Santa Ynez is a small charming wine-growing valley in Santa Barbara County, Southern California. It is a great place to visit and relax, offering activities that are unique to the area, like wine and beer tasting, hiking and camping. Santa Ynez also boasts some of the best antique shops in the area, and restaurants and pubs where you can sample local produce.
1. Santa Ynez Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
One of the best ways to get to know each other on a first date is to go for a walk together. Santa Ynez has many lovely parks and places to do just that. Los Padres National Forest is the perfect spot for a romantic stroll, with its lush open meadows and picturesque mountain backdrop. For something a little less rugged, head to Eledo Drago Park, with its landscaped gardens and lake, or explore the grounds of the historic Santa Ynez Inn. For a more challenging trek, follow the trails at Figueroa Mountain Park.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Santa Ynez
A coffee date is a great way to share a conversation in a relaxed environment. Santa Ynez has some cozy coffee shops and cafes to choose from. For a unique experience, visit the Santa Ynez Valley Coffee Co. in the heart of town. This artisan roastery serves up coffee from all around the world, as well as pastries and other treats. If you prefer a more traditional cafe experience, head to White Oaks Garden Café for a pot of coffee and a pastry.
3. Santa Ynez Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
Santa Ynez has a range of galleries, museums and exhibitions that make for perfect date activities. The Santa Ynez Valley Historical Society offers a glimpse into the area’s past, with its rotating exhibits, while the Santa Ynez Valley Arts Association gallery displays pieces from local and regional artists. For a different kind of experience, visit the Santa Ynez Art & Nature Museum, with its eclectic collection of nature and art.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Santa Ynez
If you are looking for something to really show your date a good time, there is no better entertainment than live music. Santa Ynez is home to some great venues, like Roosters Bistro and Bar, where you can enjoy good food and listen to live jazz. Alternatively, for an acoustic night, head to the Maverick Saloon for some country music or the Figueroa Mountain Brewing Company for some live blues.
5. Santa Ynez Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
For a more traditional first date, why not take your date out for a drink or bite to eat. Santa Ynez has plenty of pubs, bars and restaurants to choose from, such as the Santa Ynez Inn Bar and Grill, with its cozy atmosphere, or The Hitching Post II for a more rustic experience. For something more upscale, check out wine bar The Farmstead, where you can sample some of the best local wines in the area.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Santa Ynez
Santa Ynez has plenty of other activities to try on a date. Take a wine tour to sample some of the best wines in the area, or spend the day exploring the many hiking trails in the area. If you and your date are looking for something a little more adventurous, try horseback riding at Point Reyes Stables, or head over to some of the local farms for a day of picking your own fruit or vegetables.
