Tucked along a pristine stretch of coastal land just outside Santa Barbara, Sea Crest Nursery has spent nearly five decades cultivating some of the most iconic palms and tropicals in the country. With 17 acres of sun-drenched nursery grounds and a reputation for excellence, Sea Crest has become a trusted resource for designers, contractors, and developers who demand instant impact and lasting beauty in their landscapes. Sea Crest recently announced a new chapter in its story: it was acquired by Don Lee Farms, a multigenerational family company built on a foundation of integrity, operational excellence, and long-term partnerships.

The move brings together two legacy-driven California institutions with a shared appreciation for hard work, stewardship, and quality. The relationship between the Goodman family and Sea Crest goes back more than 40 years. In the early 1980s, a young Donald Goodman—then in his early twenties and already laying the groundwork for a business of his own—purchased a palm from Sea Crest’s founder, Jack Stevenson. The quality of the tree, the character of the coastal nursery, and the care of the people behind it made a lasting impression.

Now, decades later, that early connection has come full circle. Jack Stevenson's legacy lives on in every tree grown on Sea Crest’s grounds—and through his daughter, Cristi Walden, who continues to lead the nursery’s sales and customer relationships. Under her leadership, Sea Crest has remained true to its founder’s original vision: grow the best trees, hire the best people, and serve each client like family. The acquisition ensures that Sea Crest will remain Sea Crest. The nursery will continue to operate under its original name, at its original location, and with the same expert team. Israel, the nursery’s longtime Inventory Manager, has spent over 25 years meticulously overseeing daily operations and caring for Sea Crest’s rare collection of mature palms, cycads, and tropicals. The rest of the crew, Jose and Alejandro, bring more than 100 years of combined experience in the nursery industry.

Donald Goodman is no stranger to building enduring organizations. At just 24 years old, he founded Don Lee Farms—growing it into one of the nation’s most trusted suppliers to leading retailers and food brands. Over the decades, Goodman has received national recognition not just for his business leadership but for his deep commitment to the community. He was named Philanthropist of the Year by the Los Angeles Business Journal in 2022, presented with a Congressional Certificate of Special Recognition by U.S. Congresswoman Maxine Waters, and honored by the City of Inglewood as an “outstanding community partner.” He has served as Chairman of the Board for both the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank and the UCLA Health Santa Monica Medical Center Board of Advisors, and was appointed a Commissioner of the California Apprenticeship Council by the Governor of California. Goodman is also a longtime advocate for mobilizing agricultural resources to fight hunger and supports the health and wellness of American families, seniors, and children.

Looking Ahead Sea Crest Nursery will remain the premier source for mature palms and exotics in California, now with the strength and support of a like-minded partner committed to legacy, craftsmanship, and care. Together, Sea Crest Nursery is rooted in family and reaching toward the future.
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