McMansions and Kardashians are the norm.
Architecture buffs will be thrilled to know that Santa Barbara Architecturefrom Spanish Colonial to Modern (Tailwater Press, available at tailwaterpress.com) is back in print. The latest update of this comprehensive compendium—which was first published in 1975—includes a foreword by local architect Marc Appleton and images by local photographer Wayne McCall.
Alexandra and Michael Misczynski, the wife-and-husband team behind the L.A. design firm Atelier AM, showcase eight of their new projects in Houses: Atelier AM (Rizzoli New York, $70), with photographs by François Halard. rizzoliusa.com.

In Partnership with Santa Barbara Magazine
Great 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.
LAGUNA BLANCA—Thriving Together. From your first year to your senior year, Laguna Blanca is fully invested in your success.
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.
SOUTH COAST MONTESSORI offers an authentic Montessori program for children 3 months through 12 years old.
Founded in 1976, SANTA BARBARA MIDDLE SCHOOL is an independent co-educational day school specializing in grades 6-9.
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
Fall 2025
Voted Best City and Metropolitan Magazine


Maggie Awards, Western Publications Association