A Girls' Getaway: 24 Hours in Santa Ynez Valley
Some places just have a way of slowing things down, letting you breathe a little deeper and settle into the good life. The Santa Ynez Valley is one of them. It’s the kind of place where a glass of wine isn’t just a drink—it’s a ritual. Where small-town streets lead to big conversations, and where every meal feels like a celebration. It’s a slice of classic Americana, wrapped in rolling vineyards and golden-hour glow. Here’s how we like to spend 24 hours soaking it all in with the girls.
First Stop: Wine O’Clock
The moment we land in wine country, there’s only one way to kick things off: with a glass of wine in hand. As proud members of Liquid Farm, we head straight for a chilled glass of their crisp, mineral-driven rosé. It’s not just an excuse to sip something delicious—it’s also the perfect opportunity to pick up our wine club shipment (because let’s be honest, no trip is complete without taking some home). If we’re feeling extra celebratory (or just extra thirsty), we’ll make a stop at Dreamcôte, a funky little tasting room known for its fresh, vibrant wines and easygoing vibe. Pro tip: their pét-nats are a must-try.
Retail Therapy in Wine Country
After a few glasses, it’s time to walk it off. Our favorite cardio? Shopping in Santa Ynez and Los Olivos.
First stop: Lou’s. Owner Leanna is the definition of très chic—she’s part personal stylist, part best friend, and all-around tastemaker. She curates the kind of effortlessly cool pieces that make you rethink your entire wardrobe. And now, with a newly opened men’s store, we can even pick up a little something for the cowboys in our lives. Next door, we always pop into Wendy Foster, a Santa Ynez Valley classic with timeless, California-cool fashion.
And before we wrap up our shopping spree, we always make time for Brass Tack. This is where you find the perfect pair of vintage Levi’s that fit just right and those one-of-a-kind leather jackets that feel like they’ve lived a thousand stories. If you’re after effortless, cool-girl style, this is your place.
Brass Tack in Santa Ynez.
Lunch: French Wine Country Meets California Cool
By now, we’ve worked up an appetite, and there’s no better place to refuel than Bar Le Côte. It’s the perfect blend of wine country meets the French countryside, with a menu that’s as fresh as it is indulgent. Since this spot comes from the team behind Bells (our all-time fave), we know we’re in good hands. Our order? Fries, oysters, a big green salad, and ceviche. Trust us, it’s the dream combo. The space itself is effortlessly cool, with a black and white checkered floor, an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs at work, bright green walls, and fun artwork that makes the space feel lively and inviting.
Bar Le Côte in Los Olivos.
Where to Stay: Coastal Cowboy Chic
We’re spoiled and have family in the valley, so we usually stay on a private ranch but if you’re looking for a spot to stay, we highly recommend the newly remodeled 1090 Edison Units in downtown Santa Ynez. Run by our friends at Miramar Lane and designed by Costera Interiors, these stays are the perfect blend of modern luxury and rustic charm—think cozy yet elevated, with just the right amount of cowboy flair.
Afternoon at the Ranch & Happy Hour at Mattei’s
When we’re on the ranch, we like to take it slow—hanging with the horses, ATV-ing across the rolling hills, and catching up with the crew by the fire. But when happy hour calls, we answer. Mattei’s Tavern is our go-to for a pre-dinner drink. We order an espresso martini and settle into a classic leather club chair in The Bar—a spot so effortlessly chic, you feel like you’ve stepped into a Ralph Lauren campaign. After our cocktail, we take a slow wander around the Auberge Resorts property, soaking in the historic-meets-modern ranch house vibes.
Mattei's Tavern in Los Olivos.
Dinner: A Rustic Italian Affair
Santa Ynez Valley has endless dining options, but if we’re being honest, we always end up at SY Kitchen. It’s just that good. Rustic Italian, warm ambiance, and a menu that hits every note. Our order? Pappardelle and black truffle pizza. While we’ve been drinking wine all day, we’d be remiss not to mention their cocktail program—impressive is an understatement. Sitting outside under the twinkly lights, we toast to another perfect day in the valley.
SY Kitchen in Santa Ynez.
Late-Night Two-Stepping at The Maverick
If we’re feeling a little wild (or just need to burn off that pizza), we close out the night at The Maverick—the kind of dive-y, cowboy bar that feels straight out of an old country song. Dollar bills on the ceiling, live country and bluegrass, an eclectic crowd, and a whole lot of two-stepping. If you go, bring your dancing shoes and schedule a ride home.
Maverick Saloon in Santa Ynez.
Morning Recovery: Strong Coffee & A Proper Breakfast
After a night like that, a slow morning is essential. We sip strong cowboy coffee and take our time getting out the door. If we’re grabbing something on the go, the Los Olivos Grocery breakfast burrito is our go-to (a must if you need a little extra fuel). If we’re sitting down, we love The Baker’s Table for housemade pastries and hearty breakfasts, or Pony Cocktails & Kitchen for a more modern take.
Final Stop: One Last Glass Before We Go
Before we head home, we squeeze in one last winery visit (because when in wine country…). A few favorites? Stolpman Vineyards, Story of Soil, and The Hilt Estate—all with incredible wines and stunning vineyard views. A perfect way to toast to another unforgettable weekend in the Santa Ynez Valley.
See you next time, SYV.
