Page 58 - 2024/2025 Travel Guide to CALIFORNIA

LOMPOC
Space to explore in Lompoc
TASTE. HIKE. JUMP. EXPLORE.
LOMPOC VISITOR INFORMATION ExploreLompoc.com
ROAD TO JALAMA, above; exploring murals in Old Town Lompoc, below.
Just wait until you see what off-the- beaten-path adventures await along California’s Central Coast. Follow the trail of wildflowers along Highway 1 to Lompoc to explore fine wine, rocket launches, Cali- fornia history, and inspiring art.
Taste Local Vintages
You’ll find this unique collection of nearly 20 boutique wineries, tasting rooms, and production facilities off Pacific Coast Highway 1 and 12th Street. Or sample the area’s renowned Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vintages by following the Lompoc Wine Trail along Route 246. Here, you’ll encoun- ter spectacular vineyard vistas and charming estate wineries around every bend.
Soak in Outdoor Art
Before you put your head in the clouds, start with your feet on the ground. Stroll the streets and alleyways of Old Town and find a vivid open-air gallery of more than 30 multi- colored murals celebrating space exploration and depicting the Lompoc Valley’s rich her- itage and enduring natural beauty.
Hike into History
Step back in time as you enter Lompoc’s most-visited attraction and home to California’s most fully restored mission— La Purisima Mission State Historic Park.
BY DYLAN BARMMER
Surrounded by wide-open countryside, the park’s 25 miles of pathways present invigorating hiking that connects to the backcountry via trails of chaparral, oak, and scenic overlooks.
View a Launch
Space aficionados agree that Lompoc offers the best vantage point for viewing rocket launches on the West Coast. After feeling the powerful rumble of rockets during blast-off at nearby Vandenberg Space Force Base, you’ll have the opportunity to wit- ness a stunning streak of lights and colors across the sky. To coordinate your own per- sonal mission with upcoming scheduled launch events, check out the visitor’s infor- mation link.
Take a Leap
Get a bird’s-eye view of the glorious Pacific Ocean coastline, Lompoc Valley, and the vineyard-dotted hillsides. Boasting the highest tandem jump in all of Southern California, Skydive Santa Barbara offers a first-rate, bucket-list experience you’ll never forget.
At the end of your day, head 30 minutes outside of town to Jalama Beach to catch the impressive coastal views and a classic California sunset.
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