From stunning beachfront escapes to palatial estates in Montecito, 2024 brought some jaw-dropping real estate transactions. Let’s dive into the top 10 most impressive home sales of the year!

No 10.

3345 Padaro Lane, Carpinteria, CA | $21,500,000

This charming beachfront property, featuring seven bedrooms and five bathrooms across 2,700 square feet, embodies everything people love about Carpinteria. Known for its laid-back vibe and small-town charm, Carpinteria offers pristine beaches, local shops, and breathtaking views of the Santa Ynez Mountains. The property’s location provides easy access to outdoor activities like hiking, surfing, and birdwatching, making it the perfect coastal escape.

No 9.

777 Romero Canyon Rd., Santa Barbara, CA | $25,124,500

A 1927 Spanish Colonial hacienda, originally designed by Robert Spurgeon Jr., found a new owner this year. Built on 17 acres, the property’s timeless Mediterranean courtyard design reflected its rich history. Once home to Grace Spurgeon Brooks and her husband Ralph Brooks, this estate remains a stunning example of vintage Santa Barbara architecture.

No 8.

771 Garden Lane, Montecito, CA | $28,400,000

Previously owned by actor Rob Lowe, this English country manor in Montecito’s Riven Rock neighborhood was sold for $28.4 million. Sitting on 5.5 acres, the estate boasted luxurious amenities, including two pools, a guest house, a solarium, a movie theater, and a professional chef’s kitchen. With its ocean views and ultimate privacy, it was a standout in 2024’s luxury market.

No 7.

595 Picacho Lane, Montecito, CA | $30,242,500

This 3.5-acre estate in Montecito underwent a major renovation, blending modern livability with luxe design. Featuring a primary suite with dual baths and private terraces, a guest house, a wellness pavilion, and lush grounds fed by a private well, the home was a dream for entertaining. With seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces, it epitomized the Montecito lifestyle.

No 6.

1104 Channel Drive, Montecito, CA | $30,250,000

Located on Butterfly Beach, this oceanfront estate delivered sweeping 180-degree views of the Pacific and Santa Ynez Mountains. With meticulously designed architecture and sprawling gardens, the property included a main house, a guest apartment, a pool house, and a gym. It was a true entertainer’s paradise, combining elegance with Montecito’s relaxed coastal living.

No. 5 & No 4.

319 San Ysidro Road | $32,000,000

This estate, with its Pompeiian courtyard, stately columns, and lush grounds, offered a seamless blend of antiquity and contemporary comfort. Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi reportedly sold the remodeled Roman-inspired villa on San Ysidro Road for $32 million in February. Then, purchased it back as part of the 2781/2801 Padaro Lane transaction with Robert Friedland.

No 3.

875 Park Lane, Montecito, CA | $36,800,000

This Montecito gem captivated potential buyers with its breathtaking views of the ocean, harbor, and city lights. The estate featured a 5-bedroom main house, a guest house, a theater, a game room, and expansive entertaining terraces. Spanning flat lawns and gardens, this property offered a magical backdrop for sunrises and sunsets, making it a once-in-a-lifetime purchase.

No 2.

2779/77/73 Padaro Lane, Carpinteria, CA | $65,000,000

Spread across three parcels on 12.07 acres, this bluff-front estate was the epitome of coastal luxury. The property’s 11,000 square feet included five bedrooms, 11 bathrooms, and unparalleled views of Loon Point Beach and the Pacific Ocean. With lush gardens and unique vegetation, this estate delivered a rare blend of natural beauty and architectural elegance.

No 1.

2781 Padaro Lane, Carpinteria, CA | $96,000,000

Topping the list is Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi’s jaw-dropping sale of their 9.97-acre estate. Acquired for $70 million two years ago, the couple potentially made a $26 million profit. The property included an 8,000-square-foot main residence, a guest cottage, and a private bluff-top sandy entertainment area. An adjacent 6.57-acre parcel, primed for development, added even more value to this record-breaking sale.

That’s a wrap on 2024

2024’s top real estate sales showcased the region's undeniable allure—from breathtaking oceanfront estates to historic architectural gems. Each home told its own story of luxury, privacy, and timeless design, proving that Santa Barbara and Carpinteria remain some of the most sought-after destinations for discerning buyers. With so many standout properties changing hands, this year set a new standard for extraordinary living.