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 holiday in the friendly communities in this southern California region.

Come to the six communities of the Santa Ynez Valley to enjoy a California holiday 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 favourites 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-centred and other exciting events every weekend.

Throughout the valley, find quaint and welcoming accommodation 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 kilometres) 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.

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
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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
Modern Valley Oasis! Pet-friendly & Walkable to DT

Modern Valley Oasis! Pet-friendly & Walkable to DT

2 out of 5
Santa Ynez
Modern Valley Oasis! Pet-friendly & Walkable to DT
ForFriends Inn Bed and Breakfast

ForFriends Inn Bed and Breakfast

3.5 out of 5
1121 Edison Street, Santa Ynez, CA
ForFriends Inn Bed and Breakfast
Gastro HQ: Luxe Studio, Walk To Best Restaurants, L2EV, Sleeps 4, Unit 5 Madera

Gastro HQ: Luxe Studio, Walk To Best Restaurants, L2EV, Sleeps 4, Unit 5 Madera

Santa Ynez
Gastro HQ: Luxe Studio, Walk To Best Restaurants, L2EV, Sleeps 4, Unit 5 Madera
Wine Country Dream: Luxe Studio, Winery Passes, L2EV, Sleeps 4, Unit 6 Edison

Wine Country Dream: Luxe Studio, Winery Passes, L2EV, Sleeps 4, Unit 6 Edison

Santa Ynez
Wine Country Dream: Luxe Studio, Winery Passes, L2EV, Sleeps 4, Unit 6 Edison
Gastro HQ2: Luxe Studio Walk To Best Restaurants, L2EV, Sleeps 4, Unit 5 Faraday

Gastro HQ2: Luxe Studio Walk To Best Restaurants, L2EV, Sleeps 4, Unit 5 Faraday

Santa Ynez
Gastro HQ2: Luxe Studio Walk To Best Restaurants, L2EV, Sleeps 4, Unit 5 Faraday
Horse Country Heaven: Luxe Studio, Santa Ynez, L2EV, Sleeps 4, Unit 1 Sagunto

Horse Country Heaven: Luxe Studio, Santa Ynez, L2EV, Sleeps 4, Unit 1 Sagunto

Santa Ynez
Horse Country Heaven: Luxe Studio, Santa Ynez, L2EV, Sleeps 4, Unit 1 Sagunto
Cyclist Paradise: Luxe Studio Wine Country Beauty L2EV Sleeps 4, Unit 3 Numancia

Cyclist Paradise: Luxe Studio Wine Country Beauty L2EV Sleeps 4, Unit 3 Numancia

Santa Ynez
Cyclist Paradise: Luxe Studio Wine Country Beauty L2EV Sleeps 4, Unit 3 Numancia
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 offers a delightful blend of romance and outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for a memorable getaway. Visitors can explore scenic recreational areas and enjoy a round of golf at local courses. With its charming atmosphere, the valley promises a variety of entertainment options that cater to all tastes, ensuring a fantastic experience for every traveller.

Shopping

For shopping in Santa Ynez Valley, visit the Camino Real Marketplace, offering a vibrant public market atmosphere 30.6km away. Alternatively, the Paseo Nuevo Mall, located 43.5km away, features diverse shops and entertainment options. Don't miss the CORE Wine Company Tasting Room, 40.2km away, for unique wine gifts.

Recreation

At Sunny Fields Park, enjoy tranquil walks amidst lush greenery and serene picnic spots. The Valley Holistic Healing Center offers rejuvenating treatments that promote relaxation. Nojoqui Falls Park invites you to explore picturesque trails leading to a stunning waterfall, perfect for unwinding in nature.

Adventure

Explore the Lost Valley Trail, a scenic hiking experience located 33.8km from Santa Ynez Valley, where you can immerse yourself in nature. For cycling enthusiasts, the Cabrillo Bikeway offers a delightful outdoor ride 43.5km away, while the Municipal Tennis Center, 46.7km away, invites you for some energetic tennis matches.

Nightlife

Experience the charming atmosphere at Solvang Festival Theater, just 3.2km from Santa Ynez Valley, offering culture and romance. For a lively evening, visit Cold Spring Tavern, 27.4km away, where you can enjoy drinks in a relaxed pub vibe filled with entertainment and romance.

*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 romance and outdoor adventure, making it perfect for a charming getaway. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches, historic churches, and urban parks, catering to those seeking cultural experiences and outdoor activities. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely stroll along the coast or soaking up the local culture, the valley promises a memorable holiday filled with diverse attractions and stunning scenery.

  • Old Mission Santa Ines: Experience the serene beauty and rich history of this charming church, nestled amidst the rolling hills of Santa Ynez Valley. With its stunning architecture and cultural significance, this mission offers a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into California's heritage.
  • River Course at the Alisal: Enjoy a round of golf at this picturesque course, known for its scenic views and friendly atmosphere. With a backdrop of lush landscapes, it's an ideal spot for both seasoned golfers and those looking to unwind in nature.
  • Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum: Delight in a fascinating collection of motorcycles that span decades, showcasing the evolution of transport. This family-friendly museum provides an engaging experience for all ages, blending culture and nostalgia in a unique setting.

Best time to go to Santa Ynez Valley

The best time to visit Santa Ynez Valley is dependant 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 trip to Santa Ynez Valley, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January to February or November, avoiding the pricier summer season. Booking your stay on a Tuesday can also lead to significant savings. Use Expedia to find the best hotel deals and consider package options that combine flights and accommodations. Look for eco-friendly options and check cancellation policies for added flexibility. Additionally, explore free local activities to enhance your experience without straining 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the “Eco-certified” filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly accommodations available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You may find it beneficial to save money by combining your Santa Ynez Valley hotel accommodation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.