Food & Wine

March 15, 2022

What to Know Before Relocating to Montecito

Montecito is the epitome of luxury and one of the most desirable towns to raise a family. It is home to some of the most notable people in the world including ...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

December 15, 2021

Santa Barbara Area Schools

Are you planning to relocate to the Santa Barbara area? Or do you already live in this Southern California community and want to move to a different home that ...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

August 12, 2026

Buying a Home on Santa Barbara’s Riviera

If you are thinking about buying on Santa Barbara’s Riviera, you are likely drawn to one thing right away: the setting. Perched above downtown, the Riviera off...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

July 16, 2026

The 2026 Mid-Year Report | State of Luxury

By Coldwell Banker Global Luxury

March 11, 2021

Food & Wine

A Collection of Our Favorite Restaurants, Wineries & BarsRestaurantsPane e VinoAperitivoLucky's SteakhouseTre Lune RistoranteStonehouse RestaurantPlow & AngelC...

By

June 9, 2026

Best Restaurants in Santa Barbara

By Randy Solakian Estates GroupSanta Barbara's dining scene consistently punches above its weight for a city of its size, shaped by the Santa Barbara Channel's...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

February 13, 2026

Luxury Home Design Trends for 2026

Where Innovation Meets Indulgence: The Future of Elevated Living As the boundaries between technology, sustainability, and artistry continue to blur, luxury ho...

By Solakian Partners

January 18, 2026

The Trend Report 2026

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

May 4, 2026

Buying a Home in Hope Ranch

Buying a Home in Hope Ranch Your Essential Guide to Hope Ranch Real Estate By Randy Solakian Estates Group Hope Ranch occupies 1,900 acres along the Santa Bar...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

May 2, 2026

Living in Santa Barbara: A Local’s Guide

Living in Santa Barbara: A Local’s Guide What You’ll Love (and Need to Know) About Living in Santa Barbara By Randy Solakian Estates Group If you'...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

September 16, 2021

Hope Ranch Lifestyle Guide

Hope Ranch Lifestyle Guide What buyers can expect when they move to this special Santa Barbara enclave. Photo Credit: Santa Barbara Independent Located in ...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

April 14, 2026

How to Find a Real Estate Agent in Montecito

Finding the right real estate agent in Montecito is not just about credentials—about local insight, discretion, and knowing who understands the luxury ma...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

February 18, 2026

Ways to Enjoy the Arts in Santa Barbara

Discover the Many Ways to Enjoy the Arts in Santa Barbara By Randy Solakian Estates Group If you love being surrounded by creativity, Santa Barbara offers one ...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

February 27, 2026

How Outdoor Spaces Can Increase Property Values

By Randy Solakian Estates Group When you're thinking about listing your luxury property in Montecito, it’s easy to focus on the interior—but don&r...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

March 10, 2026

Annual Home Maintenance Checklist to Keep Your Property Value Up

When you own a luxury property in Santa Barbara, regular upkeep isn’t just about comfort—it’s about preserving your investment. We know first...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

March 22, 2024

7 Day Trips From Santa Barbara

Spring is here, and it is time to start planning family vacations and fun get-aways. While Santa Barbara is a world-class destination in its own right, the sur...

December 17, 2024

Montecito's Newest Restaurants

Montecito's culinary scene had a real boost this year with several new restaurants opening and more on the way. Here is our guide to the town's hottest new off...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

December 12, 2025

Tips for Making Your Home More Eco-Friendly

By Randy Solakian Estates Group When we meet with homeowners in Montecito, Hope Ranch, or along the Riviera, many of you tell us you want homes that feel both ...

By Solakian Partners

March 11, 2021

Financing

A Collection of Recommended LendersCornerstone Home LendingThe Kelly Marsh Team805-563-1100Channel MortgageScott Bradley805-403-4012Origin PointAustin Lampson8...

By

February 22, 2021

Land-Use Planners

A Collection of Recommended Land-use PlannersSiemens PlanningJennifer Siemens - 805-403-1199 Brian Banks - 805-637-4306Suzanne Elledge805-966-2758 ext 114​​​​​...

By

February 22, 2021

Interior Design

A Collection of Recommended Interior DesignersHouse of Honey805-969-7444Borden Interiors805-682-3201Christina Rottman Designs805-565-8537Casey Geeb Interior De...

By

February 23, 2021

Landscape Design

A Collection of Recommended Landscape ArchitectsGrace Design805-687-3569Isabelle Green & Associates805-569-4045Bosky Landscape(805) 845-3251Steve Hanson Landsc...

By

February 22, 2021

General/Subcontractors

A Collection of Recommended General & Subcontractors​​​​​​​DRAINAGE & IRRIGATION​​​​​​​ELECTRICALELEVATOREMERGENCY RESPONSE & REPAIREXCAVATING/DEMOLITION​​​​​​...

By

February 22, 2021

Engineering/Geology

A Collection of Recommended Engineers & GeologistsCampbell Engineering & Geological805-965-5003Geo Solutions805-235-2239Adam Simmons805-895-4101Hoffman & Assoc...

By

March 11, 2021

Shopping

A Collection of Our Favorite Shops & BoutiquesAngelK Frank​​​​​​​Whistle ClubWhiskey & LeatherWendy FosterJenni KayneChapala & ParkerHeritage Goods & SuppliesB...

By

March 11, 2021

Schools

A Collection of Public & Private SchoolsPre-schoolsAll Saints by the SeaMontessori Center SchoolEl MontecitoCathedral Oaks PreschoolBright StartQuality Time Ch...

By

August 9, 2022

Home Goods

A Collection of Recommended Home Goods SuppliersAPPLIANCESWDC Kitchen & BathFerguson Bath, Kitchen & LightingFOUNTAINSEye of the DayFURNITURESanta Barbara Desi...

By

March 11, 2021

Hotels

A Collection of Our Favorite HotelsBiltmoreSan Ysidro RanchMiramarEl EncantoBacaraOjai Valley Inn & SpaHotel Californian

By

February 22, 2021

Home Maintenance

A Collection of Recommended Home Maintenance ExpertsCLEANERSMaster Care805-683-1915Fish Window Cleaning805-351-3511ARBORISTS AND PLANT SPECIALISTSAgriTurf, Rob...

By

December 16, 2021

Travel & Leisure Names Santa Ynez Valley One of the 50 Best Places ...

Travel & Leisure named California's Santa Ynez Valley one of the 50 best places to travel in 2022 Santa Ynez comes in at #38: Two hours from L.A., the Santa Yn...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

April 17, 2021

The Inn at Zaca Creek in Santa Ynez Valley embraces its Wild West r...

Written by Julie Tremaine, SF Gate | Reference Source When Jim Buell built Zaca Creek in the early 1960s, it was the kind of place where you could ride your ...

By Julie Tremaine, SF Gate

January 14, 2021

The Best Places to Live By the Beach in the U.S.

By Devon Thorsby, U.S. News | Reference Source Where to move for sun and sand. For people who aren’t big fans of frigid winters or sweltering summers, c...

By Devon Thorsby, U.S. News

September 16, 2019

The 13 Essential Santa Barbara Restaurants

by Eater Staff | Reference SourceSanta Barbara is Southern California’s gateway to the Central Coast’s thriving wine country, and is home to some of the best p...

By Eater Staff

April 22, 2021

Rosewood Miramar to host Earth Day cleanup

Grayce McCormick, SB News Press | Reference Source Looking for a way to give back to our community on Earth Day? Join the Santa Barbara Channelkeeper and Ros...

By Grayce McCormick, SB News Press

January 13, 2022

San Ysidro Ranch named one of Vogue Magazine's Most Romantic Getaways

Written by Elise Taylor | Vogue Magazine | Reference Source Vogue Magazine has named San Ysidro Ranch as one of the world's most romantic hotels. The local gem...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

April 17, 2024

Santa Barbara Neighborhood Guide

With its stunning coastal beauty and mild Mediterranean climate, Santa Barbara is a dream destination for many. Its charming neighborhoods offer a variety of a...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

August 29, 2024

The Differences Between Buying A Second Home vs Investment Property

Embarking on the journey of purchasing an investment property or a second home in Santa Barbara is an exciting venture that many aspiring homeowners and season...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

June 30, 2021

Coast & Olive’s Local Focus at the Montecito Inn

Coast & Olive’s Local Focus at the Montecito Inn By Rebecca Horrigan, Santa Barbara Independent | Reference Source After 30-Plus Years of Owning the Hot...

By Rebecca Horrigan, Santa Barbara Independent

April 6, 2022

What to Expect From Luxury Real Estate in Santa Barbara in 2022

The word “unprecedented” has become ubiquitous when describing the nation’s real estate market. Economists seem to be running out of superlat...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

October 20, 2020

The 20 Best Places to Live in the U.S. for the Weather in 2020

By Devon Thorsby, U.S. News | Reference Source Avoid the extremes in these metro areas. The weather in your area can be a major factor in how much you enjoy ...

By Devon Thorsby, U.S. News

May 5, 2022

5 Ways to Get Outdoors in Montecito

Due to its natural beauty and glimmering community, Montecito and the rest of Santa Barbara County has been nicknamed “The American Riviera.” Mon...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

November 2, 2021

Faces of our Community: Loria Stern

Faces of our Community Loria is a chef, baker, gardener and artist who loves creating delicious and healthy foods using local, seasonal and highest quality ing...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

September 5, 2022

11 Family-Friendly Activities in Santa Barbara

Life in Santa Barbara is never dull, with activities available from culture to sports. Whether you’re looking to fill a morning or a whole day, whether y...

By Randy Solakian

January 12, 2023

Faces of our Community: SB Paella Catering

SB Paella Catering is a Santa Barbara-based, family operated catering business that serves delicious and authentic Spanish tapas and paella at private events b...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

October 14, 2021

Faces of our Community: William Laman

Faces of our Community William Laman William Laman Furniture.Garden.Antiques was established in 1995 by the Hall of Fame and internationally recognized interio...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

March 13, 2022

Thrillist's Best Restaurants in Santa Barbara

March 7, 2022 | By Danielle Bauter, and Leila Najafi Thrillist once again has turned the spotlight on Santa Barbara to feature some of the best dining options ...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

September 29, 2021

Santa Barbara County Picks Up First Two Michelin Stars

Santa Barbara County Picks Up First Two Michelin Stars Congratulations to Sushi Bar | Montecito and Bells Los Alamos For the first time ever, two Santa Barba...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

September 18, 2023

Faces of our Community: Mammoth Moving

Mammoth Moving and Storage is a full-service moving company based in Santa Barbara that provides services to or from any where in the world. Meet Meet Sean and...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

April 24, 2021

Oprah Winfrey to Deliver Commencement Speech at UC Santa Barbara

Lily Hopwood, Santa Barbara Independent | Reference Source After an in-person graduation processional, commencement for the UC Santa Barbara class of 2021 will...

By Lily Hopwood, Santa Barbara Independent

May 3, 2019

American Riviera: A Summer Guide to Santa Barbara and Beyond

By Devorah Lev-Tov, Robb Report | Reference Source Brilliant sunsets, luxe resorts and lush vineyards are just a few of the reasons so many head north from ...

By Devorah Lev-Tov, Robb Report

April 19, 2022

7 Reasons Why People Love Living in Hope Ranch

Hope Ranch Homes for Sale are within a private community in Santa Barbara, California. The neighborhood often flies under the radar of the international commun...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

April 7, 2021

Santa Barbara Unified Schools to Reopen Full-Time in Person

Delaney Smith, Santa Barbara Independent | Reference Source The Santa Barbara Unified School District will reopen its schools full-time, after a year of a hybr...

By Delaney Smith, Santa Barbara Independent

June 24, 2021

Electrifying Santa Barbara

Electrifying Santa Barbara All-Electric Goal by 2030 Credit: Fisher and Paykel By Dee Carawan, AIA | Reference SourceWed Jun 23, 2021 | 8:14pm The Sant...

By Dee Carawan, AIA; Santa Barbara Independent

October 30, 2021

A Look at Wealth 2021: Real Estate’s New Power Players

Released annually, “A Look at Wealth” is a supplement to The Report, which combines wealth data from Wealth-X, WealthEngine and The Institute for L...

By Coldwell Banker Global Luxury

May 31, 2022

How to Prepare Your Luxury Home for Sale

Real estate in the seaside communities of Montecito, Santa Barbara, and Hope Ranch are all incredibly valuable. These towns have reputations for luxurious beac...

By Randy Solakian

July 19, 2021

California Listings

California Listings Shakes Up Southern California's Real Estate Marketplace With Spring 2021 Launch New Real Estate Supersite Reinvents Not Only How Buyers ...

By California Listings

August 22, 2016

The Perfect Three-Day Weekend in Santa Barbara

By Megan Barber, Travel & Leisure | Reference SourceThere's a reason Santa Barbara's been called the American Riviera. Pleasant temperatures year-round, sunny ...

By Megan Barber, Travel & Leisure

December 17, 2024

Winter Break Activities for Kids

Looking for fun activities to keep the kids busy this holiday season? Here is our guide with the latest and greatest recommendations for Winter Break 2024 in S...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

August 13, 2021

Renewal at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art

Charles Donelan, Santa Barbara Independent | Reference Source Every museum tells a story; great museums tell many of them. The Santa Barbara Museum of Art begi...

By Charles Donelan, Santa Barbara Independent

June 21, 2022

Coral Casino Making a Comeback

Coral Casino Making a Comeback JUNE 21, 2022 | Reference Source Earlier this week, Coral Casino Beach and Cabana Club owner Ty Warner gave members an updat...

By Montecito Journal

December 2, 2021

Faces of our Community: Bibi Ji

Faces of our Community Located on State Street in Downtown Santa Barbara, Bibi Ji offers residents and visitors an approachable and modern twist on traditional...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

October 25, 2019

A Weekend of Great Food in Montecito

Goop | Reference Source California, the land of fresh fish, beautiful fruit trees, and an abundance of avocados is world renown for its fantastic food. Monteci...

By Goop

December 23, 2019

The 52 Places Traveler | Confused in California

Sebastian Modak, New York Times |Reference SourceThe 52 Places TravelerConfused in CaliforniaNearing the end of his round-the-world trip, the 52 Places Travele...

By Sebastian Modak, New York Times

April 9, 2021

Ty Warner spends $119.5 M to Build the Finest Private Club in the U...

MONTECITO, Calif., April 9, 2021 /PRNewswire | Reference Source The essence of life on the American Riviera is captured by the unrivaled amenities, service, di...

By PR News Wire

October 29, 2024

Insurance

A Collection of Recommended Insurance Agents & BrokersThe Weiser [email protected] [email protected] ...

By

February 23, 2021

Utilities

A Collection of Recommended Utilities ServicesELECTRICITYSouthern California Edison800-655-4555​​​​​​​GASSouthern California Gas Company877-238-0092SANITATION ...

By

January 20, 2022

Faces of Our Community: Devon Remade

Meet Devon Watkins Reinauer of Devon Remade: Q: How did you start your business? A: I have worked in the fashion industry my whole career, but at the star...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

February 22, 2021

Moving Services

A Collection of Recommended Moving ServicesHazelwood Allied805-963-4493Mammoth Movers805-968-8643MoveGreen805-845-6600

By

June 1, 2021

Montecito Real Estate Market in 2021

Like most of the country, Montecito experienced a strong seller’s market throughout most of the last year—spurred on by low mortgage interest rates...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

February 22, 2021

Home Inspectors

A Collection of Recommended Home InspectorsHOME INSPECTORSO’Brien Building & Inspections805-466-3148 (W)805-452-8390 (C)Steadfast Home Inspections805-295-8009I...

By

March 13, 2023

The Report 2023

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

November 22, 2022

Giving Tuesday: Randy Solakian Estates Group Announces $10,000 Matc...

Triple Your Donation to Protect the Central Coast from Climate Chaos! For a limited time, triple your gift to the Community Environmental Council (CEC)! Than...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

November 10, 2022

Faces of our Community: Yokwe Ceramics

Yokwe Ceramics are handmade, Japanese and Scandinavian-inspired pieces that incorporate natural forms and earth tones. Handmade with love in Santa Barbara, a p...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

October 21, 2021

Faces of our Community: California Dermatology Group

Faces of our Community Meet Dr. Aegean Chan and Dr. Mark Burnett, California Dermatology Group Q: How long have you been practicing medicine? A: Both my p...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

June 30, 2022

Faces of our Community: WH Body Refinery

WH Body Refinery is a dance-based fitness studio located in the San Roque neighborhood near downtown Santa Barbara. Meet Whitney Hoover, founder and instructo...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

November 2, 2022

The Trend Report 2022

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

September 20, 2022

Faces of our Community: Cassie's Cardinals

Cassie’s Cardinals provides safe and reliable in-home care for families and corporations, including full and part-time babysitting, nanny placement, est...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

March 11, 2021

Culture

A Collection of Our FavoriteCulture & ActivitiesMusicSanta Barbara BowlGranada TheaterMusic Academy of the WestLobero TheaterArlington TheaterCommunity EventsS...

By

June 28, 2022

The Report 2022: Luxury Market Insights

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

November 10, 2021

Appraisers

AppraisersJay Kenney(805) 689-6895Scott McIver(805) 962-5192Keith Anderson(805) 687-3522

May 6, 2022

Faces of our Community: DÔEN

Meet Margaret and Katherine Kleveland, sisters, Santa Barbara natives, and founders of DÔEN, a fashion and lifestyle store that just opened its newest sh...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

March 24, 2022

Faces of our Community: Kismet Montecito

Kismet is a boutique located in Montecito's Upper Village that offers intimate indulgences and fine jewelry to celebrate timeless femininity. Meet Lindsey Ecke...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

April 7, 2022

The Report 2022: Luxury Market Insights

THE REPORT 2022 Executive Summary Global wealth rises by double-digits in 2021. Data from Wealth-X shows that the world’s wealthy population — th...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

March 13, 2022

Thrillist's Best Things to Do in Santa Barbara

Published February 25, 2022 | Written by By Danielle Bauter, and Leila Najafi Thrillist features the top 20 Reasons to drive to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles ...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

March 4, 2022

A California Home Outside Santa Barbara Lists for $21.5 Million

Wall Street Journal | Written by Libertina Brandt | Reference Source A postmodern home outside Santa Barbara, Calif., is hitting the market for $21.5 million, ...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

February 1, 2022

Faces of our Community: Whitcraft Winery

Whitcraft Winery A long-standing member of the Santa Barbara winemaking community, Whitcraft Winery is obsessed with producing the highest quality wines. Si...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

December 21, 2021

Faces of our Community: The Tennis Shop of Montecito

The Tennis Shop of Montecito Meet Tony and Libby Hammond, Owners ofThe Tennis Shop of Montecito. Q: Why did you start your business? A: We were both tennis...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

February 23, 2021

Architects

A Collection of Recommended ArchitectsMarc Appleton310-828-0430Blackbird Architects805-957-1315Kaz [email protected] Neumann805-684-8885

By

December 9, 2021

Faces of our Community: Bettina

Faces of our Community Bettina is a cozy neighborhood restaurant serving naturally-leavened, Neapolitan-style pizza made with seasonal California ingredients. ...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

November 18, 2021

Faces of our Community: Protea Gifts and Goods

Faces of our Community | Protea Gifts and Goods Meet Mary Willer and Jenna Motola of Protea Gifts and Goods. Q: Tell us a bit about your business. A: Prot...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

April 20, 2021

Santa Barbara County Advances to Orange Tier of Reopening

Written by Jade Martinez-Pogue, Noozhawk | Reference Source Santa Barbara County advanced to the orange tier on Tuesday, after more than one month in the red t...

By Jade Martinez-Pogue, Noozhawk

January 8, 2020

Santa Barbara is the Most Dynamic Wine Scene in California

Matt Kettman, SF Chronicle | Reference Source Thanks to the beautiful Transverse Range, Santa Barbara County has one of the most unique and dynamic wine-tastin...

By Matt Kettman, SF Chronicle

September 23, 2021

Haute Living's Guide to Santa Barbara

Laura Schreffler, Haute Living's Travel writer, has taken on Santa Barbara with a guide of where to sleep, eat, wine and dine while staying on the American Riv...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

September 23, 2021

Santa Barbara's First Annual Burrito Week

Santa Barbara's First Ever Burrito Week From September 23 to 29, 17 burritos across town will be available for $7 Santa Barbara is home to countless restauran...

By Indy Staff

September 9, 2021

Faces of Our Community: Leonard Unander Associates

Faces of Our Community Leonard Unander Associates "Family owned and operated, recognized for our impeccable planning process, and strong sense of integrity,...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

September 23, 2021

Faces of our Community: Montecito Fire Department

Faces of our Community Montecito Fire Department Interview with Christina Favuzzi, Public Information Officer What does the Montecito Fire Department do for ...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

October 7, 2021

Faces of our Community: Claiborne & Lime

Faces of Our Community Claiborne & Lime Meet Laura Mormann and Antoinette Watson Q: Tell us a bit about your business. A: Claiborne & Lime is a hospitality ...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

October 29, 2021

Halloween Events in Santa Barbara | 2021

Halloween is back in 2021. Whether you are looking for a fun place to take the kids or an adults only event, we've got you covered. Read on to learn about the ...

August 24, 2021

Faces of Our Community: Whistle Club

Faces of Our Community Whistle Club Rebecca Whistle Club showcases a tightly curated assortment of women’s apparel, accessories and gifts from a thoughtf...

By Randy Solakian Estates Group

July 14, 2021

Santa Barbara County Moves to Increase Large-Scale Solar Operations

Santa Barbara County Moves to Increase Large-Scale Solar Operations Zoning Laws Would Need to Be Changed and Vacant Land Found Credit: Courtesy By Nick We...

By Nick Welsh, Santa Barbara Independent