Santa Rita Hills Lavender Farm. Courtesy photo.
LOMPOC — Tucked away on California’s stunning Central Coast, Lompoc is the kind of place that surprises you—in the best way possible. From sipping some of the world’s best Pinot Noir to watching rockets blast into space, this charming town is packed with unexpected adventures. Ready to explore? Here are 8 amazing things you can only do in Lompoc.
1. Time Travel at La Purisima Mission
History buffs, this one’s for you! La Purisima Mission State Historic Park is like stepping into a time machine set for 1820. Wander through fully restored adobe buildings, meet farm animals, and even catch live blacksmithing and candle-making demos. If you’ve ever wondered what California was like in the Spanish colonial era, this is the place to find out—no DeLorean required.
2. Sip, Savor, and Swirl at Rock 12 Distillery
Sure, Lompoc is famous for wine (we’ll get to that), but did you know it’s also home to a NEW craft distillery? Rock 12 Distillery serves up small-batch brandy, vodka, and other liqueurs with a local twist. Stop by for a tasting, chat with the makers, and get the inside scoop on how they turn simple ingredients into smooth, sippable perfection.
3. Go Wine-Tasting in the Legendary Sta. Rita Hills
Wine lovers, welcome to paradise. The Sta. Rita Hills AVA is world-famous for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, and you can sample the best of the best right in Lompoc Wine Ghetto—a collection of boutique tasting rooms pouring everything from bold reds to crisp whites. Want something more scenic? Cruise through the rolling hills to visit wineries like Sanford, Melville, and Dierberg for vineyard views and top-tier tastings.
4. Watch a Rocket Launch
Think Cape Canaveral has all the fun? Think again! Vandenberg Space Force Base is just outside Lompoc, and it’s one of the best places in the U.S. to catch a rocket launch. SpaceX, NASA, and United Launch Alliance regularly send missions soaring into the sky, and you can watch from many places, including Surf Beach, West Ocean Avenue, or Lompoc Airport. Keep an eye on the launch schedule—because there’s nothing like feeling the rumble of a rocket taking off!
5. Get Your Mural Selfie Game On
Lompoc isn’t just about wine and rockets—it’s also an art lover’s dream. Stroll through downtown and check out over 30 vibrant murals that celebrate the town’s history, culture, and nature. Whether it’s a tribute to early settlers or a cosmic ode to space exploration, these massive artworks make the perfect Instagram backdrop.
6. Meet Wild Mustangs at Return to Freedom
Horse lovers, this is your moment. Return to Freedom Wild Horse Sanctuary is home to rescued wild mustangs and burros, offering visitors a rare chance to see these magnificent animals up close. Take a guided tour to learn about conservation efforts, snap some breathtaking photos, and maybe even make a new four-legged friend.
7. Bite Into the Legendary Jalama Burger
Picture this: a juicy, perfectly seasoned burger, melted cheese, fresh toppings, and a toasted bun—all with the sound of ocean waves in the background. That’s the Jalama Burger, a Central Coast legend you’ll find at Jalama Beach Grill. It’s worth the scenic drive down to Jalama Beach County Park, where you can enjoy this mouthwatering masterpiece with a side of salty sea air.
8. Wander Through Santa Rita Hills Lavender Farm
If relaxation had a scent, it would be Santa Rita Hills Lavender Farm. The only lavender farm in Lompoc, bursts into bloom during the summer months, filling the air with its calming aroma. Stroll through the fragrant fields, take in breathtaking vineyard views, and pick up handcrafted lavender products, including essential oils, soaps, and honey. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful escape—and some seriously dreamy photos.
Plan Your Lompoc Adventure
From historic missions to rocket launches, wild horses to world-class wines, Lompoc is bursting with surprises. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just passing through, make sure to check off these unforgettable experiences.
About Lompoc:
Located on scenic Pacific Coast Highway 1, just 155 miles northwest from Los Angeles with close proximity to Santa Barbara and Solvang, Lompoc takes
on a world of its own. Its valley setting, surrounded by spectacular rolling hills and vineyards, creates an invitation for visitors to detour off the main road, and explore
what’s around the bend. Lompoc is a destination for wine tasting, golf, cycling, hiking, skydiving, birding, and surfing at nearbyJalama Beach. It is home to
La Purisima Mission State Historic Park, the most fully restored and furnished of the 21 California missions, and adjacent to Vandenberg Air Force Base, where
rockets are launched throughout the year by such entities as NASA, SpaceX, and ULA, to name a few. Lompoc has 12 hotels to welcome visitors. To discover more
about the Lompoc Valley, and other things to see and do, visit: www.explorelompoc.com