See This, Skip That: Santa Barbara

This posh enclave 90 miles north of Los Angeles lives up to every expectation.

ByABC News
June 7, 2014, 7:00 AM
Pictured is Santa Barbara, Calif.
Pictured is Santa Barbara, Calif.
Alan Tsai/Getty Images

June 7, 2014— -- They call Santa Barbara, California, the American Riviera, and this posh enclave located just 90 miles north of Los Angeles lives up to every expectation. Hugged by beaches and mountains, this town is alive with inspired architecture and a throbbing food and libations scene, and it’s replete with relaxed elegance. It’s no coincidence that celebrities, moguls and the well-traveled choose to live here, along with a mixed community that screams diversity and color. I, an L.A. transplant, have proudly called this community home for more than 15 years and can say, without hesitation, that traveling to this very special east-west slice of California coastline will never disappoint. These special Santa Barbara experiences are among my favorites.