Cruising the central valley and coast of the Golden State introduces travelers to a vast selection of award-winning wineries along with culinary hotspots. Mix in the bucolic scenery of the region and the plethora of outdoor activities available, and visitors will discover a side of the Golden State that’s irresistible. From surfing the waves to dog beaches or bicycling from vineyard to vineyard, Californians know how to squeeze every ounce of pleasure from each day. Why not join them?

1) Paso Robles

Starting Point

With more than 60 varieties of succulent grapes, the vineyards around Paso Robles yield amazing estate, boutique and heirloom wines. Pick from over 200 vintners and sample an unending selection at tasting rooms throughout the region. Or narrow your focus and travel the “wine trail” downtown to experience the distinctive bouquets of new and diverse flavors. By the end of the evening you’ll be making a toast to this gentrified community, which celebrates the delicious grape and its varieties. Every October, wine-lovers come out in droves to enjoy the city’s Harvest Wine Weekend.

Gabriele Maltinti

2) Pismo Beach

Drive 42 miles • 45 minutes

A 1,200-foot-long pier jutting into the Pacific is the first hint that you’ve arrived in Pismo Beach. The next sign is the clutch the surfers riding waves as they roll in from the Pacific Ocean. Motorsports buffs will make a beeline to Oceano Dunes Recreation Area, where ATVs vie for the chance to race on designated beaches and crawl over high dunes. Camping and fishing are also great pastimes, but if the fluttering of wings diverts your attention, don’t worry. It’s just the annual monarch butterfly migration, when thousands of the stunning insects visit during winter months. Stroll down Pomeroy Street, which leads to Pismo’s boardwalk.

3) Los Olivos

Drive 48 miles • 45 minutes

In this country town, vineyards, high-end stores and fine art galleries coexist nicely with the surrounding ranches and lavender farms. Spend a delightful evening walking the charming downtown and sampling local wines in almost 30 tasting rooms that line Grand Avenue. Pair a vineyard selection with a gourmet meal or feel the groove during the Jazz & Olive Festival in May. To see more than 120 wineries, take to two wheels and cycle through the rolling hills of the Santa Ynez Valley, creating your own favorite wine tour. Seeking thrills? Take Magic Mike’s mountain biking trail for twists and curves between short uphills and downhills.

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4) Santa Barbara

Drive 34 miles • 42 minutes

Santa Barbara became so famous over the years, that TV producers even named a soap opera after it. But there’s a lot more to this coastal town than glamor and glitz. Explore its miles of beaches, many of which are designated as public beaches. Play in the surf and sand at Leadbetter Beach and Shoreline Park, and if you have a furry four-legged partner, head to dog-friendly Arroyo Burro Beach. If your taste buds are crying for exciting cuisines, some new restaurants touting Cuban, Thai, Celtic and Mexican menus will vie for your attention. Walk the pier, shop along beautiful State Street, or find under-the-radar gems in the side streets.