March/April 2025 | Santa Barbara Life & Style Magazine

Explore simple pleasures and the joy of living well.

SIMPLIFYING YACHT OWNERSHIP

At Top Tier Yachts, we are dedicated to elevating the boating experience for yacht owners within the Santa Barbara harbor. Through our exceptional full-service offerings, we aim to simplify the ownership process and eliminate the stress of management, maintenance, and schedules. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that owning a yacht is a purely enjoyable and effortless experience. Allow us to take care of the details, so you can focus on enjoying the moment.

quincy@toptieryachts.com

MARCH/APRIL 2025

EDITOR IN CHIEF & PUBLISHER Ottocina Ryan

ART DIRECTOR Vide Olsson

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Alexandra Lee

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Silas Fallstich

PHOTOGRAPHERS Beth Camp, Andrew Kuykendall, Ryan Mayo, Jon Premosch

WRITERS Anna Constantino, Eva Grunburg, Nicole Johnson, Eliza Krpoyan, Alexandra Lee, Camille Quinn, Alexandra Sharova, Maddy Sims

ON THIS COVER

PHOTOGRAPHY Andrew Kuykendall

BUBBLES SB Bubble Guy

MODEL Allie Leggett with The Industry

STYLIST Ottocina Ryan

HAIR & MAKEUP Ja’Nice Ramos

LOCATION Loon Point Beach

Dress GUCCI The Webster Bracelets ALEXIS BITTAR

Santa Barbara Life & Style Magazine is published by Santa Barbara Life & Style, Inc. 26 West Mission Street #5, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

For distribution, advertising and other inquiries: info@sblifeandstyle.com santabarbaralifeandstyle.com

CONTENTS

MARCH/APRIL 2025

IN EVERY ISSUE

SBLS SPOTLIGHT 17

Welcoming newcomers.

COVET & CRAVE 18

Santa Barbara as muse.

THIS SEASON 20

Feeling uninspired? We prescribe only the finest in new retail, exercise, and art therapy.

48 HOURS 98

Spring into Santa Barbara—where two days will have you asking for a lifetime more.

DINING

WHITE CAPS 24

A taste of Montauk summer, where “Everyone’s a Member.”

34.2° N / 199.4° W 30

Catch us at Clark’s Oyster Bar.

RH 36

The RH Firehouse Grill brings opulent design and delicious food to The Old Firehouse in Montecito.

WELLNESS

LAVENDER HAZE 40

Decompress at Lavender Barn, the new spa at Mattei’s Tavern.

HOME

SALT OF THE EARTH 44

Luxury “living off the land” at a Summerland ranch.

FASHION

AQUAMARINE 54

This won’t burst your bubble.

TRAVEL

AGRI-CURIOUS 68

A Northern California farm-stay fostering connection.

ATITLAN TO ANTIGUA 72

A journey through nature, culture, and timeless wonder.

LESS IS MORE 82

The desert’s healing portal.

SEA THE WORLD 86

Life aboard The World, the largest private yacht on the planet.

WHICH HAWAIIAN ISLAND 90 IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Kauai, Maui or Oahu, that is the question.

WHAT TO PACK 97

Be prepared for paradise with all the essentials for island hopping and sun-soaking.

OVERLOOKING THE SANTA BARBARA COAST

From distinguished speakers of film and culture to private film screenings and cinematic views out to the Channel Islands, El Encanto celebrates the filmmaking history and glamour of the region as well as the 40th Anniversary of the Santa Barbara International Film Festival with a year-long homage to Cinematic Arts.

American journalist and author Gustavo Arellano will host The Cinematic Murals of Gabriel Figueroa. Regarded as one of Mexico’s fourth muralist, Gabriel Figueroa defined the Golden Age of Mexican Cinema. A film screening of John Huston’s Night of the Iguana (1964), the film that earned Figueroa his only Academy Award nomination, will follow at The Riviera Theater, adjacent to the hotel.

Contact our concierge at (805) 845-5800 for more information about cinematic celebrations and film festival room packages.

SBLS SPOTLIGHT

BY Alexandra Lee

1. SPRING UNIFORM

New York Timesbestselling author Cleo Wade has teamed up with timeless essentials brand Velvet to create a 43-piece capsule collection of airy and effortless styles. Coming soon at The Post Montecito.

3. HELPING HANDS

Visit our blog for an interview with award-winner travel writer, photographer, and blogger Vanessa Rivers, who recently lost her home in the Palisades Fire. She speaks on how welcoming the Santa Barbara community has been in the aftermath of profound tragedy and loss.

2. MOVIE MAGIC

Join Belmond El Encanto on Saturday, April 12 for an exclusive deep dive into the cinematic murals of legendary Mexican cinematographer Gabriel Figueroa, followed by a screening of The Night of the Iguana at the nearby Riviera Theater.

Follow @sblifeandstyle for daily behind the scenes content, new restaurants, events, getaways, and more...

4. GREAT NEWS

LA-based womenswear line THE GREAT. is now open at The Post Montecito, carrying a robust range of knits, sleepwear, swimwear, and beyond that offer a refined take on classic Americana style.

1

STEP INTO SPRING

EMBRACE

THE

SEASON WITH PICKS INSPIRED

BY

THE ESSENCE OF SANTA BARBARA SPRING

Jaunt Journals Santa Barbara Guidebook

Step into Santa Barbara through the eyes of ten locals in this travel guide curating some of the city’s most soughtafter reservations, activities, and attractions. You’ll recognize iconic spots and discover hidden gems through its inspired film photography and playful illustrations.

5

NEST Santa Barbara Strawberry Perfume Oil

Evoke the essence of sun-kissed days spent meandering pick-your-own fruit fields with this Santa Barbara Strawberry perfume oil, a luxe blend of ripe strawberry, raspberry and pink peony warmed up by notes of solar woods.

3

Frank & Eileen Montecito Sweater

Meet the perfect classic pullover for chilly mornings, office days, and cozy at-home evenings alike. Crafted from the softest pure Italian cotton in a variety of pastel shades, it’s the ideal transitional piece to carry you from spring showers to summer warmth.

BY Alexandra Lee

2

Santa Barbara Tile by Sandy Moss

Channel Santa Barbara’s beauty in a subtle way when you don this 14k gold pendant necklace, a nod to the colorful Spanish tiles that adorn the winding alleyways, walls, and stairs of the city.

4

Gucci Flora Sketch Print Candle, Inventum scent

What’s better than a floral candle for spring? A Gucci candle, of course. Infused with lush notes of Taif Damask and pink roses, this sweet scent blooms in a jar that doubles as a chic keepsake, adding elegance to your space long after the last wick is burned.

6

Hermès Poisson Natte Beach Bag

As beach season returns to full swing, you’ll need a new tote to hold all your essentials. This Hermès shoulder bag features a playful hand-embroidered fish motif designed by Chinese artist Tong Ren—a wearable ode to Santa Barbara’s flourishing marine life.

IN BLOOM

Meet the fresh retail, exercise and art finds springing up around Santa Barbara

BY Nicole Johnson

ART & SOUL

With its range of revolving exhibitions exploring Santa Barbara spectacles, transcendent spirituality, and perception through photography, Art & Soul’s newest gallery is a vibrant infusion to the burgeoning ARTS District. Taking the reins from its departing Funk Zone location, formerly nestled in Lama Dog Tap Room’s patio, the new space hosts interactive workshops, community gatherings like its “Conversations With Artists” series, and intimate mixers. Helmed by mother-daughter duo Kim McIntyre and Bella DiBernardo, the gallery promises dynamic features like an evolving workshop space, an artists’ atelier, and a podcast studio. “The ARTS District has long been a source of inspiration and a reflection of Santa Barbara’s artistic and cultural heartbeat. We’re honored to contribute to this vibrant neighborhood and its legacy as a cultural hub,” Kim shares. artandsoulsb.com

YOUR NEW FAVORITE TONIC

A new movement of intuitive fitness has arrived on the Funk Zone’s Helena Avenue with the opening of Body Tonic, founded by local Pilates guru Shane Weafer. Offering invigorating reformer routines since December, Weafer’s studio emphasizes inclusivity and personalized instruction. “The rigid adherence to traditional methods or culture of elitism in many high-end studios didn’t align with who I am or why I love teaching,” Weafer shares. “How I make people feel is more important than anything else.” Cultivating an uplifting ethos in every move, Body Tonic’s community events tap local vendors and creatives, saturating the studio with the Funk Zone’s collaborative spirit. The space itself is a design gem, with rounded mirrors aglow, textured white brick walls, and luxe, artistic accents. bodytonicsb.com

TELL YOUR FRIENDS

There’s much to be discovered at Teller, The Post’s chic collection of independent, international brands. Your gaze might trace the silhouette of a walnut-colored wooden rack, adorned with slinky dresses, tailored blazers, matching sets, and cashmere classics. You’ll notice cult labels like Anine Bing, DONNI., Sea, and STAUD neatly tucked next to Teller’s bestselling cotton tees and a collection of up-and-coming brands. Curated with the “mother and daughter who shop together” in mind, the medley of everyday uniforms and night-on-thetown stunners ensures all generations “are able to find something in the store that they love and that suits them,” according to founder Jaime Fishbein. In-store residences lend a spotlight to individual jewelry and ready-to-wear designers. “We want to showcase these brands in a new community and to give our customers an opportunity to fall in love with them in the same way we did,” Jaime shares. With a shop this swoonworthy, that’s for certain: dreamy pouf chairs and Moroccan rugs give the space a grounded feel, the central vision of interior designer Brandi Howe. Recessed wall inlets graced with wallpaper and warm light affords handbags and vases a handsome display, framed by Spanish archways and high ceilings. “We wanted it to feel true to Santa Barbara, so we leaned into that Spanish mission feel, with dark woods and warm textures,” Jaime says. Whatever draws your eye at Teller, you’ll quickly feel as if you’ve entered the impeccably cool closet of a celebrity stylist. tellershop.com

FAMILY AFFAIR

Faherty’s organic textures and timeless patterns evoke a coastal road trip, and its latest destination is Coast Village Road. Open since December, the brand’s 76th location brings an inviting charm to a spacious two-story casita that once housed high-end boutique Marcus. Its breathable pieces suit both surf aficionados and beach strollers, fusing activewear and loungewear for every California capsule wardrobe. With men’s apparel downstairs, women’s up top, and a balcony outfitted with a bar and event space, it’s needless to say the shop has a homey feel. Faherty is family-owned, after all: founded by twin brothers Mike and Alex Faherty and Alex’s wife Kerry Docherty, the brand takes root in community and honors traditions of craftsmanship. Its Native Designed collection, featuring authentic Indigenous garments, exemplifies a commitment to celebrating heritage and challenging industry appropriation. Faherty’s spirit of connection manifests throughout the Montecito shop, embellished in the works of local artists like photographer Dylan Gordon, muralist Allison Kunath, and surfboard shaper Andrew Fletcher. fahertybrand.com

FARM TO POST

It’s in the name: Organic Oren is an entirely natural, nutrient-packed way to eat through your week. Chef Oren Giladi’s gourmet meal delivery service has garnered a loyal following across Los Angeles, and is now fixing up its stunning, functional eats in Montecito. Available for delivery or pick-up at its nook in The Post, Oren’s 6-day sets or a-la-carte plates source straight from the harvest—with no farmer’s market intermediary—to optimize wellness and energizing flavor. Menus rotate weekly, with seasonal angles or creative themes, like the “Organic Island” menu that featured dishes inspired by the likes of Sicily, Mykonos, and Maui. Wholeheartedly embracing clean snacks, desserts, and indulgences (think gluten free lobster mac and cheese, or butternut squash and spinach lasagna), Organic Oren is our kind of elevated health kick.

organicoren.com

MERLETTE

Merlette’s quaint corner of The Post, the Brooklyn-based atelier’s first physical storefront, beams with a femme flair (and the light of its playful bubble lanterns). Founder and designer Marina Cortbawi hails from Sydney, studied in Paris and London, lives in New York, and once worked at Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera—no stranger to global luxury, she instills an airy ease into her high-end lines. While initially launched as a long-term pop-up, the boutique aims to extend its stay given Montecito’s warm reception. “Women of several generations have come in and said they love the natural fabrics and details,” Marina shares. “You try so hard to photograph these items, but for customers to now touch and feel them is so amazing for me to witness.” Merlette’s garments warrant all the touchyfeely: exquisite embroidery and smocking weave texture across neutral palettes and sophisticated prints, imbuing a polished look. Each seasonless piece is effortlessly interesting (think woven denim bucket hats, sequined handbags, and pleated button-up tops), pairing uniquely with the shop’s curation of fine jewelry, luxe homewares, and self-care products. Exclusive monthly Meet the Creator events enliven Merlette’s brickand-mortar experience: in March, New York celebrity facialist Carrie Lindsey will offer her energy-infused expertise—as Marina puts it, “an emotional release [from] a real healer”—in a “spring awakening” event. merlettenyc.com

Mexican Restaurant & Take Out SANTA BARBARA | MONTECITO | GOLETA | INDIANA

NEW LOCATION ON STATE ST.

WHITE CAPS

NO RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

BY Nicole Johnson PHOTOGRAPHY Silas Fallstich

In the Funk Zone, a cherry red 1956 Jeep Willys Wagon has towed in a vignette of East Coast summer. String lights stretch above a posse of navy umbrellas, whose cream-colored fringe playfully sways in the sea breeze. At White Caps Beach Club, lobster rolls, backgammon, and fireside drinks invite a buttoned-down, come as you are ethos.

With its downtown outpost, a flagship club under renovation in Summerland, and a full-scale Bistro in Goleta, White Caps feels on the cusp of a cultural epicenter. Each location’s seaside charm has the unmistakable touch of an image architect—local photographer Michael Haber, the native New Yorker bringing Montauk’s beach-shack charm to Santa Barbara shores. With a mantra of “eat, play, stay,” Michael has a high-touch, low-key lifestyle brand in the making.

“While it now has its $30 million mansions, I’ve always loved and appreciated Montauk’s eclectic, beachy groundedness,” he smiles as he scrolls through a Pinterest vision board teeming with stacked surfboards, wooden shacks, and ocean dives. “As a photographer, I’m all about moments. My heroes were always Helmut Newton, Irving Penn, Richard Avedon—[who shot] moments that were sexy and playful and raw.”

Michael’s knack for escapism and enduring moments stems in his creation of some of the most iconic images of the nineties and early 2000s. Few can say they’ve captured brand-building campaigns like Target’s original Bullseye advertisements or the revitalization of Tommy Bahama. Michael’s fine art collection, encased in his published book The Elements, further elevates a portfolio spanning both big-name corporate billboards and refined lenswork.

WHITE CAPS LOBSTER ROLL

“Tommy Bahama was actually the White Caps inspiration source from day one. Here's a company that was in the red by $1 million, and [an agency and] I took them to over $2 billion with the concept ‘Life is One Long Weekend.’ I can relate to that,” he laughs. “It was simply based on a couple, a male and a female, no kids—they would just travel, and I would capture moments of them.” Don’t fret: White Caps’s laid-back luxury caters to all ages, what Michael’s dubbed a “three to 93” demographic.

As we chat on a picnic table in the Funk Zone’s patio, I’m served a couple of East Coast summer staples: a lobster and shrimp roll, with seafood flown in fresh from Maine. The coral-colored lobster meat is endlessly tender and tastefully buttered, practically melting into its toasted brioche bun. While it may be the West Coast in me, I favor the spicy tiger shrimp roll. Aptly dressed in habanero aioli, parsley, and lemon, the peppered prawns are sandwiched in that same pillowy bun (sourced from L.A.’s lauded Röckenwagner Bakery), bringing brightness to an indulgent dish. The intermittent tater tot serves up a side of crispy, golden nostalgia.

Michael tells me the newer Bistro in Goleta—where a white Willys Wagon greets customers—expands culinary offerings with an extensive menu of breakfast bowls, chilaquiles, and egg dishes, alongside hearty lunch options like spicy salmon, brisket sandwiches, and Mexican-style protein bowls. White Caps has also excelled in elevated catering, serving over 300 patrons at last September’s One805Live soirée for first responders at Kevin Costner’s oceanfront estate, among other private events at vineyards and individual homes.

Evidently, Michael’s a multihyphenate, and his hospitality ventures beyond food—embodying the “stay” part of his vision. When the pandemic brought unexpected success to a rental property he owns on Rincon, the suddenly unoccupied photographer leaned into immersive experience-building. Today, three surf bungalows line the upper terrace of the Summerland location, and a number of lodges sprinkled across Carpinteria have joined the White Caps collection, all accented by sleek white paint and design-forward elements for discerning coast-goers.

The Summerland flagship, with its half-acre expanse overlooking the Pacific, is set to reopen in April after a full-scale renovation, unveiling new attractions including an oyster bar, an al fresco movie screen, and private banquet spaces. The initial, more casual concept, which debuted last summer on a terraced gravel lot next to The Nugget, already drew its fair share of star power. “Harry and Meghan ate at White Caps all the time, and Steve Martin was right next to me [one day]—my idol,” Michael shares. “Cameron Diaz has stopped by...there’s a lot of buzz that’s really fun.”

Membership tiers are also in the works, including perks such as curated wine clubs and exclusive rates for his art collections. Until then, the Funk Zone’s patio will be in full swing throughout spring and summer, with live tunes swirling from 5:30 to 7:30 on Saturday evenings. Poised to become a cornerstone of bicoastal summer, White Caps captures the season as it should be.*

34.2° N / 199.4° W

WITH BICOASTAL CRUSTACEANS AND CATCHES, CLARK’S OYSTER BAR MAKES A SPLASH

IN MONTECITO

BY Eva Grunburg PHOTOGRAPHY Silas Fallstich

34.2° N / 199.4° W

If your sailor (and foodie) instincts serve you right, you’ll find yourself at these coordinates—also known as Clark’s Oyster Bar. Bringing the “coast” to Coast Village Road, Clark’s fourth location is the first to grace the West Coast—blending the best of California, its countrywide predecessors, and beyond.

Though my vessel is my Volkswagen and my crew is my best friend, we’re lucky enough to arrive at the oceanic establishment. While it’s January in Santa Barbara, I feel transported to a sparkling summer’s day on the Mediterranean Sea. Ornate cerulean tiles and bold golden accents pop from the walls, illuminating the Jeff Shelton designed space. The hostess—and the fish in the tank behind her—welcome us in, and our typical Wednesday is now an occasion in this nautical nook.

Clark’s boasts a seamless indoor-outdoor dining experience true to the spirit of Santa Barbara living. We instinctively opt to sit outside to enjoy the gorgeous afternoon—we’ll sit inside when we come back for dinner. Yes, I’ve already decided I’ll be back. Basking in the sun and toasting our drinks—a refreshing glass of Sancerre and quenching cucumber, citrus, and mint Ceybon Spritz—we watch the day-to-day happenings of Coast Village Road.

As we people-watch, a tall, easygoing man approaches our table. He introduces himself as Larry McGuire, one of the partners of MML Hospitality, overseeing Clark’s locations in Austin, Aspen, and Houston. While I’m sure he’s a busy man, he slows time and brings sincerity to his brief moment with us. He and the entire staff embody the Southern hospitality of Clark's predecessors, and their warmth is truly a testament to the chain’s ability to adapt to any city while staying true to its origins.

MUSSELS

As Larry returns to his post, our server presents us with Clark’s Oyster Bar’s namesake oysters. At her recommendation, we decided to try the Honey Drop and Beau Soleil, both small-to-medium oysters hailing from Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick. Clark’s offers plenty of enticing land-fare, but it just felt right to dive headfirst into the seafood offerings.

Resting on a bed of crisp ice and served with horseradish, cocktail sauce, mignonette, and lemon, my best friend a (self-proclaimed) seafood connoisseur takes the lead and concocts the perfect bite—or slurp, rather (while oysters are a delicacy, they aren’t elegant!). I follow and am pleasantly surprised at the refreshing combination of briny, sweet, and savory flavors, and the Honey Drop has converted me into an oyster fan. However, I may be an even bigger fan of the homemade sourdough, which they ferment for three days to create the perfect pillowy loaf.

“Somehow, Clark’s fresh and quality ingredients make eating a substantial dish feel like a breath of fresh air.”

Branching out from bread, our table’s next catch is the Oak Grilled Spanish Octopus. This dish is our unexpected star of the day, and surprisingly as tasty as it is beautifully plated atop Fresno chiles and olives. The maroon tentacles are perfectly smoky and chewy, and there isn’t a drop left of the spicy bay leaf aioli that complements the charred cephalopod. Even better, torn sourdough croutons provide the perfect crunch (and excuse for me to keep eating Clark’s beloved bread).

Our not-so-light lunch is complete after the Lobster Roll, a Clark's and East Coast lunchtime favorite. The elevated sandwich consists of succulent lobster resting on a bed of crisp Bibb lettuce and a buttery roll, alongside a mountain of fries that seem to defy physics with how thin and light they are. Somehow, Clark’s fresh and quality ingredients make eating a substantial dish feel like a breath of fresh air.

We linger on our way out, soaking in the details, admiring the seaside mural, gleaming bar, and vintage photos while planning our orders for our next visit. Once again, Clark’s has left us feeling the best of the easygoing West Coast, the nautical charm of the East Coast, and the comfort of Southern hospitality. With oceanic offerings perfect for any newcomers testing the waters, and delicious enough for any seafood savant, Clark’s is truly a catch for Montecito.*

RH

THE RH FIREHOUSE GRILL BLENDS OPULENT DESIGN AND LAID-BACK VIBES FOR AN AESTHETIC DINING EXPERIENCE THAT TASTES AS GOOD AS IT LOOKS

GRILLED AVOCADO WITH CAVIAR

BY Maddy Sims

Afried chicken sandwich and an upscale design atelier may seem like an odd combination, but RH Montecito, The Gallery at The Old Firehouse proves it’s an excellent pairing. The 9,000-square-foot historic building has had many tenants over the years, but its most recent one is quickly becoming a local favorite and culinary destination for out-of-towners.

The property includes an interior design studio, a wine bar (which doubles as a coffee bar during the day), a garden, and The RH Firehouse Grill. In true Santa Barbara fashion, the restaurant is an indoor-outdoor space, complete with cozy fireplaces, soothing fountains, and stunning views of the mountains.

RH dining destinations can be found all over: Napa, New York, Chicago, and even in the Cotswolds in England. But the one in Montecito is special—it’s an intimate space decorated with airy earth tones that instantly relax your senses as you step inside.

On a sunny Saturday morning, we walk through the large arched glass doors of The Old Firehouse and are immediately transported. RH Montecito feels like you’ve entered someone’s ultra-chic home in the Mediterranean. The decor strikes an impressive balance of opulent and cozy. Plush couches and oak tables complement the striking chandeliers and eclectic artwork from around the world. The high ceilings feature wooden beams that stretch the length of the room. Bedroom showrooms flank each side of the entryway, while the same large arched windows cover the opposite side of the Great Room, filled with mountain views.

Past the furniture, we walk over to the barista and wine bar, which has a smooth marble countertop and softly-lit alcoves. We head to our table, and pass through the indoor portion of The RH Firehouse Grill to the outdoor patio area right beside the fireplace. Again, the space balances luxury with a California laid-back feel that’s effortlessly elegant.

It’s still early enough for weekend brunch, so we try a variety of items from the lunch and brunch menus. I start with a matcha latte that’s delightfully creamy and smooth. In honor of brunching hour, we order the RH Mimosa (made with impossibly fresh orange juice) and the Rosé Spritz (a crisp, refreshing citrus drink). We start with the burrata, which comes served at room temperature so you can easily spread it on the charred bread. It’s accompanied by charred peppers lightly coated in balsamic vinegar for a refreshing yet decadent bite.

Fans of RH restaurants will be pleased to hear The RH Firehouse Grill shares a similar menu with the other properties, including classics like a whole branzino and the fried chicken sandwich. We order the cult-favorite sando, the Chinese chicken salad, and truffle fries to share. The fried chicken sando is easily the favorite of the meal—there are no leftover bites. It would be my top recommendation for any first-timers and is definitely a dish I’d come back for. The chicken is crispy on the outside, yet warm and juicy on the inside.

The Chinese chicken salad is perfect for those who don’t particularly love salad. It has large chicken chunks and a generous topping of thin wontons. The dressing is light, but leaves behind a slightly spicy aftertaste thanks to the ginger. The fries are topped with truffle, herbs, and cheese (hard to go wrong with that flavor combo).

We end with the Swedish pancakes off the brunch menu. They’re impossibly thin (as described on the menu) yet somehow still fluffy. Topped with butter, powdered sugar, and Vermont maple syrup, they’re the perfect ending to a delicious meal.

While the full brunch menu is only available on weekends, there is a small daily breakfast menu that includes staples like eggs and smashed avocado toast. Lunch and dinner have the same menu, with items such as charcuterie boards, caviar dishes, salads, sandwiches, seafood, and the fan-favorite charred ribeye.

Throughout the intimate space, the atmosphere is peaceful. The restaurant offers a rare combination of aesthetics and comfort—it’s the kind of place you’d genuinely enjoy sitting in for a couple of hours (I know I did). Whether you’re meeting a friend for a quick lunch or enjoying a romantic date night, it’s the perfect spot for a delicious meal with lovely ambiance.*

“In

true Santa Barbara fashion, the restaurant is an indoor-outdoor space, complete with cozy fireplaces, soothing fountains, and stunning views of the mountains.

”

lavender haze

LAVENDER BARN, THE NEW SPA AT MATTEI’S TAVERN, IS A SERENE, SOOTHING ESCAPE FEATURING BESPOKE TREATMENTS, LOCAL BOTANICALS, AND TIME-HONORED PRACTICES

BY Maddy Sims

I’m laying on a heated massage table at Lavender Barn at The Inn at Mattei's Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection, and tears well in my eyes. The newly-opened spa guarantees an unparalleled journey of relaxation, but this is something else entirely. I can’t remember the last time I felt my nervous system truly calm down. My circling worries and ruminating thoughts come to a complete halt. Soothing instrumental music takes their place. The smell of lavender fills the room. Warm towels encircle my freshly-scrubbed feet. I feel lighter, like I’m drifting on a cloud. It’s not just a deeply relaxing experience, it’s a deeply healing one as well.

The spa, which opened just a few months ago, is a dreamy escape complete with a cold plunge, a Vitality Pool (which combines heat and hydrotherapy to reduce stress), a eucalyptus steam room, an oak wood sauna, and relaxation room featuring a cozy fireplace and plush chaises. Large windows overlook gorgeous greenery, providing a picturesque view and extra privacy.

Lavender Barn is towards the back of the property, allowing visitors to enjoy a scenic walk past the iconic water tower, The Tavern restaurant, and several charming cottages. The new structure is harmonious to the existing ones: It’s a charming, contemporary barn. I walk up the stone path, lined with tall trees and open the large glass doors.

Upon entering, I’m greeted and led to the locker room. There has been no detail overlooked here: From the luxe face and body products and the soft striped robes, to a lovely seating area (complete with Dyson hair dryers) for an apres-treatment refresh.

Just beyond the locker room lies the spa area. A crackling fireplace floods the space with warmth. Dark floors, doors, and wooden beams echo the rustic, western aesthetic of Mattei's Tavern. In the middle of the room

are four sumptuous lounge chairs. The cold plunge pool is directly in front of the large windows. The Vitality Pool, a large bubbling jacuzzi, is right next to it. What stands out to me the most is how incredibly quiet the area is. Just the soft hum of jets in the pools fills the space.

The adjacent eucalyptus steam room enhances detoxification by supporting lymphatic drainage and relaxation. Next door, there’s the oak wood sauna: the perfect pre-treatment pit stop. Again, there are no details overlooked in the Relaxation Room. There are taps of carbonated and still water for guests, as well as jasmine and chamomile tea and healthy snacks, like freshly-made granola.

My massage therapist meets me and leads me into my treatment room. Everything about this spa is designed to relax you, and this space is no exception. Soft light glows around the perimeter of the room. The walls are dark, and the heated table is cloaked in soft, smooth sheets. The level of care here is unmatched: She takes off all three of my necklaces for me (I couldn’t get the clasps undone myself) so that she can work on my neck and shoulders more effectively.

The Slow Wellness Ritual is a 90-minute practice designed to connect mind and body, calm your nervous system, and promote deep relaxation. It starts with aromatherapy: Lavender essential oil, paying homage to the gorgeous surrounding nature. (Those who have an allergy or don’t particularly love lavender can substitute for a different scent or can opt for no scent at all.)

I take three grounding breaths and instantly feel my jaw unclench. Next is ear seed therapy, where gold-plated seeds are applied onto pressure points in the ear to serve as tiny acupressure devices, promoting physical and mental wellbeing. Those afraid of needles have no need to worry—the seeds are adorably small. I don’t even feel a pinch when they’re inserted. But I do feel calm.

Next is a grounding ritual centered around the feet. It starts with a botanical foot scrub so fine it glides over my skin without the typical abrasion you’d expect from body scrubs. As someone who’s ticklish, I typically tense up during foot treatments. But my therapist expertly applies enough pressure to help me relax and stay present. Steamed towels are placed over my feet and calves, and I soak in the warmth. My therapist removes the towels and begins a foot reflexology massage, which involves the application of pressure to certain points to provide relief and relaxation. These extra touches take this full-body massage to the next level—particularly perfect if you’re in need of extra T.L.C. or want to treat someone special. It’s here that my eyes start to water, physically feeling my nervous system settle down for the first time in a long time.

My therapist continues expertly massaging the front of my body, from my feet all the way up to my neck. Each movement is intentional, and I can feel my tense muscles releasing one by one. She gently yet effectively works out the knots in my neck and shoulders before moving up to my hair for a heavenly head and scalp massage.

I flip over and revisit the aromatherapy, taking three more grounding breaths. My therapist works on my legs, arms, back, and my shoulders and neck. I can see why the massage is called “slow-flow”: The therapist devotes a sizable amount of time to each body part, ensuring every muscle is released before moving on. Every second of the 90-minute session is used to create the most relaxing experience possible. I realize that for almost the entire duration of the treatment, I’ve had a soft smile stretched on my face.

When the treatment is finished, my therapist generously helps me put my necklaces back on, and brings me some water. My body is buzzing, flooded with contentment and tranquility. That lightness I felt on the table stays with me as I walk out of the room. It’s closing time for Lavender Barn, otherwise I’d stay a little longer in the Relaxation Room. Instead, I refill my water, rinse off, and change into my clothes.

Slowing down feels counterintuitive, but it’s often exactly what we need. It brings us relaxation, peace, and clarity. Everything about Lavender Barn at The Inn at Mattei's Tavern, is designed to help you achieve just this. Whether you visit the Relaxation Room or book a bespoke Slow Wellness Ritual, it’s well worth the investment into your wellbeing. After my trip, it’s safe to say Lavender Barn is the newest luxury wellness destination in Los Olivos. Make a day out of your visit by dining at The Tavern restaurant (be sure to try the house-made bread), or book a cottage for a special, serene staycation.*

salt of the earth

A RUSTIC SUMMERLAND HOME DESIGNED BY SALT ARCHITECTURE PROVIDES A PERENNIAL FIELD STUDY

BY Nicole Johnson PHOTOGRAPHY Matt Wier

If a Southern California Sound of Music existed, it could've been filmed while weaving through Summerland’s rolling hills, a well-preserved pocket of agricultural plots and verdant trails. On a jaunt in Santa Barbara’s back country, one might find themselves sharing the road with cowboys, perhaps riding away from their newly built, refined ranch-style estate.

Set on 18 acres, the estate organically rises from the soil— as organically as a multi-million dollar, 5,195-squarefoot residence can. Its elevated perch gazes out as morning marine mist snakes down into the sea, revealing a panoramic ocean view framed by the area’s effortlessly descending slopes.

Crafted with European stone, vintage barn wood, and walnut accents, the home’s natural materials handsomely blur the boundaries of its surroundings. Its true open-concept design culminates in the dining room. In any of the three bedrooms, sliding glass doors allow residents to sleep under a blanket of stars. Green roofs sprouting with native flora cool the space, while cross-ventilation borrows from the Pacific breeze.

As it turns out, this au naturel ambience is incredibly complex to calculate. For architect Dylan Henderson, owner of SALT Architecture, it was a matter of listening to the land. The seasoned designer—who’s spent two decades crafting homes from the rugged mountains of Colorado to the unending coastlines of Hawaii and, now, Santa Barbara—views topography as a design language. Naturally, he also tuned into the desires of his clients: a prominent couple in the entertainment industry seeking a serene, pastoral retreat, complete with a 1,641-squarefoot barn for their beloved animals.

I spoke with Dylan about the home, honoring the hills in the contours of his design, and the nuanced challenges—from relentless insects and burrowing gophers to the demands of arid earth—that come with crafting a vision of luxurious “living off the land.”

Before we dive into the Summerland project, tell me a bit about your design philosophy, founding SALT, and its evolution to the present.

I have always worked in areas where the topography and the beauty of the things around us inform the work that I do. It’s about what nature is giving back to us that we can enhance, as opposed to calling out the architecture as a standalone thing.

SALT started as an acronym for Structure, Architecture, Landscape and Timeless design. It means working with clients that are truly grounded ‘salt of the earth’ kind of people, and on projects that grow out from our natural topography and landscape. Obviously that can be hard to do, right? If you're doing a house on the Mesa, it's a postage stamp—it is what it is—but at the same time, maybe some of the materials and moments, even from a standpoint of how light plays in the space, can be that natural moment that you grab onto. So, SALT is not necessarily represented by a green roof in the architecture tucked into a hillside; it can just be informed heavily by an environmental aesthetic.

What would you say that ‘salt of the earth’ idea means in practice, in terms of translating your clients’ desires, and also your own artistry, into designs?

It's in the way you approach a project and the design process. I come at it from the standpoint of everyone has a groundedness if you can find the things that are important to them. In an initial design concept conversation, these clients said, ‘We want the house to be super natural; we don't even want heat in the house,’ which you can't do by code, obviously. ‘We want this to be a place where we rise with the sun. We want to go to sleep when the sun goes down.’ So we have big windows and no shade coverings— they were intent about that. ‘We want to have the windows and doors open all year round, and we'll dress accordingly.’ So that hasn't said anything about what the house looks like, but it certainly tells you what the project should feel like.

For me, the ‘salt of the earth’ aspect is about identifying the things that are important to the individual and then figuring out how to ground that in a sense of place and natural setting. Like, how does it feel when you're sitting in that breakfast scene and the sun is hitting you in the morning?

These clients are both animal and nature-forward: they love their horses and pets, they love being in and out of their house all day long, without windows and doors. It's almost like they wanted to live outside, to live on the land...that was the initial comment, that they wanted to be truly integrated with their landscape.

As for the project’s eco-conscious design: would you say that is one of your priorities throughout all of your projects, or something you particularly leaned into with these clients?

I often get asked, ‘Are you a sustainable architect? Are you a green architect?’ I think that when you're building in any of these jurisdictions now, and certainly with the California Energy Code, everyone is sort of forced to be green to a certain extent.

Where the division happens is when you're looking at things like predominant direction of wind and sun, like how harsh that Summerland sun can be. Where my focus comes in is how you can include the landscape as a real directive and driver of your design. In the case of this home, I pulled the front contour of the planter—which is a curved steel beam that's clad in stone and integrated into the screen-in porch—from the actual contour of the land before we dug it out. I wanted to make it feel like it had been in that hillside all along, and we were just borrowing from the vocabulary of the landscape to create, to direct that first line on the paper. In the same vein, if you look at the house from afar, the stacking of the roof lines goes flat, gable, flat, gable, flat—that follows the topography of the mountain beyond it.

SBLS Dylan Henderson

So, so interesting. On the idea of honoring the landscape, how did the individual character of Summerland’s topography feel for you as an architect? Have you done many other projects in the area?

This is my third project in Summerland. The hills and mountains have been there for eons, but it's been heavily impacted by human inhabitation. I think the biggest thing for me was, how do you soften what can be a bit of a harsh landscape? Back there, you’re not irrigating, it’s full of gophers, and pretty darn dry for seven months of the year—Rob Baday with Boski Landscape Architecture did a beautiful job there. You’ve got limited water, lots of sun, and different types of wind patterns in those little valleys, and so all of that had to be considered when we were placing the house and designing something as simple as an opening.

We have big overhangs as well. Like on the screen-in porch: some people would walk into the house and go, ‘You've got a five-fold door that opens into a screen-in porch. Why wouldn't you just have those screens operable?’ Well, there's a lot of insect life out there, and if you didn't have that covered, you probably wouldn't use it much, because it can be baking. So having those indoor-outdoor spaces that are integrated to the interior architecture, and having them extend into the exterior, creates a true year-round environment.

What else did the clients mention, other than essentially wanting to live outside, in terms of spatial functions? Did they want a lot of entertaining spaces? I know the barn is a big element of it because you mentioned they love their horses.

One directive they said to me early on was, ‘We want to limit the number of interior walls, we want our spaces to be open to each other.’ So you'll notice, in the two master bedrooms there are no walls between the bathrooms and the bedrooms. They wanted the whole thing to be an open, flowing kind of environment. They have a back access which provides all of the circulation, for the

powder room and laundry and those sorts of things. And then everything else is open to each other, and all interconnected, back into that great room, the kitchen area and the dining room. That was an interesting challenge—how do you create this open floor plan concept for a bedroom and a bathroom? I've seen that done poorly, like in the ‘70s, a shag carpet with a bathtub sunk into the master bedroom—I definitely didn't want that feeling. [Laughs] So it was a matter of materially changing between these elements, where it still feels like a separate place, but there is a limited amount of division between the two.

They're going to turn the whole area in front of the barn into a riding arena and a paddock so they can train their horses. They’ll be sitting on the screened-in porch, or out on one of the terraces at the masters, and look out and have a very pastoral scene with their horses in the arena and corral. They wanted a center view, so that anything that comes out of that barn and ends up out in the field was central to their visual experience.

SBLS DH

Tell me a bit about the materials on this project: there have to be stories behind these rich, deep woods.

We spent a lot of time being careful and intentional about the material. So all of the wood that's on the house, on the carport, and all of the interior beams, it’s all reclaimed barn wood—true, vintage wood. That beautiful, natural stone flooring inside came out of Europe; there's nothing faux about any of that.

And the green roofs: they’re always interesting, because people worry about them from a maintenance standpoint. But in order to ground the house and not feel like it was placed, but rather had been there for a long time, it was important for me to have those roots tied into the landscape. So when you look back at the house, it's almost like you don't understand what you're looking at, where it’s green, your eye follows the hillside, and it all integrates.*

PHOTOGRAPHY Andrew Kuykendall | BUBBLES SB Bubble Guy MODEL Allie Leggett with The Industry

STYLIST Ottocina Ryan | HAIR & MAKEUP Ja’Nice Ramos

LOCATION Loon Point Beach

Swimsuit BOND-EYE The Webster Coat LAPOINTE Allora By Laura Ring KAI LINZ Earrings ALEXIS BITTAR

Dress GUCCI The Webster Bracelets ALEXIS BITTAR

Dress ZIMMERMANN Necklace, ring & bracelet KAI LINZ

WATCH BEHIND THE SCENES

Jacket & shorts ZIMMERMANN

Bandeau DEEP BLUE BIKINI CO.

Webster

Earrings & necklace ALEXIS BITTAR

Dress CINQ A SEPT Juniper

Necklace KAI LINZ

Swimsuit LA REVECHE Bangles ALEXIS BITTAR

Swimsuit SO DE MEL

Bangles & earrings ALEXIS BITTAR

AGRI CURIOUS

BY Anna Constantino

FROM AN ILLUSTRIOUS CULINARY BACKGROUND TO REGENERATIVE FARMING, PAUL AND STEPHANIE

LADEIRA HAVE CULTIVATED A FARM-STAY EXPERIENCE RICH WITH TRANQUILITY AND COMMUNITY

BY Anna Constantino

Irise to the sound of Canadian geese cawing, the sunlight commanding our immediate attention as if to say, carpe diem! I slink up and out of bed, observing the flock crossing the lake in a seemingly uniform manner, an 8 a.m. ritual, perhaps. Three dogs (all perfectly ascending in size) run past our window parallel to the water, an egret soaring above them from a nearby blue oak tree. Faint laughter and the scent of coffee waft down the hallway, luring us to the hearth of the home at Blue Ruby Farm.

The farm-stay is tucked away in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, a passion project of husband and wife duo Paul and Stephanie Ladeira, inspired by the “agriturismo” (agricultural tourism) of the Italian countryside. This oasis is not only a visual marvel, but serves as a space to practice and explore regenerative agriculture with land stewardship at the heart of its mission (and of course, center the experience on sustainable food practice through culinary exploration). The land is set up as a renewing system in which all the plants, trees, and terraces are cultivated to support the other crops in various ways–aiding water cycle restoration, fixing nitrogen in the soil, and generally allowing biodiversity to flourish. Based on Paul’s humble demeanor, you’d never guess his wildly prestigious culinary background, from the kitchen of Aujourd’hui to Chez Panisse. That is, until you taste his food. Swoon

I pour myself a cup of half-caff from the French press, chatting with Claiborne and Joanne, our companion guests on the farm, while the smallest dog pleads for some head scratches. The morning’s breakfast endeavor is merely 13 miles up the road to a hidden bakery nestled in Oregon House. Owned by Dorian and Carmina Matei, Artisan Lavinia is home to handmade pastries and bread prepared with freshly milled flour and locally grown fruits. From the scent of ancient grains baking in the oven built by Dorian, to the cooing of the homing pigeons and the subtle waft of rose oil and herbs in the apothecary, the couple has cultivated a homestead haven on the grounds.

We sit on a roundtable under an olive tree outside, an array of warm baked goods in front of us: cherry turnovers, Hungarian poppy seed pastry, egg and ham croissants, and mushroom tart. I am immediately drawn to the cherry turnover, childhood nostalgia oozing out of the center upon first bite (largely reminiscent of the cherry pie my dad and I used to buy from a bakery in the Palisades). The six of us take turns ripping off pieces, flakes and butter flying about, in an indulgent gluten-filled frenzy. We take a tour of the grounds with Carmina, our bellies full, then part ways with the group for the afternoon.

A crisp January morning provides the perfect conditions for a hike at the Daugherty Hill Nature Reserve, but not without a pitstop for some spicy garlic beef jerky on the side of the highway. We graze among the free-roaming cattle, hiking alongside horseshoe tracks, the sunshine beating through the oak savannah. In the spirit of the philosophy “work hard, play hard,” our hike is swiftly followed by a wine tasting at Frenchtown Farms.

Previously known as Renaissance Wines (formerly owned by a cult in the 70s–but that’s a story for another time), owners Cara and Aaron Mockrish adopted and reignited the land out of a passion for connecting with nature to create their lower-intervention wines. Her philosophy is simple: the best farming practices and the freshest fruit you can find will yield a simple wine that lets the grape shine. Cara walks us through the vineyard, teaching us about vine grafting, the characteristics of the terroir, and the grapes they grow, a wonderfully informative experience for two wine novices.

I tower over the highest point of the vineyard overlooking the valley, the setting picture perfect: a barren blue oak tree framing a wooden picnic table, bright green terraces sloping downwards, drawing the eyes to the mountain ranges with a distant glimpse of Tahoe on the horizon. Cara unloads her pickup, dawning the table with five attractive bottles, pencil-thin wine glasses, and a ceramic spittoon. We begin with Poisson Pilote, a natural light amber-colored wine, with floral notes and a zip of acid (hint: the bottle I take home), moving from there into gradually bolder varietals. We had the pleasure of tasting the second wine, the Pearl Thief, the evening prior at the farm-stay, as we were greeted on arrival with a small glass and some orange bread pudding (an exquisite pairing). It is all the more delectable in this setting. After a beautiful hour on the hilltop, we descend the hill in the back of Cara’s pickup, passing by a herd of cows as we soak in the gaping landscape below.

We chase dusk back to the farm-stay, instantly greeted with a plethora of aromas, from the scent of wood burning on the outdoor spit to the acidic tinge of vegetables pickling. We rinse off and reset, preparing for what we only know will be the feast of a lifetime (judging by the pork shoulder Paul pulled out of the fridge to season with fennel pollen the night before). I sit at the bar counter chatting with Paul about his experience as a chef while he supremes a pomelo for the salad. “The reason I do this farm-stay,” he says, “is because we all have a desire to learn more about the human experience. We can all relate to it.”

We gather at the dining table, my back facing a warm woodfire grilling polenta for an upcoming course. Paul serves his first dish of the evening: grilled bread with confit tomatoes straight from the garden. Stephanie pours us the first wine pairing of four as I watch Paul meticulously plate the salad: buffalo mozzarella (from a neighboring water buffalo), pomelo, cured olives from the tree, radishes, fennel, and bright pink radicchio. It’s a symphony of flavor–salty meets tangy, herbaceous meets bitter greens. Paul retreats to the kitchen to plate our main course: a pork shoulder with au jus, coupled with grilled polenta and a medley of sage, swiss chard, and caramelized fennel roasted low and slow, with pickled vegetables. The local pork shoulder, according to Paul, was fed with tons of vegetables but retained its lovely fat due to the good forage. It melts in my mouth. It’s succulent, juicy, flavorful–genuinely one of the best bites of meat I’ve ever tasted.

We sit around the table, the glow of the fire warming the room, sharing our lives. I learn that Claiborne’s late mother imparted a love for music to her while she plays a few tunes over the speaker system. We discuss our favorite films, Paul noting that I must watch A Taste of Things and Three Colours: Blue (no doubt, a Juliette Binoche fan), and I reciprocate with the suggestion of the documentary My Octopus Teacher. Ashley shares about her recent cerebrospinal fluid health feats. We discuss the importance of sensible eating, Paul coining my new favorite MO, “levain bread toasted over a fire with really good salted butter is one of life’s greatest joys.” We discuss tennis matches, labradors, and Bourdain. We connect.

The room grows dimmer, a sleepy haze taking over as we nosh on a soufflé pudding made from glacée preserved apricots and sip on homemade Italian nocino liqueur. It’s hard to replicate what I felt in these moments other than a sense of peace overcoming me. We had detached from the loud, harsh, bustling world around us. A seemingly unnecessary factor of the human experience. There is a comfort in knowing that all of the wealth and abundance I could ever need exists in something as simple as a nourishing meal with four strangers.*

atitlán antigua to

VILLA BOKÉH

WITH VOLCANIC LAKES, HISTORICAL RUINS, AND COLORFUL VILLAGES, GUATEMALA WILL DAZZLE YOU FROM THE MOMENT YOU ARRIVE

BY Maddy Sims

True childlike wonder. That’s what I felt in Guatemala. I found myself staring at my surroundings in complete and utter awe, overcome with how grand and beautiful the country is. Here, everything feels connected. The forests and volcanoes tell a story of the past. The people hold a deep appreciation for the land. The food sings back to ancient Mayan civilization. Standing in Guatemala—taking in the nature, the culture, the history—I’m reminded of how rare all of this really is.

Guatemala means place of many trees, but it’s also a place of many volcanoes. They rise up to meet you as you fly into Guatemala City, the doorway to the country’s many destinations. The roads are flooded by traffic, with motorcyclists weaving through cars and chicken buses (old school buses repainted with colorful patterns). I hardly mind. It gives me more time to look out into the expansive forests. As we venture west toward Lake Atitlán, the storefronts transform into farmland. This is a trip for the adventurous: it’s about a four-hour drive on winding roads. But the journey is more than worth the destination.

We arrive at Casa Palopó (one of the two Relais & Châteaux properties in Guate) late at night, though you can still see the vast lake in the background. I descend into the colorful, eclectic lobby, greeted with a refreshing welcome drink. The space feels cozy and ultra-luxe all at once. The rooms are filled with Guatemalan artwork, a dazzling combination of bright saturated hues, intricate patterns, and various textures that all somehow blend harmoniously. Our bags are taken to our rooms, we’re handed wooden boat-shaped keys, and we step down to 6.8—the hotel’s lakefront restaurant.

Dinner is a divine, masterful mixture of local produce, fresh seafood, and pillow-soft bread. Here, the food tells a story of Guatemala. Local cheeses, fish, and produce pay homage to the surrounding nature as well as Mayan culture. We’re presented with handcrafted cocktails that are equally inspired: An espresso martini (nodding to Guatemala’s iconic coffee), a mezcal mixture

(accompanied by a mini chicken bus), and a tropical rum drink (to showcase the local fruit). For dessert, we share a few scrumptious dishes. The star of the show is the grilled pineapple. It’s covered in a sweet glaze and is so tender, my fork glides through it like butter. I end the night sipping herbal tea in my plush bed.

Despite the long travel day, I’m awake at sunrise. It’s cloudy and overcast, but the view is still breathtaking. From my private balcony, I look out onto Lake Atitlán and take in the massive volcanoes scattered around it. As there are just 15 villas on the property, it’s near-silent. I’m tempted to break out my in-room painting kit but instead am greeted with my morning ritual: A warm, silky-smooth cacao shot. (Guests can choose from celery juice, hot water with lemon, and other options to start their day.)

They say that nature is healing. As a resident of Santa Barbara, I know this to be true. A trip to the beach or a hike in the mountains provides a near-instant spike of feel-good chemicals. But to be completely immersed, as you are at Casa Palopó, is another experience entirely. It feels like a reawakening.

I head downstairs to 6.8, taking in the panoramic view of the lake and volcanoes. Breakfast is shakshuka with eggs from the on-site chicken coop and creamy queso alongside more fresh-baked bread and hot coffee. After, we head down to the property’s funicular and descend to the lake for a tour of a nearby Mayan village (one of the many experiences the hotel offers). We climb aboard a little blue boat and take off.

We’re speeding along Lake Atitlán, a vast body of water situated in a volcanic crater in Guatemala. The fog and clouds encircle the top of the surrounding volcanoes, making them seem even more massive than they already do. The glassy water reflects the sky, obscuring reality for just a second. It’s like we’re floating in the clouds as we head towards San Juan La Laguna. In a matter of minutes, it feels like we’ve traveled back centuries. That’s the magic of Guatemala—it offers portals to transport visitors into the past.

CASA PALOPÓ

“THE SUNNY YELLOW DECOR, upbeat music, AND DELICIOUS FOOD

KINNIK

give me a much-needed boost of ENERGY before heading out to

PINTANDO SANTA CATARINA PALOPÓ.”

We embark on our walking tour, taking in the inspired street art and the colorful umbrellas above. We visit a women’s clothing collective first, and a masterful craftsperson shows us how the fabric is made and woven. She makes it look effortless, smoothly guiding strands into place. Everything is dyed naturally, either by fruits, vegetables, or plants, and sealed with banana peel. The store supports these women, and every purchase helps them directly. I pick up two tote bags and wish I had more space for one of the gorgeous table runners or blankets. For those planning to visit, this stop is an absolute must.

We continue walking up the stone street, dodging bright red tuk tuks and sipping creamy lattes. We stop in a chocolate shop and a honey shop, learning about the manufacturing process (again, done by hand), and try all kinds of samples. What strikes me most is the locals’ connection to and deep respect for nature. Every part of the cacao plant is used: The seed for chocolate and the shells for an antioxidant-rich tea. Honey is used for eating, but it’s also used in skincare and haircare products. Propolis from bees is used in a throat spray. In a world of fast fashion and processed items, being here renews my gratitude for nature and reminds me of the work it takes to create something.

We head back across the lake, the sun peeking out behind scattered clouds. Lunch is at Kinnik, Casa Palopó’s new lakeside open-fire restaurant. The sunny yellow decor, upbeat music, and delicious food give me a much-needed boost of energy before heading out to Pintando Santa Catarina Palopó. This is a community initiative behind Santa Catarina's colorful transformation. It celebrates art (using naturally-colored paints to beautify buildings), centers education (giving children and mothers more access to school), and increases tourism (allowing residents to sell their crafts for profit). Visitors can tour the town, adopt a family, donate to the project, and even volunteer time to help paint buildings.

Dinner is a tortilla bar, yet another experience you can book at Casa Palopó. I learn how to form masa into a round tortilla, placing it on the sizzling stovetop and watching it cook right before my eyes. Jorge Peralta, the executive chef, joins us and even makes me my own little quesadilla, filling one of my tortillas with queso. It’s the kind of service you can expect at Casa Palopó: attentive and warm. On each side of the walkway there are bowls of toppings: guacamole, queso, beans, meat, salsa, and pico de gallo that’s so finely chopped I can hardly believe my eyes. I build my tacos and enjoy them alongside the hotel’s wine pairings. The colorful candles hanging above my head are lit up, illuminating the space with a warm glow.

I pack up and get ready for our voyage from Atitlán to Antigua. We follow the winding roads back up from the lake and head from the western highlands to the east. We venture through stretches of forests and farms, passing through colorful towns on the way. Finally, we arrive at Villa Bokéh. Despite being five minutes outside of urban downtown Antigua, the entrance

to the property feels like a portal to a tropical oasis. I walk through the open-air lobby and am greeted with a refreshing lemonade. I head to my room and am absorbed by the charm of the hotel.

Casa Palopó feels like an exclusive, eclectic lakehouse, while Villa Bokéh feels more like a friend’s modern Colonial home—but set in the tropics. There’s an open patio covered with greenery and bright orange flowers overlooking the property’s expansive six-acre manicured garden. A water fountain in the pond fills the space with soothing sounds. Between the arched bridge, the small rowboat, and the little glass house, the space feels straight out of a romance novel. (They even have a “Notebook Experience,” where guests can enjoy a private picnic and boat ride). It’s no wonder why they’re already booked for weddings through 2025.

I follow the path around the tranquil pond to Casa Cristal, one of the hotel’s restaurants. With its glass panels, tall vaulted ceiling, and hanging greenery, it’s reminiscent of a greenhouse. Similarly to Casa Palopo, everything about the food is meaningful. The menu includes a fusion of traditional Guatemalan dishes with contemporary touches. Executive chef Marcos Sáenz and sous-chef Javier Foncea greet us personally as we enjoy house-made bread (ridiculously good), fresh produce, local cheeses, and slow-cooked meats. They make me my very own cauliflower tacos since I’m vegetarian, and I can’t believe how flavorful and filling they are.

The sun peeks out from behind the clouds just as we head out for our walking tour of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We start in the town plaza, at a water fountain featuring mermaids—one of the many motifs found throughout this colonial town. Our guide leads us around several buildings, all covered with intricate carvings. Many have been or are being restored, as the active volcanoes nearby have caused devastating earthquakes over the years. One such earthquake all but destroyed the Catedral de San Jose, leaving haunting ruins behind. Arches stretch over your head to the open sky while small stairs lead down to the burial area.

We walk along the cobblestone streets, taking in the colorful buildings, trying unique Guatemalan ice cream flavors, and posing in front of the iconic clock tower. So much of this town has been preserved, despite the natural disasters it faced. I climb up to the roof of Iglesia de la Merced and take in the city from a birds-eye view. Up here, I’m struck by the beauty of the city—by the bright colors and the artistic architecture. In the distance, a volcano emits smoke into the golden sky. Again, I’m transported back in time. And again, I’m overcome with that childlike wonder.

Despite being a historical landmark, Antigua is also an up-and-coming nightlife hotspot. Our next stop is ULEW Cocktail Bar. The entrance is a red phone booth, and behind it is a cave-like, speasy-style pub. There’s no menu here, just friendly bartenders who take note of your favorite spirit, fruit, flower, spice, and other flavors to create a custom drink. Mine is a perfectly-spiced, ultra-citrusy margarita.

For our farewell dinner, we enjoy more fresh bread (can you tell how much I love it?), grilled watermelon salad, pumpkin soup, and decadent cheese ravioli. Given the mastery and intention behind the food here, Villa Bokéh is a culinary destination on its own. It’s an extraordinary way to experience Guatemala, to understand the culture and get a deeper appreciation of all it has to offer. Before we leave, Foncea brings out his talented team and gives them much-deserved recognition. You can see the pride he takes—the pride the entire team takes—in crafting memorable meals.

In the morning, I stop by the hotel’s gift shop, curated by the owners to showcase local artists. I pick up coasters filled with Guatemalan worry dolls (they’re supposed to take away your worries), handwoven dish towels, and famous Guatemalan coffee. Then, I head to the chicken coop to collect eggs for this morning’s breakfast. I snack on flakey croissants, sweet jams, and fresh coffee before getting my meal: soft scrambled eggs and avocado toast topped with fresh veggies. As a parting gift, Foncea brings out one of his favorite items on the menu: thin, fluffy pancakes rolled with fresh fruit and nuts and topped with powdered sugar. A sweet ending to an even sweeter trip.

I find it’s quite rare for luxury hotels to capture such a high level of culture immersion, but both Casa Palopó and Villa Bokéh do just that. They’re two very different Guatemala experiences. Casa Palopó is a remote escape, celebrating Guatemalan nature, history, and art. Villa Bokéh is a luxurious historical destination, paying homage to Guatemala’s past in an intentional and beautiful way. Both celebrate the culture and the land in a way that makes you feel deeply connected to it.

I felt a part of myself come back during my time in Guatemala. It’s unfortunately all too easy to lose sight of just how incredible it is to be alive, right now, or to forget how extraordinary the world really is. But visiting Guatemala, walking through Mayan villages and ancient ruins in Antigua, beholding mighty volcanoes, tasting local food—it was humbling and grounding and awe-inspiring all at once. May we never lose our childlike-sense of wonder. And if we do, may we travel to Guatemala to find it again.*

CASA PALOPÓ

WE CARE SPA IS A DESERT OASIS FOR HEALING FROM THE INSIDE OUT

BY Alexandra Sharova PHOTOGRAPHY Digital Love

The scent of newly blooming flowers mingles with the promise of possibility; nature's sign that spring is around the corner. While some use this time to focus on their external world—through deep cleaning and closet revamps—I like to apply the same concept to my inner world, specifically, my health. I’ve done countless cleanses, detoxes, and diets over the years, both on my own and at wellness facilities around the world, but when looking for a place that honored my commitment to holistic health for a yearly reset, I opted for something new to me, yet tried and true since 1986. We Care Spa’s famed detox program was created by founder Susana Belen, based on her philosophy (and personal experience) that removing emotional, spiritual, and physical toxic build-up in the body gives it the space to heal itself. With incredible success, it quickly picked up popularity in her circle. Today, it’s adored by wellness connoisseurs and celebrities alike—all enticing selling points in my book.

Set in Desert Hot Springs, the 20-acre property is vast, and the tranquil energy is palpable from my very first step onto the land. I feel as though I have entered a healing portal, where time moves slower and the outside world fades away like a mirage in the wind. I settle in my suite whose floor-to-ceiling windows open to a sweeping view of unobstructed desert stretch, further grounding me into the present experience.

The first activity on my itinerary is a colonic—my very first... Detox programs at We Care Spa are based on a liquid philosophy: that consuming nutrient rich foods in the form of liquid nutrition floods the body with vital micronutrients, which when coupled with natural laxatives and colon hydrotherapy, is the quickest way to flush out toxins and help heal the body from the inside out. My treatment room entirely lacks the drab sterility I was expecting. It’s pristine and relaxing; the type of space a heavenly massage would take place. Eladia’s warm nature and clear rundown of the processes helps ease my discomfort, and we dive in with a digestive release—an abdominal massage to get things moving. Although there are clear benefits to colonics, like clearing years of built-up toxins and waste often stuck deep in our large intestines, there is also an energetic component. Since emotions and trauma are stored in the body, the physical release can trigger an emotional one as well—and who doesn’t love a two-for-one special? Aside from some minor discomfort in the beginning, the process is seamless, and I leave feeling lighter, in more ways than one.

I grab a Blood Purifier tea from the lobby, which also serves as the communal “kitchen.” Here, guests can make Detox Drinks, enjoy soups, juices, and choose from an array of infused waters to hit the program’s daily goal of consuming half one’s body weight in H2O. This is also the meeting place for treatments—essentially the

nucleus of the facility. I sip on the warming Lapacho bark—surprisingly delicious, like the rest of the meal replacements—and review the selection of offerings. From the latest biohacking to ancient techniques like cupping, the gamut of wellness practices serves every palate. After a particularly tension-relieving deep tissue massage I help myself to a rich cup of carrot soup accompanied by supplements. I sip on my dinner as vibrant flames dance in the fire pit before me, while the sky reflects coral, peach, and orange sorbet hues in the background.

Since my evening consisted of an Epsom salt bath, journaling, and sleep before 10 p.m., I awake bright and early to catch daily yoga prior to tackling my “morning drinks”: lemon water with two food enzymes, green food drink (made in my room), and detox drink paired with a regulator chaser. I save the rest for post-reflexology treatment, so I don’t explode from what feels like a liquid overdose compared to my usual under-hydration... The trigger points addressed during the procedure further amplify detoxification, making it ideal for pre-colonics. I take my morning green juice and Liver Kidney Tea to go and find an oasis for meditating. The property is full of nooks and quiet zones that encourage such deep presence. I choose a swinging daybed tent whose gentle motion accompanied by faint bird songs lulls me past meditation and into a nap.

For those who want to maximize the impact of the program, the System Recovery Master Treatment is the way to go. In 90 minutes I am lathered in castor oil, swaddled like a baby in a heat wrap, and laid atop a grounding amethyst mat, while enjoying a scalp and foot massage. The combination activates the liver, helps reduce abdominal discomfort, and supports bowel movement. From there, it’s straight to colonic number two, paired with a cocktail of probiotic supplements.

After an Olympic circuit of detoxing, I replenish my body with the soup du jour, adding cinnamon to enhance the butternut squash flavors and refill my water thermos for the third time that day, to hit my hydration goals. Mari is waiting for me in front of a giant tent, aglow. She explains the Shamanic session ahead: reiki, sound, and quantum healing, before we dive into my struggles—emotional, spiritual, and physical—and the recent self-discoveries around purpose I’d like to explore. I lay down as she begins to sing, chant, and channel. The messages and visuals coming through her and that I am receiving, are akin to a psychedelic journey. I’m called by my spirit guides to reclaim soul parts that have been repressed or lost within myself, my family, and the generations that came before us. My eyes are closed, but visuals pierce through like intergalactic auroras.

I’m moved emotionally, and through a powerful recalibration of my chakras, I feel my misaligned spine shifting as well. Call it magic or science, but if energy is everything—within us and around us—then all it takes is tapping into a specific frequency through the help of a shaman like Mari, to experience the extraordinary.

Wind chimes ring in the evening breeze as the setting sun ignites the sky with fluorescent wonder. All evidence points to this being some sort of vortex…of wellness. I join my fellow detoxers in the property’s Lotus Room for one of the many group class offerings that range from nutrition to building healthy mental habits. This evening the focus is on “Unwinding the Body and Mind”—easier said than done after an interdimensional healing. The tips are tangible and useful, especially for most of us who constantly work on our phones with no clear boundaries. I get another cup of soup and tea from the lobby before retreating to my suite for yet another Epsom salt bedtime bath.

To maximize solo time—one of my goals for the stay—and to make the most of my accommodations, I take my morning beverage bundle to the outdoor daybed. I read and journal as the early desert wind plays with my hair. I feel at peace, yet simultaneously so energized; I can’t remember the last time I felt so good in my body. Before colonic number three, I stroll through the on-site labyrinth, which is coincidentally a symbol of transformation, a fun fact I learned at orientation. Another successful session with Eladia and I’m off to a “Sublime Skin Ultra Glow and Lift” facial. Like the rest of the We Care Spa treatments, the approach is holistic, and Cheryl not only caters to my skin in the moment but helps set me up for success after I leave. The results live up to the name and I start doing mental math to see how often I can make the drive down to keep up this supple radiance.

I have the “bartender” prepare my final Detox drink poolside, which like the lobby acts as a sort of watering hole, where guests can share takeaways, offer recommendations to one another, and make new connections when feeling social. Mother-daughter duos, friend groups, couples, and single visitors fill the communal spaces; we’re all here with the same overarching goal: to transform. Naturally the theme of the evening soundbath is transformation too... I let the melodic meditation move through me. There is without a doubt more room within my physical system, but it seems like my emotional center has a newfound lightness as well. The studio is filled with blissed out faces, and I feel like, well…Buddha. Whether this is the path to nirvana or not, I’m in.*

sea the world

THE WORLD, THE LARGEST PRIVATE YACHT IN EXISTENCE, OFFERS UNPARALLELED LUXURY TRAVEL AND ALL THE COMFORTS OF HOME

BY Maddy Sims

Imagine traveling to the most remote parts of the world, and then returning to your own bed at night. Spending the day with a native tribe in Papua New Guinea and then coming back to an elegant restaurant with extraordinary service and dishes tailored to your exact preferences. Exploring the Sea of Cortez, Madagascar, Indonesian islands, Antarctica—and then relaxing in your own apartment filled with all of your things. Imagine seeing the world from your own home. That’s what life is like aboard The World.

The World is a first-of-its-kind, resident-owned ship that travels around the globe and offers the comfort of home every step of the way. During its recent anchorage off of Santa Barbara, I visited the ship to learn about residents’ day-to-day aboard the elusive vessel.

Equipped with 165 ultra-luxe studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom apartments, this is no cruise ship. The finishes are sophisticated and high-end. The rooms have sweeping private balconies. The itinerary changes every year. Here, the residents decide where they’re going through an elected council (the size of your unit determines how many votes you get). Then, they share in a journey of over 100 ports of call each year, experiencing unforgettable adventures and enjoying a level of luxury that’s unmatched.

There’s an outdoor pool, indoor pool, tennis court (the only regulation-size court at sea), putting green, golf simulator (plus a full-time golf coach), in-house physical therapist, award-winning wine collection, poker room, library, and so much more. There are four restaurants, a poolside grill, plus a charming cafe with snacks, beverages, medications, and fresh produce. Guests can socialize in several different bars or head to the cigar club (the only place smoking is allowed on board). A non-denominational place of worship is open for those who want to organize services. Private spaces for small children and teenagers are available. The full-size theater not only houses live entertainment reminiscent of cruise ships, but also movie screenings and lectures with authors, professors, Nobel laureates, and other knowledgeable experts.

Yet another departure from typical cruise ship ethos is the impressive focus on health and wellness. The expansive spa is 7,000 square feet, with a beauty salon (offering manicures, pedicures, hair services), massage rooms, steam baths, a Jacuzzi, and a Vichy bed for full-body hammam treatments. Nearby, the immaculate fitness center is filled with modern machines and Peloton bikes. There’s even a Pilates studio with reformers. It’s nicer than many of the high-end gyms I’ve seen. Classes are offered daily, ranging from yoga to Zumba. Starlink internet is available on the ship, and conference rooms are open for those working remotely or for board meetings.

Residents must have a certain net-worth to even qualify for entry. That’s because they fund everything: running the ship, crew salaries, regular maintenance, guest lecturers, entertainment, and more. They also need recommendations from existing residents aboard the ship. In exchange, they’re granted access to an ultraexclusive portal to the world. It’s not just about traveling around the globe, it’s about understanding as well. The ship brings experts from upcoming destinations onto the boat to educate the residents ahead of time. Scientists, anthropologists, musicians, and artists come to teach those aboard and lead onshore expeditions, offering full cultural immersion.

While it’s possible to live on The World full-time, few residents do. Most stay on for a few weeks at a time. For the majority of residents, The World is more like a vacation home. They get on and off the ship whenever they like, traveling made easier thanks to the fact that their apartments are filled with clothes and other travel necessities. Every apartment is unique: Residents are free to renovate the space—moving walls, adding windows, or changing decorations.

As with the apartments, everything about The World experience is bespoke. One resident calls the level of service “six-stars.” Beds are made and towels are folded according to the residents’ specifications. Onboard and shoreside activities are carefully curated based on personal preferences. Dietary restrictions and allergies are top of mind. Favorite foods and drinks are noted and remembered. I’m even told there’s a list in the kitchen with notes for every resident. For example, one resident likes her water glass half-full, and I watch as servers honor this throughout lunch, after excitedly telling her they have fresh sea urchin available (her favorite).

I spend lunch with Steven* and Donna* who have been on the ship for 20 years, almost since it launched in 2002. Back then, Donna says, The World was an experiment. They received a notice about it in the mail. “I kept saying

it sounded fabulous,” Donna laughs. “He kept saying it sounded ridiculous.” But after visiting, they joined immediately. It was love at first sight, Steven tells me. The combination of traveling to remote places while having all your needs met and getting to sleep in your own bed is what sold them.

Love at first sight has grown into a lifelong relationship. Their dreams of traveling off-the-grid became a reality, as they’ve traveled to several small islands that don’t typically have visitors. They’ve met the locals and formed relationships with them. If the communities are in need of school supplies or other items, the residents often bring them. These experiences in particular are the most memorable, Steven says. “It creates the sense that our community is the world,” he says. “We’re so aware of the fact that it’s one world we’re in.”

The World affords residents a unique way to experience different destinations. The couple recounts numerous amazing experiences: bird-watching led by local experts, cooking classes with famous chefs, photography walks guided by professionals, scuba expeditions in remote diving locations.

However, Steven and Donna say the community aboard is what makes The World special. The staff is like extended family. Steven and Donna’s grandson is 25 now, but some of the workers aboard today attended his sixth birthday when they hosted it on The World years ago. On this ship, everybody knows everybody. Despite the wealth required to join, the residents are refreshingly down-to-earth. “Nobody here shows off. It doesn’t matter,” Steven says. “Age is less important. Religion is less important. Politics are less important. Wealth is less important.” What binds them all together is a true love of the world, which fosters an atmosphere of positivity, curiosity, and inclusion.

“The World offers activity, luxury, and community,” Steven says. “You can find those things at other places, but the combination here is what makes it so special.” And with that, we finish our delicious lunch (I can see why the ship is renowned for its cuisine) and head down to catch the ferry headed into Santa Barbara. We make a quick stop at their apartment—newly-renovated and filled with incredible artwork from all over the globe. I’m in utter awe as I walk through the space. “It’s beautiful,” I say. Donna smiles proudly at the artifacts, while Steven replies: “It really is the only way to see the world without leaving home.”*

*Names have been changed for privacy

BY Eliza Krpoyan

IS RIGHT FOR YOU? HAWAIIAN WHICH ISLAND

CHOOSING BETWEEN MAUI, KAUAI, OR OAHU FOR YOUR NEXT VACATION DESTINATION? TAKE THE QUIZ TO FIND YOUR MATCH

Planning a Hawaiian getaway but unsure which island to visit: Maui, Kauai, or Oahu? Each island offers a unique experience. Whether you’re seeking luxury, adventure, or quality family time, discover which island is your perfect match. Let’s throw it back to the ‘90s with a quiz that’ll match the one that’s right for you, and our recommendations on where to stay.

HOW DO YOU PREFER TO SPEND YOUR VACATION?

Exploring a big city with endless shopping and vibrant energy.

Going off the radar, surrounded by lush landscapes and tranquility.

Balancing luxury and relaxation with plenty of breathtaking scenery.

YOUR IDEAL AFTERNOON LOOKS LIKE:

Enjoying hotel programming and activities on the property followed by a poolside lunch. Exploring secluded trails to find hidden waterfalls and kayaking through coves. Snorkeling with sea turtles, followed by a massage. It’s called balance.

WHAT’S YOUR DINING STYLE?

Enjoying a mix of trendy restaurants, local poke stands, and loads of food trucks. Savoring farm-to-table fare, paired with hidden gems only locals know.

Indulging in elevated seafood dining with a touch of Hawaiian tradition.

HOW IMPORTANT IS FAMILY TIME ON THIS TRIP?

Very important! I want kid-friendly beaches, fun activities, and plenty to keep everyone entertained.

I’m looking for a quiet spot to enjoy with my significant other. I need a balance—making memories with my kids, sharing drinks with my significant other, and indulging in some me-time at the spa.

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT CROWDS?

Bring them on. The more energy, the better. Hard pass. I seek seclusion and quiet time to recharge on vacation.

Somewhere in between–some energy, but not too much.

1 HOTEL HANALEI BAY

If you answered...

MOSTLY AS – OAHU

Pack your bags and head to Oahu. Known as “The Gathering Place,” this island is the perfect destination for family fun. It offers a blend of city life including major restaurants and retailers as well as beautiful beaches and family-friendly activities. Think strolling through Ala Moana Center and the Royal Hawaiian Center, taking in the sunset at Waikiki Beach, hiking to the top of Diamond Head, and exploring cultural landmarks like Pearl Harbor.

Where to stay: If you’re traveling with children, Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa is a memorable family destination. Nestled on Oahu’s Ko Olina coastline, the resort offers endless activities. Start the day with character meet-andgreets over breakfast, then explore its private snorkeling lagoon where children can safely swim among tropical fish or opt to participate in daily fish feedings. Float along the lazy river, splash in pools featuring water slides and climbing structures, or enjoy live performances by Disney characters dressed in Hawaiian-inspired attire.

For families, the resort's villas are a must, offering spacious accommodations replete with a full kitchen and, my personal favorite when traveling with a toddler— a washer and dryer.

And if you need a break from all the Disney magic you can build sandcastles on the private beach. Or make dinner reservations at its neighboring hotel the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina. Here, try Mina’s Fish House, where you’ll dine al fresco on, as the name suggests, fresh seafood fare helmed by James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Mina.

The juxtaposition of Aulani and the Four Seasons side by side perfectly illustrates how this island offers something for everyone, blending family-friendly fun with luxurious sophistication.

“Known as “The Gathering Place,” this island is the perfect destination for family fun.”

MOSTLY BS – KAUAI

If tranquility, natural beauty, and seclusion define your ideal vacation, then Kauai belongs at the top of your must-visit list. Known as “The Garden Isle,” Kauai is the lushest of Hawaii’s main islands. It is home to one of the wettest points on earth, the volcanic peak, Mount Waialeale. You’ll experience a spectrum of green that paints a lush landscape that appears to be untouched. As the smallest of the three islands on this list, Kauai feels the most remote and serene.

The island offers endless ways to connect with nature, including hiking the awe-inspiring Napali Coast, exploring dozens of waterfalls nestled in rainforests, enjoying farm-to-table fare, or relaxing on the golden sands of Hanalei Bay.

Where to stay: 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay is a destination in itself, offering an unforgettable experience that perfectly complements the island’s natural beauty. The eco-chic retreat blends luxury with sustainability and offers breathtaking views of Hanalei Bay.

Picture gazing out of your window to Kauai’s majestic mountains cascading down to meet turquoise waters and golden sands. While taking in the natural beauty is enough to recharge, the hotel’s Bamford Wellness Spa elevates your relaxation. Its seamless integration of nature-inspired wellness and Hawaiian healing traditions makes its treatment offerings the perfect blend of relaxation, rejuvenation, and cultural connection. For instance, many of their facials and massages include the healing power of Hawaiian plant medicine. You could additionally opt to treat your entire stay as a wellness retreat dubbed Within Wellbeing. In addition to the spa, the hotel’s unique wellness experiences include the Anatomy Fitness Center and functional medicine partner Vitality Kauai. Or opt for a multi-day Journey where Wellness Sages will customize an itinerary reflecting your personal goals from an assessment ahead of your stay. Resident experts include board-certified physicians, nutritionists, and fitness professionals. There’s no shortage of wellness offerings and connections to nature here. The hotel even features its rooftop organic garden where many of the ingredients for the restaurant are sourced.

While it’s the ultimate destination for relaxation, seclusion, and connection to nature, one of my favorite aspects is that the hotel warmly welcomes children. Luxury at this level often overlooks families or doesn’t allow it, but in true Hawaiian spirit, it embraces a family-friendly atmosphere while maintaining its upscale environment.

MOSTLY CS – MAUI

It appears you’re all about balance. In this case, consider Maui, which offers the best of both worlds—luxury and adventure, relaxation and exploration. Drive the Road to Hana, snorkel in Molokini Crater, or indulge in the luxury of Wailea’s five-star resorts.

Where to stay: Check into Hawaii’s only all-suite and villa luxury resort, Fairmont Kea Lani in Wailea. In addition to suite and villa renovations, the newly transformed property recently unveiled a new lobby, Maui’s largest and only 24/7 resort cultural center, and the Pilina bar and lounge. Pilina offers a relaxed, open-air atmosphere with craft cocktails sourced 90 percent locally, fresh sushi, hot rock dishes like A-5 Wagyu and lobster tail, all set to live music and sunset views.

Among our favorite dining experiences was enjoying one of the island’s best acai bowls from the hotel’s Makana Market + Cafe. We looked forward to this ritual every morning.

Whether you’re paddling on a complimentary outrigger canoe ride, unwinding in a poolside cabana, indulging at the hotel’s award-winning spa, or savoring Hawaiianstyle cuisine at the signature restaurant Ko, the Fairmont Kea Lani perfectly captures Maui’s balance of luxury and adventure.

Cheeky quiz aside, no matter which island you choose, you’ll find yourself surrounded by nature’s breathtaking beauty and the warm, welcoming spirit of Aloha.*

WHAT to PACK HAWAII

Island Essentials

1

DR. BARBARA STURM SUMMER KIT SKINCARE ESSENTIALS

$275

Featuring seven different UV-protecting products, this kit is a jet-setter's dream. From SPF 50 Sun Drops to Aloe Vera Gel, your skincare routine is covered from beginning to end so you can stay protected and soak up the sun all day long.

2

SIR SERENE SLIP DRESS

$520

Complementing the vibrant florals of the islands, this silk dress is the perfect option to slip on for brunch in the lush Kauai gardens or a sunset dinner after a relaxing day at the resort. A seamless combination of blending in while still standing out!

MIU MIU LOGO ACETATE OVAL SUNGLASSES

$489

No matter what destination you landed on, an island outfit is never complete without a pair of sunnies. Miu Miu brings an elevated look that is both functional and fashionable with these 100% UV protective sunglasses.

4

MAYGEL CORONEL TRINITARIA ONE PIECE SWIMSUIT

$360

Some of the most breathtaking ocean views can be found in Hawaii, and with Maygel Coronel, you'll be ready to take a dip in the most elegant swimwear, like this floral one-piece. You can explore their resort wear right here at home with their newest location at The Post in Montecito.

by CAMILLE QUINN

FAIRMONT KEA LANI, MAUI

in Santa Barbara 48 HOURS

DAY 1

BITE

A bagel a day keeps the doctor away at Mother Dough Bagels These gut-friendly, handrolled sourdough bagels are made with love—and organic ingredients. With perfectly light, crispy, chewy bagels, this new addition to downtown Santa Barbara is sure to please your palate (and your gut!). @motherdoughbagels

TREAT

Head to Andersen’s Danish Bakery for the perfect pick-me-up at any time. Stop by this family-owned State Street staple to try their infamous Kringle, specialty cakes, and other delectable Danish delicacies. @andersensdanishbakerysb

BY Eva Grunburg

CELEBRATE

Enjoy the best of Santa Barbara—and the earth—at the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival. Head to Alameda Park on April 26th and 27th for live music, locally sourced beer and wine, a Green Car Show, and more. As the birthplace of Earth Day itself, there’s no better place to celebrate.

@sb_earthday

BARRE

Feel the burn with a full-body workout at The Bar Method. With roots in ballet, classes are low impact and high reward, creating a contagiously inspiring and empowering environment. @barmethodsb

REFRESH

Spring cleaning also includes self-care—and nothing evokes a feeling of renewal like a sleek, bouncy blowout. Leave Drybar Montecito instantly more confident after your premier blowout experience. @drybarshops_montecito

POLISH

Leave your hands in the best hands with an appointment at Springtide Nails. Pioneering non-toxic nail care and top-notch service, the aesthetic nail salon is a self-care sanctuary. @springtidenails

BLOOM

Spring has already sprung at Ganna Walska Lotusland

The world-renowned collection of over 3000 plants exhibits the most exotic and exceptional sights Mother Nature has to offer, tucked in the hills of Montecito.

@lotusland_gannawalska

TASTE

Experience the flavors of the Santa Rita Hills at Strange Family Vineyards’ new tasting room in the heart of downtown Los Olivos. Find the beauty in the strange in the cozy tasting room and their unique limitedproduction Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines.

@strange_wine

SIP

Fairytale meets reality at San Ysidro Ranch’s Afternoon Tea Sip your choice of tea and snack on small bites among the blossoming gardens and picturesque scene for this elegant afternoon ritual. @sanysidroranch

DAY 2

AESCAPE

Treat yourself to an escape with an Aescape AI Massage treatment at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara Spa. Aescape’s AI gathers 2.1 million data points about the body, tailoring your experience to your exact needs. After the personalized massage, enjoy spa amenities and like the eucalyptus steam room and pool. @ritzcarltonbacarasb

THE BAR METHOD

SAN YSIDRO RANCH

STRANGE FAMILY VINEYARDS

ANDERSEN’S DANISH BAKERY THE RITZ-CARLTON BACARA SPA

GANNA WALSKA LOTUSLAND