SeeCalifornia.com

I am dog”less” when I travel, but always love to stop for a breather just south of luxurious Montecito at a dog-friendly beach in Summerland, Calif. A quick exit off the coastal I-101, the beach is at the bottom of a paved path descending from the beautiful Lookout Park with picnic tables, a playground for kids, public restrooms, sand volleyball court and vending machines with soft drinks. It’s always been an inspiring road stop that lets you put your feet in the sand within approx. 2 minutes, or just stand on the hilltop and gaze toward the city of Santa Barbara to the north. Summerland, once known for the now shuttered Big Yellow House restaurant, has antiques stores, several restaurants, a hotel, plus a post office and convenience store. Do stop when you see the Summerland exit and head over the railroad tracks to the beach. Dogs must remain on leash in the park, though there are no lifeguards on duty and most people seem to let their well-behaved dogs run free down on the beach.