Learn About the Ranch

All who become owners of property at Hollister Ranch become members of the Hollister Ranch Owners’ Association (HROA). The Association is responsible for the operations of the common area facilities on the Ranch, as well as for security and for oversight of property development.

An HROA Board of Directors is elected at an annual meeting every December. The Board hires a Ranch Manager who in turn hires a staff of 20 or so people who work for the Association. The Board also appoints a series of advisory committees and task forces comprised of Hollister Ranch owners to investigate particular issues and make recommendations to the Board.

A separate entity, the Hollister Ranch Cooperative, oversees the commercial use of the range grass at Hollister Ranch. A mother herd of several hundred cattle graze the entire Ranch, and a substantial calf crop is produced annually. When substantial winter rains increase range grass production and justify additional animals, cattle herds from outside Hollister Ranch (stockers) are brought onto the Ranch to graze the enhanced pasture. The Cooperative has its own Board of Directors that hires a manager to steer the entire operation.

There is a multitude of open-air, outside activities in which Hollister Ranch owners can partake. Whether on one’s own parcel, along the 125+ miles of roadways/trails or along the 8.5 miles of beach, there is much to discover and enjoy. This is life in the California of yesteryear before condos and strip malls. In addition to individual pursuits, several sociable community functions take place throughout the year where Hollister Ranch folk can meet and mingle with their fellow owners. 

Co-ownership

While 100-acre parcels cannot be subdivided, there are a number of Hollister Ranch properties owned by more than one family.

Property Development

There are parameters and protocols to the development of a 100-acre parcel at Hollister Ranch.

Partnership with Chumash

Working with the local Chumash is a benefit to both the HROA and the Chumash.

Stewardship

The 14,400-acre Hollister Ranch remains a cattle ranch carrying on a 200+ year tradition of sensitive agriculture.

HR Activities

The unique recreational opportunities found along the 8.5 miles of the Hollister Ranch Shoreline Preserve are a focus of most owners at the Ranch.

HR Conservancy

Most of the natural environment along the California coast has been compromised with residential & commercial development, recreational facilities, etc.

General Information

Virtually untouched since the days of the dons, the spectacular 14,400-acre Hollister Ranch is located about 30 minutes up the coast from Santa Barbara off U.S. 101

HR Co-operative

There is no greater visual transition along the coastline of Southern California than that found on U.S. 101 at Winchester Canyon Road in Goleta.

Emergency Response

As part of overall emergency response planning, HROA employees and some owners offer assistance during emergencies.

  • Bulito cabaña at Hollister Ranch

    Hollister Ranch is a very uniquely private place. What should I know about it?

    Virtually untouched since the days of the dons, the spectacular 14,400 acre Hollister Ranch is located about 30 minutes up the coast from Santa Barbara off U.S. 101, adjacent to Gaviota State Park.

  • 55 Hollister Ranch aerial

    What do I need to know about Hollister Ranch property ownership?

    If not looking for a full, 100-acre parcel, there are other ways in which to become an owner at Hollister Ranch. Many parcels are owned by multiple families, each family with specific rights and responsibilities documented in a co-ownership agreement.

  • 123 Hollister Ranch foundation

    What is involved in developing property at Hollister Ranch?

    In addition to Santa Barbara County development protocols, the Hollister Ranch Design Committee implements the requirements in the Parcel Development Manual (PDM). All development is to blend in as much as possible and avoid interference with wildlife.

Frequently Asked Questions for Hollister Ranch Realty