It’s been called America’s Riviera because it’s as gorgeous and temperate as that famous stretch of European coast, except with the added value of movie stars (Brad Pitt and Oprah have homes there). And things to do in Santa Barbara range from the expected (long beach walks and poolside naps) to the novel (strolling a whole neighborhood devoted to wine tasting). The town’s rolling mountains have long enticed visitors, as have the miles of gently sloping beaches. But there’s also plenty that’s new and exciting in this enclave where monied settlers’ descendants rub shoulders with UCSB coeds—and everyone finds time to stop for just a moment to appreciate the world-class pink-hued sunset.