Santa Barbara County Day Trip Offers Produce, Wine, and Scenic Views

A journey through the region's agricultural and winemaking bounty

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The author describes a day trip from Southern California to Santa Barbara County, highlighting stops for breakfast, fresh produce, and wine tasting. The drive along the Ventura Freeway offers scenic ocean views, while the inland areas showcase the region's agricultural and winemaking heritage, with visits to farms, vineyards, and tasting rooms.

Why it matters

Santa Barbara County is a popular destination for day trips and weekend getaways from the Los Angeles area, offering a mix of natural beauty, culinary delights, and oenological experiences. This story provides a firsthand account of navigating the region's offerings, showcasing the variety of activities and attractions that draw visitors to this part of California.

The details

The day trip begins with breakfast at the Old New York Deli and Bakery Co. in Camarillo, followed by stops at produce stands like the self-serve "peace barn" in Nojoqui Park and a blueberry farm. The journey then leads to the Danish-inspired town of Solvang, where the author skips the usual wine tastings to continue north to the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail. After visiting Kenneth Volk Vineyards and Riverbench Vineyard and Winery, the trip concludes with a scenic drive back home along the 101 Freeway.

  • The day trip begins at 7:30 a.m. from the author's home.
  • The drive to Camarillo takes about 15 minutes.
  • The stop at the Old New York Deli and Bakery Co. happens around 8:15 a.m.
  • The journey continues through Santa Barbara, with some slowing due to freeway construction.
  • The trip northward on the 101 Freeway occurs in the late morning and early afternoon.

The players

Denise

The author's companion on the day trip.

Ken Volk

The owner of Kenneth Volk Vineyards, who was not present at the tasting room during the author's visit.

Becky

The wife of Ken Volk, who was in charge of the Kenneth Volk Vineyards tasting room during the author's visit.

Dave Corey

The owner of Core Wine Company, whom the author had hoped to meet but was not present at the tasting room.

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What they’re saying

“The produce is routinely beautiful at the peace barn. On this trip, the butter lettuce nearly made Denise cry.”

— The author (nowandzin.com)

The takeaway

This day trip highlights the diverse offerings of Santa Barbara County, from its scenic coastal drives and charming towns to its thriving agricultural and winemaking industries. The story provides a glimpse into the region's appeal as a popular destination for food, wine, and outdoor enthusiasts.