July in Sunset

Ok, I prematurely promised a look at the July issue of Sunset magazine. That was before I flipped through it and realized -- ooops -- there's nothing about SLO County this month!

There is, however, a look at the close-by "Gaviota Coast," as the magazine calls it, touting the long, unspoiled beaches, hidden canyons and rolling orchards. There are mentions of Gaviota State Park, El Capitan State Beach and Canyon Resort, the Arroyo Honda Preserve and more. Not a bad place to explore if you have to leave SLO County. Find the story online here, with the what/where info here.

If you are down that way, Santa Barbara's El Cielo, atop the Hotel Andalucia, makes the magazine's Top 10 Rooftop Bars.

Sip wine from nearby 
Sideways country against a backdrop of 
the Santa Ynez Mountains, the Channel Islands, and the red-tiled roofs of downtown. The mission-style fireplace at the intimate poolside lounge ups the romantic ante.