Santa Ynez Valley Real Estate
Centered in Santa Barbara’s wine country this area includes the charming Danish town of Solvang, scenic Buellton, Santa Ynez, and Los Olivos.
Santa Ynez is just one of many excellent towns within the picturesque Santa Ynez Valley, also known as part of California's wine country with great opportunities for wine tastings at the local wineries. Vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, and this quaint area is also home to the Dutch town Solvang which is a big hit around the holidays with events like Julesfest. Santa Ynez Valley also encompasses the small and scenic city of Buellton and Los Olivos, a small town in the center of Santa Barbara wine country known for growing succulent wine grapes.
What to Love
- Wine country
- Stunning scenic views and vineyards
- Solvang’s Danish heritage
- Julesfest at the holidays
- Excellent shopping and dining
- Rich historical legacy
People & Lifestyle
The Santa Ynez Valley consists of several communities, including Santa Ynez, Los Olivos, Buellton, and Solvang. Home to wine country and tourism, this idyllic, rural area has a unique identity as each community offers something different and distinct. Buellton has an Old West flair and style, while Los Olivos is where many of the area's wine grapes are grown. Then there is Solvang, the Danish town bursting with charm. From families to retirees, the valley is a welcome respite from the bustle of the larger cities.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Hitching Post II and
AJ Spurs are notable for their Western-style interiors. Both spots serve oak-grilled meats and unique dishes you won't find anywhere else. But you can also try classic New American food at the modern counter-serve Industrial Eats.
CHOMP Burgers is a family-owned joint perfect for a casual meal of burgers and shakes. The same company owns the kid-friendly
Brekkies, a breakfast staple for American and Mexican fare.
There is no better local spot for extravagance than the AAA Four Diamond-rated
Chumash Casino with more than 320 rooms and 58 suites. This resort gives guests exquisite and unparalleled views of the Santa Ynez Valley.
Things to Do
Solvang celebrates its Danish culture every year with a three-day festival of heritage and culture called
Solvang Danish Days. Come winter, the city hosts a month-long Danish-style holiday celebration known as
Julefest, which includes the popular
Santa's Village. Solvang is also home to the
PCPA Theatre, a professional conservatory theatre that also offers training.
If you want a truly unique tourist experience, be sure to visit
OstrichLand USA. Like the name suggests, this park allows guests to feed the roaming ostriches and emus.
Buellton is home to the annual
Brewfest celebration, the iconic
Sideways Lounge where the 2004 movie was filmed, and the
Mendenhall Museum featuring a private collection of vintage gas, racing, and roadway artifacts.
Since Santa Ynez Valley is in the heart of California's wine country, there are always wine tasting events and tours to take. The annual
Solvang Stomp is a great way to get in on the fun, and many local wineries participate.
Schools
Notable schools in the Santa Ynez Valley include:
- Santa Ynez High (public, 9-12)
- Santa Ynez Elementary (public, 1-8)
- Family Partnership Charter School (charter, K-12)
- Solvang Elementary (public, 6-8)
- Jonota Middle (public, 6-8)
- Oak Valley Elementary (public, K-5)
Search All Homes
