Uniquely laid-back but distinctly upscale, Santa Barbara is the quintessential modern California beach community, complete with world-class shopping and dining, pristine beaches, and beautiful hills of wine country surrounding.

Whether you like to relax on the beach, hit the local boutiques, or head out to the trails for some horse-riding or hiking, you’ll have plenty to see and explore in Santa Barbara, especially if you’re traveling with a family. And, the city is less than two hours north of Los Angeles if you get the urge to explore the greater SoCal region.