Getting here
Most visitors arrive by car via US 101, Highway 154, or Highway 246. Santa Barbara and Santa Maria are the nearest practical airport choices, and three free public lots serve the village core.
Arrival map
Santa Barbara Airport is the nearest practical fly-in for many visitors. From Santa Barbara, compare Highway 154 over San Marcos Pass with US 101 and Highway 246 through Buellton. Los Angeles adds a longer US 101 drive through Ventura.
Second Star gear guide
Road Trip Essentials
Road-trip packing list
Phone mounts, coolers, emergency kits, chargers, packing pieces, and glovebox backup for scenic drives and weekend routes.
Car Phone Mounts
$26.99
Road Trip Coolers
$275.00
Car Emergency Kits
$69.95
Highway 154 crosses San Marcos Pass and reaches the Santa Ynez Valley directly. US 101 to Highway 246 is the lower-elevation alternative. Check Caltrans conditions before choosing between them.
Follow US 101 through Ventura and Santa Barbara, then choose Highway 154 or continue north to Highway 246. Friday traffic can add substantial time, so check conditions before departure.
From Santa Maria, Pismo Beach, or Los Alamos, use US 101 and Highway 246 through Buellton. Santa Maria Public Airport is a useful alternative to Santa Barbara Airport for northern approaches.
Free public lots are at 1639 Copenhagen Drive, 464 Alisal Road, and 1616 Oak Street. The village core is walkable; arrange a driver or tour before leaving town for winery tastings.
Highway 154 is direct from Santa Barbara but crosses a mountain pass. Caltrans conditions, weather, or an incident may make US 101 and Highway 246 the better route. Once parked, Copenhagen Drive, the museums, bakeries, and central restaurants are close enough to reach on foot.
Keep exploring
More great destinations to pair with this trip
