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Scenic drives - Foothill Rd/East Valley Rd goes along the base of the mtns. The section between Carpinteria and the SB Mission is really pretty. Hwy 154/San Marcos Pass goes up and over the mtns to Santa Ynez Valley (lots of mountain and ocean views). Cabrillo Blvd/Shoreline Dr/Marina Dr. goes along the waterfront and through Hope Ranch. Even just taking 101 to the N of SB into the Santa Ynez Valley is nice (that's my daily commute).
Hiking - lots of good trails in the front country, depends on how easy or hard you are looking for. Romero Cyn, Cold Springs, Rattlesnake Cyn, Tunnel Trail, Jesusita Trail. Most of these tend to get busy on weekends. Trails themselves aren't crowded per se, but parking may suck. Over the hills in Santa Ynez area there are lots more trails, a bit longer and more remote. Too many to list!
Food - there's a lot of good stuff around here, downtown SB can be a bit pricey as it is more touristy. There are a number of good Mexican places. Seafood - Brophy Bros at the harbor, SB Fishouse (a bit $$$), SB Shellfish Co on Stearn's Wharf (small place, delicious and fresh). Again lots of options over the hills in Santa Ynez Valley (Solvang, Buellton, Los Olivos, Santa Ynez all have good places). Avant Tapas & Wine, Firestone Walker Taproom, Cecco, A-ru. . .
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