Located In Santa Barbara County

The Santa Ynez Valley is located in the heart of Santa Barbara County —just two hours northwest of Los Angeles and a scenic four-hour drive south of San Francisco. Nestled among rolling vineyards and oak-studded hills, it’s an ideal and accessible California wine country getaway. Wondering how to get to Santa Ynez? You’re closer than you think.

Getting Here

Book Your Stay

Large wood bed in hotel room

What to Pack for the Santa Ynez Valley Visit

Days are sunny and evenings can be cool—so pack layers, especially in spring and fall. Bring comfortable shoes for wine tasting, walking tours, or California wine country hikes. Sunscreen and a hat are year-round essentials, and don’t forget a swimsuit if your hotel or resort has a pool or spa.

Visitor Information

Need more details for your visit? Browse our trip planning tools, transportation resources, and destination guides. From lodging and dining to maps and safety tips, we have everything you need for a seamless arrival and memorable stay in the Santa Ynez Valley.

  • Weather Stats: Average annual temperatures range from 76° F/32° C to 54° F/12° C. Summer highs 80°-90° F and winter lows to 40° F. August is typically the warmest month and December the coolest. Average seasonal rainfall is 9-17 inches. February is typically the wettest month.
  • Economy: Agriculture, ranching, the equine industry, and tourism drive the SYV economy.
  • Emergency Services: Dial 911 to reach police, fire or ambulance at any time.
  • EV Charging Stations: Found throughout downtown Solvang and the Chumash Casino. SYV Marriott in Buellton has Tesla EV Super Chargers.
  • Parking: Free throughout the Valley. Free daytime RV parking at the Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall lot, 1745 Mission Drive.
  • Population: Approximately 20,000 throughout the six communities of Ballard, Buellton, Los Alamos, Los Olivos, Solvang and Santa Ynez.
  • Visitor Centers: Buellton Visitors Bureau: 597 Avenue of Flags, Unit #101, 805.688.7829 and Solvang Visitor Center: 1639 Copenhagen Drive
  • Road Conditions: During storms you might want to check your route to and from the Santa Ynez Valley for any roads or highways that might be impacted at California Road Conditions. Also, you may want to review the CHP Traffic Incident Information Page to find out about local California Traffic conditions.
  • Public Health: For local public health information, visit the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department.
Mountains and hills in Santa Ynez Valley

Experience the Santa Ynez Valley

Plan Your Trip

The Santa Ynez Valley blends world-class wine, unforgettable culinary experiences, scenic outdoor adventure, and small-town charm across six unique communities. Whether you’re craving a slow morning in a sun-drenched vineyard, a horseback ride through golden hills, or a day of boutique hopping and wood-fired pizza, we’ve got you covered. Start planning with our resources.

Picture Perfect Moments