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.”
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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.
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Polo by the Sea
The historic Santa Barbara Polo and Racquet Club offers equine thrills for all
Story by Mike Miller, Photos by Michelle Lauren Photography
If you are looking for a thrilling sporting event with lots of action, great food and drinks, majestic horses, and thousands of beautiful people, look no further than the Santa Barbara Polo and Racquet Club. The Central Coast is home to some of the best polo competition in the world, and the Santa Barbara grounds are a destination for both diehard polo fans and those looking to watch the sport for the very first time.
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Hoop Hype
UCSB basketball offers a very different — and very exciting —
way to experience the Central Coast
By Mike Miller
Photos by Jeff Liang
If you live, work, or play along the Central Coast and you are looking for something fun and different to do this winter, look no further than University of California, Santa Barbara men’s and women’s basketball. Situated on one of the most beautiful locations in Santa Barbara County, UCSB is a gem both athletically and academically. In fact, UCSB was recently ranked the No. 7 public university in the country by U.S. News and World Report. Especially if you have kids into basketball, or who are looking at colleges, UCSB is a must-see.
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Central Coast Hikes
Story and photos by Adam Nuñez
Finding harmony in Harmon Canyon Preserve
Follow the trails of the Harmon Canyon Preserve, and you’ll traverse over grassy hills and under knotted oak trees. You’ll pass fragrant sage plants and hear the skitter of wildlife through the thick brush. Bobcats, deer, coyotes, raccoons, skunks, and badgers have been spotted here — along with human hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers, too.
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Discovering Old Town Camarillo
Culture, community, and culinary creativity with a Central Coast flare
By Nicole Leonetti
I have a confession to make: I have lived in Los Angeles for almost 12 years, and I only just went to Old Town Camarillo for the first time a few weeks ago. I would zoom past it on my way to Santa Barbara several times a year, and that was that. But now that I’ve gotten off Hwy 101 and explored the area, I can’t believe I didn’t visit sooner. The multitude of restaurants, shops, and activities match up perfectly with my idea of a good time. Also, Old Town’s proximity to the Camarillo Outlets and the Metrolink are a huge plus. But perhaps I found Old Town at exactly the right time. There is currently a sense of community in Old Town that I have yet to experience elsewhere. The term “hidden gem” is overused, but that’s what I discovered upon my first visit. Take your time and enjoy all that Old Town Camarillo has to offer. It’s worth it!
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