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Road Trip to Sunriver, Oregon

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Five hundred seventy-five miles north of Monterey, Sunriver, Oregon,  is a haven for families. Filled with outdoor activities and adventures, each season brings unique experiences for its visitors. It’s the perfect destination for a week-long road trip.

WHERE TO STAY AND PLAY  ALONG THE WAY

A hidden treasure in Northern California lies within Castle Crags State Park–the Railroad Park Resort in Dunsmuir (360 miles from Monterey). Train aficionados will love the cabooses converted into hotel rooms and dining in the Southern Pacific Cascade car. RV and campground sites along Little Castle Creek are also available and ideal for hiking and exploring, and kids will love the game room and swimming pool.

Beer lovers will enjoy the local breweries in Redding. Mount Shasta, Crater Lake, and Klamath Falls are ideal stops to stretch your legs for scenic hikes and picnics on your road trip.

SO MUCH TO CHOOSE FROM

Sunriver is located next to the Deschutes Natural Forest, a 3,300-acre planned resort community outside Bend, Oregon. Sunriver’s beauty is a mecca for thrill seekers and explorers. With over 40 miles of paved trails, travelers can bike, run, and scooter throughout the community. Hikers can choose from 15 trails that cover 64 miles within Sunriver, including the breathtaking Trail to Benham Falls along the Deschutes River. You’ll see people kayaking, tubing, canoeing, and rafting down the river during your hike. Mountain bikers can choose from 14 trails for their adventures, and Sunriver has four golf courses.

Children of all ages will love playing at Fort Rock and Paulina Park. Both have large grassy fields and picnic tables, perfect for an afternoon of fun in the sun and monkeying around on the playground equipment. Fort Rock Park has basketball and tennis courts, horseshoe, softball, and volleyball facilities. Paulina Park has pavilions available for rent, as well as a rock-climbing wall and bocce ball court.If you prefer to relax during your vacation, the Sage Spring Club and Spa is your destination to be pampered.

THE VILLAGE AT SUNRIVER

Visit the Village at Sunriver to grab freshly brewed Pacific Northwest coffee at Brewed Awakenings or a pint at Sunriver Brewing Company. The center also houses artists’ galleries, information about all-adventure trips and tour guides, real estate, and other locally owned businesses. No family vacation would be complete without a visit to an ice cream shop. Look no further than family-owned and operated Goody’s Chocolate and Ice Cream. Your children will thank you for the delicious caramel corn and sundae!

SUNRIVER HOMEOWNERS AQUATIC & RECREATION CENTER

A must-see destination on your trip is SHARC,: Sunriver Homeowners Aquatic & Recreation Center. An onsite café and large grassy areas make for a perfect summer picnic to fuel up before racing down the body and tube slides or relaxing under the sun in the lazy river. Younger children can play in a separate tot pool, kids can play in the water jungle gym, guests can swim in the lap lanes, and adults can relax in the hot tub. Outdoor sports include a 9-hole disc golf course, rock climbing structure, basketball court, bocce ball, tennis, and pickleball courts. Live music lovers will enjoy the free Sunday summer concerts, vendors, and family-friendly activities at their outdoor amphitheater.

Many rentals include SHARC passes in their reservation, so look for that amenity when booking. Otherwise, a day pass is $20 per person for ages four and older.

SUNRIVER NATURE CENTER & OBSERVATORY

This educational center houses amphibians and birds of prey and teaches budding naturalists and scientists about raptors and rehabilitation. The Oregon Observatory is the largest in the United States and a must-see during your Sunriver trip! During the day, guests can use impressive and massive telescopes to view the sun, and staff members are available to teach you how to use the equipment and explain what you see properly.

MUST SEE SITES AROUND SUNRIVER

Take a day trip outside of Sunriver to venture into nearby Bend. Grab a pint at Deschutes Brewery downtown or Crux Fermentation Project. The Crux also serves house-blended wine, whiskey, cider, weekly live music, local food carts, grassy area, and chalk art for the kids to play while the adults enjoy their drinks and scenic view.

Twenty minutes north of Sunriver is a must-see family attraction known as the High Desert Museum. This museum houses art exhibits and galleries, historical exhibits of early Oregon settlers (the sawmill was our family favorite), and natural wildlife.

As a former Blockbuster Pacific Grove employee, one of the highlights of our Sunriver trip was visiting the last remaining Blockbuster Video store in Bend. I reminisced walking down the aisles, reading movie descriptions on DVD cases while shopping in their apparel section for a signature blue and yellow Blockbuster t-shirt. I purchased a Blockbuster branded “Be Kind – Rewind” sticker, and while my son will never understand the significance, my husband and I display it proudly on our Yeti cooler.

On the way back from Bend, stop at the Lava River Cave. It is a mile-long, self-guided lava tube, a natural tunnel created when flowing lava moves underneath the hardened surface of a lava flow. Wear closed-toed shoes as the cave descends 55 stairs, and there are uneven and rocky surfaces. Visitors are encouraged to bring or rent two light sources, and pets are prohibited. The dormant Newberry Volcano is also nearby and another geological treasure to explore.

Sunriver, Oregon, could be your perfect destination if you’re planning a summer road trip destination. This special Oregon community has something for everyone to enjoy and will create memories for a lifetime.

A Weekend in Yosemite National Park

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Last April, we decided to take our kids, who were then 3.5 and 1.5, to Yosemite National Park and had a wonderful experience. Yosemite is scenic, a convenient drive from Santa Cruz and Monterey counties, and offers a range of adventures for any age. Here is what we learned, including some tips.

WHEN TO GO

In terms of weather, summer is a fantastic time to visit Yosemite. However, the biggest drawback can be the large crowds during the high season when visitors from across the country and the world visit. Fall and spring can be less crowded but less predictable regarding weather. I have yet to visit in the winter, and while it would be beautiful, I don’t think our children at this age (under 5) would enjoy it quite the same. We found our visits in fall and spring peaceful, and we were less concerned about lines and general traffic.

GETTING TO YOSEMITE VALLEY

I highly recommend visiting Yosemite Valley with young children, as it is a convenient road trip. The Valley offers lots of food and lodging nearby with shuttles. Depending on where in Monterey or Santa Cruz counties you are located, it’s about a 4.5-hour drive without traffic. Once you are there, you can park your car and not drive again until it’s time to go home if you choose to walk and use the shuttles.

On your drive to Yosemite, make sure you make a stop at the Merced Fruit Barn. It’s on the way and an excellent spot for young children to get a break and play. It has food, clean bathrooms, and an assortment of animals. In addition, it splits the drive almost evenly (if you’re heading to Yosemite Valley, about 2 hours on either end from the Merced Fruit Barn) and has a few gas stations nearby where you can fill up too.

If you are driving in the summer or on a long spring or fall weekend, consider leaving early in the day to beat weekend traffic. If you have children who get squirmy in the car, they’ll appreciate not having to sit in traffic, particularly at the park entrance.

If you are traveling with a grandparent, consider taking advantage of the Senior Pass to enter the park. A lifetime pass is available for $80, a pass for one-year is $20 for those over 62. The pass entitles the pass owner and up to three adults to enter national parks for free.

WHERE TO STAY

Staying in the park is well worth it, especially with young children. If you need a midday break, your lodging is right there. You also avoid traffic entering and exiting the park, which we noticed daily. We booked our travel plans about nine months in advance. When we booked, a range of options was available at The Ahwahnee, Curry Village, and Yosemite Valley Lodge for our family of 4 that did not involve camping or unheated tents. If you are going with a large group, book earlier.

Here are your in-park lodging options with pros and cons:

The Ahwahnee

Majestic is a great descriptor for The Ahwahnee. It’s breathtaking and full of history. The rooms are older and might be due for some upkeep, but this felt like a luxury hotel.

Tip: If you are a guest staying at the hotel, you can make reservations at the restaurant in advance, which I highly recommend. It’s a beautiful dining room and quite the treat at the end of a long day.

Curry Village

Curry Village is the most rustic feeling. The accommodations are canvas tents and cabins. This is an excellent location if you have a large group or want a more nature-focused lodging experience.

Yosemite Valley Lodge

Yosemite Valley Lodge feels like a standard, average hotel. The buildings are short (two floors), and the rooms are 2 Queen beds. The location has more food options, a store, and bike rentals.

You can rent bikes and bike trailers for smaller kids here. We fit both kids in one trailer and biked Cook’s Meadow Loop, frequently stopping to admire the views. Even so, it was not a long or overly challenging bike ride. It was much better than carrying the kids when tired, and they loved riding in the carriage.

If you cannot book early and are traveling with a small group (like a family of 4), regularly check the website the month before, as the cancellation policy says to cancel seven days in advance for free. Usually, a few (non-camping) last-minute options open up.

WHAT TO EXPLORE IN YOSEMITE VALLEY

Here’s what we explored with our young children:

Lower Yosemite Fall Trail. This was a great, easy walk. Our general experience has been that this was the busiest of all the trails but a good one. Seeing these waterfalls up close and far away on a well-maintained, minimal-elevation trail was a special treat for our kids.

Mirror Lake Loop (we did the out and back, not the full loop)

We made Mirror Lake harder than it should have been. We accidentally strayed onto a more challenging trail, so we had to double back before doing the out and back. Mirror Lake offers a beautiful view, which is quite different and more serene than the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail. The last portion of the trail has an elevation (uphill on the way there), so be prepared to motivate kids to keep going. We brought snacks and took breaks. Our goal was to do as little carrying of the littles as possible.

Cook’s Meadow Loop. As mentioned earlier, we biked this, which was a highlight for the whole family. Elevation was insignificant, and the paths were wide and relatively easy to bike, even while pulling a kid bike trailer.

I hope your experience with your family is wonderful. Most importantly, savor exploring nature and making memories at the beautiful Yosemite Valley together.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Check nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/valleyhikes.htm before heading out to see what trails are open. You can also view the available trails with difficulty ratings to plan your trip, find links to downloadable apps, and find park services on social media. You can also download maps ahead of time or pick up hard copies in case you lose reception.

Denise Green has worked in education for over a decade, specializing in mathematics pedagogy and professional development. She, her husband, and their two children reside in the sunny hills off Highway 68.

Paso Robles is the Place for Family Fun

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If you are looking to escape the gloom and fog of the Peninsula, Paso Robles is the place to go. Located less than 2 hours from Monterey, Paso Robles offers warmer temps, sun, and fun for the whole family.

The Ravine Waterpark. Your kids will love the opportunity to splash around at this fantastic water park. Located right off Highway 46, it is easily accessed from downtown Paso Robles and many hotels. The park has a lazy river, wave pool, several slides and a tadpole, perfect for little ones. Daily admission tickets are less than $35 per person and children under 2 are free. The park is open from May-September. Visit their website, www.ravinewaterpark.com for a daily schedule, discounts and to purchase tickets

Family Friendly Wineries. Yes, you read that correctly. Paso Robles has several family-friendly wineries. Sculpterra Winery offers a beautiful backdrop for your tasting experience, with amazing gardens and beautiful sculptures. They also have a game area that your kids can enjoy free of charge including chess, foosball, table tennis and bocce ball. Pistachios are also grown on site. Tooth and Nail Winery is another great option. Your kids will feel like prince and princesses at this winery, as the main building for tastings is a castle, complete with a moat around the outside. Tooth and Nail has a great outdoor patio with corn hole boards. They even have french fries on their menu. Eberle Winery is located on 38 acres and they are dog friendly. At Castoro Cellars, you’ll find a state of the art, pre­mier 18-hole disc golf course. They also provide coloring books and have a large grassy area for the kids to play in.

Paso Robles Children’s Museum at the Volunteer Firehouse. Don’t come to Paso Robles without a stop at this museum, which is a non-profit organization that encourages learning through play and honors the heritage of the volunteer firefighters. There are several interactive exhibits, with kid favorites being El Mercado, where kids can shop and check out in the grocery store while learning Spanish and the Grape Stomp with its fun ball pit. Tickets are $7 for adults, $8 for children (1-13) and $5 for grandparents (65+). The museum is open Friday through Monday. Visit www.pasokids.org for more information.

Breweries. There are two local brew houses to visit in Paso Robles. The first is Firestone Walker Brewing Company, famous for their “805” beer. The Brewhouse Tour is for kids 12 and up, but the Barrel Room and Evening Tour is strictly 21 and up. The Taproom Restaurant, located across the street from the brewery, is family friendly and has an excellent kid’s menu. Menu favorites include the Tator Tots, Buffalo Cauliflower and the Crispy Brussels and Spinach Salad. Visit  www.firestonebeer.com for more information. Barrelhouse Brewing Co. is another brewhouse, complete with a half-acre beer garden, live music, and food trucks. Visit their website for their live music and food truck schedule at www.barrelhousebrewing.com.

Jack Creek Farms. This fifth-generation family farm is a must see on your visit to Paso Robles. The farm features cider and honey tasting, a seasonal u-pick garden complete with sweet onions, garlic, blackberries, olallieberry, lavender, apples, pumpkins, peach and plums, farm animals with goats, rabbits, chicken, and ducks, too. The farm also has a wooden train play structure, tractor tire garden and old water pump for your kids to play with.  You’ll find many opportunities for great vacation photos. Visit www.jackcreekfarms.com for a current harvest listing.

Hearst Castle. If you are up for short drive to San Simeon, Hearst Castle is a must-see and an excellent opportunity to share a piece of history with your children. You may even see zebras on your drive in. Tours book up quickly, so be sure to check out their website and book yours in advance. A tour reservation is required to get on the bus for the 5-mile ride up to the castle. Strollers are not permitted, but carriers are great, and the castle provides them on a first come, first served basis. For more information and tickets visit www.hearstcastle.org.

Concerts in the Park. If you plan your Paso trip to begin on Thursday, you can start things off with music. Stop by Thursdays from 6-8 pm for live music on the Downtown City Park lawn where you’ll hear everything from country to 60’s rock n’ roll. Food and beverages are allowed, so pack a picnic and your family for a wonderful evening of good music and good times. Concerts run through mid-August but a visit to City Park is a must do. With lots of grass to play on and picnic tables for a takeout meal, it’s a great spot for a little break during sightseeing.

Five Reasons to Visit San Jose (and one great reason to visit Gilroy!)

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San Jose, located 70 miles north of Monterey, is the largest city in Northern California. While San Francisco and Oakland tend to get more headlines and name recognition, don’t overlook this slice of the Bay Area. San Jose is a great place to take the family for all the benefits of an urban environment without nearly as much traffic!

Below are a few family-friendly locations where you and your loved ones can enjoy a day…or three!

The Tech Interactive

Located in the heart of San Jose, The Tech Interactive is one of the best science and technology museums and activity centers on the west coast. With STEAM-targeted exhibits like BioDesign Studio, Cyber Detectives, Space Exploration, and Social Robots, the entire family can learn more about science, tech, and the way it is helping to shape our future. Don’t forget to check out the IMAX theatre, currently offering a variety of programming.

  • 201 S. Market Street, San Jose

  • 408-294-8324 • thetech.org

  • Open Tuesday – Friday: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.


Winchester Mystery House

This is one of those you-gotta-see-it-to-believe-it sort of places. Originally an eight-room farmhouse, the official website describes the current facility as the result of “the world’s longest home renovation.” Sarah Locke Winchester, the widow of William Wirt Winchester and heiress to a significant portion of the Winchester® Repeating Arms fortune, purchased the farmhouse shortly after relocating to the area after the death of her husband and child. From 1886 until Sarah’s death in 1922, constant construction resulted in 24,000 square-foot behemoth with 160 rooms, 10,000 windows and six kitchens.

The motivation behind such a project remains part of the mystery, along with reports of paranormal activity around the residence. With over 12 million visitors to date, the attraction has been named a “Top Destination” by USA Today, Time Magazine, Travel Channel and more. Several tours and activities are available at different times and price points—please see the official website for information and booking.

  • 525 S. Winchester Blvd., San Jose

  • 408-247-2000 • winchestermysteryhouse.com

  • Open daily: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm weekdays; 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. weekends


Raging Waters

As lovely as the Monterey Peninsula beach offerings are, sometimes there just isn’t a substitute for screaming down a waterslide. Raging Waters is the largest water park in Northern California, with over a million gallons of water spread over 23 acres of attractions. Popular spots include the Wave Pool, Pirate’s Cove, and Bomb’s Away—an enclosed waterslide with a surprise beginning! Throw in the Endless River and Activity Pool and you’ll never want to feel salt water again!

  • 2333 South White Road, San Jose

  • 408-238-9900

  • rwsplash.com

  • Open daily 10 a.m.–5 p.m. through August 6


California’s Great America

Featuring thrilling rides, entertainment and a top-notch waterpark, California’s Great America is the perfect choice for families of all ages. Great America features more than 60 rides, from heart-fluttering roller coasters to quiet track rides perfect for your youngest kiddo. It’s also the only amusement park in Northern California that has a waterpark included with park admission. Be sure to check out the Gold Striker, an old-school wooden roller coaster that zips patrons along at over 50 miles per hour!

  • 4701 Great America Parkway, Santa Clara, CA 95054

  • 408-908-1776

  • cagreatamerica.com

  • Open daily during the summer except for Tuesdays. Park: 10 a.m.–10 p.m., Waterpark: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.—some exceptions, please check the website calendar for details.


Happy Hollow Park & Zoo

Have a little one who wants to go to the zoo?  Don’t want to drive to San Francisco or Oakland? You’re in luck. The perfect place to meet and greet animals and enjoy age-appropriate rides is only an hour away in south San Jose. Happy Hollow Park & Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals such as the Black & White Ruffed Lemur, Capybara, Giant Anteater, Jaguar, Monkeys, Tortoises, many different species of birds and much more.

  • 748 Story Road, San Jose

  • 408-794-6400

  • hhpz.org

  • Open Wednesday–Sunday 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

California Must See’s for Monterey Military Families

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About this time last year, I was a newly minted resident of California. Although I’d spent a fair amount of time in the Golden State in the past, I’d never lived here, and to say I was excited to explore my new home would be an understatement for the ages. For the past year, my family and I have spent as much time as possible tooling up and down the land, checking what the state has to offer. With gasoline prices creeping ever upward, most families are looking to get the most bang for their buck when it comes to summer travel.

While many stones are left unturned, here are some of the best places I’ve visited over the past year.

1. ANAHEIM

Home to Disneyland, Anaheim should be on any family’s list. Beyond rollercoasters and cotton candy, the city offers plenty of other entertainment. Yorba Regional Park is great for a picnic; check out a game at Angel Stadium Anaheim or bounce to your heart’s content at the Sky Zone Trampoline Park. Hollywood and Catalina Island are just a stone’s throw away. While you could spend an entire week at the latter amusement park, the nearby Knott’s Berry Farm is no slouch.

2. LAKE TAHOE

Most people don’t necessarily associate California with snow, but there is fun to be found in west coast powder. Northstar Ski Resort, in particular, offers 3,000 skiable acres and a variety of activities for all ages, from snow tubing to skating and fat biking. Lake Tahoe is also a world-class mountain biking destination. During the summer months, the lake itself offers plenty of opportunities for water-based recreation, including jet skiing, paddle boarding, and fishing.

3. THE LOST COAST

Nestled in the wilds of Humboldt and Mendocino counties, Shelter Cove is the termination point for the popular Lost Coast Trail, a popular 25-mile ramble from Mattole down the rugged coast to the unique Black Sands Beach. Hiking the entire length of the trail requires arranging a drop-off at Mattole to the north with one of several shuttle services in the area. Due to tidal action, most people spend a leisurely 3-4 days making their way south back to Shelter Cove, stopping at any number of the perfect campsites spread out along the way.

A backcountry camping permit is required; visit recreation.gov for more information.

Is a full-on backpacking adventure a little beyond your paygrade? The surrounding area is ideal for hiking, kayaking, and enjoying the day. The area is also perfect for families looking for a quiet destination with a decidedly earthy vibe.

4. SACRAMENTO

Known for its history, the state capital offers numerous activities to entertain and engage local visitors. Pan for gold while learning about the infamous Gold Rush of 1848 at the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park. Get a sense of the pioneer spirit at Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park, which has undergone painstaking restoration over the years (the Donner Party stayed here not long after their rescue in 1847). The state capital museum is also open to the public, with an extensive collection of artifacts.

5. SAN DIEGO

World famous and for a good reason, the San Diego Zoo is a genuine wonderland. Over 12,000 animals of 650 different species are on display. Between expert talks, guided and self-guided tours, and interactive wildlife presentations, there is enough to keep a family busy for a week, never mind the traditional day-at-the-zoo most of us are used to. In addition to the full zoo, the Safari Park also offers close encounters with cheetahs, elephants, and giraffes. Unique experience packages and themed activities are also available. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Download the San Diego Zoo app for a GPS-enabled map and inside information on dining, activities, special programming, and more.

A “don’t miss” in the San Diego area is USS Midway Museum. For lovers of modern aviation history, this one is hard to top. Over 30 fully restored jet and propeller aircraft reside on this museum aircraft carrier. Commissioned just eight days after the end of World War II, the Midway served for nearly fifty years before being decommissioned in 1992. The ship features an array of top-notch exhibits above and below deck, including guided tours and flight simulators. Open Monday-Sunday from 10a.m.–4p.m. For tickets and more information, visit midway.gov.

6. SAN FRANCISCO

One of the most eclectic cities in the country lies just two hours north of us in the Bay Area. Families with kids of any age will find various options at their fingertips. Check out the Exploratorium in the Embarcadero waterfront or catch a Giants game at Oracle Park. This is a perfect city for families with older kids to explore on foot; wind your way up the Embarcadero to Crissy Field and a great view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Fans of animation will love the Walt Disney Family Museum, and you can plot your escape from the historic Alcatraz Island.

7. SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK

This is right up there with Yosemite in terms of the wow factor. Created in 1890 to protect its venerable giant trees, Sequoia National Park is also home to Mount Whitney, the tallest point in the lower 48 states. At over 400,000 acres, the largest tree in the world, General Sherman, can be found in the aptly named Giant Forest, home to five of the ten largest trees in the world. Perfect for day hikes and extended trips, visit recreqtion.gov for more information.

8. YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

One of our nation’s crown jewels, Yosemite, is the definition of impressive. If you can only visit one outdoor destination during your time in California, this is it. Yosemite is split into two main regions: the Valley and Tuolumne Meadows. The Valley is known for its sweeping, glacier-sculpted walls and picturesque waterfalls. Spend an afternoon floating the Merced River, watch climbers on the 3,000-foot El Capitan, or hike to the top of Yosemite Falls and take a one-of-a-kind view of the splendor. The high country of Tuolumne features a playground of rounded granite domes, wildflowers, and cooler temperatures during the hot summer months. There are also several redwood groves within the park boundary and just a short walk from the road. A range of accommodations is available in the Valley, from simple camping to the luxurious Ahwahnee Hotel. To manage traffic, reservations are required to drive into the park from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. until September 30. Please visit recreation.gov for more information.

Originally from New England, Matt Desenberg is a writer living in Monterey.

High Desert Getaway: Cuyama Buckhorn

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Have you ever been driving down a lonely highway and noticed an old roadside motel? One that probably has a few stories to tell? These throwbacks to another time were usually built in places that were no one’s destination; they were just a necessary stop after a long day of travel. But at least one motel in Santa Barbara County’s high desert between Bakersfield and the coast is changing that perception.

The Cuyama Buckhorn was built in the 1950s when the community of New Cuyama was a booming oil town. In 2018 Ferial Sadeghian and Jeff Vance, partners in the West Hollywood–based architectural firm iDGroup, purchased the Buckhorn, and its transformation into a funky destination motel began. 

The result is a creative mix of traditional western and mid-century design, with a splash of contemporary thrown in. The attention to detail in every room and throughout the motel grounds is stunning.

You can find families, couples, or people traveling alone occupying the 21 rooms at the Cuyama Buckhorn on any given weekend. The rooms have been stylishly remodeled and are spacious. Each has a small kitchenette area with a mini-fridge where you’ll find instant Verve coffee, Tea Pigs teabags, and s’more kits. All rooms have a large patio furnished with an outdoor table and chairs.

The grounds are designed with gatherings in mind. There are two fire ring areas where you will find inviting chairs. There is a Bocce Ball court, a pool table, lots of open seating areas, and a courtyard area covered in artificial turf where the kids can run. The pool is new but designed to fit in flawlessly with the mid-century roadside look of the place. Comfortable chaise lounges surround the pool, and there is a large jacuzzi and a sauna.

The motel has a cafe, restaurant, and bar. The bar is original and if the live-edge bar top could tell tales, the entertainment would never stop!

The food served at the Cuyama Buckhorn is locally sourced, including the beef for their incredible burgers, and reasonably priced. There are fresh pies made daily and chocolate chip cookies to make your mouth water.

The best part of Cuyama Buckhorn is the people. The staff and the guests all bring a sense of adventure and community. The staff goes out of their way to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. And while the guests may be there for different reasons, the setting seems to attract people looking for an experience and willing to be a part of that for others.

One evening during our stay, we sang songs around the firepit as a couple played their ukuleles. They were at the Cuyama to launch their hot air balloon the next morning and they warmly welcomed us to their jam session.  We met a young couple visiting from Los Angeles and by the end of our visit, we felt like old friends sharing recommendations on what to order and tips on where to hike.

The motel is a great home base for day trips to Carrizo Plain. The motel is also an excellent setting for a destination wedding. Or, make it a one or two-night stop when traveling to Monterey from southern California.

Post-pandemic entertainment is on the menu again at Cuyama including outdoor movies, live music, and a monthly BBQ held on the third Sunday of each month through October. Check the motel website for details on events.

While you can certainly couple your stay at Cuyama with winery visits and hiking excursions, the real lure is Cuyama Buckhorn itself. It’s the perfect place to relax, enjoy good food and drinks, and unwind. There is no need to plan anything more strenuous than a walk from your room to the pool. After two or three days of total downtime, you’ll be recharged, and who doesn’t need that occasionally?

TRICIA VLASAK is a mother, grandparent, and wife. She works in law enforcement when she isn’t writing about parenting, hiking with her dogs, or going on adventures. Tricia received a Silver Award for feature writing from Parenting Media Association in 2021.

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