Santa Barbara, California

In L.A., with an afternoon to spare, I jumped on the 101 freeway North to have lunch in Santa Barbara. It was a Sunday, so there's a beach-side art show that is excellent for browsing (and gift shopping).













A casual lunch at Longboard's on the pier (Stearns Wharf) is always good. Outdoor seating available, kid- and pigeon-friendly atmosphere.










But please don't fish near the Sea Center. (When I was a kid, I held a sea cucumber at the Sea Center. As I recall, a slimy and squishy experience. Fun!)













Off-pier pan-handling is cool, though. This sign says "Why Lie? Need beer":













Frolic on the beach, then a lovely sunset on the way back to base. A great way to spend a day.