5 Must-Visit Wine Stops Along California’s Coast
– A Wine Lover’s Road Trip Guide
Written by Lauren Strojny
HWY 1 Big Sur
Craving an unforgettable road trip along California’s breathtaking coastline—complete with world-class wines? Exploring the Central Coast AVA is one of the most scenic wine journeys in the world. Start in Monterey and make your way down the famous Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) (with a slight detour via Highway 101 due to the current Big Sur closure) to Santa Barbara. This roughly 5-6 hour drive becomes even better when you break it up with incredible wine stops every 1-2 hours.
Here are five can’t-miss wine destinations along the California coast for the ultimate wine-inspired road trip.
Stop 1: Carmel – Coastal Charm & Vineyard Vistas
Just 10 minutes inland from Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel Valley offers abundant sunshine and a warm escape from the coastal fog. Spend your days indulging in top-tier wines, stunning vineyard views, spa relaxation, and even a round of golf. We enjoyed 85 degree days lounging poolside between winery visits golfing & sunsets on the beach.
Where we stayed: Bernardus Lodge & Spa
Where we ate: Chez Noir &La Bicyclette Restaurant
Where to wine: Downtown Carmel by-the sea (Wrath & Caraccioli) and in Carmel Valley (Bookenogen, Joyce, Massa)
+ Fun: Golf Day at Carmel Valley Ranch for vineyard & valley views + Spa Day at the best coed outdoor relaxation area in the state at Refuge Spa
Stop 2: Paso Robles – A Rhône & Cabernet Haven
Just two hours south of Carmel, Paso Robles is a wine lover’s paradise with over 200 wineries, a charming downtown square, and incredible restaurants. Known for bold Rhône-style wines like Grenache & Syrah, Paso also boasts exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, Albariño, and Picpoul Blanc.
Where to Stay: Hotel Cheval (just off the downtown square, walking distance to everything)
Where to Eat: Finca (must-try fish tacos), Les Petites Canailles (French cuisine & wine pairing), In Bloom Paso Robles (modern, upscale dining)
Where to Drink: Sunset cocktails at Tetto Rooftop Bar & late-night cocktails at The Alchemists’ Garden
Where to Wine:
Booker Wines – Rhône blends that are next-level 🍷 Next level check out their Terrace Tasting
Adelaida Vineyards – A must for their Hillside Tasting with panoramic views
Nenow Family Wines – A laid-back patio tasting with good friends of mine
Extra Fun: Tin City (urban wineries, breweries, cider, and eats) & Sensorio (a magical light show in the Paso hills).
Stop 3: San Luis Obispo – Chardonnay & Pinot Nirvana
Just 30 minutes south of Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo (SLO) is a charming college town with a lively downtown and the best farmers market in California (every Thursday night). Just 10 minutes away, Edna Valley is a must-visit for its world-class Chardonnay & Pinot Noir, thanks to its cool Pacific breezes and ideal Burgundian growing conditions.
Where to Stay: Hotel Cerro (in downtown SLO) walking distance to everything!
Where to Eat:
Novo (dinner on the river)
Luna Red (small plates heaven)
Firestone Grill (famous tri-tip sandwiches)
High Street Deli (trust me, get the Dutch crunch)
Guiseppe’s (best Italian in town)
Where to Wine:
Edna Valley Vineyards
Chamisal – Iconic Chardonnay & Pinot Noir
Wolff Vineyards – Small-batch, family-run charm
Talley Vineyards – Stunning estate & elegant wines
Extra Fun: Spend a beach day in Avila Beach or hike Madonna Mountain for panoramic coastal views.
Stop 4: Los Olivos – The Santa Ynez Wine Gem
Just one hour south of SLO, Los Olivos is a charming wine town surrounded by rolling vineyards. On the way down, make a pit stop in Los Alamos for an unforgettable meal at Bell’s. Once in downtown Los Olivos, you’ll find over 20 tasting rooms within walking distance, making it a perfect spot for a full day of wine tasting.
Where to Stay: The Auberge at Mattei's Tavern (this just opened, and has all of the darling farmhouse county vibes)
Where to Eat: Bar Le Côte
Where to Wine:
Terre et Sang – Say hi to Duncan & Dalita (tell them I sent you!)
Stolpman – Try their "I Love You Bunches" red
Story of Soil – Small-lot, high-quality Pinot Noir
Liquid Farm – Chardonnay lovers, this one’s for you
Samsara – Balanced, elegant Syrah & Pinot
Donnachadh - cutie new tasting room, epic wines
Stop 5: Santa Barbara – The Grand Finale
A short one-hour drive from Los Olivos, Santa Barbara is where beach vibes meet world-class wine. Spend your days sipping wine in the Funk Zone, lounging on the pristine beaches, and enjoying some of California’s best dining.
Where to Stay: The Ritz Bacara
Where to Eat
The Lark – Locally sourced & delicious
Sama Sama Kitchen – Indonesian-inspired small plates
Milk & Honey – Cozy tapas spot
Where to Wine
Explore Downtown Santa Barbara's Funk Zone for an urban wine experience
Day Trip to Sta. Rita Hills – 30 minutes away, this is Chardonnay & Pinot Noir paradise. The Hilt is a must-visit for stunning wines & views!
If you're dreaming of a coastal California road trip filled with world-class wine, stunning landscapes, and delicious food, this 5-stop itinerary has everything you need. Each destination along the Central Coast AVA offers something unique—from sun-soaked vineyard tastings in Carmel to laid-back, beachside sips in Santa Barbara.
Want more wine adventures? Follow along @wine.with.lauren for all my latest discoveries!
