Santa Ynez Valley

Photo provided by Visit Santa Ynez Valley
Photo provided by Tenley Fohl/Visit Santa Ynez Valley
Photo provided by Tenley Fohl/Visit Santa Ynez Valley
Photo provided by Visit Santa Ynez Valley
Photo provided by Visit Santa Ynez Valley


Wine, history and outdoor recreation come together for a great vacation in the friendly communities in this southern California region.

Come to the six communities of the Santa Ynez Valley to enjoy a California vacation away from big city bustle and crowds. Sample wine, craft beer and delicious food on leisurely tours of the area. Explore the countryside by bicycle or play golf at a different course each day.

The Santa Ynez Valley, where Sideways was filmed, has over 120 wineries in the heart of Santa Barbara County’s wine country. Chat with winemakers at boutique vineyards as you sip chardonnay, pinot noir, syrah,sauvignon blanc, pinot grigio, cabernet sauvignon and viognier. Select your favorites and have a case or two shipped home.

Drive or bike along the Santa Barbara VintnersWine Trail. Watch horses galloping over the rolling hills in the pretty countryside. Travel a bit south to Kashtayit State Marine Conservation Area for views of the ocean.

You may think you’re in Northern Europe when you visit Solvang with its iconic windmills and Danish bakeries. Nearby Buellton has wineries and craft breweries. Select from several golf courses or hike, take a hot air balloon or glider ride or rent a trike for three-wheeled exercise.

In the tiny town of Ballard, see the Little Red Schoolhouse still providing excellent education. Several towns have maintained the appearance and character of their Old West heritage. Visit the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Society Museum in Santa Ynez to learn about the area’s history. September’s Los Alamos Valley Old Days celebration brings the past alive. Los Olivos has many buildings over 100 years old. Enjoy its wine-centered and other exciting events every weekend.

Throughout the valley, find quaint and welcoming accommodations and exceptional one-of-a-kind culinary experiences. Enjoy the best of California’s fresh produce prepared by skilled chefs, sign up for cooking classes or learn how to pair wine with food selections.

The Santa Ynez Valley is 30 miles (50 kilometers) northwest of Santa BarbaraOpens in a new window. Drive here or use a bus connection to Solvang from Amtrak train stops in several California cities.

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

Chumash Casino Resort

Chumash Casino Resort

4 out of 5
3400 East Highway 246, Santa Ynez, CA
Chumash Casino Resort
The Genevieve

The Genevieve

4 out of 5
3627 Sagunto Street, Santa Ynez, CA
The Genevieve
Wine Valley Inn

Wine Valley Inn

3 out of 5
1564 Copenhagen Dr, Solvang, CA
Wine Valley Inn
Vinland Hotel and Lounge

Vinland Hotel and Lounge

3.5 out of 5
1455 Mission Dr, Solvang, CA
Vinland Hotel and Lounge
Corque Hotel, Solvang, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Corque Hotel, Solvang, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel

4 out of 5
400 Alisal Rd., Solvang, CA
Corque Hotel, Solvang, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Royal Copenhagen Inn

Royal Copenhagen Inn

2.5 out of 5
1579 Mission drive, Solvang, CA
Royal Copenhagen Inn
King Frederik Inn

King Frederik Inn

2.5 out of 5
1617 Copenhagen Drive, Solvang, CA
King Frederik Inn
Svendsgaard's Danish Lodge Americas Best Value Inn

Svendsgaard's Danish Lodge Americas Best Value Inn

2 out of 5
1711 Mission Dr, Solvang, CA
Svendsgaard's Danish Lodge Americas Best Value Inn
Kronborg Inn

Kronborg Inn

3 out of 5
1440 Mission Dr, Solvang, CA
Kronborg Inn
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Santa Ynez Valley

Santa Ynez Valley is ideal for outdoor adventures and romantic getaways, featuring a variety of activities such as wine tastings and wine tours for wellness seekers. Visitors can also enjoy recreational areas, picnic spots, and golf courses, making it a perfect destination for relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re indulging in local wines or enjoying the scenic beauty, Santa Ynez Valley promises a delightful escape.

Shopping

For shopping in Santa Ynez Valley, visit Camino Real Marketplace, a vibrant public market 30.6km away, perfect for unique gifts. Alternatively, head to Paseo Nuevo Mall, 43.5km away, offering a mix of entertainment and family-friendly stores. Don't forget the Rafael Gonzalez House store, also 43.5km away, for special finds.

Recreation

At Sunny Fields Park, enjoy tranquil walks amidst nature and serene picnic spots just 1.6km from Santa Ynez Valley. The Valley Holistic Healing Center, located four miles away, offers rejuvenating body treatments. Nojoqui Falls Park, seven miles from the valley, features refreshing hikes and stunning waterfall views.

Adventure

Embark on the Lost Valley Trail for a scenic hike, surrounded by stunning landscapes located 33.8km from Santa Ynez Valley. For cycling enthusiasts, the Cabrillo Bikeway offers an exhilarating outdoor experience, situated 43.5km away. Alternatively, enjoy a spirited match at the Municipal Tennis Center, 46.7km away.

Nightlife

Experience the enchanting atmosphere at Solvang Festival Theater, just 3.2km away, where romance and culture come alive. For a cosy pub vibe, venture 27.4km to Cold Spring Tavern, perfect for sipping drinks and enjoying entertainment in a charming setting.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Santa Ynez Valley

Santa Ynez Valley offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures, romantic getaways, and beach experiences. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including picturesque beaches, charming churches, and urban parks. This region caters to travellers seeking cultural enrichment and outdoor enjoyment, ensuring a memorable holiday filled with diverse activities and breathtaking scenery.

  • Lake Cachuma: Located 16.1km from Santa Ynez Valley, Lake Cachuma offers a picturesque setting with its sandy beaches and stunning scenery. It's perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and picnicking, making it an ideal spot for romance and relaxation amidst nature.
  • Solvang Windmill: Situated only 3.2km away, the Solvang Windmill is a charming heritage site that captures the essence of Danish culture. Its striking architecture and historical significance provide a delightful glimpse into the area's unique heritage.
  • Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden: Just 9.7km from Santa Ynez Valley, this botanical garden is a family-friendly oasis. With its beautiful flora and serene outdoor spaces, it’s a wonderful place for leisurely strolls and romantic moments surrounded by nature.

Best time to go to Santa Ynez Valley

The best time to visit Santa Ynez Valley is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February54.0°F (12.2°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
April57.9°F (14.4°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
May60.4°F (15.8°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June65.3°F (18.5°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July69.1°F (20.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August69.8°F (21.0°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September68.9°F (20.5°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October65.1°F (18.4°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
November59.0°F (15.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
December54.1°F (12.3°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Ynez Valley

To save money on your visit to Santa Ynez Valley, consider travelling during the off-peak months of January to February and November, when accommodation prices are lower. Tuesdays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia to refine your accommodation search and explore eco-friendly options. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can yield further savings. Additionally, keep an eye out for flash sales and discounts on beverages and car rentals to maximise your budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Santa Ynez Valley are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Santa Ynez Valley is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Santa Ynez Valley is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable options and offers, arrange the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservations in Santa Ynez Valley with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.