Cream of the Carp: A day in Carpinteria

Carpinteria may just be one of California’s best kept secrets. Join Kerstin Kuhn as she explores the best of one of our favorite little beach towns along the Central Coast.

By Kerstin Kuhn

If there’s one thing California is renowned for across the globe, it’s the iconic coastline and laid-back beach lifestyle. From the rugged beauty of the Northern Coast to the legendary surf breaks of Southern California, our Golden State is a treasure trove of seaside attractions with dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and enchanting little beach towns dotted along the way.

Cycling the Central Coast

Whether in the mountains along the shore, there’s no better way to experience the Central Coast than on two wheels

By Misty Hall

If you’ve read this magazine before, you’ve probably noticed I’m always harping on you to get off the freeway and explore the amazing communities along the Central Coast. One fabulous way to do that? Rent a bike! “You get to see more than if you’re walking, but it’s still personal like walking,” said Toby Kaiser-Arnett, owner of Pedego Electric Bikes Pismo Beach. “If things are blooming, you smell them. If you want to stop and take photos, it’s no big deal. You can meander a bit … You’re really able to experience a place.”

Randy’s Recipes: Summer Grillin’ Menu

Summertime and the grillin’s easy.

When I think about summer, I think about spending all day at the beach body surfing or firing up my grill on a beautiful day on California’s Central Coast. I remember Dad grilling two large Porterhouse steaks for the four of us. I remember because Dad couldn’t ordinarily afford good cuts of meat. He constantly grilled hamburgers and hot dogs for us, but rarely anything else.

Too Much Screen Time this Summer?

Bring The Kids To The Airfield. Flying radio control airplanes at Lake Casitas

By Clarissa Fishman

It’s a beautiful morning in May, and I’m driving through Lake Casitas. Thanks to the abundant rain storms we had this year, the lake water level is up to 78 percent of capacity — and it’s evident everywhere you look. Nature feels replenished, and it has been a true blessing to witness this lush landscape and burgeoning spring. Today, the hills have already begun turning that signature California golden hue, which has a beauty all its own, but the amount of water we received this winter has us all breathing a big sigh of relief.

Summertime Drinks: Whites and Pinks

Exploring the Central Coast’s best summer wines

By Don Sonderling

After a rather overcast spring along the Central Coast, we’re ready for a sun-drenched summer! Lounging by the pool, backyard grilling, picnicking, concert-going — this calls for whites and pinks. Wines, that is.