The Ultimate Travel Guide to Santa Ynez Valley
The Ultimate Travel Guide to SANTA YNEZ VALLEY IN THE CENTRAL COAST REGION OF California (WHAT TO Eat, WHERE TO GO WINE TASTING, PLACES TO STAY + More)
Nestled in the heart of California’s Central Coast, the Santa Ynez Valley is a hidden gem known for its picturesque landscapes, charming small towns and world-class wineries. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a wine-tasting adventure, a girls trip, a weekend getaway or a relaxing retreat, the Santa Ynez Valley offers a perfect blend of luxury and laid-back charm.
This travel guide will take you through all my favorite spots highlighting the best boutique hotels, top restaurants, and must-see attractions throughout the valley, including in Santa Ynez, Los Olivos, Solvang, Buellton, and Los Alamos. Excited to share this area with you as it’s one of my own personal favorite weekend escapes from Los Angeles, and I think, after you read the guide, you’ll understand why.
a guide to the santa ynez valley
TOWNS IN THE SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
Santa Ynez Valley is made up of several small towns all within a few minutes of each other. Of course there is Santa Ynez itself, where you can experience a taste of rustic elegance, but there’s also Buellton, the Gateway to the Santa Ynez Valley, Solvang, a slice of Denkmark in California (much more tourist-forward), Los Olivos, a charming wine lover’s haven, with tasting rooms abound, and, a bit farther to the north, Los Alamos, a bohemian retreat. Most are within 10 minutes of each other, except for Los Alamos which is about 20 minutes. Los Alamos is also my personal favorite town to stay in as it has a little bit of everything (good food, cute shops, wine tasting) so you don’t have to leave the area unless, of course, you want to.
If the focus of your trip to Santa Ynez is wine and wine tasting, know that there are wineries throughout the region. However, I’d recommend basing yourself in Los Olivos as it’s most centrally located and many of the wineries having tasting rooms located right in town so you don’t even have to worry about driving anywhere to go wine tasting.
HOW TO GET TO SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
The best way to get to Santa Ynez is by driving. However, if you’re coming from farther away, you can fly into the regional airport in Santa Barbara then rent a car and drive in.
HOW FAR IS SANTA YNEZ FROM LOS ANGELES- Santa Ynez Valley is about a 2.5 hour drive from Los Angeles
WHERE TO STAY IN THE SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
HOTEL and HOME RENTAL RECOMMENDATIONS
SKYVIEW (LOS ALAMOS)*
This mid-century motor lodge turned chic boutique hotel offers stylish rooms, a rooftop bar (Did I mention the frozen alcoholic popsicles?!), and a heated pool with stunning views of the valley. With the fun vibes, a crowd that leans a little younger and hipper, and bikes and communal fire pits for guests to use; I love that this property as it’s just removed from town, situated up above a working vineyard. This means it’s close enough to bike/drive into town in mere minutes, but also a bit more quiet and peaceful then staying right in the town center, and as an added plus, it’s so lovely to be able to look out on the rolling hills and farms in the distance. This has been my personal favorite place to stay in the Santa Ynez area so far.
HOTEL YNEZ (SOLVANG)*
While technically located in Solvang, this property (from the same team behind Skyview) is a bit more centrally located so it’s great if you’re planning to visit more/all of the towns and a variety of wineries, restaurants and activities as nothing is more than 20 minutes from the property (and some things are less than 5 minutes); amenities include complimentary breakfast (think baked goods, yogurt, oatmeal parfaits, fruit, etc.) from a local restaurant; in-room Nespresso machines, fire pits, a pool and bikes; they have one of the friendliest hotel teams who truly went above and beyond to make sure we had a lovely stay when we were there; just a note that it is a restored roadside motel, right next to said roadside, so, depending on what room you’re in you may have a little roadside noise (depending on the time of day)
ALISAL RANCH (SOLVANG)
This iconic property, which was once host to the likes of Clark Gabel and Ava Gardner, among others, looks like an ABSOLUTE DREAM and it has been high on my list to stay at forever. I mean, cozy chic cabins? Horseback riding? Stunning property set on over 10,500 acres? Fresh ranch-style cooking? Incredible workshops and activities? SIGN ME UP!
The Inn at MATTEI’S TAVERN (LOS OLIVOS)
One of the more elevated, if not THE most elevated, properties in the area, Mattei’s Tavern has been beautifully restored from what was one a popular stagecoach stop in the 1800’s to a stunning Auberge property. It’s updated, fresh and sophisticated charm while maintaining plenty of nods to the locations’s history; a great option to stay right in Los Olivos, especially if you plan to hit up several of the tasting rooms and don’t want to worry about driving
LANDSBY (SOLVANG)
The Landsby is a stylish boutique hotel blending modern Scandinavian design with cozy comfort. Its central location makes it perfect for exploring Solvang’s Danish-inspired attractions. The hotel is definitely the most elevated option in Solvang, and there’s a bar and restaurant right on site
ALAMO MOTEL (LOS ALAMOS)
The Alamo Motel is restored roadside motel from the Shelter Social Club team with minimal Western vibes. The Alamo Motel offers cozy rooms and a laid-back atmosphere in the heart of Los Alamos, making it a great walkable option for local restaurants and attractions.
BODEGA HOUSE (LOS ALAMOS)
A charming renovated and remodeled 1920s farmhouse in Los Alamos from the team behind Bodega. It boasts a chef's kitchen, private patio, and two cozy bedroom, ideal for couples or families, who wish to stay in rather than go out. The house sits on the same property as Bodega’s wine and beer garden making the retail shop and bocce courts a step away.
BALLARD COTTAGE (BALLARD)
A cute, quaint, early 20th century cottage rental recently restored, Ballard Cottage’s location is not one to be missed if you want to be within equal distance, between Los Olivos, Santa Ynez, and Solvang. Updated furnishings combined with old-world charm, this cottage makes for a perfect space to escape to. Not to mention, you will be within walking distance to Los Alamos’s famed Bob’s Well Bread’s second outpost and the Ballard Inn Restaurant.
*Indicates places where I’ve personally stayed so far
WHERE TO EAT in santa ynez
BOB’S WELL BREAD (LOS ALAMOS + BALLARD)
A Los Alamos staple and local favorite for pastries, breads, coffee, breakfast and lunch; you can grab and go or eat in, but be warned, they quickly sell out of many things, especially the pastries, and especially on weekend mornings
BELL’S (LOS ALAMOS)
Bell’s is a French-inspired bistro offering a seasonal menu with dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. It’s a must-visit for foodies. I can say with near certainty that Bell’s (and the eateries the group has opened thereafter) is what put the Santa Ynez area on the foodie map. From the food to service everything is so well done at Bell’s and why it earned its Michelin star. Highly recommend reservations whether you go for lunch or dinner.
BAR LE COTE (LOS OLIVOS)
From the same group behind Bell’s, Bar Le Cote is definitely a bit more hip and vibey, but just as good. Leaning on Spanish influence for its tapas and cuisine, it’s a hit whether for lunch, dinner or the daily happy hour (The fried chicken sandwich is not to be missed!)
NA NA THAI (BUELLTON)
Unreal thai food (Maybe some of the best I’ve had in California?! Bold statement I know but…) that’s delicious and tastes incredibly authentic! Everything we tried was so good, but I highly recommend a curry to your order if you can, and don’t miss the lumpia if they aren’t sold out. Notes- Wednesdays are wing day, they’re open for lunch and dinner, but they are closed Sundays and Mondays.
THE TAVERN AT MATTEI’S TAVERN (LOS OLIVOS)
One of our favorite places to eat in the Santa Ynez Valley; sit in the bar/lounge area for more casual snacks or lunch and drinks (they also offer a social hour Monday-Thursday, 7-9pm) and enjoy an elevated California ranch-inspired meal in the dining room; the menu does have some changes with each new season as they work with fresh regional provisions and local farmers, ranchers and fishers but a few musts include- the bread for all and the soufflé and, in the bar area, the chicharrones and burger are great!
THE LUCKY HEN LARDER (SANTA YNEZ)
Great for sandwiches, salads and cheeseboard accoutrements; also perfect place to pick up provisions to take on a picnic or to a winery
INDUSTRY KITCHEN (BUELLTON)
This quirky eatery offers wood-fired pizzas, creative small plates, and a rotating menu featuring fresh, local ingredients. It’s a foodie’s paradise that is super casual and filled with locals and tourists alike; the pizza and sandwiches are my favorite and I love how the menu incorporates items from local farms in the area.
LITTLE KING COFFEE (BUELLTON)
Come for the coffee, stay for the in-house made baked goods and epic breakfast sandwich!
THE BAKERY FARMSTAND (LOS OLIVOS)
The cutest seasonal bakery stand that is a must stop if you happen to be in the area on a Saturday morning! It’s run by the sweetest couple right in their backyard. They make everything from scratch, there are fresh flowers from their gardens adorning the tables, they serve you coffee and tea in mismatched vintage mugs and honestly, you feel like you’re hanging out in a friend’s backyard. Oh, and it doesn’t hurt that everything is absolutely delicious!
PONY ESPRESSO (SANTA YNEZ)
Come for your espresso fix, stay for their food; also a great spot if you need to get work done
ON MY LIST TO TRY- PRIEDITE BBQ (from the Bell’s family) for bbq on Saturdays and burgers on Sunday (we’ve tried three times so far and they’re always sold out so word to the wise GO EARLY!), GOOD SEED COFFEE, HITCHING POST II, PEASANTS FEAST, FELIX COFEE (coffee shop located at Mattei’s Tavern)
THINGS TO DO IN SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
WINE TASTING (SANTA YNEZ VALLEY)
There are several tour options, including a bike riding one, but see below for my personal favorites in the region for individual tastings.
HORSEBACK RIDING (SANTA YNEZ)
Discover the beauty of the valley on horseback with a guided tour from Vino Vaqueros.
OSTRICH LAND (BUELLTON)
Feed and interact with ostriches and emus at this fun, family-friendly attraction.
DANISH VILLAGE (SOLVANG)
Explore Solvang’s charming Danish architecture, windmills, and bakeries. Don’t miss the Elverhøj Museum of History & Art and the Hans Christian Andersen Museum
BREWERY + DISTILLERY (BUELLTON)
Discover local breweries and distilleries like Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. and DorWood Distillery.
OLIVE + LAVENDER FARMS (LOS OLIVOS)
For olive oils, vinegars and more; they have a cute shop and a pretty outdoor area where you can do a free tasting (no reservation required)
WHERE TO GO WINE TASTING in THE SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
PREQSUILE (SANTA MARIA)
Ok, technically this winery is on the outskirts of the Santa Ynez Valley area but it’s one of my absolute favorite wineries! Everything is incredible from the wines (of course) to the scenery and views (you can actually see all the way to the ocean on a clear day) to the service (everyone is so incredibly nice and helpful), but the food. Let me tell you about the food, because I’m still dreaming about it a month late. Their chef works with seasonal and local ingredients to make a pairing menu that changes with the seasons and everything we had on our spread was so incredibly flavorful. Worth every penny and more. Reservations are required. Oh, and on Friday afternoons they have live music.
SUNSTONE (SANTA YNEZ)
If casual winery that makes you feel like you’re in Italy sounds like your vibe, then this spot is for you. Their space is huge so there’s plenty of places to sit, they take reservations but they aren’t required, you can bring your own food…it’s just a great, chill place to relax with a bottle of wine. Pro planning tip- pick up lunch from The Lucky Hen Larder (it’s just a few minutes down the road), head to Sunstone, get a bottle of wine and settle in for an afternoon (FYI- you don’t have to finish your whole bottle of wine there, you can take whatever you have left with you to go)
BODEGA (LOS ALAMOS)
If you’re looking for a casual outdoor spot to sip on a glass (or bottle) of wine, this cute spot is it. Lots of natural wine options, aesthetically pleasing corners and on weekends you can get bbq (Saturday) and burgers (Sunday) from PRIEDITE BBQ (part of the Bell’s family).
ON MY LIST TO GO TO - BUTTONWOOD WINERY, PETROS, STORY OF SOIL, DEMETRIA ESTATE, VEGA VINEYARD, STOLPMAN
FARMS / FARM STANDS TO CHECK OUT IN SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
FINLEY FARMS (SANTA YNEZ)
Finley Farms not only is a must stop either at the start or end, or even during your time in SYV, but I have now made it a habit to stop there even if I am passing through the area on my way up the coast or coming back home to LA.
ROBLAR (SANTA YNEZ)
Another great little farm stand where you can pick and choose from what seasonal crops the farm puts out. Bonus that it is in the same parking lot as the winery and tasting room.
HIKES IN THE SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
REFUGIO ROAD
A beautiful hike through farmland; park alongside the road and walk the end of Refugio Road for an easier hike, or park at the end of the road and hike up for something steeper and more challenging
NOJOQUI FALLS PARK
Short hike to a waterfall; located in a pretty park that’s great for picnics and grilling
SHOPS IN THE SANTA YNEZ VALLEY
CAMPOVER- one of my favorite shops in the area; great for home goods and gifts
ELDER FLAT (LOS ALAMOS)- Cute little farm shop meets provisions shop
SISTERS- this shop has an array of products from gifts and goods to antiques, homeware and clothes
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
GETTING AROUND SANTA YNEZ (DO YOU NEED A CAR?)
You will need a car to get around the Santa Ynez Valley as it is spread out and includes several towns. If you’re staying within one specific town (i.e. Los Alamos or Los Olivos) you can easily get around the town just by biking or walking.
HOW MANY NIGHTS TO SPEND IN THE SANTA YNEZ AREA
I’ve done everything from a day trip to one night to three nights and the answer is you really can’t go wrong with how long you spend in the area. I’d say if you’ve never been before and want time to do all the things (eat, drink, relax) 2-3 nights or a long weekend is perfect. If you’ve already been and just need a quick escape or you’re tacking it onto a road trip or larger trip, 1-2 nights still allows you to check out a decent tasting of what the area has to offer.
BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT
I’ve visited Santa Ynez Valley throughout all the seasons and they all have something lovely to offer. However, spring and fall are my favorite and, in my opinion, the best seasons to visit. Spring is slightly cooler but everything is vibrant and green and blossoming, and fall, of course, you get to see the vineyards during harvest season and the weather is just lovely. Summer gets incredibly hot so if you do go during that season I highly recommend making sure wherever you stay has a pool. Winter is the quietest (and coolest, but not too cool as it is still California, after all) time of year to go. Most things are still open and available so it’s great time to go if you prefer less crowds and less business. Also, Solvang at Christmas is unmatched if you’re looking for Christmas-in-Europe vibes without having to go all the way to Europe.
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