Where are the best places to live in California?

Somewhere not too insanely crowded, but with nice beaches for surfing, and upper class neighborhoods. It's for a story I'm writing, so I would really appreciate the help!

Public Comments

1. Maybe somewhere AROUND Vegas or Hollywood not in them though it would be too crowded.
2. I would say the best would probably be Santa Barbara for what you are looking for. http://www.santabarbaraca.gov/
3. You are describing San Juan Capistrano, in northern San Diego County. Former President Nixon's western White House was located there. (would someone please tell "Auumn" that Las Vegas is not in California)
4. santa cruz i live in long beach, its got palm trees and next to the beach, but i dont think youll like the neighborhoods