In a landmark real estate move blending tech entrepreneurship and luxury hospitality, Justin Mateen, co-founder of Tinder, along with his brother Tyler Mateen and luxury travel advisor Garrett Cayton, has acquired the legendary El Encanto Hotel in Santa Barbara, California. The deal, worth $82.2 million, marks a major shift for former owner Belmond, a luxury hotel group under LVMH, as it exits its only U.S.-based hotel asset.
Originally opened in 1918, El Encanto is nestled in the Santa Barbara hills, offering sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the charming coastal city below. The property is famed for its 90 individually designed bungalows surrounded by lush, terraced gardens and has long been a favored retreat for Hollywood icons, both past and present.
A New Chapter in Historic Hospitality
The Mateen brothers and Cayton have announced plans to operate El Encanto as an independent boutique hotel and align it with the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World portfolio. Their vision is clear: maintain the rich heritage and unique spirit of the property while elevating its offerings through a carefully curated renovation.
“Authenticity is our guiding principle,” said Tyler Mateen, noting the profound character of El Encanto and its status as a cultural landmark. “We are committed to preserving what makes this property exceptional while enhancing its ability to serve future generations of luxury travelers.”
The new owners emphasize that the renovation will not compromise the historic essence of the hotel. Instead, it will infuse modern luxury, sustainability, and cutting-edge hospitality standards, reinforcing El Encanto’s position as a premier getaway in coastal California.
Renovation Led by Industry Experts
Overseeing the transformation will be Tyrone McKillen, a respected Santa Barbara-based luxury developer known for his sensitive approach to historical properties. Landscape architecture will be led by Mark Rios, whose award-winning designs are expected to enhance El Encanto’s famed gardens while maintaining their storied ambiance.
Renovation highlights include:
- Upgraded guest bungalows with state-of-the-art amenities
- A reimagined spa and wellness experience
- Enhanced culinary programming showcasing local ingredients
- Restoration of outdoor spaces to improve garden aesthetics and guest relaxation
While the changes will be extensive, the team confirmed that El Encanto will remain open during renovations, allowing guests to continue enjoying the serene environment and historical elegance.
A Return to Old Hollywood Glamour
Justin Mateen highlighted the property’s proximity to Los Angeles, which has historically made it a favored destination for Hollywood’s elite. “El Encanto has always been a sanctuary for creatives, visionaries, and global travelers. We want to rekindle that spirit and introduce it to a new generation,” he said.
The hotel’s storied past includes notable guests such as Clark Gable, Barbra Streisand, and Jennifer Aniston. It’s not just a place to stay—El Encanto is a reflection of California’s refined yet relaxed lifestyle, making it a perfect fusion of coastal luxury and old-world charm.
Garrett Cayton, who is affiliated with luxury travel consortiums Coastline Travel Group and Virtuoso, brings decades of insight from global luxury travel advising. “What sets El Encanto apart is its soul. It’s not just another five-star property. It’s a historic gem with a Californian heart,” said Cayton, affirming the team’s commitment to meaningful, experience-led travel.
Economic and Cultural Boost for Santa Barbara
The hotel’s renovation is expected to stimulate the local economy, creating jobs in construction, hospitality, and tourism services. Increased media attention and the prestige of the Mateen-Cayton partnership are likely to draw affluent domestic and international travelers to Santa Barbara, a destination already praised for its wineries, beaches, and arts scene.
According to Visit Santa Barbara, tourism in the city generated over $1.9 billion in visitor spending in 2023, supporting nearly 13,000 jobs. El Encanto’s revitalization will likely contribute significantly to these figures, especially as luxury travel rebounds and boutique heritage hotels become more desirable.
Moreover, Santa Barbara County’s tourism board has prioritized sustainable tourism, making El Encanto’s sensitive renovations and commitment to preserving natural landscapes a perfect alignment with regional goals.
Reviving a Californian Treasure
The acquisition underscores a growing trend among entrepreneurs investing in heritage hospitality as a way to merge personal passion with legacy building. Backed by Culver Capital, the Mateen-Cayton team is poised to usher in a new era for El Encanto—where history, innovation, and hospitality excellence intersect.
With its strategic location, enduring charm, and plans for thoughtful transformation, El Encanto is set to remain not only a pillar of Santa Barbara’s tourism identity but also a symbol of California’s timeless luxury spirit.
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