California’s Central Coast

Everybody take a deep breath and relax.

It’s a destination wedding, so here are some tips to make the most of it.

 

Scenic Drives

California is Spanish for “long drive”. Embrace it. There are plenty of beautiful drives in the area, including the Pacific Coast Highway and the San Marcos Pass coming out of Santa Barbara. For the particularly ambitious (and if you’re getting in early), try a drive up to San Simeon and check out Hearst Castle.

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Wine Tasting

Phil spent his 30th birthday in the back of a champagne colored limo, hitting up his favorite wineries like so many a bachelorette party. Make sure you check out Zaca Mesa, Fess Parker, Foxen, Carhartt, and the Hideaway. For a cheat sheet, check out this itinerary from the movie Sideways.

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Los Alamos

The cutest little town north of Santa Barbara. The influencers are calling it Little LA. It’s an old western town with an honest to goodness saloon and plenty of wide brimmed hats (more Alexis Rose than John Wayne). Check out the main drag for great restaurants, tastings rooms, and bars. We’ll probably do a little bar hopping here on Friday.

Santa Barbara

When we needed to get away from Los Angeles, we just hopped on the 101 and drove two hours north to this quintessential California beach town. Check out the Funk Zone, Mission, and beach on your way up to Los Alamos.

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Los Olivos

Once you get to the venue, Los Olivos is about a 15 minute drive. This is where we would pick up Central Coast’s local specialty, Santa Maria tri-tip bbq sandwiches. Grab them Thurs - Sat at the country store while they last! Be sure to check out the Hideaway - the smallest tasting room in the area and where we got engaged.

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San Luis Obispo

About 45 minutes north of the venue, this gem of a town is where Kellen grew up. Pro tips: Be sure to check out the Farmers Market on Thursday evenings and There Does Not Exist Brewery, both run by Kellen’s high school friends.

 

Getting ready to hit the road?

Here’s a playlist to help you pass the time and get you in the California mood. It’s very on the nose and we love it.