Wine country isn’t just about swirling, sniffing, and saying things like “I’m getting crushed violet and breakfast pastry.” Sunset Magazine’s 2025 Travel Awards put a spotlight on four destinations that deliver far more than a tasting flight. As Sarah Yang writes, “These cities and regions deserve a visit.” —Sarah Yang, Sunset Magazine
Here’s our laid-back, boots-and-board-ready guide to Santa Maria Valley, San Luis Obispo County, Healdsburg, and Solvang—where the terroir is stellar and the extracurriculars are A+.
Santa Maria Valley, California
Yes, the tri-tip is legendary, but the valley’s cool maritime climate is the secret sauce for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that actually taste like they earned their medals. Or as Yang notes, “This destination is so much more than the regional style of barbecue.” —Sarah Yang, Sunset Magazine
What to sip: Pinot Noir with that classic strawberry-and-sage vibe. Pair it with Santa Maria-style barbecue for an all-local, no-fuss masterclass in harmony.
What to do: Hit the trails (hiking or MTB) in the morning when the marine layer keeps things chill. Cruise indie boutiques, then swap the wine glass for a craft pint—because balance is important.
Pro tip: Book tastings close together to minimize driving, and carry a light jacket. Coastal fog has range.
San Luis Obispo County, California
SLO is a choose-your-own-adventure playground. You can hike wildflower hills in Montaña de Oro, surf 80 miles of coastline, wave at elephant seals like you’re in a nature doc, and yes, hit the Instagram-famous Serenity Swing—all before a farm-to-table dinner and Paso Robles nightcap.
What to sip: Paso Robles shines with Rhône blends—think Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre—plus big-hearted Cabernets that don’t forget their manners.
What to do: Morning surf at Morro Bay, trail time in Montaña de Oro, sunset tasting in Paso. If butterflies are your thing, time it for monarch season and bring your camera (and patience).
Pro tip: Designate a driver or hire a local tour for Paso. The pours are generous, and your future self will thank you.
Healdsburg, California
Healdsburg sits at the nexus of three AVA heavy-hitters: Russian River Valley, Dry Creek Valley, and Alexander Valley. Translation: Chardonnay and Pinot finesse, Zinfandel with swagger, and Cab that can dress up or down. Add world-class restaurants and eco-conscious boutique hotels, and you’ve got a weekend that feels like a well-curated playlist.
What to sip: Russian River Chardonnay that’s precise without being preachy; Dry Creek Zinfandel with spice and soul; Alexander Valley Cab built for steaks and slow evenings.
What to do: Walk Healdsburg Plaza, bike between nearby tasting rooms if you’re feeling ambitious, and book that dinner reservation early. The food scene hums year-round.
Pro tip: Mix one “anchor” winery with a couple small producers. The contrast keeps your palate curious and your itinerary fun.
Solvang, California
Solvang is a mood—Danish-American charm, half-timbered facades, and a festive energy that somehow pairs perfectly with Central Coast reds. Expect artisan food (street to Michelin-adjacent), small-batch coffee, hand-bottled spices, and events like the Solvang Julefest that turn the town into a cozy postcard.
What to sip: Syrah and Grenache from nearby Santa Ynez and Ballard Canyon—ripe yet balanced, like a well-timed joke. White lovers, chase crisp Albariño or Sauvignon Blanc.
What to do: Window-shop unique boutiques, snack your way through bakeries, then settle into a relaxed tasting session. If your idea of architecture envy is windmills and warm wood, you’ll be very happy here.
Pro tip: Go midweek for lighter crowds. You’ll get more time to chat with winemakers and snag the good pastries.
How to plan the perfect “more than vino” escape
- Stack your days: one big adventure + one leisurely tasting. Your legs and palate will both stay stoked.
- Dress in layers. Coastal California can switch from sunscreen to fleece faster than you can say “fog bank.”
- Share flights. It’s cheaper, smarter, and you’ll remember more than just the last pour.
- Talk to locals. The best hike, taco, or tiny tasting room rarely shows up first on a map.
These winners from Sunset’s Where to Go: Wine Country Getaways category prove the West is built for curiosity. Come for the wine; stay for everything else—waves, trails, markets, butterflies, and that golden-hour glow that makes you want to linger. If you’re the type who keeps tide charts next to tasting notes, this is your moment.
Original article by Sarah Yang for Sunset Magazine.
Source: https://www.sunset.com/travel/best-wine-country-destinations
