Everyone always talks about Southern and Northern California but we decided to explore the Central Coast of California during our 3 days/2night road trip. Beautiful scenery, amazing breweries and wineries, and of course the classic California beaches. Here is our itinerary for the weekend!
Where did we stay? We stayed at Santa Ynez Valley Marriott in Buellton. The Marriott is 4 floors, 150 rooms, pet friendly, pool, spa, fitness center on-site, and on-site laundry. Breakfast is available at the restaurant and coffee/snack/bar also open. There is complimentary parking, electric charging for vehicles available in the parking lot with a fee.
COVID: Face masks are required on hotel premises. The staff was wearing masks and gloves. Hand sanitizing stations were available throughout the hotel. Room Cleaning is only available when asked. If you are a Marriott Bonvoy Member (free to join), you can precheck in through the app and receive a mobile room key. You can use to app to communicate with the front desk and request extra bedding to towels.
What did we do? Day #1
Breweries: There are two breweries in Buellton, Figueroa Mountain, and Firestone Brewery, both open at noon and both serve food. Figueroa Mountain has a huge outdoor seating area with picnic benches, chairs, and firepits. We tried the nachos with tri-tip, this portion was definitely too much for two people. The second spot is Firestone Brewery, an indoor restaurant with a huge patio in front. We were so full from the first stop that we only snacked on Mac and Cheese here! But the must try beer here is their famous 805.
Ostrichland: We visited Ostrichland in Solvang, a farm with over 100 Ostrich and Emus. Admission is $5 for adults $2 for children under 12. There is also a military discount available with proof of ID. To feed the Ostrich is $1 per bowl of food. Pro Tip, buy your tickets and make your reservations online, we waited in a long line to get in.
The Hitching Post II: We had dinner at this famous steakhouse in Buellton. They specialize in Santa Maria BBQ, so all the steaks are cooked over an open fire of red oak. We made reservations on Open Table about two weeks before our trip. What to get here? The new york steak was super delicious and perfectly cooked. They are also kid-friendly, high chairs or booster chairs are available, and a kids menu, choice of chicken or steak, a side dish, drink, and dessert.
What did we do? Day #2
Ellen’s Danish Pancake House- Open in 1947, this cute breakfast spot serves up big portions of all your favorite breakfast items. What to order? Danish Pancakes, what they are famous for! Danish Pancakes are thin, crisp, and usually topped with powder sugar and fruit. We tried their Strawberry Danish Pancakes because they were in season!
Avila Barn Farm: A perfect spot for toddlers and kids to roam around and see their favorite farm animals. You can also feed the goats for $3, they give you a head of lettuce. Take some time to walk through their store filled with farm favorites like honey, fresh produce, and freshly baked goodies from the farm. There is also ice cream, sweet treats, BBQ, and fried chicken if you get hungry! Don’t forget to stop by and say Hi to the Llamas! Avila Valley Barn Blog
Downtown SLO: We drove down to downtown SLO to walk around and grab some lunch. Downtown SLO is such a cute neighborhood filled with shops, restaurants, and bars. One place you have to visit is Bubble Gum Alley, just like the one in Seattle, it’s a narrow alley filled with people chewed bubble gum. After browsing through some shops, head over to Firestone Grill for some lunch to try their famous tri-tip! Lines are long but they move fast and food comes out quickly. Seating is first come first serve, seating indoors/outdoors.
Pismo Beach: A short drive from SLO will get you to Pismo Beach, a small but beautiful seaside community. We checked out their new pier and the giant “Pismo Beach” letters then found a spot on the sand to take in the beautiful weather and scenery.
We then made our way to diner at Oyster Loft right by the beach, it’s on the second floor and it has amazing views of the ocean. Make reservations early on Open Table, it can get busy. The oyster loft serves upscale cuisine and regional seafood dishes, yet there is a true beach vibe to this restaurant. What to get? Grilled or Raw Oysters and their Halibut were amazing.
What did we do? Day #3
Solvang: Before we went home we had to visit the small village of Solvang. Solvang is known for its Danish-style architecture, wineries, shops, restaurants, and bakeries.
Headed over to Paula’s Pancake House for Breakfast. We had their buttermilk pancakes with apple cinnamon topping and it was so fluffy and delicious. Before leaving Solvang, right next door from Paula’s Pancake is Olsen’s Danish Village Bakery, we grabbed a bucket of cookies and some traditional Danishes for the road and to give away for the family. The must get here for us was the apple strudel!
What is your favorite spot on the California Central Coast? Leave a comment below.
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