Things to Do in Carpinteria: California’s Secret Beach Town
Looking for things to do in Carpinteria, California? From beach walks and botanical gardens to charming shops and cozy stays. A solo traveler’s guide to this under-the-radar coastal gem.

Looking for things to do in Carpinteria, California? From beach walks and botanical gardens to charming shops and cozy stays. A solo traveler’s guide to this under-the-radar coastal gem.

Have you ever dreamed of spending a full month by the California coast — soaking up the sunshine, exploring a charming walkable beach town, and truly settling into “slow travel” life?…

The next time you drive down California’s glorious coast, be sure to stop in at Santa Barbara’s less glamorous but equally beautiful little sister, Carpinteria! This small city of @15,000 is…

Short on time in Cinque Terre? Follow this relaxed one-day itinerary with trains, views, and local bites: perfect for first-time or solo travelers.

Planning a beachy escape to Cinque Terre? Discover why Monterosso al Mare is the best place to stay for sea views, sand, and charm—plus my full Hotel Baia review.

Thinking of spending a laid-back afternoon in Malibu, California? Whether you’re cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway from Santa Barbara or escaping LA for the day, Malibu is a dream destination for…

When I asked some British friends to take me to a cool and unique spot for the weekend, they immediately said, “Minehead.” I had seen their family vacation photos for years:…

175 W. Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, California One of my favorite places in California is the Dream Inn Resort Hotel in Santa Cruz! It’s the only beachfront hotel in Santa Cruz…

I stumbled upon Dillon Beach Resort while looking for cool places in Northern California, and I hit the jackpot! After signing up for their mailing list I was notified of a…

Capitola is a ridiculously charming beach village in the Monterey Bay of California. Colorful buildings, palm trees, restaurants, shops and pretty vistas galore! It is the perfect spot for a beach…

Discover what to do in Capitola, from beach days to unique independent shops, plus my favorite spots from decades of visits, including where to stay.

Capitola is my happy place and also, apparently, my unofficial second residence judging by how often I’m eating here. This tiny beach town just south of Santa Cruz is packed with…