California sunsets: Carpinteria State Beach glows in the colorful, setting sun. The photographer who took this picture is not known, though they provided a beautiful representation of what it is like to be in the Central Coast beach town when the sun goes down.

If you've never stopped and enjoyed the small seaside city south of Santa Barbara, take the time to do so and you'll be hooked on the more rural appearance of the place compared to busy Santa Barbara.

Shown are children playing in the waves that wash to shore as the sun sets over another perfect day on the Central Coast.

When you go: Carpinteria is located on California's coast, a short exit off Highway 101. The small city includes Carpinteria State Beach with beach tent camping and RV camping, and a charming small town atmosphere with a few shops and restaurants that are beach-focused.

In addition, there's an Amtrak Surfliner train stop that drops you off right next to downtown shopping and beaches. It stops approx. 5 times per day, both directions.