Swap The Crowded Cities Of The California Coast For This Beachside Enclave With Seaside Paths And Shops

"California dreaming" is not just a nostalgic refrain but a living, breathing experience. After all, with its sun-kissed shores, thriving surf culture, and mesmerizing bioluminescent waves that light up the beaches during spring and fall, the "Golden State" remains a beacon of creativity, inspiration, and overall good vibes. However, as tourism skyrockets in the state and popular hotspots are weathering the tide of urbanization, it's becoming harder to find places that still retain that authentic, tranquil allure. Enter Summerland, a name that is a promise in itself — or, for the most nostalgic Millennials, the title of an iconic early 2000s TV series. Summerland is a 1,200-inhabitant beachside town surrounded by the untouched wilderness of Santa Barbara County. And there's the kicker: This seaside gem is not too far from the action.

Conveniently located along a scenic route that stretches from San Diego to Sonoma, Summerland is less than a 10-minute drive south of Montecito, one of the most incredible California spots that you need to visit in your lifetime, according to locals, and about a two-hour drive from the heart of Los Angeles. If you are craving pristine beaches, long walks in the wilderness, and a taste of simple, laid-back coastal life — or are just looking to level up your surf game — this is the kind of place that deserves a top spot on your getaway wishlist!

If Southern California is the land of endless sunshine, then Summerland is surely one of its brightest expressions. The town enjoys nearly 300 days of sunshine every year, offering ample opportunity to embrace the outdoors and fully experience its natural beauty. Just a few minutes from central Ortega Hill Road is the beloved Summerland Beach. 

Perched atop a coastal bluff, this sweeping stretch of sand framed by the picturesque Lookout Park offers panoramic ocean views reaching to the Channel Islands, a wide range of water activities, and an overall family-friendly vibe. Near the beach is a beloved café, the Summerland Beach Café, housed in a historic 132-year-old Victorian building. Interesting is also the possibility of horseback riding along the seashore, an activity not commonly allowed on other SoCal surf-heavy beaches.

From Summerland Beach, you can then walk east to the quiet Loon Point Beach in the nearby town of Carpinteria. It's about a 1-mile walk along the shore, or approximately 7.5 miles if you take the inland route, which should take around three hours. While Loon Point Beach might not be fully serviced, the inconvenience of setting up your beach tent might be well worth the effort, especially if you're up to chasing the perfect wave or admiring the famous tidepools. Walking in the opposite direction towards Montecito, you'll pass by Fernald Point, Miramar Beach, and Hammonds Beach, ultimately reaching picturesque Butterfly Beach. A quieter, more secluded option near Summerland is Finney Street Beach. If you plan to drive here, be mindful that finding a free parking spot might be challenging – a small trade-off for such an idyllic hidden gem.

Perhaps the most delightful way to cap off a relaxing beach day is with an indulgent shopping spree. Fortunately, Summerland is more than equipped to satisfy your desires even in this department. Downtown, particularly around Ortega Hill Road and Lillie Avenue, is dotted with boutique shops, antique stores, and family-owned businesses offering exceptional deals and timeless finds — the kind of places where you know when you walk in, but not when you'll come out, as you could spend an entire day combing through the unique items. 

Standout spots include the longstanding Summerland Antiques Collective, described by a visitor on Google Reviews as "a museum of nostalgic memorabilia," and The Sacred Space, a true mecca for spiritual seekers, with its wide-ranging collection of handpicked items, most of which are inspired by Eastern culture or actual artifacts from the East. You can even attend breathwork and meditation workshops, as well as traditional tea ceremonies at The Sacred Space. If curling up with a good book by the sea is your kind of bliss, plan a visit to Godmothers and let the staff guide you in finding the book that best matches your mood.

Interesting is also the culinary scene at Summerland, ranging from the thoughtfully crafted sandwiches and seasonal salads at Feast at Field + Fort to the heartier, laid-back fare of The Nugget Bar and Grill, famed for its "Prime Rib Night" served twice a week at dinner — just note, they don't take reservations.