Los Olivos is a charming stagecoach town. Park anywhere in the village center and walk around. There are dozens of wine tasting rooms, as well as some great breweries. There are also lots of little shops. ProTip: There are very nice public restrooms located at the Episcopal Church, a 5 minute walk from anywhere.
California's Central Coast is home to some of the best wineries in the world. It's a great place to drive around, enjoy the weather and the view, taste and learn about wines, and grab a lunch at a local grocery or cheese shop.
This state park and beach are located just 15 minutes south of Solvang. We wouldn't let you miss the beach after coming all the way to California!
For all your ostrich needs.
Solvang is a very fun, Scandinavian town at the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley wine country. There are tons of little shops, museums, tasting rooms, carriage rides, BAKERIES, and the historic Mission at the edge of town. Everything is within walking distance.
Missions were established across the Spanish territory by the Catholic Church. Visit this mission to find out more, or attend mass on Sunday.
Hikes are a great way to see the beauty of California! The Los Padres National Forest is HUGE, but has several trail heads north of the Santa Ynez Valley.
Income inequality as bad as the 1920's and an erratic stock market getting you down? Then don't visit Hearst Castle. But if you're feeling positive and looking for a beautiful drive up the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), this Roaring 20s masterpiece is a spectacular, must-see. Designed and built by female powerhouse architect, Julia Morgan over nearly 30 years, Hearst Castle featured 56 bedrooms, 61 bathrooms, 19 sitting rooms, 127 acres of gardens, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, a movie theater, an airfield, and the world's largest private zoo. Newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst entertained the likes of Charlie Chaplin, Cary Grant, the Marx Brothers, Charles Lindbergh, Greta Garbo, Joan Crawford, Clark Gable, Jimmy Stewart, Franklin Roosevelt, and Winston Churchill at this sprawling hill-top estate. A MUST: Reserve your tickets online before you go. They sell out fast.
Santa Barbara's Funk Zone is steps from the water and a great place to get YET MORE wine. There's lots of tasting rooms close together, restaurants, and shops. HINT: For some of the best authentic Mexican street tacos around, visit Mony's on Anacapa Street, between East Montecito and East Yanonali.