James Cameron’s Sprawling California Ranch Hits the Market for $33 Million

This oceanfront estate is one of the Oscar-winning director’s favored writing retreats and even inspired the world of Avatar

Luxurious home surrounded by lush landscaping, palm trees, and a pristine swimming pool under a clear blue sky.
Oscar-winning director James Cameron has listed his sweeping ranch set along California’s Gaviota Coast for $33 million. Photo: Village Properties

Oscar-winning filmmaker James Cameron’s breathtaking 100-acre compound on the coast of Southern California has hit the market for a stunning $33 million. After 24 years, the Titanic director is parting with the 100-acre property, dubbed “Tranquility Base,” which beautifully reflects the captivating allure the surrounding cliffs and mesmerizing ocean views. In fact, the jaw-dropping setting is said to have inspired Cameron to conjure the blue-hued world of the Avatar films, which were written at the estate.

Beyond its scenic vistas, the property introduces the possibility of intimate interaction with nature, via private beach access and miles of hiking trails thanks to its setting within Hollister Ranch, a 14,400-acre gated residential community in Santa Barbara County that has become a haven for A-listers.

Man speaking at a panel with microphone and water bottle, smiling, with Comic-Con logo partially visible in the background.
Director James Cameron. Photo: Gage Skidmore
Room with large windows, ocean view, palm trees, blue chaise lounge, and greenery inside and outside.
The estate is where Cameron conjured Pandora, the world of Avatar. Photo: Village Properties

The estate’s 8,000-square-foot main residence is a series of interconnected structures that radiates a modern elegance encapsulated within its architectural design. Bathed in natural light through floor-to-ceiling windows, the dwelling offers unrivaled views of the endless blue of the Pacific Ocean and echoes the tranquil beauty of its surroundings.

Among the ranch’s amenities are state-of-the-art equestrian facilities, tennis court, and multiple guest houses, each testament to thoughtful design and modern luxury. Set against the backdrop of the ocean, the homes embody a distinct charm and elegance, mirroring the remarkable attention to detail found throughout the property. As the property changes hands, its new owner will inherit not just a home but a gateway to one of California’s most scenic landscapes.

It is currently co-listed by Hollister Ranch Realty and Village Properties. See more photos below. 

Spacious contemporary living room with wooden beams, stone flooring, and abundant natural light from large windows.
The great room’s Brazilian hardwood beams were stripped of stain and paint and then restored to a natural burnished finish Photo: Village Properties
Rustic kitchen with wooden beams, stone floor, hanging pots, large island, wooden cabinets, and stainless steel appliances.
The kitchen’s sugar maple butcher-block table has hosted the bulk of Cameron family meals. Photo: Village Properties
Rustic entryway with stone floor, wooden beams, staircase, artwork, and plants in a warmly lit interior setting.
The Camerons’ wood and glass home opens to soaring beam ceilings. Photo: Village Properties
Dining room with long wooden table, chairs, stone floor, and large windows offering scenic hillside view under wooden ceiling.
The two-story home’s bold angles frame views of coastal bluffs. Photo: Village Properties
Spacious bedroom with wooden beams, canopy bed, large windows, fireplace, and plush white rug on wooden floor.
The angled beams continue in the primary suite and are matched by oak plank flooring. Photo: Village Properties
Lush tropical landscape with palm trees and a clear blue pool in front of a rustic cabin under a bright blue sky.
Set along the south-facing Gaviota Coast, the sunset-drenched residence cradles a lagoon-style pool and lounge area. Photo: Village Properties
Scenic coastal landscape with rolling green hills, scattered houses, and cloudy blue sky overlooking the ocean in the distance.
The 8,000-square-foot home he and his wife, Suzy Amis Cameron, purchased 24 years ago is sited on an oceanfront 102-acre parcel in a biodiverse haven. Photo: Village Properties