I found myself completely enchanted the first time I visited Ganna Walska Lotusland, tucked away in the hills of Montecito near Santa Barbara. If you’ve never been, I truly think you’ll find this 37-acre botanical garden unlike anything you’ve seen before. I wandered through exotic plant collections and imaginative landscapes and felt like I was walking through a living piece of art.

You might be surprised to know that this place was once the private estate of Madame Ganna Walska—a glamorous opera singer with a love for gardens. When I learned that, I started to notice how theatrical and visionary the whole space felt. I think you’ll appreciate that kind of personal touch too.

Review:★★★★★ I’d recommend Lotusland to anyone, whether you’re obsessed with plants like I am, love snapping photos, or just need a peaceful retreat to recharge. You’ll walk away with something special.

Recommended for

If you’re planning your visit, here’s who I think will enjoy Lotusland the most:

  • If you love rare plants—you’ll be amazed, just like I was, by the global collection.
  • If you’re drawn to design and beauty—you’ll love how Walska made every inch theatrical and bold.
  • If you’re craving calm and quiet—you’ll find so many peaceful corners to pause and breathe.
  • If you’re with your family or students—you’ll love the educational experiences that bring nature to life.

About Lotusland

  • I discovered that Ganna Walska bought this property in 1941 and spent over 40 years building it into a world of wonder.
  • After she passed in 1984, the estate became a nonprofit botanical garden, and you’ve been able to visit since 1993.
  • If you go in summer like I did, don’t miss the lotus flowers—they’re in full bloom and gave the garden its name.

Garden Highlights

When I explored the gardens, I was blown away by the creativity behind each themed space. Here are a few you should make sure to see:

  • Aloe Garden: I counted more than 140 aloe types, plus a pond with clam-shell fountains. You’ll also spot unusual trees like the Grugru and ponytail palms.
  • Blue Garden: If you’re like me and love soothing colors, you’ll adore the blue-toned foliage and crushed-glass paths.
  • Japanese Garden: I paused here for a while—the koi ponds, bronze birds, and Shinto shrine make it feel sacred and serene.
  • Theatre Garden: You’ll feel like you’re at an open-air performance with the stone seating and quirky grotesques. I did!
  • Tropical Garden: If you love lush, vibrant greenery, you’ll get lost in the hanging baskets and ginger plants. I even stumbled upon a secret orchid cacti area.
  • Australian Garden: I didn’t expect to find bottle trees and Grevilleas, but I’m glad I did—it felt like a new world.

Signature Features

  • Horticultural Clock: I found myself staring at this 25-foot floral clock—it’s ringed with zodiac signs, which you’ll find fascinating.
  • Fanciful Topiary Animals: These brought out the kid in me, and I think you’ll smile when you see them too.
  • Water Features: I followed the cypress allée and water staircase right to a peaceful pond—and you should too. There's even a little island with a sailboat.

Visitor Information

  • Address: 695 Ashley Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93108
  • Phone: 805-969-3767
  • Website: www.lotusland.org
  • Tip: I had to book in advance—so you’ll definitely want to reserve early since it’s in a residential area.
  • Tour Schedule: You can visit Wednesday through Saturday from February 15 to November 15, with tours at 10:00 AM and 1:30 PM. I went in the morning and loved the soft light for photos.

Visitor's Center & Amenities

  • I started my visit at the Spanish-style Visitor’s Center—you’ll love its vintage charm, inspired by a bathhouse.
  • Here’s what you’ll find when you stop by:
    • A stunning lotus-tiled fountain that I couldn’t stop photographing
    • Shaded benches—I took a break under the Australian tea trees, and you might want to do the same
    • Clean restrooms and a cute Garden Shop for gifts you won’t find elsewhere

Educational Programs

  • Environmental Outreach Program: I wish I had something like this in school—it’s perfect for 4th graders to get their hands in the soil and learn about plants.
  • Open Pathways Program: If you or someone you know faces physical or social barriers, this tour makes Lotusland accessible and inclusive. I love that.

Getting There

I used GPS and had no trouble finding it—but remember, it’s tucked into a quiet neighborhood. Just follow the signs once you’re close, and you’ll be there in no time. I’d recommend arriving a bit early so you can soak in the calm before your tour starts.

Use the map below to plan your visit:

Plan Your Trip