The Perfect Weekend in Buellton, CA for Outdoorsy Craft Beer (and Wine) Lovers
Welcome to Buellton, California, where the scenic beauty of the Central Coast meets the craft beer culture that has made this region a destination for enthusiasts from near and far. Nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara wine country, Buellton offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, unique experiences, and of course, exceptional craft beverages.
Sponsored by Discover Buellton, join us as we explore the ultimate weekend itinerary for outdoorsy craft beer lovers.
Breweries & Wineries to Stop By
Indulge your taste buds and elevate your craft beverage experience at Buellton's finest breweries and wineries. From innovative sour ales to award-winning Pinot Noirs, these establishments promise a journey of flavor discovery.
Firestone Walker Barrelworks: A haven for sour beer aficionados, Firestone Walker Barrelworks is where innovation meets tradition. Located just outside Buellton in nearby Buellton, this facility crafts small-batch wild ales fermented in oak barrels. Dive into a world of complex flavors and meticulous craftsmanship at this unique destination.
Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co.: With roots deeply intertwined with the Central Coast, Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co. offers a diverse lineup of craft beers inspired by the surrounding landscapes. From hop-forward IPAs to smooth lagers, there's something for every palate at their Buellton taproom.
Hitching Post Wines: Made famous by the hit film "Sideways," Hitching Post Wines continues to captivate visitors with its exceptional Pinot Noirs and laid-back atmosphere. Stop by their Buellton tasting room to savor award-winning wines crafted with a commitment to quality and sustainability. As a bonus, you can sit outside and watch the ostriches and emus nearby at Ostrichland USA (see below for more details!).
Future Perfect Wine: Embrace the future of winemaking at Future Perfect Wine, where tradition meets innovation. This boutique winery located in the adorable downtown Los Olivos specializes in minimal-intervention wines that reflect the unique terroir of Santa Barbara County. Discover your new favorite varietal in their welcoming tasting room. (This was a personal favorite because everything is decorated in rainbows and disco balls!)
BONUS! Buellton Brew Fest: If you're a planner, we highly recommend scheduling a trip to Buellton to catch the Buellton Brew Fest! This festival continues to be one of the best beer festivals on the Central Coast, and kicks off the Central Coast beer festival season (this year, it's taking place on May 4, 2024)! They feature over 50 breweries, wineries and spirits, as well as live entertainment, food trucks, and lawn games.
Unique Things to Do
Experience Buellton's charm and character with these one-of-a-kind activities that promise unforgettable memories and Instagram-worthy moments.
Ostrichland USA: Check out Ostrichland USA, where you can get up close and personal with both emus and ostriches. Located in nearby Solvang, this ostrich farm offers a one-of-a-kind experience that's perfect for animal lovers of all ages. General admission is only $7, and you can buy bowls of feed for $1. Make sure you hang on to your bowl — some of the ostriches may try to steal it!
Zaca Creek Ranch Tour: Possibly our favorite activity of the trip, check out Zaca Creek Ranch, where you'll encounter a menagerie of adorable animals, including alpacas, llamas, pigs, goats, and cows. Learn about all of the animals, and connect with nature in this scenic setting. Petting the llamas and alpacas gives a huge boost of serotonin — we highly recommend this tour for all animal lovers!
Visit Solvang, CA: Immerse yourself in Danish culture with a visit to Solvang, a charming village just minutes away from Buellton. Stroll through the streets lined with windmills and half-timbered buildings, indulge in authentic Danish pastries (our favorites were the Aebleskiver AKA pancake balls), and explore unique shops and galleries.
Our Favorite Hikes
Explore Buellton's natural beauty and embark on unforgettable hikes that showcase the stunning landscapes of the Central Coast. Each of these hikes is drastically different from the other, so if you want variety, check all of them out during your trip!
Sweetwater Trail to Cachuma Lake Overlook: Embark on a scenic journey along the Sweetwater Trail to reach the breathtaking Cachuma Lake Overlook. This moderate hike offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and shimmering waters, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Bill Wallace El Capitan Trail: Traverse the rugged terrain of El Capitan Canyon on the Bill Wallace El Capitan Trail. This challenging hike rewards intrepid adventurers with stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean and opportunities to spot native wildlife amidst the chaparral landscape.
Lover's Loop via Grass Mountain Trail: Escape into nature with a hike along the Lover's Loop via Grass Mountain Trail. Meander through oak woodlands and rolling hillsides adorned with wildflowers as you follow this picturesque loop, ideal for a romantic outing or solo exploration.
Where to Stay
When looking for a place to stay, we love easy access to nearby drinkeries and eateries, affordability, and friendly staff. We had a great time at the Hampton Inn & Suites Buellton/Santa Ynez Valley.
Nestled in the heart of Buellton, the Hampton Inn & Suites offers modern amenities and a warm welcome to travelers seeking relaxation and adventure. Conveniently located right next to Firestone Walker Barrelworks, this hotel puts you just steps away from exceptional craft beer experiences.
After a day of exploring, retreat to your spacious guest room or suite, complete with plush bedding and complimentary Wi-Fi. Wake up refreshed and start your day with a complimentary hot breakfast before heading out to discover all that Buellton has to offer.
Whether you're here for the beer, the wine, or the outdoor beauty, the Hampton Inn & Suites Buellton/Santa Ynez Valley promises a memorable stay.
As you can see, Buellton offers a plethora of delights for outdoorsy craft beer lovers seeking adventure and relaxation. Whether you're sampling innovative brews, embarking on unforgettable experiences, or exploring the natural beauty of the Central Coast, Buellton invites you to discover the magic of this hidden gem. Plan your perfect weekend getaway with Discover Buellton and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Cheers to the good life in Buellton!