4 Scenic Country Drives In and Around Lompoc

Lompoc boasts some of the most picturesque country roads found on California’s Central Coast. Whether you crave a dramatic coastline plunging to the frothy ocean below, winding paths flowing through gentle hillsides, or flower-filled fields perfect for that must-have selfie; a drive through one of these four roads in and around Lompoc will satisfy your travelust.

1. Jalama Road

   Popular with motorcyclists and just minutes from Lompoc is one of the most picturesque drives on the Central Coast. Jalama Road meanders through hillside canyons, offering views of seasonal wildflowers, local wildlife, and abundant local farms. Twisting and turning for 14-miles, this hilly and enormously picturesque road follows Jalama Creek before ending in a dramatic fashion at Jalama Beach.

   Jalama Beach rewards travelers with a spacious beach, campground, kids play area, hiking, tide pools, a cave, and the camp store where the famous “Jalama Burger” is served.

2. Highway 246

   Highway 246 runs north of Lompoc, delighting visitors as it winds through the vineyards and wineries that comprise the Sta. Rita Hills Wine region. Recognized internationally for its award-winning wines, the region is the ideal climate for growing exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. Visitors can stop in for a tasting or pick up a souvenir at one of the many wineries dotting the local hillside.

   Another jewel along Highway 246 is one of the most extensively restored missions in California, the La Purisima Mission Historic State Park. Situated on over 2,000 acres, the mission is ideal for site-seeing, hiking, living history events, weddings and more.

3. Highway 1

   A major route in and through Lompoc, Highway 1 is everything one would expect from a classic coastal California drive. The Instagram-worthy, two-lane highway rolls through gentle hills with low mountains views hovering in the distance. Seasonal roadside wildflowers, along with local birds and wildlife add diversity and interest to this peaceful, quiet route that extends from below Gaviota all the way to Vandenberg Air Force base and beyond.

4. Ocean Avenue

   Marked by one of Lompoc’s most popular attractions, the commercial Flower Fields, Ocean Avenue extends from downtown Lompoc to the Pacific Ocean. Visitors making their way through town may be greeted by fields full of vibrant and luscious blooms of larkspur, delphinium, Queen Anne’s lace, and more (depending on the season).

   Continuing further along this road, you will arrive at the Ocean Beach Park and Estuary where all kinds of migratory and local birds greet nature lovers and photographers. While the park is open year-round, the beach is closed from March to September for the Snowy Plover nesting season.