If the exclusivity of communities like Hope Ranch and Montecito aren’t really your speed, maybe you’ll appreciate the small town living of historic Carpinteria. It’s beloved by surfers, artists and families – all those who appreciate amazing beaches, mild weather and a relaxed, family friendly atmosphere. “Carp,” as its known by locals, is home to great restaurants and a thriving arts community.  If you want to get a feel for what Carpenteria has to offer, take a stroll down Linden Avenue. It’s the main street of town, home to many popular cafes, restaurants and shops, art galleries and retail. Carpinteria is still the kind of town where kids roam the streets on bikes, doors are left unlocked and people know to their neighbors.  Carp is also definitely a beach town, actually known as “worlds safest beach.”  Located at the southerly tip of Santa Barbara county, it’s right next door to Ventura County and home to a notable surf spot called El Rincon.

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