When the sun sets upon the Pacific Ocean, the Channel Islands are silhouetted with glorious color. That's when you'll want to take it all in from your own lush, fully landscaped deck or patio. Make it easy to stay outdoors with a first class grill, refrigerator and a shady outdoor dining space where you can wine and dine all night long. This mild climate is home to some of California's best estate landscapes, with many local designers and contractors serving this swanky coastal community.

A Mediterranean climate suits most plants, making this area a horticultural dream. It's home to the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden where you'll find California native plants that make fine candidates for arid landscapes. Visit Casa Del Herrero to experience the beauty of Spanish architecture and gardens. There is no better place for viewing exotics and succulents than Lotusland, an old Montecito estate with world renowned planting compositions.

Further inland conditions become warmer and more rural so equestrian lovers in Los Olivos may expand their ranch homes into true indoor-outdoor living rooms. In nearby Solvang and Lompoc, large custom homes and properties provide plenty of room for a swimming pool. When combined with an outdoor kitchen, there's little reason to come indoors much of the year.

In Santa Maria and Goleta, both perched upon the coast, a relaxed resort atmosphere is ideal for outdoor entertaining. Prepare Santa Maria's famous barbecued meats at home with a powerful backyard grill to feed two or twenty. This is agricultural country due to quality soils that are tailor made for a home orchard or food garden. Why not try a grape shrouded shade arbor for those aficionados of the local vineyards and wineries?

This magical part of the California coast is a blend of estates, high end homes and smaller bungalows in many different styles. Nowhere else is the maritime influence so welcome and mild temperatures make outdoor living an everyday lifestyle.