The Schmidt Family Foundation has recently purchased the Mar y Cel property, a historic 350-acre estate located in the scenic foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains above Montecito.
This acquisition, closed on March 7, 2025, marks a new chapter for the untouched expanse, famous for housing the Tea Gardens and representing the largest contiguous undeveloped property in the affluent Montecito area.
Eric and Wendy Schmidt, the philanthropic force behind the Schmidt Family Foundation, announced their intention to maintain the land as open space, a decision that aligns with their commitment to fostering a sustainable and protected environment. Through various philanthropic initiatives, including the 11th Hour Project and Schmidt Marine Technology Partners, the Schmidts have long championed efforts to combat environmental challenges and promote a secure world for future generations.
Mar y Cel, translating to “Sea and Sky,” features enchanting remnants of early 1900s luxury, with stone aqueducts, Romanesque arches, and Greek-like statues dotting the landscape.
The property was once owned by Henry Bothin and Ellen Chabot Bothin and has since been recognized for its historical and ecological significance. In September 2000, a significant portion of the estate was safeguarded from residential development thanks to a conservation easement donated by Cima del Mundo LLC, ensuring the preservation of its natural beauty and wildlife habitat.
A notable aspect of Mar y Cel has been its accessibility to the public via the West Fork of Cold Springs Trail, a privilege secured through negotiations by Cima del Mundo with the Land Trust. This trail easement marks a vital step in conserving the estate while maintaining some level of public enjoyment.
The Schmidt Family Foundation’s acquisition of the property from the estate of Dr. Keith Schofield and his wife, Kay Robinson Schofield, who had been stewards of the land for 24 years, underscores the couple’s dedication to environmental stewardship.
The Schmidts, both influential figures in technology and philanthropy, have expressed their eagerness to explore the best methods for preserving the significant Mar y Cel lands, ensuring their protection for generations to come.
This estate is no stranger to the impacts of human negligence; in 2008, the Tea Gardens were the epicenter of the Tea Fire, started by an illegal campfire left by Santa Barbara City College students. This catastrophic event led to the destruction of over 1,900 acres and 210 homes, emphasizing the importance of conscientious land management and the value of natural spaces.
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I am very grateful to the Schmidt Foundation! We have some wonderful extremely rich people in SB.
(Dangermond Preserve also)
What a wonderful and generous contribution to Santa Barbara. Let’s just hope they can keep commercial tour buses away from this hidden gem!
First saw the Tea Gardens in the 60’s.
Skateboarded there in various areas in the 70’s. Somebody broke their arm and they fractured the surfaces to stop the skateboarding. We took up some quickcrete, made some small repairs and returned to skating.