Seasoned travelers to Santa Barbara know that the West Beach area, near Cabrillo Blvd beaches, is a coveted location for a memorable coastal getaway. Ideally located in a gated complex, Taormina resides in a lush garden setting a mere one-block walk to the beach.
Stroll or bike along the boardwalk, visit The Sea Center on Stearn's Wharf, take a sunset cruise out of the Harbor, watch a baseball game at Pershing Park, all just minutes from the front door. Right down the street, Los Banos de la Mar pool offers a sparkling Olympic-size pool when an invigorating lap swim suits the workout schedule.
This five-unit complex, Cinque Terra, is reminiscent of an Italian Villa with red-tile roofs, hand-textured walls, colorful tile, and oodles of Mediterranean charm. Once through the secure, gated entry, follow the sounds of the fountain and up one flight to the front door. There are three bedrooms and two bathrooms, all on this level.
The primary suite with a king-size bed and private terrace is a soothing sanctuary; the fireplace adds warmth and comfort at the flip of a switch. Two generous-sized closets flank the hallway leading to the luxurious primary bathroom. The deep, jetted bathtub sits beneath a custom tile mosaic, with an adjacent, large glass shower enhancing the spa-like space.
Down the hall reside two guest bedrooms, one with the convenience of a desk for work or study, the other offering a private terrace. Each guest room is outfitted with a queen-size bed. The hall bathroom with a tub-shower combination completes the floor plan on this entry-level.
Ascend the stairs to the great room, offering a bright space with high ceilings and plenty of natural light. The style here is upscale yet relaxed, with a deep sectional and sling-back chairs in front of a fireplace that adds comfort at the flip of a switch. The dining area is illuminated by a beveled glass chandelier, creating a dramatic canopy for any meal. With azure blue cabinetry and expansive granite counters, the open kitchen carries out the Mediterranean theme; the breakfast bar adds more dining options in a well-stocked, versatile kitchen.
The highlight of this fantastic residence is up one final flight of stairs to the rooftop deck. 360-degree views encompass city and coastal views, but the Santa Ynez mountains are a dazzling tapestry that enhances time spent relaxing or entertaining here. Especially in fall and early winter, grab a favorite beverage, head up to the deck for sunset, and wait for the "pink moment" when the sun hits the horizon; the kaleidoscope of color is not to be missed! Once nighttime ascends, light the fire, start up the Weber grill, turn on the twinkle lights, and dine at two high-top tables under the stars. There will be no better place to watch 4th of July fireworks! There is a shaded, hidden garden at ground level that is shared by all the residents and can be an alternate location for a meal or just lying on lounges by the fountain for a well-deserved respite after a long day of sightseeing. The single car garage has access to the front door up an external flight of stairs, there is a communal elevator, and added convenience of a motorized lift inside the garage for groceries and small luggage.
Taormina may be a destination in Sicily, but for visitors to Santa Barbara, our Taormina is an oasis for respite, a multi-use haven in the heart of everything, and a sought-after starting point to adventure in a coastal city beloved the world over. The location could not be more ideal, the home ... "bennisimo!" (Please note, with various stairs this home may not be suitable for those with challenged mobility)
