Tinder Co-Founder Justin Mateen, Tyler Mateen, and Luxury Travel Advisor Garrett Cayton Acquire Historic El Encanto Hotel in Santa Barbara for $82.2 Million
- Discovering Hospitality
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
In a landmark acquisition, Tinder co-founder Justin Mateen, his brother Tyler Mateen, and luxury travel advisor Garrett Cayton have purchased the iconic El Encanto Hotel in Santa Barbara for $82.2 million. The deal, completed with the support of the Cayton family's Culver Capital, marks the end of LVMH’s ownership of its only U.S.-based Belmond property.
Perched in the Santa Barbara hills with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, El Encanto has been a hallmark of California hospitality since its opening in 1918. The historic 90-bungalow resort has long been celebrated for its timeless charm and old-Hollywood allure.
Under new ownership, El Encanto will undergo a thoughtful renovation designed to preserve its historical integrity while elevating the guest experience. The property will continue operating as an independent boutique hotel and remain part of the Leading Hotels of the World collection.
“El Encanto has an authentic heart and soul unlike any property I’ve visited in California,” said Tyler Mateen. “We will bring its rich history and timeless allure to the forefront of every aspect of the guest experience.”
Garrett Cayton, founder of The Discerning Travellers and an affiliate of Coastline Travel Group and Virtuoso, brings deep insight from decades of luxury travel curation.
“I have brought travelers to and visited the greatest hotels in the world,” said Cayton. “Very few possess the authenticity and rich history of El Encanto. This property embodies the essence of California living and offers an experience like no other on the Central Coast.”
Justin Mateen highlighted the hotel’s unique blend of accessibility and mystique:
“El Encanto was the exclusive hideout during the golden era of Old Hollywood. We will be pouring love and resources into this iconic property to continue that legacy for generations to come.”
Enhancements will touch every facet of the hotel, from redesigned bungalows and updated spa experiences to new culinary concepts and reimagined garden landscapes—seamlessly blending old-world elegance with modern luxury.
The transition and revitalization will be led by Santa Barbara-based developer Tyrone McKillen, with renowned landscape architect Mark Rios overseeing the property’s exterior transformation. El Encanto will remain open year-round throughout the renovation period.
