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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Summer Break at the Lake
By Misty Hall
Central Coast lakes hold some of my best childhood memories. I think back to bathing suits worn all day, accessorized with fishing poles, wakeboards, and s’mores … eating messy popsicles, and riding bikes with a gang of friends … beating my dad in gin rummy while listening to classic rock on the radio … these were the moments I waited for all year long.
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Conejo Canyon Open Space Trails
A gorgeous escape with versatile outdoor recreation
Story and photos by Adam Nuñez
Drive just 15 minutes northeast of Old Town Camarillo to the Conejo Canyons Open Space Trails, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported hours away. At the trailhead, the quiet stillness is interrupted only by wind rustling through tall eucalyptus trees and the murmur of a tranquil river. The canyon walls stretch steeply upwards, invigorating your body and mind. You’ll forget that you’re so close to civilization.
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