Santa Ynez
Inn at Mattei’s Tavern in Los Olivos, CA
The Central Coast’s hidden gem that's waiting to be discovered. Located just a short drive from Santa Barbara, the Santa Ynez Valley is home to rolling hills, vineyards, and charming small towns. There are a few key areas that I recommend visiting in the Santa Ynez Valley, including Los Olivos, Los Alamos, and Santa Ynez itself. Each of these towns has its unique charm and offers a variety of activities, from wine tasting to biking. I've enjoyed getting to know this region and feeling relaxed, creative, and rested after spending some time there. In this travel guide, I'll share my recommendations for the best places to stay, eat, drink, shop, and explore in the Santa Ynez Valley.
Los Alamos
I love visiting Los Alamos, a charming small town known for its unique character. While in the area, I prioritize stopping for a glass of wine and eating a bite.
Featured: Skyview Motel and Norman’s Restaurant
STAY
Skyview Los Alamos: Newly renovated iconic motel with a restaurant, Norman’s, and a pool.
The Bodega House, an Airbnb in Los Alamos.
Featured: Bodega Los Alamos
EAT + DRINK
Bob’s Well Bakery: A must-go with fresh bread and baked goods.
Bell’s: Family-run French bistro; make sure to grab a reservation. They’re released on the first of the month.
Bodega Los Alamos: An aesthetic outdoor wine bar and general store.
Los Olivos
Los Olivos is a small town in Santa Ynez Valley, California, known for its rolling vineyards, olive groves, and small-town charm. The main street is home to artisan shops, tasting rooms, and lively patios that often have live music on the weekends. The town is laid-back and relaxed, but it can get busy on the weekends. Try to make it up early on a Friday to beat the crowds and get acquainted. Regarding what to wear, I like to wear my neutral, comfortable pieces and shoes to experience the town on foot. Oh, and don’t forget sunglasses and maybe a hat. It can get warm in the valley.
Featured: Inn at Mattei’s Tavern
STAY
The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern: a newly renovated Auberge resort right in the heart of Los Olivos
Hotel Ynez: a pet-friendly, chic hotel roughly five miles away in Solvang
Grand Chalet: experience Los Olivos living firsthand by renting this home
EAT + DRINK
Nella Kitchen & Bar: From the team behind S.Y. Kitchen, Nella serves locally sourced California dishes.
Bar Le Côte: A chic seafood tavern serving fresh catches from the central coast. Enjoy good food in this casual, welcoming environment.
The Tavern: The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern’s on-site restaurant serves fresh, locally sourced, California-inspired dishes in a dreamy atmosphere.
Panino: One of my favorite sandwich spots on the central coast. My order is the number 3 on a baguette, so good.
WINE TASTING
Stolpman: It’s like drinking wine at your trend friend’s place. They’re patio cute, and the wine is good. What more could you ask for?
Story of Soil: Enjoy hand-crafted wines in a welcoming environment.
SHOP
Layered by Paige Elise: I love a good home store, especially one with rich textures, earthy colors, and one-of-a-kind items. If you do as well, you’ll love Layered.
Santa Ynez
After assuming for the longest time that Santa Ynez was a region, I was thrilled to visit the charming town finally. It boasts excellent eateries, entertaining shops, and captivating art galleries.
Featured: Finlay Farms and The Lucky Hen Larder
EAT + DRINK
S.Y. Kitchen: This great Italian restaurant serves locally sourced, refined meals in a stylish space with porch and patio seating. The food is delicious, and the ambiance is perfect for a nice dinner with friends or family.
Lucky Hen Larder: You’ve got to stop for lunch here. Their sandwich boxes are the best, and you can take them to a winery to enjoy.
Pony Espresso: This local coffee shop also serves small bites.
Panino: Order a number 3 on a baguette. Just trust me, it’s amazing.
WINERIES
Brave and Maiden: A thoughtfully designed and minimalist winery.
Sunstone: An organic vineyard, winery, and villa retreat where you feel like you’re in France.
Vino Vaqueros: Go horseback riding through the vineyards and enjoy wine afterward.
EXPLORE
Finlay Farmstand: Stop by and pick up some fresh produce using the honor system.
SHOP
Santa Ynez General Store: Thoughtful, one-of-a-kind pieces for your home, high-end apparel, and unique jewelry.
Forage Florals: I love this store! It’s an inspiring, creative place; they always have the best items and gifts for your home.
I hope you had a great time in Santa Ynez. Let me know if you have any other suggestions in the comments below.
