Swim (lifeguards on duty), stroll or just picnic on this gem of a stretch of sand, also known as Hendry's Beach, 5 miles southwest of Santa Barbara. It's flat, wide, away from tourists and great for kids, who can go tide-pooling. It’s also a popular local surf spot and the eastern section is dog-friendly (there's even a dog wash in the parking lot).
For a refined post-beach experience, grab a cocktail and some healthy food at the Boathouse, right next to the sand.