Santa Barbara Family Friendly Activities Abound in the Santa Ynez Valley
Find family-friendly hotels, restaurants, wineries and activities
Plan a Family-Friendly Trip to the Santa Ynez Valley, CA. Here in the SYV, we know that family vacations look different for everyone. For some, there’s nothing better a good, old-fashioned road trip with the kids where there are plenty of adventures. Other families seek out playful experiences, from beautiful hikes to competitive game time.
There are the families who are happy just to be together – bonus points for finding a spot to eat that everyone can agree on. If any of these sound like your crew, embark on a trip to the Santa Ynez Valley, where every winding road leads to a new adventure for the whole family.
Nestled in the heart of California’s Central Coast, the SYV offers a perfect blend of outdoor exploration, new adventures and fun for both parents and kids. We’ve laid out the perfect spots to hit in order to create unforgettable memories together. This guide will help you plan the ultimate family-friendly trip to our enchanting destination.
Ostrichland
In Buellton, bring out your family’s wild side with a trip to see the birds at Ostrichland. This Central Coast landmark hosts over 100 ostriches and emus that are quite a sight. They will amaze you and your family with their tall figures and funny personalities. Watch, feed and snap a few pictures with Buellton’s beloved animals. Who knows…you might even get the perfect shot for your next holiday card.
Flying Flags RV Resort
Look no further for a place for your family to stay than Flying Flags RV Resort. Spend your nights in a vintage trailer or airstream rental, cabin, cottage, luxury tent or your own RV or camping tent. This unique resort boasts breathtaking views of Santa Barbara wine country vineyards that are the perfect backdrop as your family enjoys spending time at the playground and swimming pool. Get competitive with a game of bocce ball on the resort’s courts, and grab dinner at the community’s on-site restaurant. After a day of fun, gather around the fire pits under the starlit sky for family bonding time and s’mores.
Cachuma Lake
With its serene surroundings and plethora of outdoor activities, Cachuma Lake sits nestled in between the beautiful mountains of Santa Ynez and San Rafael. This recreation area is the perfect getaway for a family camping trip or a day at the lake. Take a cruise across the water in a pontoon style boat, g o for a hike with the kids, play a game of disc golf or rent a boat for an afternoon of fishing. The opportunities are endless! For overnight stays, check out their cabins, RV and tent camping or yurts that sleep up to six people. Cachuma Lake truly embodies the essence of outdoor adventure and family fun.
Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden
Step into a world of wonder and discovery at the Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden. This hidden gem of Buellton is not just a garden but a paradise for families seeking a serene, beautiful sight. Explore winding paths lined with vibrant blooms and lush greenery. Walk to the propagation area, seating and an amphitheater in the garden. Picnic amidst the beauty of native California plants or join one of the garden’s educational programs, designed to engage visitors of all ages in the wonders of the natural world. This is an amazing spot to stop and smell the roses (literally) while spending quality time with the fam.
Highline Adventures
For an adventure that gives your family an absolute thrill, visit Highline Adventures in the Santa Ynez Valley. Glide through the air on the largest and fastest zip lines in California. Take in breathtaking views of oak groves and the rolling hills below. For those seeking an extra challenge, tackle one of the four routes at the adventure course, testing your skills and agility amidst the stunning scenery. Highline Adventures offers an exhilarating experience for parents and children over four feet tall.
Peasants DELI & Arcade
peasants DELI & Arcade in the picturesque Danish town of Solvang is the next stop on your perfect family trip to the Santa Ynez Valley. Fill up with delicious sandwiches that range from classics (ham & cheese, mortadella, pastrami reuben) to house specials (The Godfather, The Rachel, The Brady). These picnic ready sandwiches are creations inspired by, and in some cases, named after, the owners’ family members. Then, immerse yourself in their 90s-themed arcade room with over 15 vintage video and pinball games. Don’t forget to compete in a friendly game of air hockey at their table. Delicious eats and fabulous fun, all in one!
Vega Vineyard Petting Zoo
Next stop on your fun-filled family trip: Vega Vineyard and Farm, a haven for both wine enthusiasts and animal lovers alike. From gentle goats grazing on grassy patches to friendly cows, these furry and feathered companions add a touch of excitement to the lovely setting. You’ll have the opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of barnyard favorites. Meet the welcoming pigs, who may eagerly approach to greet you with a nuzzle. Pet the fluffy yellow chicks and resident chickens as they wander through the farmyard. Here, you can buy the freshest fruit and vegetables grown on the property, and pick up a pie or warm baked goods. Vega Vineyard and Farm offers a delightful opportunity for the whole family to make some new animal friends.
If you’ve been hoping to get some quality time with your wonderful family, take this as your sign to make it happen. The Santa Ynez Valley is the perfect place for adventures big and small for families of any age. Whether you’re enjoying a delicious picnic, soaring through the sky on zip lines or relaxing at night by the fire, the SYV has it all. Plan your trip today, and you and your family can create everlasting memories in a beautiful place.
