Residents of the upscale Hope Ranch neighborhood in Santa Barbara are expressing dissatisfaction with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle following their recent move.
The royal couple, who purchased a lavish $14.6 million mansion in Montecito in 2021, have faced criticism from their new neighbors.
Locals have reported seeing Markle frequently visiting the town’s beach, raising concerns about the area becoming an exclusive retreat for the Montecito family.
This situation has been further exacerbated by the couple’s visits to the beach, accompanied by a group of bodyguards and paparazzi, effectively making the previously public beach inaccessible to locals.
Understandably, people are hesitant to confront them due to their notoriety.
The impact of Harry and Meghan’s presence is not limited to just one beach.
Butterfly Beach, a luxurious spot in Santa Barbara County, situated across from the opulent Four Seasons Baltimore Hotel, has also been affected.
Reports suggest that the couple’s security team has closed streets and hiking trails, leading to dissatisfaction among locals who value the privacy of their beach.
The residents invest significant amounts to maintain the exclusivity of the area, and the disruptions caused by Harry and Meghan’s presence are causing frustration.
One couple particularly affected by this situation is Tom Hanks and his musician wife, Rita Wilson, who have deep connections with Montecito residents.
Every summer, they traditionally relax at Butterfly Beach, and they are equally upset with the Sussexes’ actions.
Hanks, a beloved actor originally from Northern California, has made Southern California his home for many years.
The couple owns several properties, including homes in Malibu, the Pacific Palisades, Sun Valley, Idaho, and even Greece.
It is worth mentioning that Hanks and Wilson played a pivotal role in helping Greece recover from massive wildfires in 2018, leading to their honorary citizenship the following year.
The prospect of such high-profile figures settling in the area has raised concerns among the local population, who fear that the essence of their private and closely-knit community may change significantly if Montecito becomes a magnet for celebrity residents.
The Homeowners’ Association, known for fiercely guarding their privacy, is determined to uphold the exclusivity of the neighborhood, which is one of its main attractions.
Their commitment to preserving their private beach is crucial, as it sets them apart from other areas.
