10 Can’t Miss Events in Santa Ynez Valley

Dear Friends,

The Santa Ynez Valley is home to a variety of unique festivals and events.  If you’re planning a Santa Ynez Valley vacation this year, put one of these local festivals on the agenda. The Valley is bursting with personality and plays a welcome host to a variety of events throughout the year.

This month, we put together a list of the top 10 festivals in the Santa Ynez Valley to give you 10 more reasons to visit the Valley.

Many people are familiar with Santa Barbara events and festivals.  But beyond the sea, did you know there’s even more exciting events and fun things to do?  There are several popular wine-themed festivals you don’t want to miss. There’s also plenty of music, dance, food and live performances to be enjoyed as well.

Below, we’ve compiled our top ten Santa Ynez Valley events to help you plan your vacation.

1. Santa Ynez Valley Restaurant Week

Santa Ynez Valley Restaurant Week is every foodie’s dream. For as little as $20, you can sample three-course meals from some of Santa Ynez’s best restaurants, including Bell Street Farm, Ballard Inn and Restaurant, and Hadsten House Inn and Restaurant. The festival runs over seven days, so there’s plenty of time to sample the delicious offerings.  It wouldn’t be a Santa Ynez festival without a couple of wine tasting rooms, where you can learn to pair wine with small bites. Hungry? You’ll have to wait until January 22nd to take part in these festivities.

2. Taste of Solvang

If you prefer your food with a more Scandinavian feel, then come down to the Taste of Solvang festival every third weekend of March for a Danish-inspired gourmet experience. Many of the area’s local bakers, chefs, and winemakers participate in this five-day festival, which includes red wine tasting, as well as samples from local craft beer producers, and plenty of sweet and savory nibbles.

3. Buellton Brew Fest

Beer lovers unite at the annual Buellton Brew Fest! The festival takes place in May every year at the beautiful River View Park in Buellton, and features over 50 local breweries, 10 wineries, and several food trucks. There’s usually a great lineup of local music and entertainment as well.  Kick off the Central Coast beer festival season with one of the best festivals in Santa Barbara County.

You’ll need to purchase a ticket beforehand, and you can do this by visiting the festival’s website. General admission is $45, but hard-core beer lovers usually purchase the special VIP ticket for $55, which will get you into the venue an hour earlier. Anyone under 21 is not permitted, and responsible drinking is encouraged.  A brew bus is available for those who don’t trust themselves to drive home.

4. Los Alamos Old Days

Los Alamos Old Days Celebration takes place every year to celebrate the town’s Western heritage. The festival runs over a whole weekend and includes free entertainment, Peddlers Mart, a Classic Car Show and Sunday morning’s Greatest Little Small Town Parade.

Lovers of all things chili will definitely appreciate the Old Days Chili Kick-Off Party with its traditional offerings of chili, corn bread, salads, and all the usual trimmings provided by Jesper Johansson. There’s also a pancake breakfast, and a muscle car show.

5. Danish Days

The little village of Solvang can trace its heritage back to 1911, when the first Danish settlers arrived there. And every year, locals celebrate the village’s Danish culture with festivities that include some of the best food and wine the town has to offer.

But it’s not just all about Danish pastries. Past festivals featured a range of Danish-inspired live entertainment including traditional dancers, an equestrian event, musicians, stage shows, Vikings Beer and Wine Garden, and a Lego corner for the kids.

6. Celebration of Harvest

If you’re in Santa Ynez during the Columbus Day weekend, check out the Celebration of Harvest Festival located in the heart of Santa Barbara Wine County. With over 120 wineries participating, it’s one of the largest wine festivals in Santa Ynez Valley. Celebrations include winemaker dinners, open houses, parties, and more.

One thing you shouldn’t miss is the Silent Auction, where you get the chance to bid on special edition bottles. All proceeds from the auction go towards the Santa Barbara Vintners Foundation, a charity organization that provides scholarships to local high school students.

7. Los Olivos Jazz & Olive Festival

Presented by the Los Olivos Rotary Club, the Los Olivos Jazz & Olive Festival is held in the first week of June every year. Make yourself a picnic under the shady trees at Campbell Park and be entertained by world-class jazz groups, as you sip wines from over 30 different local wineries.

As its name suggests, Los Olivos is famous for its olives, and the festival features a range of culinary delights, all of which are designed to celebrate the diverse range of dishes derived from this versatile fruit.

8. Vintners Spring Weekend

Every year in April, something special happens in Buellton – The Vintners Spring Weekend. The location is the beautiful River View Park, where you can relax and enjoy the largest wine-tasting event in Santa Barbara County.

A general admission ticket ($75) gives you unlimited wine tasting from over 100 different local wineries, as well as food samplings from over 30 different local eateries.

Festival organizers recommend taking a bus, cab or uber available from your Santa Ynez Valley hotel, which you can organize in advance to ensure a stress-free day.

9. Vaquero Show & Sale 

Set for November 11 – 13, 2016, the Vaquero Show & Sale is a celebration of the early Vaquero culture which originated on the Central Coast of California.  Known for their legendary equestrian skills the Vaqueros developed a unique style of horsemanship while tending the immense early California rancho herds.

For this special event, The Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum is transformed into a showcase for over 50 noted artisans, craftsmen and collectors from throughout the western United States. They will gather to display and sell custom, hand-tooled leather saddles, braided Vaquero styled riatas, silver spurs, bridles, bits, reins and other Vaquero inspired horse tack. The exhibitors spend their Saturday and Sunday answering questions about the Vaquero lifestyle and sharing their own stories about this unique culture. This is a history lesson you won’t want to miss.

10. Christmas in the Santa Ynez Valley

With so much holiday spirit in the Valley, we couldn’t pick just one event to share for the month of December.

If you’re looking for some good old family Christmas fun, then make sure you check out the Olde-Fashioned Christmas in Los Olivos. Expect lots of fun-filled activities for the kids, including Gingerbread Wonderland, crafts, petting zoo, and a visit from Santa Claus. Mom and Dad will find plenty of opportunities to get their last-minute gifts before relaxing in one of the many restaurants and tasting rooms. Don’t miss the Official Lighting of the Christmas tree at the flagpole, and make sure you bring a new toy for the Christmas charity collection.

Stop in to Santa Ynez for their Annual Christmas Tree Lighting, which boasts the largest tree lighting in the Valley on Sagunto Street. After the tree lighting, festival goers can head to Brothers at the Red Barn Restaurant for hot chocolate and treats just down the way.

Be sure to bring the kids to Buellton Winter Fest. After Breakfast with Santa, they’ll have the chance to play in 20 tons of snow on Avenue of the Flags.

Then head over to Los Alamos for their Holiday Evening Stroll. Businesses stay open late, offering hot cocoa and treats, as friends and family stroll Bell Street, lined for the evening with beautiful luminaries.

Next, get ready for Christmas Danish style at the annual Solvang Julefest. The Valley is renowned for its love of wine, and Christmas is the perfect time to discover some of the region’s delicacies with the Julefest Wine and Beer Walk, where you stroll around downtown and sample the local vintages. You’ll need to purchase tickets for the walk, but at only $40 per person, it’s great value. There are also plenty of opportunities for Christmas gift shopping at one of the town’s many boutique shops, a traditional nativity play, and the annual Christmas tree burn.

Now you see why Santa Ynez Valley is renowned for being a mecca for food and wine lovers. And with a festival taking place just about every month, there’s no excuse not to come and enjoy the local hospitality.  Plan a vacation in Santa Ynez Valley around one of these events to make your stay both richly relaxing and delightfully entertaining.

About The Author: Shelby Sim grew up just 30 minutes south of the Santa Ynez Valley on the coast in Goleta, CA. After living in many different states and traveling the world, he returned to the area and discovered the many quality wines being produced here. Shelby has worked in the area for the last 11 years as a wine tour host, while acting as director of business development with the Goleta chamber, and later as a sales manager for Bacara Resort and Spa. He recently moved his family to Buellton and is honored to be executive director of Visit the Santa Ynez Valley, the premier destination marketing organization (DMO) for the region.

About VisitSYV.com: Visit Santa Ynez Valley provides listings of thebest Santa Ynez wineries, best places to eat in Solvang, Santa Ynez hotels and inns, and things to do in Santa Ynez Valley. Visit the website at http://www.visitsyv.com for complete travel and visitor services. “Like” the Facebook page for ideas on planning Santa Ynez vacations. Call 805-450-8841 or email info@VisitSYV.com for help planning a romantic summer afternoon in the Santa Ynez Valley.

Geography and botany of Joshua Tree National Park

The park is named after the Joshua tree.

 

The higher and cooler Mojave Desert is the special habitat of Yucca brevifolia, the Joshua tree for which the park is named. It occurs in patterns from dense forests to distantly spaced specimens. In addition to Joshua tree forests, the western part of the park includes some of the most interesting geologic displays found in California’s deserts. The dominant geologic features of this landscape are hills of bare rock, usually broken up into loose boulders. These hills are popular amongst rock climbing and scrambling enthusiasts. The flatland between these hills is sparsely forested with Joshua trees. Together with the boulder piles and Skull Rock, the trees make the landscape otherworldly. Temperatures are most comfortable in the spring and fall, with an average high/low of 85 and 50 °F (29 and 10 °C) respectively. Winter brings cooler days, around 60 °F (16 °C), and freezing nights. It occasionally snows at higher elevations. Summers are hot, over 100 °F (38 °C) during the day and not cooling much below 75 °F (24 °C) until the early hours of the morning.

Joshua trees dominate the open spaces of the park, but in among the rock outcroppings are piñon pine, California juniper (Juniperus californica), Quercus turbinella (desert scrub oak), Quercus john-tuckeri (Tucker’s oak), and Quercus cornelius-mulleri (Muller’s oak). These communities are under some stress, however, as the climate was wetter until the 1930s, with the same hot and dry conditions that provoked the Dust Bowl affecting the local climate. These cycles were nothing new, but the original vegetation did not prosper when wetter cycles returned. The difference may have been human development. Cattle grazing took out some of the natural cover and made it less resistant to the changes. But the bigger problem seems to be invasive species, such as cheatgrass, which during wetter periods fill in below and among the pines and oak. In drier times, they die back, but do not quickly decompose. This makes wildfires hotter and more destructive, which kills some of the trees that would have otherwise survived. When the area regenerates, these non-native grasses form a thick layer of turf that makes it harder for the pine and oak seedlings to get a roothold.

Colorado Desert

Below 3,000 feet (910 m), the Colorado Desert encompasses the eastern part of the park and features habitats of Creosote bush scrub Ocotillo, desert Saltbush and mixed scrub including Yucca and Cholla cactus (Cylindropuntia bigelovii). There are areas of such cactus density they appear as natural gardens. The lower Coachella Valley is on the southeastern side of the Park with sandy soil grasslands and desert dunes.

The only palm native to California, the California Fan Palm (Washingtonia filifera), occurs naturally in five oases in the park, rare areas where water occurs naturally year round and all forms of wildlife abound.

Matt Luber Vacations in Santa Ynez Valley

Hey Friends, Shelby here.

I met Matt Luber several times during this year’s Santa Barbara County Vintners Spring weekend. He was eager to share his passion for the Santa Ynez Valley and all it has to offer. I asked that he write something down for me to share and inspire others to come and experience our area.

The following is from Mr. Matt Luber:

I love the entire Santa Ynez Valley.  Each little town is charming in its own way.  Whether it is hanging out at the Los Olivos Wine Merchant & Cafe or tasting Olive Oil at Olive Hill in Los Olivos, having breakfast at Bob’s Well Bread or tasting wine at Casa Dumetz or having dinner at Flatbread Full of Life in Los Alamos, eating at Grappolo Trattoria and then going for cocktails at the Maverick Saloon in Santa Ynez, or having Blueberry French toast at Ellen’s Pancake House for breakfast and hitting the hitching post IIor Industrial eats at night in Buellton…we love them all.

We particularly like to bring our two young girls to Solvang.  I also find that Solvang has the prettiest vistas of all. A typical day in Solvang can consist of eating Danish Aebleskiver from the Solvang Restaurant for breakfast and then we stroll on down to the local gift shop Edelweiss which I have been calling the magical princess store for years – my girls love it.  Sometimes we make a pit stop in one of the local toy stores.  Then we walk over to the Mystic Merchant, a crystal, spiritual store to get a ‘feel good’ stone.  After that we stroll on to a Pavlov Art Gallery, a small gallery owned by a very talented artist. We actually bought a piece last year and it is the featured art piece of our home.  Then we may go the local chocolate or fudge shop depending on the girl’s mood.  Sometimes we work that off by renting a family bike for four to ride around the town.  I may head over the Wandering Dog Wine Bar to do a tasting then to the local cigar shop just in case I decide to have one that evening.

We go to the valley several times a year and never miss a 4th of July Celebration.  The local parade is very small town and excellent.  The firework show at the Santa Ines Mission is fantastic and we walk toHotel Corque a few hundred years away. They have a great gym and running is always option thanks to the beautiful surroundings.  All this and I have not even gone in to the amazing vineyards in the valley. I can say my kids have grown up hanging at the vineyards – we know the ones which have flat areas so the family can have a lot of fun in addition to tasting – Tres Hermanas and Rideau have great flat areas to hang.  Kenneth Volk has lawn bowling, Presqu’ile has horse shoes and bocce ball, Beckman has a lake to walk around and Demetria has great music and a field below.  I love the wine in the Santa Ynez Valley – my favorite grape is Pinot Noir, though some of the Rhone varieties available in the valley are also not to be missed.

Something for everyone across our beautiful and bountiful Valley. Thank you Matt!

Shelby

About The Author: Shelby Sim grew up just 30 minutes south of the Santa Ynez Valley on the coast in Goleta, CA. After living in many different states and traveling the world, he returned to the area and discovered the many quality wines being produced here. Shelby has worked in the area for the last 11 years as a wine tour host, while acting as director of business development with the Goleta chamber, and later as a sales manager for Bacara Resort and Spa. He recently moved his family to Buellton and is honored to be executive director of Visit the Santa Ynez Valley, the premier destination marketing organization (DMO) for the region.

About VisitSYV.com: Visit Santa Ynez Valley provides listings of thebest Santa Ynez wineries, best places to eat in Solvang, Santa Ynez hotels and inns, and things to do in Santa Ynez Valley. Visit the website at http://www.visitsyv.com for complete travel and visitor services. “Like” the Facebook page for ideas on planning Santa Ynez vacations. Call 805-450-8841 or email info@VisitSYV.com for help planning a romantic summer afternoon in the Santa Ynez Valley.

Human activity in the Amazon

Based on archaeological evidence from an excavation at Caverna da Pedra Pintada, human inhabitants first settled in the Amazon region at least 11,200 years ago.[18] Subsequent development led to late-prehistoric settlements along the periphery of the forest by AD 1250, which induced alterations in the forest cover.[19]

Geoglyphs on deforested land in the Amazon rainforest, Acre.

For a long time, it was thought that the Amazon rainforest was only ever sparsely populated, as it was impossible to sustain a large population through agriculture given the poor soil. Archeologist Betty Meggers was a prominent proponent of this idea, as described in her book Amazonia: Man and Culture in a Counterfeit Paradise. She claimed that a population density of 0.2 inhabitants per square kilometre (0.52/sq mi) is the maximum that can be sustained in the rainforest through hunting, with agriculture needed to host a larger population.[20] However, recent anthropological findings have suggested that the region was actually densely populated. Some 5 million people may have lived in the Amazon region in AD 1500, divided between dense coastal settlements, such as that at Marajó, and inland dwellers.[21] By 1900 the population had fallen to 1 million and by the early 1980s it was less than 200,000.[21]

The first European to travel the length of the Amazon River was Francisco de Orellana in 1542.[22] The BBC’s Unnatural Histories presents evidence that Orellana, rather than exaggerating his claims as previously thought, was correct in his observations that a complex civilization was flourishing along the Amazon in the 1540s. It is believed that the civilization was later devastated by the spread of diseases from Europe, such as smallpox.[23] Since the 1970s, numerous geoglyphs have been discovered on deforested land dating between AD 1–1250, furthering claims about Pre-Columbian civilizations.[24][25] Ondemar Dias is accredited with first discovering the geoglyphs in 1977 and Alceu Ranzi with furthering their discovery after flying over Acre.[23][26] The BBC’s Unnatural Histories presented evidence that the Amazon rainforest, rather than being a pristine wilderness, has been shaped by man for at least 11,000 years through practices such as forest gardening and terra preta.[23]

Terra preta (black earth), which is distributed over large areas in the Amazon forest, is now widely accepted as a product of indigenous soil management. The development of this fertile soil allowed agriculture and silviculture in the previously hostile environment; meaning that large portions of the Amazon rainforest are probably the result of centuries of human management, rather than naturally occurring as has previously been supposed.[27] In the region of the Xingu tribe, remains of some of these large settlements in the middle of the Amazon forest were found in 2003 by Michael Heckenberger and colleagues of the University of Florida. Among those were evidence of roads, bridges and large plazas.[28]

Spend the 4th of July in the Santa Ynez Valley

There is no better way to start the summer than by enjoying a Santa Ynez vacation over the 4th of July holiday weekend. Our six towns of Ballard, Buellton, Los Alamos, Los Olivos, Santa Ynez and Solvang will show you what celebrating America is all about. VisitSYV can get you ready for the trip with our listings of things to do in Solvang, best wineries in Los Olivos, and Santa Ynez hotels and inns.

Stay the holiday weekend because there is so much to experience. Grab a Santa Ynez wineries mapand explore the finest wineries California has to offer. Take advantage of a Santa Ynez Valley Wine Country Association Summer Pass, which admits you to 12 winery tasting rooms until August 31, 2016, or check out the SYV Craft Beer Trail. Stroll through charming towns and enjoy fine dining in Santa Ynez Valley restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend or a fun family outing, Santa Ynez Valley is the place for you. Here are some of the Independence Day celebrations we have in store:

• Independence Day Parade, Festival & Fourth of July Fireworks: The Santa Ynez Valley Rotary4th of July Festival and Fireworks show is one of the best events on the Central Coast. Festivities take place at Old Mission Santa Ines in Solvang. The day kicks off at 11am with a patriotic 4th of July parade, “Valley Life and Liberty.” There will be food booths, fun and game booths, a beer and wine garden, and kids’ activities. Live stage entertainment starts at 5 pm, with fabulous fireworks at 9 pm.
• Red, White, and Blues: July 2 from 1-4 pm at Zaca Mesa Winery in Los Olivos. Celebrate 4th of July with family and friends out on the patio with live music performed by Pacific Coast Blues Band. Pack a picnic, buy a bottle of wine, and enjoy the afternoon.
• Americana Fest: July 3 from 1-9:30 pm at Figueroa Mountain Brewing Company in Buellton. Four Americana bands will play throughout the day as you enjoy craft beer along with BBQ food, floats and baked goods. Try your luck in a watermelon eating contest or come for specialty cask releases at 2:30 and 6:30pm.
• Bedford Winery’s All American Pie Baking Contest & Picnic: July 3 from 1-5 pm at Bedford Winery Tasting Room & Courtyard in Los Alamos. The perfect summer afternoon in a garden courtyard with a picnic of grilled sausages, along with a glass of your favorite wine and a slice (or two) of homemade pie.

About The Author: Shelby Sim grew up just 30 minutes south of the Santa Ynez Valley on the coast in Goleta, CA. After living in many different states and traveling the world, he returned to the area and discovered the many quality wines being produced here. Shelby has worked in the area for the last 11 years as a wine tour host, while acting as director of business development with the Goleta chamber, and later as a sales manager for Bacara Resort and Spa. He recently moved his family to Buellton and is honored to be executive director of Visit the Santa Ynez Valley, the premier destination marketing organization (DMO) for the region.

About VisitSYV.com: Visit Santa Ynez Valley provides listings of thebest Santa Ynez wineries, best places to eat in Solvang, Santa Ynez hotels and inns, and things to do in Santa Ynez Valley. Visit the website at http://www.visitsyv.com for complete travel and visitor services. “Like” the Facebook page for ideas on planning Santa Ynez vacations. Call 805-450-8841 or email info@VisitSYV.com for help planning a romantic summer afternoon in the Santa Ynez Valley.

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Top 10 Reasons To Visit Santa Ynez Valley

Dear Friends,

Looking for the perfect weekend getaway? Treat yourself to an unforgettable experience in the Santa Ynez Valley. With six distinct communities offering a range of experiences from rustic vineyards to quaint European history, Santa Ynez Valley has something for everyone. Most people visit for the wineries, but there’s also a lively art community, craft beer, and some great local nature to discover. Ready to see it for yourself ? Read on for our top 10 reasons to make the Santa Ynez Valley your next destination.

1.  Santa Ynez Wine Country

Santa Ynez is famous for its wineries, and lovers of great wine need look no further than the Valley for some of the best wine tasting around. Some of the best wineries in Santa Ynez include the Sunstone Vineyards and Winery with its spacious outdoor areas, the Gainey Vineyard with daily wine tastings of six specialty wines, and Carr Winery with its cool warehouse space and wines on tap.

2.  Visit Historic Solvang

Situated 132 miles north of LA, Solvang is a little slice of Denmark in California. Solvang was established in 1911 by a group of Danes who wanted their own little colony in a warm climate, and their legacy is this quaint little village famous for its Danish bakeries and architecture, as well as having some of the best wineries in Santa Ynez. Other Solvang activities include craft beer tasting, boutique shopping, and visiting some of the village’s unique museums.

3. Sample Some Great Santa Ynez Valley Restaurants

There are so many great places to eat in Santa Ynez Valley, it’s hard to choose. Italian food aficionados should definitely check out Trattoria Grappolo, which serves super fresh Italian favorites, as well as some unique twists like vodka sauce on the gnocchi. Lovers of traditional American cuisine are well catered for. The Bell Street Farm serves up top-notch sandwiches in a relaxed atmosphere. The Hitching Post II is the place to go for classic American steaks. But if you’re looking for something with a more modern and creative flavor, don’t go past First & Oak, where Chef Steven Snook is preparing innovatives dishes after 6 years working with esteemed British chef, Gordon Ramsay. And if you’re looking for a romantic dinner in Los Olivos, look no further than Los Olivos Wine Merchant Café.

4.  Craft Beer

Most people when they think of Santa Ynez think about wine. But if you can drag yourself away from the wineries for a break, why not sample some of the superb local craft beers. Figueroa Mountain Brewing Company has some of the best craft beer in the area. Try the Hoppy Poppy or American Ale, or simply relax in the cheery ‘Cheers’ like setting. The taproom at the Firestone Brewing Company is another winner, and has a restaurant that serves up classic family favorites like mac and cheese, steak and tacos. If you’re interested in trying sours, definitely check out Barrelworks, which features beers from Firestone’s wild ale program as well as one-off selections from their barrel-aging spirits program. Find additional outstanding craft beer selections at Babi’s Beer Emporium, The Good Life, and Wandering Dog Wine Bar.

5.  Local Events in Santa Ynez

Wine and beer tend to bring out the social side of people, so the Santa Ynez Valley hosts a number of events to bring everyone together. Regular events include Painting in the Vineyard at various wineries, where you take in the beautiful scenery, and put it on canvas under the supervision of an art teacher. On Wednesdays, after strolling the Solvang Farmer’s Market on First Street, stop in to Cecco Ristorantefor Wednesday Wine Tasting, where you can enjoy small bites and flatbreads paired with wines each week. The Refugio Ranch Tasting Room also hosts a little party every Thursday in Los Olivos featuring live music, food, and wine.

6.  Immerse Yourself in Local Art and Culture

While you’re enjoying the good life in Santa Ynez, don’t forget to drop in and visit one the Valley’s galleries and museums. The Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum celebrates the rich local history of the Santa Ynez Valley. Wildling Museum is a unique museum featuring paintings, sculptures and photography using nature as their theme. ZFolio Gallery is Solvang has a great selection of jewelry, sculpture, and photography.

7.  Santa Ynez Valley Hotels

Want something different from your hotel stay than the usual chain hotel? Santa Ynez hotels offer a more intimate and distinctly local experience. Most hotels here could be better described as Inns, some of which have a unique Danish feel, some provide rich luxury, while others provide a cottage feel. Some notable stays are the Ballard Inn, which is a quaint little B&B getaway tucked away in the middle of wine country; the Svendsgaard’s Lodge in Solvang with its Danish flavor, and retro feel; the Victorian Mansionin Los Alamos, where you can explore themed rooms, from pirate ship to ‘50s drive-in; the cottages atFlying Flags RV Resort in Buellton, where you can enjoy fire pits and creature comforts in your own little home away from home; the Fess Parker Wine Country Inn & Spa, within walking distance of 50+ tasting rooms in Los Olivos; and the Santa Ynez Inn, a four diamond property with warmth and luxury.

8.  Enjoy the Great Outdoors

Need some fresh air? There’s no better way to clear your mind and relax than getting out and enjoying some of the local countryside. Figueroa Mountain is a great place to unwind and enjoy a picnic in the glorious Californian sunshine. Or if you’re feeling energetic, take a stroll through the adjacent Sedgwick Reserve by appointment, where volunteer staff guides you through the local terrain. Vino Vaqueros Horseback Riding is another great way to explore the local area. If a family picnic is what you have in mind, head over to Nojoqui Falls Park down Alisal Road.

9.  Boutique Shopping

Tired of shopping at overcrowded malls? You’ll love the fantastic selection of specialty shops in the valley. With over 200 specialty shops, you’re bound to discover a hidden treasure. Shops in Santa Ynez Valley stock a range of local artisanal products like jewelry, glassware, handcrafted shoes, leather goods, porcelain, clothing, and a range of traditional and contemporary crafts. It’s a great place to do some gift shopping, and if you come on Solvang Third Wednesday of each month, you can take advantage of Solvang’s special offers and bag yourself a real bargain. There’s also incredible boutiques in both Los Olivos and Santa Ynez.

10.  Spa and Wellness

Why not treat yourself to a visit to one of the Santa Ynez Valley’s spa and wellness centers? Enjoy a range of wellness services including aromatherapy, Swedish massage, and hot stone therapy.  The best way to enjoy these treatments is to book yourself into one of the inns that offers a spa service in their accommodation package, like the Hadsten House Inn in Solvang with its luxurious heated pool and Spa, or the Fess Parker Wine Country Inn and Spa in Los Olivos.  Of course, a glass of wine during your treatment is mandatory. If you are travel weary or trail sore, nothing restores the mind and spirit like signature spa treatments at Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort, with spa services now open to the public.

So now you know what delights wait for you in Santa Ynez Valley, there’s no excuse not to go. You’ll probably need more than a weekend to take it all in, but once you get that taste for it, we’re sure you’ll be back again and again.

About The Author: Shelby Sim grew up just 30 minutes south of the Santa Ynez Valley on the coast in Goleta, CA. After living in many different states and traveling the world, he returned to the area and discovered the many quality wines being produced here. Shelby has worked in the area for the last 11 years as a wine tour host, while acting as director of business development with the Goleta chamber, and later as a sales manager for Bacara Resort and Spa. He recently moved his family to Buellton and is honored to be executive director of Visit the Santa Ynez Valley, the premier destination marketing organization (DMO) for the region.

About VisitSYV.com: Visit Santa Ynez Valley provides listings of thebest Santa Ynez wineries, best places to eat in Solvang, Santa Ynez hotels and inns, and things to do in Santa Ynez Valley. Visit the website at http://www.visitsyv.com for complete travel and visitor services. “Like” the Facebook page for ideas on planning Santa Ynez vacations. Call 805-450-8841 or email info@VisitSYV.com for help planning a romantic summer afternoon in the Santa Ynez Valley.

10 Spring Break Activities for Your Goleta Family Vacation

Eight miles west of Santa Barbara is the coastal plain of Goleta. Nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and those deepest blues of the mighty Pacific, Goleta is a historic community with roots stretching back hundreds of years, anddeep heritage. Besides being a beautiful, temperate region of the country, Goleta, California is now located in the shadow of an ancient lagoon, making it the perfect place to spend Spring Break this year.

The climate is always temperate; usually somewhere within ten degrees of 70 on the Fahrenheit scale throughout the year, and you shouldn’t worry about a day much colder than 40 degrees. It’s described as a Mediterranean Climate of the warm summer variety; maybe that’s one of the reasons Monarch Butterflies spend their winters in the eucalyptus groves.

With spring break just around the corner, it is time to look for Goleta activities that the whole family will enjoy. From visiting Goleta’s famed beaches to attending the Santa Barbara Food & Wine Festival, there are so many Goleta family activities to choose from that it might seem overwhelming.  For helpful vacation planning tips and special offers on Goleta restaurants and hotels, be sure to LIKE the GoGoleta Facebook Fan Page.  Follow us on Instagram for beautiful photos of Goleta, CA.

Below are some of the best Goleta family vacation activities worth considering during your spring break:

1. All Gaucho Reunion

The University of California, Santa Barbara has a campus located on the edge of the ocean in Goleta. This campus is in the nation’s top ten, hosting over twenty thousand students and a strong school spirit. As a result, there’s an annual get-together called the UCSB All Gaucho Reunion from April 28th to May 1st. Many family vacations begin with this as a central event of the trip, and for good reason! Not only are there a lot of fun Goleta family activities, the area is beautiful, festive, and full of rich experiences. The Reunion starts with a rousing GreekFest on the 28th, followed by the Gaucho Gallup on the 30th.  The Gallup begins at nine in the morning, and follows the tempo of the roiling surf beyond. Be sure to sign the kids up for the 9:35am Kid’s Dash! Then check out The Taste of UCSB that afternoon, where local Goleta restaurants of the finest variety provide everything from fine beers to live music and wine tasting.  Says one Yelp reviewer of the UCSB All Gaucho Reunion: “They’ve put SERIOUS money into that little community. Fun new restaurants galore.”

2. Take In The Beautiful Beach

Kids always love the beach! One of the most enjoyable Goleta activities is a day at Goleta Beach Park. It’s a white-sand beach, which is that iconic variety so often epitomized in film and art. Tall coconut trees sway in the breeze as astonishingly blue waters lap against the shore. Parking’s plentiful and often free, and there are even refreshing grassy areas should the sand wear out its welcome through the day. It’s a wide open space perfectly suited to take in a sunset, and the nearby Beachside Bar Cafe offers outdoor seating and a view of the pier. Says one Yelp reviewer, “I will definitely be coming back soon.”

Some people simply want to hit the beach. If you are one of those people, then you’re in luck.  Goleta Beach features a long fishing pier that offers an engaging view of the Pacific coast. It is also the perfect destination for those who want to do sunbathing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Another beach worth noting is Haskell’s Beach, a narrow beach surrounded by beautiful walking trails and popular for its picturesque sunsets. It is definitely the perfect beach for an early evening stroll.

3. A Scenic Horseback Trek From the Circle Bar B Guest Ranch

Hundreds of years ago, conquistadors of the European variety traveled on horseback up and down the coast of California, some of them even camping in the very area that’s Goleta today. Taking the family on a horseback ride isn’t just a novel experience, but one that may just take you back in time! The Circle Bar B Guest Ranch offers regular outdoor excursions and tours. You can check their website for more information on these fun horse-riding excursions throughout the area. A Goleta family vacation may not be complete without a good adventure through the scenic surrounding countryside with a trustworthy tour guide. Listen to what this Yelp reviewer of Circle Bar B says:  “We loved the 1.5 hour ride and are already making plans to take the half day ride with our daughter!”

4. Camino Real Marketplace

As the Goleta’s most diverse shopping center, the Camino Real Marketplace offers everything from large retail stores to small convenience stores, restaurants, and entertainment establishment. According to Yelp reviewers, shopping is a breeze at the Camino Real Marketplace as it has all the essentials and more, with stores ranging from Costco to Home Depot and food establishments from McDonald’s to Kahuna Grill. If all you want to do in your Goleta vacations is to shop, eat out, and watch movies, then you simply need to drop by Camino Real.  The establishment also features the Farmer’s Market, which is open every Thursdays and Sundays all year round. Each week, farmers display a colorful bounty of agricultural products grown right in their own backyard. It is perfect for people looking for organic food and some seasonal variety.

5. Find The Perfect Goleta Hotel

If you want to have the perfect Goleta family vacation, you will need to find the perfect Goleta hotel! Goleta has many exceptional hotels, from Best Western to Bacara Resort and Spa, Pacific Suites, The Courtyard Marriott, Hampton Inn, Motel 6 and Super 8. While hotel deals are usually more likely to come from a local establishment than a chain, even the national options in Goleta are worth considering. Often times local amenities are even better than you expect; like those at the Bacara resort and Spa. “From the food to the wine to the staff, it was an unforgettable stay from the start,” said this satisfied Yelp reviewer. Spring break will have some great Goleta hotel deals, but it makes sense to reserve your room as soon as possible!

Be sure to check out the hotel deals at The Goodland Hotel. Every Wednesday night, you will be treated to a fun Trivia Night that will test your brain power and even reward you with a $50 cash prize if your win. There is also live music every Thursday at 7 PM, located right beside the beautiful Goodland Pool. If fitness is more of your thing, you can join The Goodland’s yoga class every Sunday at around 9:30 AM by the pool. No need to bring your yoga mat as the hotel will already provide you with one in your room. You may also join the Santa Barbara Fit Tours every Monday when guests enjoy complimentary kayak and paddleboard rentals.

Take advantage of spa and room packages available at other hotel favorites such as The Goodland Hotel, The Courtyard Marriott, Pacifica Suites, The Hampton Inn, Motel 6, Best Western and Super 8 to make this a Spring Break to remember.

6. Sea-Cave Kayaking

When’s the last time you and your family went Kayaking through a sea cave? Aquasports hosts tours throughout nearby islands and the surrounding area. This is definitely an activity the whole family can enjoy, and one that will bring equal delight to everyone involved! Says Don T. of Yelp: “I recommend them enthusiastically!”

7. Ice In Paradise

Hockey fans will enjoy a trip to Ice in Paradise.  Located in Goleta, near Girsh Park, the Camino Real Marketplace, and UC Santa Barbara, Ice in Paradise is a state-of-the-art ice skating venue provides year-round recreation for people of all ages.  The 46,500 sq. ft. arena includes two rinks – a NHL size rink (200′ x 85′) and a smaller studio rink (100′x 60′).   The facility includes 6 team locker rooms, a figure skating room, specially equipped adaptive sports locker room, food concessions provided by Zizzo’s, rental skates, a homework center, organized programs for figure skating and ice hockey (boys, girls, adults) and daily public skating.

8.  Golfing In Goleta

Goleta has so many golf courses that it is hard to choose which one is the best. Yelp users highly approve of Glen Annie Golf Club, a championship golf course located in the scenic foothills above Goleta Valley. Aside from playing golf, you’ll also get to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez mountains. After playing, guests may dine and get a drink at the Frog Bar and Grill, which is considered as one of Santa Barbara’s most scenic patios.  Other scenic golf courses include the Sandpiper Golf Club and the Rancho San Marcos Golf Course.

9.  Visit the Historic Goleta Museums

Visiting museums is a highly educational activity for kids, so make sure that you do not miss Goleta’s renowned museums during spring break. Have any young train enthusiasts in your family? Take them to The South Coast Railroad Museum! Its centerpiece, the Goleta Depot, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as it was built way back in 1901. The technology of railroading has a long, rich history replete with adventure and historical intrigue. Much of it is local to Goleta, and the museum gives the community a depth you might miss otherwise. “So much fun for kids!”, said one Yelp reviewer.

There is also Rancho La Patera and Stow House, a historic ranch preserved by the Goleta Valley Historical Society. Visitors can walk through gardens, take a guided tour of the Stow House, view exhibits in the Cavalletto History Education Center, and explore the Visitor Interpretive Center.

10.  Santa Barbara Food and Wine Festival

Last but certainly not least, the earlier-mentioned Bacara Resort has their third annual Food and Wine Weekend from the 15th to the 17th of April, 2016, and if you’d like to check out Goleta with the freedom of being somewhat aloof, this is the perfect way to do it.  In partnership with The Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts, Bacara Resort’s yearly event is well-known, and often championed by those who’ve attended in past years.  Bacara Resort & Spa will showcase the distinct tastes, sights and sounds of Santa Barbara while drawing culinary talent from across the country.

Make the most out of your spring break with these family-friendly Goleta activities. Goleta is a beautiful, rich community of taste and entertainment. Let this year’s spring break family vacation be one you cherish and remember for years to come.

Whether you decide to get active or sit back and relax, Goleta is the quintessential destination for Spring Break.  These are only a few of the popular activities Goleta has to offer.  Be sure to stop by www.gogoleta.com for help planning your vacation to The Goodland!

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About GoGoleta.com: GoGoleta.com is a Goleta travel guide which provides information about everything needed to plan a Goleta family vacation. Visit the website at http://www.gogoleta.com to download a complimentary PDF of GoGoleta’s Family Vacation Guide. “Like” the Facebook page to receive updates on Goleta hotel deals. Call 805-967-2500 for more information about Goleta vacations.