I've Lived in California for 20 Years-and This Small Town Is One of the Most Underrated in the Golden State

"As a California resident of 20 years, and a person who never says no to a road trip, I've crisscrossed the state many times in search of places that surprise me. Buellton is one of those spots that started as a quick pit stop and quickly became one of my family's favorite destinations. Snuggled in the Santa Ynez Valley, between the Pacific Ocean and the gentle hills of wine country,"

"Once known as the Windmill Inn-immortalized in the 2004 Academy Award-winning film "Sideways," when Miles and Jack crashed in room 234 between tastings- this revamped motel has been overhauled into a boutique hideaway. Stylish rooms, fire pits, and a laid-back lounge with craft beers and a delectable wine list make it the best stay in town. Pea Soup Andersen's Inn Established in 1969 next door to the renowned Pea Soup Andersen's restaurant"

Buellton sits in the Santa Ynez Valley between the Pacific Ocean and the hills of wine country, offering quiet backroads, quirky shops, offbeat roadside attractions, and friendly locals. Hidden gems lie just a turn away from the main streets. Boutique lodging options include a revamped Windmill Inn turned Sideways Inn with stylish rooms, fire pits, and a laid-back lounge serving craft beers and curated wines. Pea Soup Andersen's Inn grew into a 98-room hotel with bright decor, a heated pool, patios, and complimentary Danish from a nearby Solvang bakery. Flying Flags RV Resort mixes vintage Airstreams, safari tents, cottages, full-hookup sites, a sizable pool, a camp store, and food trucks under fairy lights.

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