15 Fun and Free Things to Do in Lompoc 2022

Spoiler alert: There are many free things to do in Lompoc! Take advantage of these 15 amazing fun and free (or nearly free) sights perfect for the budget-minded traveler.

1. Explore La Purisima Mission State Historic Park

   La Purisima Mission State Park is one of Lompoc’s most popular attractions. La Purisima is one of the most extensively restored California missions in California and encompasses over 2,000 acres with over 25 miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding, an Exhibit Hall and Visitor Center. The mission is open most days and admission is free with parking at $6 a vehicle.

2. Visit the Lompoc Outdoor Murals

   Lompoc has one of the largest outdoor mural galleries in the United States. With 30+ murals sprinkled throughout downtown street corners, alleyways, and on sides of prominent buildings, scenes depict Lompoc’s heritage, historic sights, diversity, and scenic beauty. Download a mural map and take a self-guided tour on your visit.

3. Go to Jalama Beach

   Only a 30-minute drive from Lompoc along the scenic central coast, Jalama Beach is the ideal place to kick off your shoes and soak up the sun! The popular onsite grill serves up the famous Jalama burger and is open 7 days a week for breakfast, lunch and early dinner. The beach is open daily and parking is only $10 per vehicle.

4. Take a Self-Guide Tour on the Old Town Lompoc Heritage Walk

   Walkthrough the historic heart of Old Town Lompoc and learn about our buildings and sites dating back to the 1870s. Discover old horse hitching posts, the Roaring 20’s era theater, and several historic Victorian-era homes and the first school built in Lompoc! Download our Old Town Heritage Map and take the tour!

5. Soak in 180-Degree Views at Lookout Point

   The #1 rated hike at Bodger Trail (also referred to as Lookout Point) is a short 5-minute drive from downtown Lompoc. Hike the short .7 miles to Lookout Point and enjoy 180-degree views of the Lompoc Valley. This steep trail is well worth the 1.5 mile round trip for the seasonal wildflowers and wildlife!

6. Visit an Aquarium for Free

   Explore marine life at monthly open house events at the Cabrillo High School Aquarium. Visitors will enjoy interactive experiences like the Tidepool Exhibit with vibrant corals, the shark hatchery, and activities and informative talks about marine life.

7. Explore History at the Lompoc Museum

   The Lompoc Museum is an unforgettable peek into the history and culture of the valley. From the World War II memorial celebrating Lompoc’s heroic veterans to artifacts of the Chumash Indians and other Native American tribes, or the re-creation of an 1800’s storefront; the museum’s permanent and traveling exhibits are a great way to acquaint yourself with the rich history of Lompoc.

8. Take a Scenic Bike Ride

   Bring your bike, clip in and cruise along scenic country roads past vineyards, rolling hills and farmland, and historic neighborhoods! Rides range from easy to challenging, perfect for every type of rider from beginner to advance. Explore 4 Popular Rides In and Around Lompoc That Cyclists Love, or Download a Lompoc Bike Map.

   Another fun activity is the River Bend Bike Park for BMX and dirt bike enthusiasts. The park is the perfect place for some fun off-road trails and jumps and is open from sunrise to sunset.

9. Enjoy an 18-hole Game of Disc Golf

   Let the discs fly at Lompoc’s Disc Golf Course located at picturesque Beattie Park. The 18-hole course is set against the backdrop of the hills surrounding Lompoc, offering spectacular views of the valley. The disc course is designed for players of all skill levels and is free to use.

10. Bird Watching at the Estuary

    Ocean Beach Park & Estuary is the perfect spot for nature lovers. This wildlife habitat is home to migratory birds like the Snowy Plover, which nests in the area from March through September. Bring your binoculars and camera to take in all the fun.

11. Take a Seasonal Wildflower Hike

    One of the highlights of spring is Lompoc’s blooming of the seasonal wildflowers. Our beautiful hillsides burst with color, as the “Valley of Flowers” comes alive. Check out our Wildflower Bloom Tracker and find a Wildflower Hike to celebrate the season.

12. Watch a Beautiful Sunset

    There’s no better way to wind down after a fun day than to enjoy one of Lompoc’s gorgeous sunsets. Grab your camera and head out to a wildflower or commercial flower field, or catch a sweeping view from Lookout Point. Head to Jalama Beach to find welcoming beach views or stroll through downtown Lompoc’s charming downtown buildings at sundown.

13. Visit a Shipwreck

    Nearly 111 years ago, the Sybil Marston shipwrecked near Surf Beach. The resourceful residents of Lompoc salvaged the lumber from the wreck, but you can still view the remainder of the ship at the beach during winter low tide when the conditions are just right. Read more about the Sybil Marston.

14. Take a Scenic Country Drive

    Winding country roads plunging to dramatic coastlines are a signature of California’s iconic Highway 1 that runs through Lompoc. Other popular routes for motorcyclists and scenery-loving car trippers include the meandering canyon views along Jalama Road and Highway 246 that flows through the Sta. Rita Hills wine region. Discover 4 Can’t-Miss Scenic Country Drives In and Around Lompoc.

15. Visit a Farm

    The Lompoc Valley is populated with quiet farms and rolling hills where farming has been a way of life for generations. Visit farms that produce organic, free-range chickens or grab freshly harvested veggies, eggs, dairy products and bread. Explore more about local farm and ranch opportunities.

Plan your trip to Lompoc and Book Your Hotel for your next visit!