Meghan Markle to Katy Perry: Ultimate celebrity backyards that serve as private hideaways

A-list celebrities can, of course, afford exotic vacations. But they cannot set out on an adventure trip every other weekend. That’s why they build perfect homes that are sanctuaries from the relentless pace of Hollywood: the ultimate escape from public scrutiny, a place to hit pause and relax. From Meghan Markle to Katy Perry, here are some of the most stunning celebrity backyards that serve as the perfect private retreats.

When she is not producing her songs, she loves to lounge by her perfect infinity pool in Beverly Hills. She bought the five-bedroom mansion, hidden in the hills and surrounded by lush greenery, in 2017. The luxe mansion was worth just under $19 million at the time of purchase, and she is also neighbours with Adele and Nicole Kidman.

(Instagram/ @housesofcelebs)

Zendaya loves to come back to her serene, minimalist home in Northridge, Los Angeles. She bought the five-bedroom Mediterranean-style mansion for about $1.4 million. Speaking to Vogue earlier, the actor revealed details about her lush backyard, surrounded by lemon trees. The beige lounge chairs and umbrellas by the massive pool and hot tub are her safe escape on any evening. She loves plucking fruits from her home garden and enjoying the sunshine on her patio. The outdoor space is also curated to host guests and is equipped with a barbecue grill, perfect for parties.

Lily Collins may live a glamorous life on Netflix favourite Emily in Paris, but off-screen she prefers the tranquil pool and spa her backyard provides. Her $17.4 million home in Beverly Hills is nothing short of a retreat. The mansion’s backyard is set with a pool and spa, along with lounge chairs and outdoor umbrellas. On days when she is not shooting, Lily Collins has a refreshing mocktail by the pool and simply enjoys life.
(Instagram/ Lily Collins for Vogue)

Ellen DeGeneres’ $18.2 million Montecito home has a Spanish-style exterior, defined by white stucco walls, a terracotta-tiled roof, and large black-framed windows. The outdoor patio includes an al fresco dining area, perfect for intimate get-togethers. She hosts parties often, so the cosy lounge is arranged around a fire pit, along with a dedicated barbecue station.

(Instagram/ @northhillcrest)

Meghan Markle’s Montecito backyard is straight out of a fantasy film. As she enjoys spending time in nature, the space is thoughtfully designed to embrace the outdoors. The vine-covered archway opens onto a sweeping field with two palm trees, which hold special meaning for the Duchess of Sussex. In a 2022 interview with The Cut, she revealed how the trees caught the eye of Prince Harry when they first toured the house: “One of the first things my husband saw when we walked around the house was those two palm trees. See how they’re connected at the bottom? He goes, ‘My love, it’s us.’” Her backyard also has a vegetable garden and native wildflowers.