I've Lived in California for 25 Years-and This Seaside Town Is a True Hidden Gem

"Summerland was once a sleepy little spot on the map, but over the past decade, it's evolved, with upscale shops and treasures for antique enthusiasts. The larger nearby towns are wonderful, but Summerland offered something quieter and more personal, where a space like this could truly become a part of daily life, rather than just a destination."

"The inn and Summerland are really a sweet reminder of my parents' passions and love for the area and hospitality business. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Inn on Summer Hill is a 17-room boutique hotel with plentiful water and garden views, built in the late 1980s and remaining family-run since its opening."

Summerland, a small coastal town near Santa Barbara, California, has evolved significantly over the past decade from a relatively unknown spot into an attractive destination. New businesses including Godmothers bookstore, Field + Fort cafe and gift shop, and the Summerland Antique Collective have contributed to this transformation. The town successfully balances growth with its original intimate atmosphere, offering visitors a quieter, more personal experience compared to larger nearby towns. Local business owners deliberately chose Summerland for its potential to become integrated into daily life rather than serving as a mere tourist destination. The area maintains its appeal as a hidden gem worth exploring during coastal trips.

Read at Travel + Leisure