Tucked into the hills of Montecito near Santa Barbara, Ganna Walska Lotusland is a 37-acre botanical paradise unlike any other. Once the private estate of opera singer and garden visionary Madame Ganna Walska, Lotusland is now one of the most spectacular public gardens in the world—bursting with exotic plant collections, whimsical landscapes, and carefully curated experiences. Whether you’re a plant enthusiast, photographer, or just in search of natural beauty, this garden will leave you inspired.

Recommended For

Lotusland is a must-visit for:

  • Garden and plant lovers—with rare and exotic specimens from around the world
  • Art and design enthusiasts—thanks to Walska’s theatrical and artistic approach to landscape
  • Travelers seeking serenity—with peaceful walking paths and beautiful views
  • Families and educators—with enriching programs and opportunities for hands-on learning

About Lotusland

  • Lotusland was created by Ganna Walska, who purchased the property in 1941 and spent over 40 years designing gardens with flair and imagination.
  • Following her passing in 1984, the estate became a nonprofit botanical garden and officially opened to the public in 1993.
  • The name "Lotusland" honors the lotus flowers that bloom each summer in the gardens’ pools.

Garden Highlights

Lotusland features more than 3,000 plant species spread across unique themed gardens. Here’s a look at some visitor favorites:

  • Aloe Garden: Over 140 aloe species, a white-bottomed pond with clam-shell fountains, and rare plants like the Grugru palm and ponytail palm
  • Blue Garden: A dreamy palette of silver-blue foliage with Mexican Blue Palms, Blue Atlas Cedars, and crushed blue-green glass pathways
  • Japanese Garden: Niwaki-pruned pines, koi ponds, bronze birds, and a wisteria-covered arbor near a peaceful Shinto shrine
  • Theatre Garden: Sandstone seating for 100 surrounded by African boxwoods and whimsical stone “grotesques” collected in France
  • Tropical Garden: Lush greenery, hanging baskets, ginger plants, and a streambed that leads to a hidden orchid cacti collection
  • Australian Garden: Spear lilies, dramatic bottle trees, and swaths of Myrtles, Grevilleas, and Acacias

Signature Features

  • Horticultural Clock: A 25-foot floral clock complete with zodiac symbols
  • Fanciful Topiary Animals: Scattered throughout the estate—great fun for all ages
  • Water Features: The newly restored water staircase and cypress allée lead to a peaceful pond with a small sailboat and island centerpiece

Visitor Information

  • Address: 695 Ashley Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93108
  • Phone: 805-969-3767
  • Website: www.lotusland.org
  • Advance reservations are required due to the garden’s location in a residential area
  • Tour schedule: Wednesday through Saturday from February 15 to November 15 at 10:00 AM and 1:30 PM

Visitor's Center & Amenities

  • Start your tour at the Spanish-style Visitor’s Center, inspired by a historic bathhouse
  • Features include:
    • A lotus-tiled fountain
    • Shaded benches beneath Australian tea trees
    • Restrooms and the Garden Shop for unique souvenirs

Educational Programs

  • Environmental Outreach Program: Designed for 4th graders, with hands-on botanical education
  • Open Pathways Program: Custom tours for individuals with physical, economic, or social barriers

Getting There

Use the map below to plan your visit:

Plan Your Trip