Page 52 - 2025-2026 Travel Guide to California

LOMPOC
Space to explore in Lompoc
TASTE.
HIKE. JUMP.
EXPLORE.
LOMPOC VISITOR
INFORMATION
ExploreLompoc.com
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,
California 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.
50 2025-26 TRAVEL GUIDE TO CALIFORNIA
B Y S . C . S E A R L E
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.
EXPLORE LOMPOC