Santa Ynez Valley Destinations
  


  
    

Santa Ynez Valley Destinations

A Directory of Places to Go and Things to Do
In the Santa Ynez Valley

ART GALLERIES
• Cypress Gallery. Featuring original works by Central Coast artists, including Vicki Anderson, Dee Sudbury and Shirley Wallace. 119 E. Cypress Ave., Lompoc, (805) 737-1129.
• Details Boutique & Art Gallery. Combining art and style with original works by local artists in the midst of a very stylish boutique. 2920 Grand Avenue, Los Olivos, CA  93441. 805- 686-5529.
• Designs in Gold. Fine platinum, gold, silver, and custom designed jewelry, combining unique artistry and traditional jewelry 485 Alisal Road Unit 120, Solvang.  805-693-8700.
• Elverhøj Museum of History and Art. Devoted to the history of Solvang and the colorful heritage of Denmark. Features a fine art gallery of changing exhibits. 1624 Elverhøj Way, Solvang. Open Wednesday through Sunday. 805-686-1211.
• Gallery Los Olivos. Over 40 regional artists exhibit in the Gallery. 2920 Grand Avenue/P.O. Box 911, Los Olivos, CA  93441. 805- 688-7517.
• Judith Hale Galleries. Large collection of quality Western and traditional art, Sculpture Garden, exquisite jewelry. 2890 Grand Ave., 805-688-1222.
• Le Studio. Ceramics workshop; provides all supplies–you create your own ceramic art. Fun for the whole family. 485 Alisal in Frederik’s Court, Solvang. (805 688-8440.
• Pavlov Art Gallery. Offering a beautiful and vivid selection of fine art, ranging from impressionistic to contemporary, Pavlov features both renowned European artworks and work from local artists. 1608 Copenhagen Drive, Solvang. (805) 686-1080.
• Sansone Studio Gallery. Enamel on copper; unique starscapes, brilliant colors. Original works on display at studio gallery, 2948 Nojoqui Ave. #8, Los Olivos.  (805) 693-9769. 
• Solvang Antique Center. Quality 18th and 19th century furniture, decorative accessories, estate jewelry and fine art are showcased with one of the finest collections of clocks and music boxes in the world. (805) 688-6222
• Wildling Art Museum. 2928 San Marcos Ave., Los Olivos. Founded by wildlife artist Patti Jacquemain, this art museum focuses on nature and wildlife. Gift Shop. 805-688-1082.
• Young’s Custom Frames and Art Gallery. 2920 Grand Ave., Los Olivos. 805-688-9745.
• Z Folio Gallery. 1685 Copenhagen Drive, Solvang. Specializes in Czech art glass, hand made designer jewelry from the United States, Spain and Australia. (805) 693-8480
• Zaca  Creek Art Gallery. 91 Second St. Unit C, Buellton, Specializing in water-based media. Santa Ynez Valley artists, plein air landscapes and seascapes of the area. (805) 688-2270.

BIRD WATCHING, HIKING and CAMPING
Santa Ynez Valley is a birder’s delight, with hawks and harriers, phoebes and finches, and the sassy yellow-billed magpie.
• Los Padres National Forest offers a myriad of adventures for backpackers and hikers. For information: (805) 968-6640.
• Cachuma Lake, located south of Santa Ynez Valley and north of Santa Barbara off Hwy 154 offers the Cachuma Lake Nature Cruise is a two hour narrated tour with a naturalist. See waterfowl, osprey, various hawks, bald eagles & a vast array of other birds and wildlife. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. For reservations, 805-688-5050 (weekdays) and 805-686-5055 (weekends).
• Jalama Beach County Park. 98 County maintained campsites, each with a picnic table, BBQ and hot showers. All sites overlook the ocean or beachfront.  First-come, first serve basis. Reservations: (805) 934-6211, recorded info: (805) 736-6316.
• Nojoqui Falls County Park in Solvang: Large selection of birds including yellow-billed magpies, woodpeckers, owls, titmice, blue grosbeaks, blue jays found in large old oak trees and elsewhere. Hike to the famous Nojoqui Falls, which flows thru winter and spring. Day use from 8am to sunset.  S. B.  County Parks  (805) 934-6123.
• Wildling Art Museum. 2928 San Marcos Ave., Los Olivos. The Wildling offers a series of guided bird watching hikes in local areas–call for dates. (805) 688-1082.
CALIFORNIA MISSIONS
• Old Mission Santa Inés. Gem of the California missions. Founded in 1804, it is the 19th of the California Missions. Many original paintings and decorations on the walls. Gardens and gift shop with books, souvenirs, and devotional items. 8 a.m. Mass every day, plus Sunday services.
• La Purisima Mission. Founded in 1787, it is the 11th of the California Missions. Today it is a state park. Ten of the original buildings have been restored. 805-733-3713.

DESTINATION FARMS
• Alpacas de Los Olivos –Breeding, training, sales, and gift shop. 2786 Corral de Quati Road in Los Olivos. 688-5746 or www.whyalpacas.com.
• Andre Organic Lavender –Top quality lavender products and gifts featuring the 100% essential lavender oil distilled on the farm.  Santa Rosa Rd (1/4 mi down from 101 off-ramp). 805-350-0593.

Old Mission Santa Ines
Photo by Maria Bland Hoke

• Chaotic Exotics Orchid Ranch. A tropical paradise of exotic flora. Over 1000 varieties of orchids, dozens of bromeliads, and an assortment of ferns. Located at 5375 Campbell Road off of Hwy 246 toward Lompoc. 805-736-0040.
• Clairmont Farms. Estate grown lavender on a family farm. Fresh, dried, essential oils, personal care products, buds, bundles, and pet products. Free admittance-open from 10am to 6pm. Great picnic site. 2480 Roblar Avenue, Los Olivos. 805-688-7505.
•Quacken Farms. Family fun farm with pumpkin patch, pony rides, tractor rides, a produce stand and more. Pick your pumpkin and have some fun, too. 2921 Ontiveros, Los Olivos. 805-688-3613.
•Rancho Olivos. Estate-grown olive oil tasting and sales,  Fri - Sun, 12 -3 p.m.  805-686-9653.
• Summerset Farms. An old-fashioned country farm stand, with fresh fruits and vegetables in season, and gorgeous fresh flowers. Open Tuesday–Sunday 9 - 6. Baseline and Edison off Hwy 154 in Santa Ynez. 805-682-7800.

GOLF

• River Course at the Alisal. 150 Alisal Road, Solvang. Located in the heart of Solvang, with a beautiful view of the Santa Ynez Mountain range. Fine restaurant on the premises, pro shop, 18 hole course. 805-688-6042.
• Rancho San Marcos Golf Course. located on Hwy 154 between Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Barbara. 805-683-6334.
• Zaca Creek Golf Course. 223 Shadow Mountain Drive, Buellton. 805-688-2575.

HORSES
• Bella Cavalli Equestrian Center. 50 acre ranch–Safe and professional equestrian facility specializing in Reining, Dressage, Jumping and English disciplines. Professional staff half mile training track. 959 E. Hwy 246, Buellton. 805-688-284.
• Rancho de la Florecita. Breeds and sells the “glide ride” horses – Peruvian Pasos. In addition to wonderful dispositions, these horses have a “broken, four-beat pace”, a lateral gait. Visitors are welcome by appointment. 805-688-1447.
• Rancho Oso. Trail ride your own or gentle rental horses over the scenic trails on Rancho Oso and in nearby Los Padres National Park. Stay in a covered wagon or cabin, or bring your own tent. Historic ranch has much to offer for the whole family  (see cover story, page 8). 805-683-5110.

LODGING GUIDE
• Buellton Windmill Days Inn. Site of the Oscar Nominated Movie SIDEWAYS. 114 East Hwy 246, Buellton. From $99-$129. 805-688-8448 or 1-800-946-3466.
• Embassy Suites. Two room suites, complimentary breakfast & evening reception. Catering and banquet facilities. Heated pool, Jacuzzi and exercize room. 1117 North H Street, Lompoc. 805-735-8311.
• Hadsten House. Inn, Spa & Wine Tasting. Classic French furnishings, deluxe Continental breakfast; features Solvang’s only heated indoor pool. 805-688-3210.
• King Frederik Inn. 44 quaint rooms, next to Solvang Theaterfest. Golf, Theater & Wine Packages Available. AAA & AARP discounts. 805-688-5515 or 800-549-9955.
• Pea Soup Andersen’s Inn. Rooms include microwave, refrigerator & continental breakfast. Heated pool & spa, 9-hole putting green. AAA & AARP discounts. 51 E. Hwy 246, Buellton. 805-688-3216 or 800-PEA-SOUP.
• Quality Inn. Newly remodeled rooms, free high-speed Internet, elaborate continental breakfast featuring Belgian waffles. AAA approved, pets welcome. 630 Ave. of Flags, Buellton. 805-688-0022 or 800-616-0246.
• Santa Ynez Valley Marriott. 149 rooms with 27 suites. Pool & tennis courts; spa & massage therapy; 12,000 sq. ft. convention facility. Restaurant and Starbucks located in lobby. 555 McMurray Road, Buellton. 805-688-1000 or 1-800-638-8882.
• Solvang Inn & Cottages. Old world tradition in the heart of Solvang. From economy to suite, with Continental Breakfast. 1518 Mission, Solvang. 805-4702.

MUSEUMS
• Elverhøj Museum of History and Art. Devoted to the history of Solvang and the colorful heritage of Denmark. Features a fine art gallery of changing exhibits. 1624 Elverhøj Way, Solvang. Open Wednesday through Sunday. 805-686-1211.
• Hans Christian Andersen Museum. 1680 Mission Drive, Solvang, upstairs in the Book Loft. Featuring exhibits, photographs, souvenirs, and a large selection of HCA books for sale. Visitors always welcome between 10am and 5pm daily. Group tours are also available by appointment.  805-688-6010.
• Lompoc Museum. Housed within a historic Carnegie Library building built in 1910, its permanent exhibits include an extensive collection of Chumash Indian artifacts and Native California baskets. A special summer exhibit, “A Sweet Pea Centennial” commemorates 100 years of growing sweet peas (Lompoc’s city flower) commercially in Lompoc. 200 South H Street.  805-736-3888.
• Old Mission Santa Inés. Gem of the California missions. Founded in 1804, it is the 19th of the California Missions. Many original paintings and decorations on the walls. Gardens, old mission cemetery, and gift shop with books, souvenirs, and devotional items. 8 a.m. Mass every day, plus Sunday services.

Lompoc Museum's Sweet Pea Centennial Exhibit
Lompoc Museum’s Sweet Pea
Centennial Exhibit poster art.
• Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum & Carriage House. Carriages, wagons, farm machinery & vehicles, vintage clothing, and Indian artifacts. Corner of Sagunto and Faraday Sts in Santa Ynez. Wed - Sun 12 noon to 4 pm. 805-688-7889.
• Vintage Motorcycle Museum. 320 Alisal Rd, Solvang. 80+ vintage motorcycles on display in 4,500 square foot showroom. Just about every type of motorcycle ever made, from 1904 to the 1990’s. Open Sat-Sun 11-5 or by app’t. 805-686-9522.
• Wilding Art Museum. 2928 San Marcos Ave., Los Olivos. Features art of America’s wilderness. Exhibitions are ongoing. Special events include classes, lectures and hikes.  805-688-1082.
PARK AND PICNIC AREAS

• Cachuma Lake. First come, first served camping, RV hookups. yurts and cabins available with reservations. Fishing, boat rentals, tackle and bait, snack bar, store, gas, guided nature walks and cruises. (805) 686-5054 or (805) 686-5055.
• Nojoqui Falls Park. Free day use for general activities. Fees apply for group area reservations. (805) 934-6123.
• Solvang Park. In the center of Solvang at Mission Drive  First Street. Bandshell with live music, drinking fountains, picnic area, public restrooms.
• Hans Christian Andersen Park, located off of Atterdag Road, in the outskirts of Solvang. Picnic areas, tennis courts, playground, BBQ grills, group areas.
RESTAURANT GUIDE

• Antonio’s Pizza & Pasta. Pizza, pasta, calzones, sandwiches and salads, dine in/take out; Free Delivery. 280 E. Hwy 246 Buellton. 805-688-0028.
• Cabernet Bistro. Chef Jacques Toulet returns with his famous European dining experience  at Frederik’s Court.  Patio Dining, Wine Bar. 485 Alisal Rd, Solvang. 805-688-8871.
• China Panda. Excellent Chinese food; Lunch, Dinner, Dine in or to go. Open 7 days, 272 E Hwy 246, Buellton. 688-1291.
• Corner House Coffee. Fresh brewed Peets coffee and teas;  also sandwiches and salads. European pastries, smoothies, ice blended coffee drinks. Free wireless internet. 2902 San Marcos Ave, Los Olivos. 805-688-1722.
• Dos Carlitos. Authentic Mexican and Latin cuisine, indoor or patio dining,  open fire grill, home-made tortillas and 100% Blue Agave Margaritas. Open 7 days. 3544 Sagunto, Santa Ynez. 805-688-0033.
• El Rancho Marketplace. Breakfasts, gourmet lunch boxes, wine and cheese baskets, gourmet pizza delivery, full service deli., sushi trays. 2886 Mission Drive, Solvang. 805-688-4300.
• Ingeborg’s Chocolates. Solvang’s only old-fashioned ice cream parlor and soda fountain. Hand-made Danish chocolates.  679 Copenhagen Dr., Solvang.  805-688-5612.
• Jalama Beach Cafe. Healthy American cuisine serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, deserts, fine wines, draft & imported beers. Wine Tasting Dinners. 400 E. Ocean Ave, Pacific Coast Hwy1, Lompoc . (805) 735-8205.

• Olsen’s Danish Bakery and Coffee Shop. Danish pastries and breads. 1529 Mission Drive, Solvang. 805-688-6314.
• Paradise Store. Country store & grill, BBQ & ice-cold beer. Live music.  Paradise Road (off 154). 805-967-3254.
• Paula’s Pancake House. Breakfast and lunch; wide variety of pancakes. 1531 Mission Drive, Solvang. 805-688-2867.
• Penelope’s Teas & Gifts. Lunch, high tea, cream tea, sweets and gifts. 105 W. Ocean Ave., Lompoc. 805-736-1122.
• Red Barn Steakhouse. One of the oldest Santa Ynez restaurants.  Best steak in the Valley. Specialties include Mesquite Grilled Steak and Seafood. 3539 Sagunto Street, SY. 805-688-4142.
• Roasted Bean. Popular coffeeshop frequented by locals.  Gourmet coffees, lattes, teas, blendeds, smoothies, pastries, bagels and more.  Italian shaved-ice desserts. Dog friendly. 3558 Sagunto St. Santa Ynez. 805-688-7194.
• Roundup Market. Western style market & deli, with great BBQ Steak Sandwiches, breakfast burritos,  fresh-ground gourmet coffee, fresh donuts & home-made pie. 1000 Edison, Santa Ynez. 805-688-4442. 
• Sunrise Coffee House. Fresh locally roasted coffee, espresso, mochas, lattes and chais. Fresh muffins and pastries baked in-house. 2 locations in Buellton: 234 E. Hwy 246, 805-688-3694 & 290 Valley Station Rd, 805-688-6306.
• Santa Ynez Valley Coffee Company. Breakfast from 6 am weekdays, 6:30 Sunday. Lunch from 11 am to 4 pm, open to  6pm. Great sandwiches,  salads. 606 Alamo Pintado Rd. 805-688-3543.
• Sissy’s Uptown Café. Lunch and Dinner; exceptional food-high praise from online reviewers Yelp and Chowhound. Legendary homestyle desserts. Huge selection of wines, including locally made. Wine by the glass. Wine & gift store. Catering. 112 South I Street, Lompoc. 805-735-4877.
• The Solvang Restaurant. Danish and American style breakfast and lunch. 1672 Copenhagen, Solvang. 805-688-4645.
• Starting Gate Restaurant. Steak, seafood. In the Santa Ynez Valley Marriott, Buellton, 555 McMurray Road. 805-688-1000.
• Viking Garden. Family restaurant, Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 7 days a week. Two patios for outdoor dining, indoor seating also. In Copenhagen Square, Solvang. 688-1250
• Vineyard House. Lunch, Dinner and Sunday Brunch served in a casual, elegant Victorian setting. Closed Tuesdays. 3631 Sagunto Street, Santa Ynez. 805-688-2886.

 

  
 
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