July/August 2025 | Santa Barbara Life & Style Magazine
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EDITOR IN CHIEF & PUBLISHER Ottocina Ryan
ART DIRECTOR Vide Olsson
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Alexandra Lee
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Silas Fallstich
PHOTOGRAPHERS Beth Camp, Seb Keefe, Ryan Mayo, Angelo Sgambati
WRITERS Anna Constantino, Eva Grunburg, Nicole Johnson, Alexandra Lee, Andrea Manokian, Danaë Petsimeris, Maddy Sims
PHOTOGRAPHY Angelo Sgambati
MODEL Tara Dobric with Two Management
HAIR Abraham Esparza
MAKEUP Nicole Chew
STYLIST Ottocina Ryan
LOCATION San Ysidro Ranch
Dress CLEA Teller
Earrings LAYKIN ET CIE
Shoes DOLCE VITA
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
OUR MISSION IS TO “HELP CLIENTS NAVIGATE CHALLENGES AND GUIDE THEM TOWARDS THE ACHIEVEMENT OF THEIR
CONTENTS
JULY/AUGUST 2025
IN EVERY ISSUE
SBLS SPOTLIGHT 15
Go ahead, pick your hotel based on the restaurant.
COVET & CRAVE 16
A look fit for a summer soirée.
NEW NEIGHBORS 20
From Pilates to pizza, there are a few new businesses on the block.
48 HOURS 98
Consider this your weekend itinerary.
DINING
SOI NA NA 24
It’s as if Bangkok was only a 45 minute drive away.
LA DOLCE VITA 30
Pasta at The Post.
WELLNESS
FARM TO FACE 34
Kleos + Klea is a true product of nature.
PROFILES
CREATING KARIELLA 40
Amara Bessa brings the bohemian back to Santa Barbara.
DIVINE FEMININE 44
Maygel Coronel’s vibrant designs have landed in Montecito.
HOME
ELEVATING THE EVERYDAY 48
Jessica Jubelirer shows that often overlooked areas of the home can be extraordinary.
FASHION
TRUE GRIT 52
Back at Alisal Ranch…
BED OF ROSES 66
A not so secret garden.
TRAVEL
SAN YSIDRO RANCH 78
There’s no question this is the world’s most romantic hotel.
PURA VIDA 80
A retreat into the heart of Costa Rica’s natural wonders.
ON PAR 86
A weekend of indulgence at Casa Palmero in Pebble Beach, where golf is merely a backdrop.
KONA VILLAGE 90
The ultimate family vacation at Rosewood Kona Village.
A CUT ABOVE 94
A case for staying downtown.
Dress KIMIA ARYA
Vintage Scarf BRASS TACK
Hat JIMMY GARCIA Necklace AZRA MEHDI
SBLS SPOTLIGHT
BY Alexandra Lee
1. BUON APPETITO
Marisella opens this summer as the newest addition to The Ritz-Carlton Bacara’s array of culinary establishments, drawing inspiration from Mediterranean flavors, California produce, and Italian conviviality.
3. SOUTHERN CHARM
Finch & Fork welcomes John Vasquez as its new Executive Chef. With a passion for Southern hospitality and bold flavors, Vasquez serves up a distinctly West Coast experience with heart, soul, and a hint of Texas flair.
2. HARVEST TO TABLE
Kick off high summer with Bounty, a new communal garden dinner series at Rosewood Miramar Beach showcasing the Central Coast’s culinary abundance. Each dinner includes bespoke wine pairings and a hyperlocal menu from the region’s best winemakers, farmers, and trailblazers.
Follow @sblifeandstyle for daily behind the scenes content, new restaurants, events, getaways, and more...
4. COASTAL FLAVORS
Belmond El Encanto introduces a fresh Mediterranean-inspired all-day menu with a California twist, featuring seasonal, wellness-driven dishes dreamt up by Executive Chef Alexander Bollinger.
ELEVATED ESSENTIALS TO TAKE YOU FROM SUN-DRENCHED DAYS TO BALMY NIGHTS
1
Jamie Haller
The Modern Ballet
Inspired by ballet dancers en pointe, these Italian-made flats feature an elegant almond-shaped toe and removable grosgrain ties. Ideal for strolling sunlit piazzas and cobblestone streets, their flexible design hugs the foot for optimal comfort. Shop in person at The Post Montecito.
THE VACATION EDIT
BY Alexandra Lee
2
INSTYTUTUM
Cryoshot Hydrating Serum
Combat puffiness, redness, and dehydration on your next jet-setting adventure with this multitasking serum, powered by three innovative complexes to stimulate collagen production, erase fatigue, and detox the skin.
3
BuDhaGirl
All Weather Bangles
Your new go-to beach jewelry, these silver bangles are completely waterproof, feather-light, and TSAproof, designed to move seamlessly from the cabana to your carry-on. Meticulously crafted by artisans in Thailand, each bangle serves as a symbolic ode to purpose and intention.
5
Janessa Leoné Colette Hat
For an elevated take on sun protection, opt for this short-brimmed silhouette, crafted from raffia straw in Madagascar—or discover the full collection at the newly-opened Janessa Leoné boutique, located at The Post.
4
Clara Chehab
Irene Long Sequence Earrings
Set in 18-karat pink gold, these statement pieces feature a unique blend of rough peridot, green sapphire, and white diamonds nestled within a half-moon design. Handmade by master artisans in Beirut, each pair is completely one-of-a-kind. Find them in person at Merlette in Montecito.
ESCAPE IN A MOMENT
Deeply rooted in the region’s fresh, flavorful bounty, Ojai Valley Inn’s masterful chefs and seven original dining outlets have earned our beloved resort a stellar reputation for culinary excellence. From signature Italian-California fine dining at Olivella to our one-of-a-kind epicurean experience, The Farmhouse, we invite you to escape in a moment you’ll savor always.
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.
NEW NEIGHBORS
From the city’s first public beach club to a stylish plaza in nearby Carpinteria, Santa Barbara’s summer newcomers are anything but shy.
BY Nicole Johnson
EAST BEACH, ELEVATED
Seeing cabanas just steps from Cabrillo Pavilion? It’s not a mirage from summer heat: it’s The Barbara, East Beach’s first summer-long club on the sand. Between scalloped umbrellas and sweeping canopies, it’s easy to envision a chic lounging day with charcuterie in hand, and beach attendants on call. A collaboration between the City of Santa Barbara and luxury hospitality brand Bliss Beach, The Barbara offers upscale oceanfront comfort for groups of two to 40. "We wanted to create a place that brings the community together and feels like a natural extension of Santa Barbara and the American Riviera,” says Bliss Beach founder Brian Jones. Serving up bespoke summer experiences— whether an impromptu playday or a proper celebration—The Barbara reimagines beachgoing on our beloved local shores. thebarbara.co
WHERE HOMEBODIES GET MOVING
It’s Montecito’s freshest space to feel at home—while leaving your comfort zone. Unveiled in mid-June at The Post, Homebody Studios offers 12-person reformer Pilates classes and private sessions in a boutique space that builds on the budding prestige of its Austin flagship location, where elevated design and intentional movement energize. “The Post is all about bringing together thoughtful brands that prioritize experience, and that’s exactly what we do at Homebody,” says founding team Sophie Axelson and Anna Rinke. “We can’t wait to welcome this community in.” And we can’t wait to sweat with a side of serenity. homebodystudios.co
BE THERE, (DON’T) BE SQUARE
For when your favorite spots in Santa Barbara, Montecito, and Goleta all call at once, Linden Square answers with a curated cross-section of local staples, gathered on a historic corner in Carpinteria. Just seven blocks from the beach, the freshly opened plaza hosts cherished eateries like Dart Coffee Co., Corazon Cocina, Third Window, and Tina’s—the sweet little sister of Bettina—alongside retail gems like The Shopkeepers, Mācher, and Channel Islands Surfboards. Linden Square embodies the soul of its small town, from a six-panel mural by artist Benjamin Anderson honoring Carpinteria’s natural glory, to its thoughtful architecture that reimagines downtown’s Hardware Building as a modern-day meeting ground. linden-square.com
EASY ELEGANCE
Your breezy—yet buttoned-up—coastal capsule wardrobe has arrived. Conscious luxury label Brochu Walker is setting up shop at The Post in July, delivering its signature blend of discerning silhouettes and tactile accessories, crafted with ethically sourced materials. “We’re excited to open our store in Montecito, a place that perfectly captures the California ease and sophistication that our brand embodies,” shares Owner and Creative Director Karine Dubner, a French native. “Montecito has the same warm, tranquil charm as the South of France—I see why it’s called the American Riviera.” The boutique’s serene interiors mirror that mantra: fabric chandeliers reflect the brand’s sculptural knitwear, wood accents emulate its timeless elegance, and olive trees lend it an understated grace. Consider this your invitation to dress the part. brochuwalker.com
FINDER’S KEEPERS
Santa Ynez Valley design darling Studio JL Design is infusing its rustic elegance into Studio JL Home Shop, a new brick-and-mortar in charming Buellton. Tucked inside the historic former home to Monighetti's Feedstore, the 1,500-square foot treasure trove features a blend of vintage and antique furniture, unique art pieces, and found objects, expertly sourced by founder Jess Landis. Turkish bread boards rest beside European portraits and timeworn still lifes, while weathered pottery nestles next to delicate wildflower arrangements. Each vignette is layered in farmhouse charm and old-world soul, curated to slip seamlessly into homes both modern and classic.
studiojlhomeshop.com
SBIFF’S FILM CENTER PRIORITIES:
• thoughtful programming
• the revitalization of downtown
• an art gallery with film-themed exhibits
• increased accessibility and ADA compliance
• plush seating
• state-of-the-art sound and projection
• modern plumbing, electric and HVAC
• local healthy artisanal snacks
SOI
NA NA
HUSBAND-WIFE DUO NIK AND ASHLEY BRING STREET-FOOD FLAVORS AND HOME-LIKE COMMUNITY TO NA NA THAI
BY Eva Grunburg PHOTOGRAPHY Silas Fallstich
While Bangkok is a 20+ hour flight from Santa Barbara, the best Thai food I’ve ever had is just a 40-minute drive away. What began as a series of pop-ups at Bar le Côte in Los Olivos, Na Na Thai is now its own permanent outpost tucked away near the 101 in Buellton—and a permanent destination on my list of favorite restaurants.
When my friend and I arrive—having never been to either Bangkok or Na Na Thai— somehow, it feels like home. We’re greeted by a lively atmosphere of fellow patrons, delicate scarlet lanterns and ruby walls, along with co-owner and general manager Ashley. As we’re seated, I take in the intimate room as a disco ball illuminates our table and the tiny toy cars I notice lining the shelves. The candlelight at our table is a luxe touch in the exuberant restaurant— nice without detracting from its approachability.
“Oh na-na, what’s my name?” echoes from the speakers, and I giggle to my friend as I point out the (probably not) coincidental lyrics.
After making sure we’re taken care of, Ashley leaves us to check on other guests, and I overhear a little boy asking her if they have sticky rice. In an interaction that reflects the comfort and zest of the restaurant, Ashley bends down to his level and informs him that the chef soaked the wrong kind of rice the night before. Then, she offers with a smirk, “Do you want to go yell at him with me?”
The boy excitedly nods, forgetting the heartbreak of no sticky rice, and trots along with Ashley to the kitchen.
“Nik and Ashley brought more than just their favorite recipes back from Thailand—they brought a sense of community that’s tangible in Na Na’s atmosphere and food.”
The culprit, Chef Nik, is Ashley’s husband, co-owner and executive chef of Na Na Thai. Together, the husband-andwife team brings a family-like atmosphere and authentic Thai street food classics to the restaurant. After living in Bangkok for four years, the Nik and Ashley duo decided to move back to Santa Barbara to be closer to family; they brought with them their two children, their industry expertise, and the name of their Bangkok home address: Sukhimvit Soi 4, also known as Soi Na Na. Although I’ve only been here for a few minutes, I can tell that Na Na Thai wouldn’t be the same without them.
Though no sticky rice is noted, I’m delighted to see my “Nik’s Spritz” and my friend’s Thai Iced Tea arrive. With bubbly Pet Nat, St. Agrestis Paradiso, and Kina Karo Aperitif, the spritz is citrusy, sparkling, and refreshing—but that doesn’t stop me from stealing a sip of my friend’s Thai Iced Tea. I’m pleasantly surprised by the Thai tea ice cubes in the spiced black tea and coconut milk concoction—this attention to detail makes this classic a must-order.
Na Na Thai’s menu encourages guests to share—which is perfect when you want to try everything. To start, we order the Gai Tod (fried heirloom chicken with nam jim jeaw, a chili dipping sauce), the Lumpia (fried spring rolls filled with curried kiani preserve wagyu beef and served with chili ginger sauce), and the Moo Ping (grilled Niman Ranch pork collar skewer, also served with nam jim jeaw), all at Ashley’s recommendation.
Although there are only one to two of each item per order, each provide a substantial experience of flavor and quality. The Gai Tod carries the perfect savory, tender bite of chicken, the Lumpia delivers a delicious, juicy crunch, and the Moo Ping brings the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and saucy flavors. Our soft-spoken server advises us to save the chili-ginger sauce from the Lumpia for later, and I feel like I’m being let in on a family secret.
My favorite Thai dish is yellow curry, and my friend’s is Pad See Ew, so we’re ecstatic when Ashley unpromptedly recommends the Geng Kari Neua, yellow curry with 6 oz MCR ribeye steak, pickled cabbage, and jasmine rice, and the Pad See Ew, wok-fried thick rice noodles with heirloom chicken and broccoli.
While we’ve had our fair share of these favorites in the past, the dishes that arrive at the table are otherworldly— and not just because of their stunning presentation on blue and white, intricately designed tableware. Each bite of the Geng Kari Neua brings new flavors, all accentuated by the fragrant curry, from the rich ribeye to the crisp carrots, and balanced by a welcome spice (Ashley warned that the pepper icons on the menu aren’t there for decoration!). The Pad See Ew is sweet and flavorful, and I can’t help but try the chicken with the chili-ginger sauce from earlier (which, as promised, complements it perfectly). Served with lime, squeezing the juice creates an entirely new tang—my friend even says it ranks as his top Pad See Ew “maybe ever.”
After offering us a “moment to dabble,” our server brings us dessert: Black Sesame Ice Cream topped with honey and strawberries from Finley Farms. Rich and slightly nutty, we agree that the sweet and fresh toppings bring it to life—until we devour it all, and admit that the ice cream on its own is stellar, too.
Nik and Ashley brought more than just their favorite recipes back from Thailand—they brought a sense of community that’s tangible in Na Na’s atmosphere and food. Reluctant to leave such a special place, I make a plan—telling myself that next time, I’ll be disciplined enough to bring leftovers to tide me over until my next visit—or just enough for the ride home. It’s one I think I’ll get familiar with.*
LA DOLCE
OSPI MONTECITO—WHERE THE ITALIAN RIVIERA & CENTRAL COAST COLLIDE
BY Andrea Manokian
PHOTOGRAPHY Max Milla
Santa Barbara’s newest ode to la dolce vita, Ospi Montecito introduces the American Riviera to the sun-kissed flavors and flair of the Italian Riviera. Tucked inside The Post—Montecito’s chic open-air enclave of shops and restaurants—Ospi is owner and chef Jackson Kalb’s latest love letter to fresh and flavorful Italian dining.
“I've wanted to open in Montecito for years,” says Jackson. “We began looking shortly after the first Ospi opened.” For those who don’t know, Ospi Montecito marks the restaurant’s fourth location—the other three being in Venice, Brentwood and Costa Mesa. And while the dream took some time, Jackson believes the wait was worth it. “Everything worked out in the end because we’re extremely happy with our location choice and grateful that we enjoy our landlord's company very much,” he says.
Ospi is warm and welcoming—no surprise, given that its name comes from the Italian word ospitante, meaning “host.” Dining here feels like scoring an invite to an exclusive dinner party organized by that one effortlessly cool couple. A spacious outdoor patio wraps around the restaurant, while the interior achieves the perfect harmony of luxury and comfort.
“Reservation for Andrea, party of two,” I say, greeted instantly with a smile. My first impression? Busy. An impressive feat, especially considering the restaurant opened a week earlier. “Look at all the lights,” my boyfriend and plus one, Atticus, says. I count four distinct light fixtures—five if you include the ones illuminating the artwork on the walls. It’s abundantly clear that no detail was overlooked in the design of the space. Hues of green and gold dash and dance across the restaurant; the marble tabletops lend an elevated backdrop to every Instagram-worthy snapshot; and an Art Deco-inspired aesthetic marries everything together. In the middle of the restaurant sits a grandiose island bar that boasts a striking jade countertop, and directly behind it, an ornate display of spirits. “The inspiration came from a touch of Art Deco vibes from old-school New York ‘red-sauce’ joints combined with our coastal-inspired sense of place. We wanted it to be modern and airy during the day, but dark and moody at night,” says Jackson.
We’re led to a booth with plush viridian seats and a sleek, silver light fixture above our heads that resembles a UFO. A fitting touch, as we’d soon be transported to the distant shores of Italy upon our first bite.
Our first order of business: cocktails. I find it difficult choosing between the “lusty martini” and another named, “hot girl summer.” I ultimately decide on the latter. Atticus orders the “chef’s negroni,” and both cocktails exceed our expectations. “Hot girl summer” arrives in a dainty martini glass adorned with a basil leaf. Its vivid rose hue mimics a radiant Santa Barbara sunset; it tastes of summer, shaken and chilled. The negroni arrives with a lime peel gracing its rim. It exhibits many notes, including some that are smokey and others that are sweet. And if you’re in the mood for a mocktail, Ospi’s extensive menu does not disappoint. Perhaps you can sample their “cool as a cucumber” mocktail or the one they call “light & stormy.”
Up next, antipasti. Thankfully, we can rely on the recommendations of our two knowledgeable servers, Chloe and Dani. “The meatballs are the star of the show,” says Dani. She’s referring to the wood-grilled “Neapolitan meatballs” made with beef, pork and ricotta, among other ingredients. Chloe eagerly recommends the “Japanese eggplant” dish, made with spicy tomato oil, parm fonduta, pangrattato and basil. When in doubt, order both. The meatballs are tender, perfectly browned on the outside and smothered in a delicious sauce. And to our surprise: spicy. But if the meatballs are the star of the show, the eggplants are the entire movie, press tour and sequel. Undoubtedly a dish that will keep us coming back for more, these eggplants are fried to crispy perfection, covered in toasted breadcrumbs and fresh basil, and everything loaded potato skins aspire to be. Being American-Armenian, eggplants are a staple in my culture’s cuisine. I’ve just about enjoyed them every which way you can imagine—baked, grilled, whipped—you name it. So picture my delight when this eggplant dish arrives, prepared in a way that I haven’t yet had the pleasure of experiencing. Consider this your sign; order this delicious delicacy when you visit Ospi.
We can’t help but notice the open-concept kitchen directly ahead, where chef hands are busy at work. They’re sporting shirts that read “Anti Pasta Pasta Club,” a clever spin on the trendy Anti Social Social Club shirts. The open-concept kitchen is no doubt intentional, as Jackson prefers the limelight to be cast on his team. “I'm happy that most people don’t know who the owner is. My name is not on the menu, and that is by design,” says Jackson. “I want our team to take ownership of their positions, so the General Manager and day-to-day Executive Sous Chef have their names on the menu.”
Atticus and I take in Ospi’s ambiance and atmosphere as we converse about our day and the delicious forkfuls of food we just shared. Ospi has a way of bringing people together over sophisticated cocktails and thoughtfully curated plates. I scan the restaurant, and everyone appears busy in conversation, phones out of sight and nodding in contentment over shared bites and sips.
Ospi makes their pastas daily from scratch using Italian and domestic, biodynamic and sustainable wheat with up to three different types of flour and local, pasture-raised hen eggs. Needless to say, ordering pasta feels like a no-brainer. Chloe informs us that they’re known for their vodka sauce, and it’s what Jackson recommends too. “Anything with the vodka sauce is a must,” says Jackson. “It’s practically our identity at this point. The sleeper hit is the ‘ceci e tria’—a chickpea-based pasta from an extremely tiny town in the Southeastern region of Italy.” I opt for the “spicy rigatoni” featuring their famous vodka sauce and Atticus lands on the “tagliatelle.” Upon first bite, it’s evident that the pastas are in fact made from scratch, offering fresh and delicate textures with sauces that feel light and airy, not heavy. Their pastas are silky, tender and made to be devoured. We turn down dessert as we’re tragically too full, but not without asking for some takeaway boxes. A meal this good deserves to be savored the next day, too. Arrivederci Ospi Montecito, until next time.*
“Dining here feels like scoring an invite to an exclusive dinner party organized by that one effortlessly cool couple.”
FARM to FACE
PRESERVATIVE-FREE SKINCARE LINE KLEOS AND KLEA IS CLEANSING AND NOURISHING FROM EARTH’S BOUNTY
BY Danaë Petsimeris
Tammy Demos, founder of the skincare brand Kleos and Klea, grew up in a home with a large garden that provided much of the food on her dinner plate. Her earliest memories of working with plants are those she traces back to her Greek roots and the summers she spent with her grandmother. Over coffee—while she’s in Santa Barbara for an event with Palma Colectiva—Tammy fondly recalls her grandmother’s bath preparation tradition: “She would collect pine cones from the cypress tree, melt them, and make soap from them.” It’s safe to say her grandmother’s way with plants was passed down to Tammy.
Over the years Tammy spent working in the beauty industry, she started to witness changes in her skin. Despite adjusting her diet and environment, and using high-end products, her skin issues persisted (sensitivity, inflammation, hyperpigmentation, and melasma). Her concern for her skin health, coupled with her awareness of the use of preservatives across a wide range of skincare products, led her back to plants and uncovering their natural benefits.
Deciding to experiment, Tammy set aside all of her usual products, purchased an aloe vera plant, and applied cuttings from it directly to her skin. The results were immediate: “Aloe vera creates collagen and elastin. It heals the barrier of the epidermis; if you have a burn it’s an incredible remedy for that,” she explains. This moment sparked something in her. Seeing how effective aloe was, Tammy began experimenting with other plants and crafting her own formulas. Her curiosity deepened into a passion: she started studying plant-based healing, diving into books and expanding her knowledge of gardening. The power of plants paved a new path for her.
As a French woman, taking care of my skin is second nature and the basis of being able to achieve a healthy and natural look. I had remained loyal to the same skincare brands, reluctant to try anything new. That changed when I discovered the magic of Kleos and Klea. The brand is more than just skincare, it offers a ritual— one that invites you to slow down, care for yourself, and nourish your skin with the pure elements of the Earth.
FOUNDER TAMMY DEMOS
Kleos and Klea offers a regimen composed of four carefully crafted steps, each represented by a distinct product. Just touching the refined bottles is a sensory thrill. Step one is the Nutrient Cleanser, AKATHA—a powdered formula that strengthens, brightens, and deeply hydrates the skin. Infused with grape skin extract for radiance and hawthorn berries for moisture, it’s a gentle exfoliator made from coconut coir. There’s a light scrub to it, but no harshness— it polishes without irritating. AKATHA carries a warm, nutty scent that’s both grounding and earthy. With Kleos and Klea, you become your own chemist. You activate the cleanser by adding water directly to the powder in your palm, customizing the texture to what feels right for your skin.
The second step is the Essential Minerals, IÓ—a liquid that helps build collagen, supports the skin’s barrier, and optimizes overall skin health. IÓ harnesses nature’s most powerful skin secret: minerals. It contains fulvic and humic acids derived from prehistoric plant matter—an ancient, potent source of over 77 trace minerals. These are blended into a fragrant base of rose petals and orange rind, creating a refreshing mist that’s entirely natural and free of synthetic additives. Even those with highly sensitive skin can enjoy it without irritation. The formulation’s pH has been carefully adjusted to prevent bacterial growth, allowing the minerals to remain stable and effective. Spraying it on feels like a mini spa escape. It’s a must-have, especially for travel—Tammy always carries it on flights to combat the dehydrating effects of cabin air.
The third step is the essential vitamins found in ÓNISI. This powdered formula transforms into a serum with just a touch of water. It’s a vitamin-rich blend made from eleven plants, including acerola cherry, gotu kola, sea buckthorn, and banana. The powder format eliminates the need for preservatives—and allows for easy global shipping. The final step is the Balancing Oil, PRIMA ROSA. It hydrates the skin and is my personal favorite. Lightweight and effective, it leaves my skin soft and glowing. When I apply it at night, I wake up with skin that feels sealed and nourished.
Tammy has a deep connection with nature. In conversation, her awareness of her surroundings is clear. As we are sitting at a café, she points out a nearby plant and says, “You have this amazing succulent by your side. The purple color on the plant, this pigment, is polyphenol. It’s an antioxidant that protects the plant from the sun.” Her understanding and trust in nature has allowed Kleos and Klea to become the first step—well, four steps—towards healthier skin.*
creating kariella
FROM
OJAI TO STATE STREET, AMARA BESSA HAS BROUGHT A HANDS-ON APPROACH, QUALITY FABRICS, AND AUTHENTIC STYLE TO HER MODERN BOHEMIAN BOUTIQUE, KARIELLA
BY Eva Grunburg PHOTOGRAPHY Beth Camp
There’s hands-on, and then there’s Amara Bessa. As I walk into Kariella’s newest location on State Street, founder Amara is hard at work, meticulously rearranging a rack of menswear—what I didn’t know is that she’d been there ‘til 2 a.m. the night before, doing the same thing. Wearing a magenta floral maxi dress, matching pink sandals, and adorned with a jaunty golden fish necklace and chic Prada sunglasses, the Ojai local embodies a hands-on approach to fashion—just as she has since she was only 16-yearsold. “I started working in retail when I was 16, and learned every aspect of what I wanted to do—which I knew was to own my own store one day and have my own clothing line,” she says.
From managing, to sales, to visual merchandising, she collected any experience she could to one day make her dream a reality. She later continued bolstering her retail experience on State Street at beloved shop, Wendy Foster, where she entered at age 20 and applied to be a buyer. Now, it’s a full circle moment each time she walks into Kariella on State Street (in the former Wendy Foster space), a beautiful reminder that she’s living out her dream, in the place her 20-yearold self helped make it happen.
While Amara’s roots are in Ojai, Kariella’s early stages developed in Bend, Oregon. After moving to the town, she noticed the lack of curated shopping selections—her new friends noticed her unique sense of style. Equipped with personal taste and extensive experience, she took the issue into her own hands, setting up a shopping party in her garage with a selection she curated herself. Her friends bought nearly everything—and immediately begged for more.
“People would say, ‘If you had a store, we would come shopping all the time.’” So, soon after, Amara’s collection went from garage to boutique in 2010, named “Kariella” after her daughter; its success grew as exponentially as its retail space. Over the next few years, Amara grew Kariella into three physical storefronts, spanning from Ventura, to Ojai, to Oregon. Not anticipating Ojai’s typically older clientele to gravitate toward Kariella, the Ojai location’s immense success took her by surprise—and following her instincts, she decided to pour all of her energy into it.
And it paid off. Now, Kariella has become a staple for locals and stylish visitors alike—especially those from Santa Barbara and Montecito. After some time (and enough begging from customers), it felt right to bring Kariella to State Street. As the State Street shopping scene continues to evolve, Kariella has filled a void in the hearts (and closets) of boho-chic shoppers. “‘It’s like the old Santa Barbara’ is what people keep telling me,” Amara says.
Kariella is an amalgamation of Amara’s drive to be different and her unwavering commitment to quality. Rather than succumbing to what’s trending, Amara has always followed her instinct—in business as well as style ventures—as she alone buys all the inventory for Kariella. When she hears about a #1 selling item, she knows it's exactly what she doesn’t want to order for her customers. “I'm not trying to keep up with trends or what other people are doing. If I went back and looked at my Facebook account from 15 years ago, I would still wear all those things today,” she smiles. Kariella is a true reflection of Amara’s style and integrity—and that’s what makes it stand out.
“I don’t order things without seeing them because I want to touch and feel fabrics,” Amara says. Though she’s always had a taste for aesthetics, she shares that her mom, one of her most influential fashion figures, gave her an eye for quality pieces and fabrics, which she carries into her buying for Kariella. Along with looking up to her mother, Amara gets her inspiration from all around. Whether it be movies, destinations, people on the street, or Pinterest, Amara loves to absorb the world around her—and to put her own spin on it.
Just then, a man skateboarding past us shouts, “I like your dress!”—a candid moment personifying her authentic ability to bring people together through style.
Amara recognizes that it can be daunting to hone your personal style or test new ensembles. She recommends starting with a fun piece, and pairing it with a simple, tried-and-true favorite. This way, you’ll be confident in what you’re wearing, because it still feels like you. Her second tip is to get a genuine second opinion—which is what Kariella aims to provide in-store. “The experience we offer is so much more than people selling things. We are trying to help women, and now men, feel beautiful and stylish and confident in their own skin and what they’re wearing,” she says.
While women adore the selection at Kariella, Amara reports that men also keep coming back. Beginning in a small corner of the Ojai location, the aptly named “Men’s Den,” has rapidly expanded, and grown to be nearly half of the State Street location’s offerings, complete with clothing, swim, accessories, home goods, and more. The Men’s Den fills a void for the stylish men of Santa Barbara and beyond, establishing a welcoming space that knows what they’re looking for, without their needing to seek it out. While it's geared toward men, it is a reflection of Amara’s goal for the entire store: making shopping as easy and approachable as possible.
Amara wants her next project to be a tangible reminder of her dedication to the customer experience. The project, an upcoming swimwear line under the Kariella label, will continue to provide shoppers with uncompromised quality and style. She is excited to exercise her attention to detail and fabrics, creating swimwear that is unique yet sophisticated and wearable—just in time for summer’s final weeks.
“I have a hard time sitting still, I’m so passionate about what I do,” she says. But, when she gets the rare chance to relax, you can find Amara getting started on a new interior design project, “playing tourist” around Ventura, or eating her favorite Macho Salad at Honor Bar. In any venture, she’s dressed for the occasion.*
There’s a magic in slipping into clothing that feels like it was made just for you. Every inch of fabric hugs your body perfectly, flooding you with an instant rush of confidence. This level of artistry can only emerge from a designer who understands the female form and has mastered the art of pattern-making—a designer such as Maygel Coronel. With a vibrant grin and effortless cool-girl energy, she infuses each piece with personality and precision. And now, her designs have arrived at The Post in Montecito.
Maygel Coronel, the creative director and designer behind the brand, was born in Cartagena, Colombia. She started her career at a young age. “My love for fashion began by watching my mother drape and sew at home,” she says. “I started making my own clothes early on, always inspired by the ocean, femininity, and freedom.” After meeting Lucio, her husband and business partner, Coronel moved to Italy to study fashion in Naples. “That experience blended my Caribbean roots with Italian craftsmanship, shaping the essence of my brand.” In 2017, she launched Maygel Coronel with a mission to create pieces that celebrate women’s bodies, blending bold design with effortless elegance influenced by her lifelong connection to the sea.
The collection includes everything from curve-hugging swimwear to sheer, floor-length dresses. “Our designs are for women who live boldly, confidently, and with a strong sense of self,” says Coronel. “Whether they’re soaking up the sun on vacation or moving through the city, they carry a tropical spirit wherever they go.” This vibrant energy shines through in every piece: sleek, sophisticated silhouettes softened by effortless draping and delicate details. Maygel Coronel’s designs command confidence and honor feminine beauty.
The brand’s commitment to celebrating women isn’t just reflected in the design, but also in the approach to sizing. “Our pieces are crafted with a unique musclememory fabric that molds to a range of silhouettes and then returns to its original shape,” she says. “This approach allows us to offer inclusive, simplified sizing: our signature One Size, Petite, and Extended. We focus on fit and feel, ensuring that each piece adapts beautifully to the woman wearing it.”
This innovative sizing system demands exceptional fabric quality, achieved through locally-sourced materials. By using Colombian goods, the brand not only honors its roots but also demonstrates a deep commitment to environmental responsibility. Partnering with local suppliers strengthens the community’s economy and embodies a more conscious, sustainable approach to fashion.
“We source and prioritize suppliers with strong environmental and legal compliance,” Coronel says. “Our main fabric is OEKO-TEX certified, and our textile partner reuses 40 percent of its water, dramatically reducing waste. As a Meta Certified (Sedex Audix) company, we’re continuously working toward minimizing our ecological footprint while maintaining the luxury standards our clients expect.”
Every single detail of the brand is intentional, including the treatment of people who produce these gorgeous garments. “Over 97 percent of our production takes place in-house at our own facilities in Colombia, giving us full visibility and control over quality, labor conditions, and environmental practices,” Coronel says. “Our team is made up of full-time employees, who are fairly compensated and trained under the highest safety standards.” The brand’s deep respect for women shines particularly bright here. Maygel Coronel supports her local community, offering stable jobs to women who are single mothers and heads of the household. This approach also invests in young talent, offering them the chance to acquire valuable experience in the field.
The brand’s dedication to empowering women is embedded in every fiber of the brand’s identity.
So why did Coronel land on Montecito for the store’s U.S. debut? “We chose Montecito because it feels like a natural extension of our brand, a place that shares our appreciation for slow living, natural beauty, and meaningful connection,” Coronel says. “Montecito has a special energy that resonates deeply with our values: femininity, warmth, and timeless elegance. We saw an opportunity to create something intimate and intentional here, it’s a place where our clients can fully experience the essence of our brand.”
Walking through The Post in Montecito, it’s clear it’s the perfect location. Nestled on the bird refuge between Butterfly Beach and East Beach, The Post is a charming, tranquil collection of specialty stores and restaurants. Step inside Maygel Coronel, and you instantly feel the connection between Columbia and California. The space is open and airy, featuring sandy neutrals, bold black accents, and colorful clothing and accessories artfully placed around the store. “We wanted it to feel like a home: warm and inviting,” Coronel says. “The design blends rustic, earthy elements with modern simplicity. The store invites you to slow down, touch, try, and connect. Every detail is meant to evoke the effortless elegance of a coastal escape.”
As for what’s next, this rapidly-growing label continues to approach every facet of its business with deliberate and unwavering intention. “We’re taking a thoughtful approach to growth,” Coronel says. “Rather than rapid expansion, we’re focused on deepening our presence in places that align with our values—both culturally and environmentally.” With its coastal beauty, laidback luxury, and deep respect for nature, Santa Barbara mirrors the essence of the brand. Just as Maygel Coronel crafts the perfect fit for the female form, Santa Barbara offers the perfect fit for the brand—effortless, elegant, and deeply aligned. Santa Barbara is all the more radiant thanks to Maygel Coronel’s presence.*
elevating the everyday
PHOTOGRAPHY Douglas Friedman BY Eva Grunburg
There’s no place like home—especially one with an interior designed by Jessica Jubelirer. The Santa Barbara-based interior designer and her studio bring an artistic, refined, and relaxed style to the homes—and lives—they touch. Aside from the stunning textures and comforting artisan elements signature to her work, what makes Jessica Jubelirer’s designs stand out are the places you wouldn’t think to look.
All too often, a hallway becomes a catch-all, a garage becomes a storage unit, and that quaint side room becomes more of a nuisance than a nuance. Yet Jessica embraces these forgotten
spaces in her designs. Her studio, Jessica Jubelirer Designs, prides itself on taking the ordinary and turning it into something extraordinary. “There is no space that is neglected in homes we design," Jubelirer explains. "Whether it’s school pickup, a hike on Cold Springs Trail, a family dinner or walk on the beach, or all the comings-and-goings throughout the day, design gives you the opportunity to achieve organization and calm, and enhances your use of functional spaces throughout the home.”
In optimizing these spaces for life, and designing them for aesthetics, Jessica elevates peoples’ everyday experiences of
STYLIST Mieke ten Have
SANTA BARBARA-BASED INTERIOR DESIGNER JESSICA JUBELIRER INFUSES OFTEN-OVERLOOKED SPACES WITH PERSONAL STYLE—AND FUNCTIONALITY
their own homes. Designing with empathy and intention, Jessica’s work is a reflection of her deep understanding of clients’ wishes. “My studio thinks through everything: Where do placemats go? Where do garden tools go? What is the sequence and flow in and out of the house?” she shares.
Jessica’s designs not only feel welcoming, but actively welcome people to the home’s story by fostering moments of reflection, connection, and appreciation. In Jessica’s eyes, that cluttered hallway is a high-traffic thread weaving the home’s tapestry, the storage-unit garage is a sleek space for one’s passion, and the random side nook is
a private dressing room retreat. “Our design—equal parts function and beauty—tells the story of our clients,” Jessica says. It’s one thing to have a beautiful room—for it to actually improve your life is another. In her ventures, Jessica seamlessly marries fashion and function.
For example, she designed a romantic garden and lifestyle room; custom cabinetry conceals household appliances and provides storage for the day’s farmer’s market finds, and is perfectly complemented by stunning botanical wallpaper and honeycomb tile floors.
For the client, who I can only assume loves her shoes as much as her flowers, she transformed an unassuming closet into a stylish dressing room. The intimate space provides an evocative experience as one prepares for occasions both grand and bland, with a pink-marble topped island that provides storage and counterspace as well as acts as an accent piece, and plenty of mirrors to reflect the beauty around them.
Last but not least, Jessica’s design nurtured a space neglected all too often: the garage. From its charming checkerboard floors and sleek stainless steel cabinets, she made entering the garage an experience—tempting enough to keep anyone from getting in their vehicle and leaving to go to their actual destination.
While each is vastly different, Jessica creates heartfelt spaces that unpromptedly answer your every need. But, she’s not the only way to an elevated home design—Jessica encourages everyone to take an active role in their home's story. While it may feel daunting to those unfamiliar with design, she shares that creating personal spaces can be as simple as adding one element. “Figure out what is personal and beautiful to you... Introducing personal elements into your home instantly makes a space conversational, interesting, and solely yours.” Whether it’s a vase from travels abroad, a cherished family heirloom, or a thrifted treasure, anyone can elevate the everyday by putting their personality on display.
“It’s one thing to have a beautiful room—for it to actually improve your life is another.”
Jessica emphasizes the inspiration inherent in our immediate environment. She believes that the originality and naturalness of the area is what makes Santa Barbara—and designing here—so special. Raising her daughter, Madeleine, here, she notes how easy it is to find beauty in their adventures all around—from the vibrant carrots at the farmer’s market to the homes she designs. “Every morning on the beach, garden stroll at San Ysidro Ranch, and sunset view of the coast feels so singular and awe-inspiring,” she says.
With an eye for beauty (though, admittedly, she doesn’t have to look very hard in Santa Barbara), Jessica Jubelirer infuses style while adding value to forgotten spaces. With attention to detail and ever-evolving taste, spaces unnoticed in others’ homes become the focal points of Jessica Jubelirer’s designs, showing that the everyday can be elevated—even with just a personal touch.*
true grit
PHOTOGRAPHY Seb Keefe with Alyssa Pizer Management
MODELS Daria Mikolajczak with Two Management, Megan Puleri with The Industry, Christopher Mason with Wilhelmina
VIDEOGRAPHY Ryan Mayo | MAKEUP Monique Mazer with Artists Collective Management
HAIR Hailey Adickes with Tomlinson Management Group | HAIR & MAKEUP ASSISTANT Isabella Coimbra
STYLIST Krystal Collier with Atelier Management | STYLING ASSISTANT Roberta Kuliesiute LOCATION Alisal Ranch in Santa Ynez Valley
Denim shirt HELMUT LANG Neiman Marcus Beverly Hills T-shirt & jeans
On Megan: Dress SAINT LAURENT Neiman Marcus Beverly Hills
On Daria: Dress KIMIA ARYA
Vintage Scarf BRASS TACK
Hat JIMMY GARCIA
Necklace AZRA MEHDI
Jacket CELINE The Webster Jeans CLOSED Santa Ynez General Boots PSKAUFMAN
Flannel shirt ARKO Santa Ynez General T-shirt CIVILIANAIRE
Jacket & skirt COURRÈGES Neiman Marcus Beverly Hills Belt BRASS TACK Boots PSKAUFMAN
On Christopher: Denim shirt
HELMUT LANG Neiman Marcus Beverly Hills
T-shirt & jeans
CIVILIANAIRE
Hat TERESSA FOGLIA Boots
LUCCHESE
Bracelet & ring
PYRRHA
On Megan:
Suede cardigan ISABEL MARANT Neiman Marcus Beverly Hills
Tank top THE ROW The Webster
Suede pants COUT DE LA LIBERTE Neiman Marcus Beverly Hills Boots RANCH ROAD
sofro
PHOTOGRAPHY Angelo Sgambati | MODEL Tara Dobric with Two Management
HAIR Abraham Esparza | MAKEUP Nicole Chew with Art Department LA using Aora makeup
STYLIST Ottocina Ryan | LOCATION San Ysidro Ranch
Top & skirt DÔEN Necklace, watch & bracelets LAYKIN ET CIE
Dress ANNA OCTOBER Teller Necklace & earrings LAYKIN ET CIE
Swimsuit MAYGEL CORONEL Bracelets LAYKIN ET CIE
Swimsuit MAYGEL CORONEL
Necklace
Dress AYA MUSE Teller
Top MAYGEL CORONEL Necklace ALEXIS BITTAR
Sweater FRANK & EILEEN
Skirt MAGDA BUTRYM The Webster
Earrings ALEXIS BITTAR
Rings & bracelet LAYKIN ET CIE
Shoes DOLCE VITA
Dress CLEA Teller Ring & earrings LAYKIN ET CIE
Shoes DOLCE VITA
Dress DIOTIMA The Webster Rings & earrings LAYKIN ET CIE
san ysidro ranch
BY Ottocina Ryan PHOTOGRAPHY Angelo Sgambati
Whether it’s for a first date, a diamond anniversary, or anything in between, San Ysidro Ranch makes every visit feel like a romantic old movie. From driving through the lavender fields upon arrival to checking into one of the 38 vine-covered cottages, every touch point is straight out of a fairytale. You could easily spend the entire stay in the cottage, lingering between the clawfoot tub, four-poster bed, and private patios. Yet if you choose to venture out, a stroll through the perfectly manicured gardens (they even trim the grass by hand) will bring you to The Stonehouse. The candlelit tables beneath loquat trees and the timeless menu— highlights include Steak Diane and Baked Alaska, both flambéed tableside—evoke the kind of old-world romance we can only imagine Jackie and John Kennedy basked in on their honeymoon here.
In search of a nightcap? Head to The Speakeasy at Plow and Angel. The sultry lounge whisks you back to the 1920s. Cozy up in a booth or in front of the warmth of the fireplace and sip innovative cocktails as a pianist serenades the crowd. For the oenophile, Ty Warner Wine Collective offers private tastings tailored to your palate, rare vintages, and curated classes—in a secret room within their 15,500 bottle cellar. Just one of the many experiences that makes you fall more in love, with your company and with San Ysidro Ranch.*
PURA VIDA
SUPERIOR 1 BEDROOM
LIVING ROOM
SET ON THE COAST OF SANTA TERESA, REFINED LUXURY MEETS WILD BEAUTY AT FLORBLANCA
BY Maddy Sims
Nestled beneath the lush canopy of Santa Teresa’s tropical coastline lies a secluded haven that feels like your own private Eden: Florblanca. Set along the untamed shores of The Nicoya Peninsula, this sanctuary offers something most other luxury escapes can’t: total immersion. Here, elegance doesn’t insulate you from nature.
Santa Teresa is wild, but that’s the appeal to it. Despite its rise in popularity over the last decade, it remains rustic— primal, even. ATVs are the best way to get around the dusty, uneven roads. Look down, and you’ll see crabs everywhere you go. It’s not easily accessible: You have to take a tiny plane from San Jose or Liberia—soaring above the turquoise coast and tree-filled landscape— and then drive another 30 minutes to reach it. Given its rugged nature, it’s not hard to understand why Nicoyan Peninsula is one of the world’s five Blue Zones. Fresh fruit and local seafood and meat dominate the menus. Groups of friends are gathered everywhere, in local sodas and outside the market. Daily life centers around being outside, whether that involves hiking to a waterfall, walking on the beach, or surfing at one of the area’s legendary breaks. The pura vida lifestyle is a simple one: focused on positivity and gratitude.
You can feel it everywhere you go here, including Florblanca (despite it being a luxury resort). The luxe villas are encircled by verdant jungle, providing a level of privacy that feels impossible given their open-air design. You awaken with the world—greeted by the call of howler monkeys echoing through the canopy, sunlight filtering through the trees, and the gentle murmur of the sea just beyond your doorstep. Winding stone paths, dotted with iguanas and lizards, are lined with trees that stretch up to the sky. Walking through the property is an excursion itself, like a private rainforest hike.
Upon arriving, we’re greeted with fresh coconut water and cold towels. We’re shown to our villa, complete with a living area, dining table, crochet hammock on the large back patio, open-air bathroom (featuring an oversize soaking tub), and air-conditioned bedroom. We quickly change into our swimsuits, and follow the path to the beach. The resort’s private stretch of sand is lined with lounge chairs beneath swaying palms. Other sandy beaches and iconic surf spots are only a short walk away.
After a few hours, we’re salty and sun-kissed. We rinse off in the pool, a two-tier, infinity-edge installation that feels like a hidden waterfall cove, before heading up to our outdoor rain shower (stocked with local products). The biggest surprise of the stay, though, is the bed. The ultra-plush mattress is set on an elevated wooden bedframe, and it's the most comfortable hotel bed I’ve ever been in. I fall asleep to the symphony of the jungle, alive with energy even in the darkness of night.
I awaken to bird calls and monkey chatters—Costa Rica’s natural alarm clock—before heading down to pilates. Florblanca’s focus on holistic wellness shines in this corner of the resort. There’s a dedicated reformer machine studio in addition to an open-air studio that overlooks the ocean. We set up our mats and breathe in the salty air before our instructor, Nadja, leads us through a class combining mobility and strength. After class, we head to Nectar, Florblanca’s restaurant, and enjoy a complimentary fresh-pressed watermelon juice (they have a new flavor every morning) along with a breakfast burrito and chocolate chip pancakes.
Nectar evokes the feel of an upscale Bali beach café, with its serene wood-and-white palette and hanging lanterns. Guests are invited to indulge in ultra-fresh, seasonal ingredients while soaking in panoramic views of the ocean. The restaurant serves fusion cuisine featuring Latin, Mediterranean, and Asian influences, with an emphasis on local produce, fresh seafood from surrounding waters, and traditional Costa Rican favorites.
While Florblanca’s pilates program is renowned, its yoga steals the spotlight. I walk down for a two-hour class with Stefano, a worldly charismatic instructor dedicated to his craft. The two hours fly by, and I’m shocked at how at ease I feel by the end of the strenuous session. I pop by Nectar for some post-yoga sushi and go for a quick dip in the tide pools before heading into downtown Santa Teresa.
Florblanca feels entirely removed from the rest of the world, but it’s only a quick walk from Santa Teresa’s main road. The city is exactly what you’d imagine a laid-back, remote surf town to be. There are endless rental shops, a variety of restaurants, and a couple of chic boutiques. Locals speed by with boards strapped to their ATVs. There’s a steady stream of people walking to the beach. After a quick tour, I can see why so many expats move here. This place feels like a true escape—cut off from the pressure and pace of the modern world.
The next day is dedicated to our exclusive Florblanca excursion. The property offers a range of ways to explore the natural beauty of the Nicoya Peninsula, from horseback riding on the beach to surfing. After a quick ATV tutorial, our guide, Junior, leads us on our first adventure: ziplining above Cabo Blanco National Preserve, where we take in sweeping views of jungle and coastline. Next, we head to a secluded beach in Mal Pais with crystal-clear water and striking rock formations. Hopping back on our ATVs, we drive through scenic farmland and along the coast of Montezuma. We hike through the jungle, passing monkeys, lizards, and birds, until we reach Montezuma Falls. We swim to the massive rock at the waterfall’s edge and climb to its peak. I plunge into the cool, churning pool below the waterfall. It’s exhilarating and electrifying—a true Costa Rican adventure.
By the time we return to Florblanca, it’s nearly sunset. I rinse off in the bath, soaking my sore muscles before heading down to Nectar for dinner. We start with tropical cocktails made with local fruit. Then comes the ceviche, piled high with generous, tender pieces of freshly-caught fish, marinated in lime and tossed with crisp vegetables—so addictively tangy and refreshing we nearly fill up before the main course arrives. Our entrées include shrimp spaghetti, drenched in a white wine and herb sauce, and Costa Rican beef tenderloin served with golden fondant potatoes, grilled vegetables, and a sharp, garlicky chimichurri. Just when we think we can't manage another bite, the house-baked cookie ice cream sandwiches arrive: crackling at the edges and soft in the center. It’s not just a meal, it’s another way of experiencing Costa Rica itself through ingredients that reflect the same richness and vibrancy as the surrounding jungles and beaches.
The rainy season here typically runs from May through November, but it seems to have arrived early. A thunderstorm begins just as we return to our room. Rain pours down onto the canopy, releasing the deep green scent of the jungle into the room. Thunder rolls through the open-air villa. At Florblanca, you’re not just near nature—you’re inside it. Vast, ancient, and wild, it swells around you, grounding you in something far greater than yourself.
The final day is reserved for Spa Bambu, Florblanca’s own serene sanctuary. The space floats above tranquil waterfall pools, cradled by lush flora and flanked by fire pits. I rinse off in the extra-large shower before my massage, a 60-minute deep tissue treatment. Afterward, I take advantage of the hot tub and cold plunge pools (available to guests every day). The cycles of heat and cold melt away tension in my body and revive my senses. I leave feeling renewed, reenergized, and present.
We walk to a nearby beachfront restaurant for one last meal in this gorgeous area. I order the birria tacos: tender, slow-braised beef wrapped in warm tortillas, dripping with rich, flavorful sauce. I sip my margarita as the sunset melts into the sea. Time seems to slow down for a moment, as if the world has paused to let me savor every last bit of the beauty this place has to offer.
On my walk back to Florblanca, I’m confronted by the rare magic of this place. From the moment I arrived at the hotel, I felt a deep connection to the land. Here, nature isn't just something to admire but something you live within, giving you a deep sense of awe and respect. Florblanca has a way of making you forget the outside world, inviting you to fully embrace the pura vida lifestyle. This is more than a getaway—it's an experience that stays with you long after you leave.*
“You awaken with the world—greeted by the call of howler monkeys echoing through the canopy, sunlight filtering through the trees, and the gentle murmur of the sea just beyond your doorstep. ”
on par
TIMELESS MEDITERRANEAN-INSPIRED HIDEAWAY CASA PALMERO LIES IN THE HEART OF THE MONTEREY PENINSULA, BOASTING PRESTIGIOUS GOLF COURSES, DELICIOUS CALIFORNIAN FARE, AND PRISTINE OCEAN VIEWS
BY Anna Constantino
Tick! I swing my attention to the lush green rolling hills to find a golf ball soaring through the air, the slits between towering cypress trees acting as my windows to the sea. The dusk light dances across the beaming blue ocean, bougainvillea lining the terra cotta walls, human silhouettes illuminated above the rocky coastline. I’m sipping an Old Fashioned, my body enveloped by the warmth of the firepit, as we laugh with five perfect strangers under a pink sky. If I didn’t know any better, I’d say I found heaven.
Nestled in one of the most pristine caverns of California lies Pebble Beach: an adult playground for golf fanatics, epicures, and wellness junkies alike. The prestigious private community and resort rests on the Monterey Peninsula, speckled with golf courses and luxury homes nestled in the Del Monte Forest, and is bordered by the whimsical village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. We find ourselves at one of several properties in the resort, Casa Palmero, on a sunny Friday afternoon, checking in for 36 hours of pure, unadulterated, food-filled bliss. The boutique hotel, tucked along the iconic 17-Mile Drive, serves as an intimate hideaway for travelers and locals. Originally built in 1927, the property merges a modern sensibility with an air of timeless luxury, characterized by Spanish architecture, historic fountains, and pinstripe chaise pool lounges.
We establish our evening’s agenda on arrival: acquire a crisp glass of vino, whirl around the resort in a golf cart, and dip into the in-room soaking tub. A quick wardrobe change brings us to the hotel’s nightly cocktail hour in the estate’s main-house, where I enjoy a local wine flight and consume my body weight in a bottomless prawn cocktail. We chat with our bartender, who anecdotally shares the history of the Negroni, to which we are easily persuaded to enjoy. Naturally, we’re fashionably late for our dinner reservation at the Inn at Spanish Bay, all-consumed by a game of pool in Casa Palmero’s Billiard Room. We dash to the circular drive where a golf-cart scoops and delivers us to Sticks at the Inn.
We’re seated along outdoor firepits, the remnants of daylight slipping behind the horizon, as a slew of golfers pour in from the course. A Smoked Cinnamon Old Fashioned feels like a proper kickstart to dinner, conjuring a warmth and ease as we settle into the space, our spread quickly following. We begin with a whipped honey ricotta topped with marcona almonds, aleppo peppers, and citrus wine-poached pears, a sidecar of crusty sourdough from Ad Astra Bread Co. to accompany. My taste buds dance between sweet liquory pears and the zing of furikake ranch coating a plate of perfectly-blistered shishito peppers. The star of the show arrives: a Jidori half-chicken roasted in sumac and za’atar, sitting on a bed of saffron-infused couscous with harissa crème fraîche. A symphony of unexpected flavors and spices carry through each dish, while preserving the familiar heartiness of a comfort meal.
We banter with our firepit neighbors, sinking further into food comas and our chairs, as a lively buzz carries us through our evening. We return to Casa Palmero in a similar fashion as our departure, this time with an insatiable hankering for a bath. I swing open the French doors separating the bathroom from the suite, sinking into the gargantuan tub, sipping a nightcap of bubbles among bubbles. The fireplace roars me into a hazy lull.
Tick! I rise to a view of dawn patrollers on Hole 1, a knock on our door signaling the delivery of breakfast. A gentleman unpacks a picnic basket brimming with pastries, fruits, fixings, and coffee, which I practically inhale before donning my waffle-knit bathrobe to beeline for The Spa at Pebble Beach, a Forbes Five-Star wellness haven. My morning is enjoyed in a state of flotation-wrap hibernation, but not before my attempt to wake myself via Wim Hof in the cold plunge. The massage therapist lathers me in a cocktail of South American coffee oil, Italian lemons, and Madagascan cinnamon, before enrobing me in a cloth to suspend over a water bed. I feel as though I’ve entered a cocoon, a state of zero-gravity floating through space, with little to no concept of time. I emerge as though I’ve been rebirthed into the candlelit room, a restorative nap to follow (required after one too many glasses of albariño the night prior).
My state of relaxation whisks me poolside for tanning and reading, a much needed pitstop to work up an appetite for the Pebble Beach Food + Wine Festival. The festival is hosted annually by the Pebble Beach Company Foundation non-profit, encapsulating the essence of Pebble Beach’s hospitality and craftsmanship in the food and beverage space. We’re escorted a mile and a half down the road from Casa Palmero to the tasting pavilion, an epicure’s dreamscape of over 40 tastings prepared by renowned chefs across the country, and creative libations ranging from Casamigos tequila blackberry ice-cream floaters to “tiny ‘tinis” at Tanqueray’s french fry booth. Our first (and favorite) stop of the afternoon is the Peroni tent, where we enjoy beer spritzes and Osso Bucco with burrata and Calabrian chile oil prepared by Chef Antonia Lofaso. This is swiftly followed by Chef Karen Akunowicz’s arancini bites with honey, flurried in thick shavings of black truffle. Swoon
We peruse a variety of purveyors before settling in Veuve Clicquot’s outdoor Sun Club. The tent, reminiscent of a day club in the South of France, is draped in gold and white stripes, beach loungers and floating buckets of ice accenting the space. Pop! “The best sound in the world!” muses the bartender, to which their companion remarks, “The best sound is no sound,” with a wink. A jubilant energy fills the air, a smile plastered to everyone’s face. I suppose it’s hard not to smile among life’s greatest pleasures: a crisp glass of rosé champagne, the hot California sun, and a French omelette smothered in caviar.
Our day of gourmandizing spills into evening social hour at Hay’s Place, the local watering hole situated on The Hay short course designed by Tiger Woods. My eyes being bigger than my stomach—despite our carnival of feasting—we opt for my personal match made in heaven: Aperol spritzes and a plate of hot, salty calamari. We relish in the company of friends made along our way, recounting the day’s festivities and sharing anecdotes. We watch groups of golfers tee off, musing about our own repertoire (or lack thereof). Our swings could use some work; but let’s just say our favorite shot of the day is often taken at the 19th hole.*
CASA PALMERO
KON A v i l l a g e
ROSEWOOD KONA VILLAGE MAKES VACATIONING WITH A BABY STILL FEEL LIKE A RELAXING GETAWAY
MBY Ottocina Ryan
ost of my memories of Hawaii begin in a concrete lobby that could just as easily be in Miami or Mexico—save for the fragrant lei draped around my neck insisting otherwise. Yet from the moment we arrive at Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort on the Big Island, it’s clear that the property truly reflects the importance of nature in Hawaiian culture. There is no endless hallway of identical doors—just sprawling lawns accented by palms and corn hole, an open air check-in area with hanging chairs, and a sense of peace.
My family and I are led to our freestanding hale—one of 150 spread across the oceanfront property. Inside, contrary to the typical floral aesthetic, the decor echoes the lava and sand. Light wood and dark stone carry throughout the room to the spacious bathroom with both indoor and outdoor showers. Interior designer Nicole Hollis created a timeless design that fits in perfectly for Hawaii, yet wouldn’t look out of place in Norway.
Our lanai overlooks the family pool, but what makes me excited first isn’t the view—it’s the fully stocked changing table for our baby. Diaper bin, bottle warmer, wipes, diapers, crib, stuffed animal—the baby amenities
are the best I’ve encountered. It's a thoughtful touch that makes a world—or entire suitcase worth—of difference for exhausted parents.
A hazy sunset bathing the property in golden light beckons us outside. We walk to dinner along crushed coral pathways, bikes resting lazily against palms, the family pool reflecting the orange clouds like a watercolor painting.
At Moana, we sink into a couch facing the ocean. After much deliberation, I order the shellfish ramen: Kona prawns, clams, hunks of tofu and pork belly, all swimming in a garlicky broth. It’s the perfect elevated comfort food. Moana’s menu is abundant with fresh seafood that’s local, but not too local. Thanks to the “Try Wait” initiative—a decade-long moratorium on fishing along the 3.6 mile stretch of coastline that includes Kona Village, we get to enjoy local seafood and the view of the ocean flourishing with sea life and birds. It’s the best of both worlds, really.
The next morning, we return to Moana for breakfast, where the spread feels more like a holiday brunch than a hotel buffet. With our daughter going to town on fresh fruit in a Lalo highchair (another feels-like-home baby amenity), we enjoy omelettes, french toast, and matcha pancakes with all of the toppings.
Continuing the morning at a leisurely pace, I walk a convenient several yards from our room to Asaya Spa. A footbridge leads me over lava rock (from an 1801 eruption) to the treatment area. Post massage, I awake in a relaxed daze to the striking contrast of the pitch black lava meeting the bright blue sky, broken only by a palm tree in the distance and an outdoor bathtub.
I join my family at Kahuwai Cookhouse for lunch. The on-property restaurants all feel distinctly different yet distinctly Hawaiian. Kahuwai highlights the woodfired cooking of Hawaiian cowboy culture. With our feet in the sand, we feast on oysters, ahi poke, a crispy chicken sandwich, and carnitas tacos.
We spend the afternoon lounging by the family pool— enjoying easy conversation with other parents, toys and bowls of shave ice resting on our daybeds. We leave only to explore the on-site ancient petroglyphs, grazing goats trotting away from us into the bushes.
And then, saving the best for last, there are the bars. Kona Village’s storied past lends a few perks to the Rosewood property that opened in July 2023. Exhibit A: the closest bar to the ocean in all of Hawaii. Although current regulations would never allow building a structure that close to the lapping tide, Talk Story Bar is standing as strong as its drinks.
We spend our last sunset at Shipwreck Bar & Sushi. Tucked near the adult pool, a beached sailboat “New Moon” (once belonging to Kona Village’s founder Johnno Jackson) has been transformed into a hotspot for sushi and tropical cocktails. The chairs lining the starboard side are all taken, so we grab a table and order banana coladas, lilikoi margaritas, and a spread of sashimi. With its masts reaching into the dreamy sunset, we both agree this is the coolest bar we’ve ever seen.
While honoring its history, Kona Village is just as mindful of the future. 8,000 solar panels power the resort, and the on-site farm supports the Island Roots communal dinners that foster conversation with strangers-turned-friends. As we pack for the red-eye back to California, looking into my future, I see many more visits to Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort—a place we can’t wait to return to, to make more family memories amidst the natural beauty of Hawaii.*
“While honoring its history, Kona Village is just as mindful of the future.”
ROSEWOOD
above a cut
THE RITZ-CARLTON, LOS ANGELES LIFTS EXPECTATIONS SKYWARD, RESTING IN RAREFIED LUXURY OVER BUSTLING DOWNTOWN
BY Nicole Johnson
As a Santa Barbara local, I crave the occasional bright-lights-big-city escapade in Los Angeles—after which I gladly retreat back to our sleepier coastal enclave. My weekend visits there often unfold in sun-soaked pockets: walk-and-shop jaunts along Abbot Kinney, sea-breezy bike rides in Santa Monica, vintage hunting in Silver Lake, or afternoons marveling at art with a view from the hilltop Getty Museum.
Admittedly, I wouldn’t put downtown LA on my recommendation list for first-timers craving the allure of Hollywood, the glamor of Rodeo Drive, or the city’s idyllic coastline. But I’d most certainly send them to The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles.
My friend and I arrive just as rush hour succumbs to twilight, gliding over the highway beneath a low-hanging full moon, its silvery light catching the mirrored faces of downtown’s high-rises. Rolls-Royces are whisked away by sharply dressed valets as we pull in, and I quickly gather that the hotel is a luxury landing spot for busy professionals, traveling athletes, and jet-setting couples—not to mention (likely a second or third) home to those living in the capacious Ritz-Carlton Residences several floors above. As two twenty-something-year-olds on a girls’ weekend, we don’t fit the high-caliber profile. But when we’re greeted in the sleek lobby with warm hospitality, and a welcome spread of champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries accompanies us to our room, we feel anything but out of place.
Our deluxe room on the 22nd floor hovers beneath the Executive Club Lounge on the 23rd, and well below the world-class Residences starting on the 27th. These all float above the buzz of L.A. Live and the Crypto.com Arena, formerly the iconic Staples Center, and still home to Lakers games, the Grammy Awards, and big-name concerts. In the heart of sports and entertainment, electricity thrums in the air, even if you’re not in arena seats. We happily trade the crowd for robes, Veuve Clicquot, and a classic on TV—a different kind of front row.
While it likely hosts similar clientele, the downtown Ritz isn’t trying to be Beverly Hills, and that’s precisely its charm. The interiors are all black lacquer, gold trim, glass, and warm wood accents—Art Deco meets old California decadence, embellished with geometric details and brightened by white orchid blooms. Decor pays homage to the city’s Golden Age a century ago, but the hotel is still entirely with the times: my friend laughs when she discovers a television screen in the mirror of our double vanity bathroom, among other contemporary details that are all so very LA. High-touch service rounds out the Ritz-Carlton experience (as expected), but this isn’t beachside relaxation at the Bacara: it’s fit for its citified go-getter.
On our first night, we dine at Corteza, one of the restaurants within Sendero, the hotel’s multi-concept culinary destination. Deriving its name and inspiration from Baja California’s Sea of Cortez, Corteza’s seafoodforward menu also dips into Oaxacan and Peruvian heritage, curating a Central and South American tasting tour we barely lift a finger for while peering over sweeping skyline views from the 24th floor.
Our first course, an Ecuadorian ceviche Nikkei, arrives like a still life: silky salmon swims in an orange soy ginger bath, topped with cara cara slices and carrot rounds, each ornamented perfectly with a salmon roe that resembles a pearl. Its piquancy hits quickly, then lingers throughout my text bite. Next, I douse a rubycolored tuna tostada in lime, which quickly becomes a favorite: its creamy avocado spread melts under earthy salsa macha, the tangy umami of sea urchin, and acidic pickled onion, all of which top a delightfully thin crisp. After we’ve cleared our palates, our land entree—an Argentinian hanger steak—arrives with gusto. It’s draped with a fried egg and served with tortilla de papas, offering a surprising harmony between yolky richness and punchy chimichurri.
Our drinks—the Mirage and Smoky—are both showstoppers in strength and sensory presentation, my friend’s arriving in a cauldron with a trail of purifying palo santo smoke, and mine in a cactus-shaped mug (thorns not included). Our dessert, a lime pavlova, ends the meal like a nightcap, emulating a margarita in its swirling balance of zesty lime and sweet meringue. It sits atop a cold effervescent foam I’d like to bottle up and take to go.
The next morning, we’re up early, coffee in hand, plotting a day that includes Melrose shopping and an Abbot Kinney dinner, with a rest stop in the room between. Although downtown LA may not be our playground of choice, the hotel’s location is an ideal jumping-off
point: for us, it means less backtracking, allowing us to maximize our three days here. For the business executive also darting between neighborhoods (albeit for more important reasons than thrifting), the accessibility would be unbeatable.
Speaking of executives: we’re granted access to the Executive Club Lounge, where my friend and I peer out to sprawling cityscapes each morning from floorto-ceiling windows. By our second visit, the dedicated concierge knows us by name; and we know the well-curated buffet by heart. This is no run-of-the-mill breakfast selection: hard-boiled eggs daintily rest in a miniature display resembling a Ferris Wheel of sorts, fresh slices of lox are curled into rose formations, and an herb-sprinkled cheese and fruit selection is (almost) too tidy to be touched.
Later, we ascend even higher: to the rooftop pool, where we briefly recline above the urban soundscape, watching guests plunge into panoramic views dotted by high-rises, and in the distance, Hollywood Hills. With lush landscaping and cabanas complete with a TV and sectional lounge couch, it has all the typical fixings of a luxury pool scene—until you look over the edge, remembering that you’re swimming amidst the skyline.
While the fact I'm downtown often slips my mind, its full-service spa elevates me to another realm entirely. As I enter, soft white interiors and golden light glow softly throughout, wrapping me in a sensory haven—and as I sink into an impossibly plush chaise lounge chair in the waiting area, I’m quite literally cocooned.
Once my massage starts, my therapist Brandi narrates what’s happening at a cellular level, explaining how she’s breaking up tension and stagnant blood, coaxing oxygen into neglected areas to increase circulation. She casually mentions that she treats visiting athletes—most often basketball and hockey stars—playing at Crypto.com Arena next door, and I settle in knowing I’m getting a pro-level massage. With eucalyptus mist rising in the shower post-treatment, I inhale deeply and feel my whole body exhale. The floaty, flushed feeling follows me out the door; yes, even when we inevitably hit traffic on our way back to Santa Barbara.
Amid the hustle and vertical sprawl of downtown, The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles extends a rarity: a sky-high retreat with calm and cachet. Whether you’re a polished exec, a hoops and hockey fan, or two friends in search of a weekend escape, the experience offers pure elevation: of service, of style, of self. Suddenly, being downtown doesn’t feel like a compromise: it’s where you can, literally and figuratively, rise above it all.*
SENDERO LEÑA
in Santa Barbara 48 HOURS
DAY 1
SAIL
Set sail this summer with a drink in hand on SB Sailing’s “Sipping on the Sea” cruise. Hop aboard the Double Dolphin every third Thursday of the month, May through October, to sip on local beer and wine while your captain shares the seaside stories of Santa Barbara. @sbsailing
STYLE
Effortless beachy waves are the style of the summer–and can be made even more effortless with the expert touch of Drybar Montecito. Head to the Coast Village Road location for a specialty blowout and locks that embody “salty hair, don’t care” all summer long. @drybarshops_montecito
SNACK
Take a peek inside The WinDow, Chapala Street’s newest addition. With smashburgers, salads, and shakes made from high-quality ingredients at an approachable price point (a $4.35 cheeseburger claim to fame), their first location outside of LA County is poised to be the perfect spot for a post-beach dinner. @thewindow.la
SONG
Spread your wings and soar into creativity with a music lesson at Yellow Bird Music. Whether piano or percussion, Yellow Bird sparks joy and nurtures talent in engaging environments for all ages, with group classes or private lessons. @yellowbirdmusic.sb
SCOOP
Euro summer has arrived in Santa Barbara, courtesy of Tondi Gelato. Enjoy a scoop (or two) of made-from-scratch artisan gelato, from Italian classics like Stracciatella to specialty favorites like Mango Piccante. La dolce vita just got a whole lot sweeter. @tondigelato
BY Eva Grunburg
SALT
Holistic, healing, and Himalayan, Salt Cave Santa Barbara has revived ancient wellness practices with the largest underground crystal salt cave in North America–right here on State Street. Enjoy the benefits of Himalayan pink salt through a cave meditation session of therapeutic micro-salt particles that aid respiratory health, or try a signature salt scrub massage for polished and glowing skin. @saltcavesb
STAY
A summer getaway nestled in downtown Santa Barbara, Simpson House Inn combines historic charm with modern indulgences, like afternoon refreshments, evening wine and hors d'oeuvres, and gourmet breakfast-in-bed. The adult-only boutique hotel, with its 1874 Victorian estate, award-winning gardens, and English-style cottages, transports guests back in time with all the luxuries of today. @simpsonhouseinn
SHOW
Celebrate Independence Day at the Stearns Wharf Fourth of July Celebration Join the Waterfront and Parks and Recreation teams for family-friendly festivities, live music, vendors, and dance performances. At 9 p.m., cap off the pictureperfect summer day with a bang watching the 20-minute dazzling fireworks show. @cityofsb
SPIRIT
“Capture the spirit” is the theme of this year’s Old Spanish Days Fiesta. The annual festival, taking place this year from July 30 through August 3, captures the spirit of Santa Barbara’s rich cultural and historical legacy through music, mercados, and more. @oldspanishdays
SHAKE
It’s 5 o’clock somewhere–but at 4:00 p.m., Dusk 101 cocktail class is in session. Take notes and enjoy hands-on learning, crafting the Paloma on July 19 and the Manhattan on August 30, and take home a bottle of your handiwork to share. @drifthotels @duskbarsb
DAY 2
SAVOR
An old restaurant with a new name, the reimagined Lulio at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara offers Mediterranean-inspired flavors in a freshly renovated space. Savor the Mezze spread with Black Garlic Meatballs and the Za’atar Flatbread, in the Meyer Davis-designed space. Enjoy the restaurant in its namesake month of July—or year-round as a new staple in your rotation. @ritzcarltonbacarasb
PHOTOGRAPHY ANGELO SGAMBATI
PHOTOGRAPHY SILAS FALLSTICH
SIMPSON HOUSE INN
LULIO
DRYBAR MONTECITO
B o u t i q u e H o t e l A w a r d s
T u c k e d a w a y i n t h e f o o t h i l l s o f S a n t a B a r b a r a , S a n Y s i d r o R a n c h o f f e r s t h i r t y - e i g h t
u l t r a - p r i v a t e c o t t a g e s w i t h i n d i v i d u a l s o a k i n g s p a s , c o t t a g e - s i d e p a r k i n g , a n d o u t d o o r s h o w e r s .
G u e s t s e n j o y c o m p l i m e n t a r y d i n i n g a t t h e M i c h e l i n - r e c o g n i z e d S t o n e h o u s e ,
a f o u r t e e n - y e a r W i n e S p e c t a t o r G r a n d A w a r d w i n n e r , a n d i m m e r s e t h e m s e l v e s
S A N Y S I D R O R A N C H
i n a s t o r i e d l e g a c y g r a c e d b y i c o n s l i k e J F K, J a c k i e O . a n d W i n s t o n C h u r c h i l l . A T Y W A R N E R P R O P E R T Y “ W O R L D ’ S M O S T R O M A N T I C H O T E L ”
