
A few of our favorite stops
There's so much to see and do (and eat) between LA and Santa Ynez Valley. Pull off in Montecito for one of our favorite luxurious stops, or Santa Barbara, the state's most quintessential, picturesque beach town. From Montecito/Santa Barbara, you'll have 40 minutes left until you get to Santa Ynez Valley.
Montecito Country Mart
A chic, curated plaza to grab upscale pizza at Bettina or fresh ceviche at Alma Fonda Fina and then wander the boutiques. Grab a unique pastry for the road at Oat Bakery, a scoop of the BEST ice cream at Rori's Artisanal Creamery, or a souvenir for your fur babies at George Pet Store!
Coast Village Road
If you prefer a vibrant, classic coastal vibe, stay on the main stretch of Coast Village Road. Grab some incredible sourdough pastries and coffee at Bree'osh, or sit down for fresh, classic Mexican favorites at Los Arroyos. It is a must for non-Californians to stroll around this lively, palm-lined street after a good lunch!
Hook & Press Doughnuts
Premium, creative doughnuts and incredible buttermilk biscuit breakfast sandwiches. (Breakfast ends at 1 PM!)
Lito's
We hear it's one of the best spots in town for a breakfast burrito!
La Super-Rica Taqueria
An iconic, no-frills taco spot — a must for any taco-lover. Cash-only, and expect a bit of a wait!
Dart Coffee Co.
For a coffee/matcha refuel before the rest of your drive, come by for pastries, empanadas, and a cute garden patio! This is right in the Funk Zone — SB's lovable, walkable, culture-rich, arts-and-wine district, if you have the time to explore!
Lokum
Drop in for traditional Turkish coffee and try some beautiful, colorful, Turkish delights!
Stearns Wharf
California's oldest working wooden pier — with boats, pelicans, ocean views, and even the Sea Center, part of the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History! Santa Barbara Shellfish Company is tiny but worth the wait for the freshest seafood, sitting right on the pier.
MOXI Museum
Highly recommended for families. A hands-on science and creativity museum by the beach, with rooftop exhibits and water tracks to burn off some steam before the final leg.
Loquita
If you have a free evening during your trip, come here for dinner! Delicious Spanish tapas, and paella that genuinely wows. The seafood paella, pulpo, and croquetas are must-orders — make sure to reserve ahead of time!

Santa Ynez Valley, comprised of Los Olivos, Los Alamos, and Solvang, is your home base for the weekend — walkable blocks of unlimited tasting rooms, shops, good eats, and some Danish charm.
10 min from Hotel Ynez, 10 min from Solvang Inn
Lefty's Coffee Co.
Our favorite patio for coffee in Los Olivos: super community-oriented bookshop x coffee shop hybrid with great espresso and huge back patio.
Mattei's Tavern
A historic and gorgeous restaurant-hotel serving breakfast (until 11 AM), lunch, and dinner! A must-see with a stunning garden and great outdoor seating. Be sure to make a reservation for any meal!
Global Eye Shop & Studio
One of our favorites to browse local goods while wandering the block: think soap, jewelry, home goods, clothing... You name it!
Tasting Rooms
There are about 20 in a walkable 3x3-block radius. Enjoy strolling & exploring! Walk-ins work well for these small shops.
Drive 10 more minutes past Los Olivos and you'll find…
Bodega Los Alamos
Sprawling outdoor, easygoing natural wine bar on Bell Street. If you're lucky, you'll be able to snag some Priedite BBQ (Th–Sun only!). Be prepared to wait if you're there after 11 AM.
Bell's
Literally one of Omid's favorite places in the entire country. Michelin-starred, French-inspired bistro with a phenomenal menu. Fun fact: our reception will be at their sister restaurant, so we recommend popping into Bell's for a delicious lunch to experience the best of both worlds! Reservations highly recommended.
Sisters Gift & Home
One of our favorite little shops in this town. We love walking through the rooms and looking for unique antique finds, airy home decor, and local treasures—it's a must-visit to wander and get lost in. (Our last purchase was a vintage table lamp!)
Right where you’re staying
Paula's Pancake House
A lively Solvang institution if it's your first time! Order the thin, airy Danish pancakes with warm blueberry topping. The line moves fast!
Olsen's Danish Village Bakery
Next door to Paula's. Master bakers famous for authentic Danish Kringle and Seven Sisters butter rings. Grab a bucket of butter cookies for the road home or for a lucky friend!
Old Mission Santa Inés
A quiet walk through the 1804 mission gardens with some of the best views of the Santa Ynez mountains. Spot the four windmills nearby for a great photo op.
Good Seed Coffee Boutique
A solid, local spot for organic, small-batch beans and a good tea selection. (But skip the matcha!)
Nojoqui Falls Park
A quick (~30 min total), shaded canyon hike to a mossy waterfall. Easy enough for all ages and all shoes — perfect for an early morning walk or post-meal stroll!
Staying longer?We would love to give you local recs in LA! Please reach out to Cat & Omid
