Just 12 miles down the coast from fashionable Santa Barbara, which touts itself as the American Riviera, lies a more humble haven. Carpinteria State Beach may be the ultimate picnic spot for smog-weary Angelenos. (Tim Hubbard/ Los Angeles Times)
Swim, body-surf or boogie-board. Stroll or jog for miles along the beach. Comb for seashells at low tide. Wade into waters near the San Miguel Campground, where anemones, crabs and other tide-pool creatures inhabit a rocky formation. (Tim Hubbard/ Los Angeles Times)
Hike the Carpinteria Beach Trail along the coast and bluffs that overlook the Harbor Seal Preserve, where passels of pinnipeds sun themselves in winter.
Or just grab a book and enjoy the gentle breezes and salt air.
Hours fly by. Before you know it, a chill sets in and crimson starts creeping up the sky. Time to pack up. (Spencer Weiner/ Los Angeles Times)
