4 Unique Spots for a Little Romance in Lompoc

When it’s time to plan a romantic getaway, skip the tourist-filled cities with crowds, traffic, and high prices. Instead, head for our charming, low-key destination that offers impressive, hidden attractions. Set your GPS to Lompoc, California.

Sitting near the California coastline, Lompoc is a unique, affordable getaway for couples. During your stay, here are four of the best spots for a little romance:

1. A wine tasting room

   The rolling hills, calcium-rich soil, and the perfect amount of California sunshine combine to create amazing wines in Lompoc. There are about 40 wineries along the Lompoc Wine Trail, with everything from boutique tasting rooms to sprawling estate vineyards.

   If you’re short on time, couples should start at the Lompoc Wine Ghetto. Hidden in unassuming industrial buildings is one of the most unique collections of wineries, tasting rooms, and production facilities you’ll ever see. There are 20 tasting rooms inside “the ghetto,” most of which are open Friday-Sunday.

   If you and your loved one are wine connoisseurs, add Midtown Lompoc and the Sta. Rita Hills to your itinerary too. Sta. Rita Hills, just outside of Lompoc, is where you’ll find the larger wineries that are open seven days a week.

   Before you go, download the Lompoc Wine Map.

2. A field of wild flowers

   Lompoc’s rich soil isn’t just great for vineyards, it’s also ideal for flowers. Scattered all around the region are acres upon acres of vibrant, fresh flowers that make for an impressive site.

   What’s more romantic than hopping in the car and taking a leisurely drive around town? You can pull your car to the side of the road, take in the colorful flower fields, and snap a selfie or two.

   The fields are privately owned, so pictures must be taken from the roadside.

   The Explore Lompoc website has a Bloom Tracker that tells you which flowers are in season and where to go to get the best view.

3. A windswept beach

   Take a country drive out of town to see Jalama Beach. The 30-minute trek is full of postcard-worthy scenes ranging from ranches to rugged ocean overlooks; making the journey almost as impressive as the beach.

   The beach itself is a quiet, windswept spot where you can walk, swim, hike, or bike.

   Before you head back to your Lompoc hotel, be sure to stop into Jalama Beach Grill. It’s home to the famous “Jalama Burger.” This 1/3-pound patty stacked with shredded lettuce, onions, tomato, pickles, and a secret sauce is a local favorite.

   This beach truly is one of California’s best kept secrets. If you plan to visit, this article, 5 Things to do at Jalama Beach, is a must-read.

4. A Wild Horse Sanctuary

   If you’re looking for a truly unique date, how about a visit to a wild horse sanctuary? Visitors can check out the 300-acre sanctuary, Return to Freedom, in Lompoc through special events, tours, or photo safaris.

   Visit the Return to Freedom website to learn more about the non-profit, schedule tours, and get pricing.

A romantic weekend trip to Lompoc will be one to remember. With so many original things to see and do, and great hotels to stay in, there’s no reason not to start planning. Download the Lompoc Visitors Guide to get started.