Montecito, California

Montecito, Santa Barbara’s ritzy next-door neighbor, is California’s answer to the Hamptons. America’s rich and famous have sought respite in this coastal enclave since the 1880s, when East Coast families, seeking leisure and wellness, traveled cross-country by train to bask in the Mediterranean climate during winter. These days, visitors to Montecito can explore the upper and lower “villages,” which are known for their variety of upscale boutiques and Michelin-recognized eateries. For an in-depth look at Montecito’s elegant residences, visit Casa del Herrero, an 11-acre Spanish Colonial-style gem that is home to an impressive collection of art and artifacts from the Golden Age of Spain. Sometimes called a mini “Hearst Castle,” the National Historic Landmark celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2025. Travelers continue to enjoy wellness remedies at luxury spas, with treatments ranging from the Montecito Sage Purification at the Forbes 5-star Sense spa to oxygen facials at San Ysidro Ranch.