20+ Things to Do Near Vandenberg SFB In Vandenberg, Santa Maria, and More!

Vandenberg Space Force Base is located on the beautiful California Coast, giving you plenty of opportunities for beach fun to the west or mountain hikes to the east, and everything charming and historic between. Take your pet along for adventures, your special someone for memorable dates, or your family to get out of the house. No matter what you’re looking for, this area has it all.

5 Places Near Vandenberg SFB That Are Military Friendly

You won’t have to travel far from base to have fun near Vandenberg SFB. You’ll find bowling, a Rod & Gun Club, and camping right on base. But not far away are the Planes of Fame Museum in nearby Santa Maria and La Purisima Mission Historic State Park in Lompoc.

Surf Lanes Bowling Center

The Surf Lanes Bowling Center offers 16 lanes of bowling, leagues and tournaments, an arcade room, a grill with Wednesday night BBQ specials, and more.

Address: 10366 Community Loop, Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Hours: Tuesday & Thursday, 1100-2000; Wednesday, 0930-2000; Friday, 1100-2100; Saturday, 1300-2100

Vandenberg Rod & Gun Club

The Vandenberg Rod & Gun Club is a place for all your sportsman needs. With access to shooting ranges, trap & skeet fields, game freezer and processing center, and more, you’ll zero in on the fun here all year long. As more staff are hired and trained, hours of operation are expected to grow. Follow on Facebook for the latest information.

Address: Bldg. 1521, Taco Rd, Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437

Hours: Thursdays 0900-1200

Admission: Membership fees vary. See the website linked above for full membership info.

Planes of Fame Air Museum

Learn about the region’s contribution to flight at this two-hangar museum displaying aircraft, memorabilia, photos, and more. Beginning as the Santa Maria Museum of Flight, this space is transitioning to Planes of Fame Air Museum. Call ahead for more information and the cost of admission.

Address: 3015 Airpark Drive, Santa Maria, CA

Phone: (909) 597-3722

La Purisima Mission Historic State Park

Part museum, part historic state park, you can learn about the original mission through guided tours, hiking and biking trails, historic buildings, and La Tienda (gift shop).

Address: 2295 Purisima Road, Lompoc, CA 93436

Trail Hours: Daily, 0600-Sunset

Visitor Center Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 1000-1600

Admission: Free

FamCamp

Leave the stress of moving and city life behind for a night away under the stars. FamCamp offers tent and RV camping right on base with sewer hookups, picnic tables, laundry and shower facilities, lounges with cable TV, and WiFi.

Address: Bldg. 5010, California Blvd, Lompoc, CA 93437

Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 0900-1700

Admission: Fees vary

5 Restaurants Near Vandenberg Space Force Base That Are Sure to Please

The areas surrounding Vandenberg Space Force Base are historically known for grilling over an open fire, and you’ll find that here. You’ll also find a few surprises like authentic Thai food, Asian fusion, and locally-owned Mexican cuisine.

Floriano’s

This family-owned local Mexican restaurant features fresh grilled steaks and chicken alongside authentic Mexican dishes.

Address: 1140 N H St, Lompoc, CA 93436

Hours: Monday through Saturday, 0800-2100; Sunday, 0800-1500

Chow Ya

Asian fusion isn’t what this area is known for, but you will not be disappointed in this restaurant asking you to “Stay Healthy With Us.” When you’re finished dining, be sure to check out the mini market tucked in the back corner of the space.

Address: 713 E Ocean Ave, Lompoc, CA 93436

Hours: Monday through Friday, 1100-1400 & 1630-2030; Saturday, 1630-2030

Suvans Kitchen

Looking for authentic Thai food with bold flavors and fresh ingredients? Suvans Kitchen has you covered. The menu features favorites like Pad Thai and Thai Curry.

Address: 129 W Central Ave E, Lompoc, CA 93436

Hours: Monday through Friday, 1100-2000; Saturday, 1200-2000

The Hitching Post

BBQ over an open fire is what this area is known for, and The Hitching Post allows customers to get the full experience of watching their meats prepared over the open grills.

Address: 3325 Point Sal Rd, Casmalia, CA 93429

Hours: Monday through Saturday, 1630-2130; Sunday, 1600-2100

Jocko’s Steakhouse

Serving up generous portions of hand-cut aged steaks over an open fire of red oak to pay homage to the native cooking methods of the area, Jocko's Steakhouse will keep you coming back time and time again.

Address: 125 N Thompson Ave, Nipomo, CA 93444

Hours: Monday through Friday, 1600-2100; Saturday & Sunday, 1300-2100

What Are Some Pet-Friendly Places Near Vandenberg Space Force Base?

Want to explore your new area, but don’t want to leave your pup out of the fun? These pet-friendly spots will get you out exploring the areas near Vandenberg Space Force Base together.

Outdoor Spaces

Barkin Park

Barkin Park in nearby Lompoc provides expansive grass-covered play areas for your four-legged friend. You’ll be comfortable watching your pup play on the shaded seating areas.

Address: 410 W Barton Ave, Lompoc, CA 93436

Surf Beach

Take your pet on an amazing sunset walk along Surf Beach. Perfect for a leashed stroll, this shoreline is a stunning place you’ll both enjoy.

Address: West Ocean Ave., Lompoc, CA 93436

Burton Mesa Ecological Reserve

Over 28 miles of soft-sand trails will have you and your leashed pup coming back for months to explore the wildlife and natural beauty of this area.

Address: 4602 Titan Ave, Lompoc, CA 93436

Fur-Family Friendly Restaurants

Jalama Beach Store

Spend the day at the beach with your leashed pup, then grab a burger on the outdoor patio at the beach store. Perfect for an afternoon adventure!

Address: 9991 Jalama Rd, Lompoc, CA 93436

South Side Coffee Company

Taking your pup out for an adventure? Stop for breakfast and a coffee pick-me-up at this local favorite, featuring a dog-friendly outdoor patio.

Address: 105 S H St, Lompoc, CA 93436

Eddie’s Grill Village

Located just outside the base, this grill serves up American classics and will even cook up a pup burger for your four-legged friend to enjoy on their outdoor patio.

Address: 1325 North H Street, Lompoc, CA 93436

5 Things For Couples to Do in Santa Maria

Santa Maria offers world-class wines, culinary experiences, and beautiful coastal adventures. With our list below, you’re sure to find something that you’ll both cherish for years to come.

Foxen Canyon Wine Trail

You can spend the whole day exploring the scenic 30-mile California wine country trail along Foxen Canyon Road. Stop by one or many of the 16 boutique wineries to enjoy wine tasting and picnics on this leisurely, self-guided tour.

Naughty Oak Brewing Company

Looking for a more relaxed date? Grab a few drinks and hang out on the outdoor patio at Naughty Oak Brewing Company. On special nights, food trucks are parked out front for your dining convenience.

Address: 165 S Broadway #102, Orcutt, CA 93455

Hours: Tuesday through Thursday, 1500-2100; Friday & Saturday, 1200-2200; Sunday, 1200-2100

Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes

Looking for a quiet place to walk with your date? You won’t be disappointed with a scenic stroll through the natural coastline dunes just west of the city.

Address: 1065 Guadalupe Street, Guadalupe, CA 93434

PCPA-Pacific Conservatory Theatre

Skip the movie for a more intimate live show at the Pacific Conservatory Theatre. Supporting a fully accredited vocational training program for aspiring actors and theatre technicians, you’ll have a night to remember here!

Address: 870 S. Bradley, Santa Maria, CA 93454

Presqu’ile Winery

Presqu’ile Winery has more to offer than wine. This gorgeous 400-acre estate offers fine dining on a hilltop terrace, vineyard tours by horseback and off-road vehicles, and, of course, wine tasting. This date spot will leave you breathless!

Address: 5391 Presqu’ile Drive, Santa Maria, CA 93455

Hours: Weekdays (except Tuesday), 1200-1700; Weekends, 1130-1700

Check Out These Nearby Day Trips Perfect for a Quick Getaway

Whether you’re looking for high-octane fun at world-famous theme parks, historical destinations to learn about the local culture, or happy times in a charming suburban college town, you’ll find plenty to keep you going with these day trips.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is beautifully situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains. You'll get a blend of coastal activities and Spanish Colonial history. With a Mediterranean climate, you’ll feel comfortable exploring all day.

Drive time: 1 hour

• Stearns Wharf: This historic wooden pier offers sweeping ocean views, fresh seafood restaurants, and family-friendly marine exhibits right over the water.
• State Street Promenade: Stroll down this vibrant, pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare lined with boutique shops, outdoor cafes, and stunning Spanish-style architecture.
• Old Mission Santa Barbara: Known as the "Queen of the Missions," this beautifully preserved 18th-century site features a museum, lush gardens, and iconic twin bell towers.
• Santa Barbara County Courthouse Clocktower: Take a free elevator ride to the top of this Spanish-Moorish courthouse for unparalleled, 360-degree panoramic views of the city, ocean, and mountains.

Los Angeles

The largest city in the Western United States, you’ll find plenty to do in this bustling entertainment hub.

Drive time: 3 hours

• Hollywood Walk of Fame: Walk among the stars as you spot the brass-inlaid names of thousands of entertainment legends along Hollywood Boulevard.
• Universal Studios: Experience the magic of movie-making with thrilling rides, live stunt shows, and the world-famous behind-the-scenes studio tour.
• Knott’s Berry Farm: Enjoy a perfect blend of high-speed roller coasters and Old West charm at California’s original theme park.
• Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier: Ride the iconic solar-powered Ferris wheel and enjoy classic boardwalk games perched right over the Pacific Ocean.

San Luis Obispo

Known as one of the country’s happiest cities, San Luis Obispo has a more relaxed atmosphere and is home to California Polytechnic State University. Don’t let the suburban vibe deter you; there’s still plenty to do around town.

Drive time: 1 hour

• Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa: Explore the rich history of this beautifully restored 1772 Spanish mission that sits peacefully in the heart of downtown’s bustling plaza.
• Nine Sisters Volcanic Peaks: Hike these ancient, picturesque volcanic morros that stretch from San Luis Obispo to Morro Bay for incredible scenic views.
• Avila Beach: Relax on the calm, sun-soaked shores of this quaint coastal town featuring beachfront dining, natural hot springs, and a charming promenade.
• Downtown SLO Farmer’s Market: Taste world-famous local BBQ, shop for fresh produce, and enjoy live entertainment at this massive, lively Thursday night street fair.

7 Things For Kids to Do in Santa Maria

The military-friendly area surrounding Vandenberg Space Force Base includes many kid-friendly museums and activities!

• CRR Discovery Museum: The CRR Discovery Museum is the only children’s museum in Santa Maria offering over 20 hands-on exhibits, workshops, and play zones.
• Boomers Santa Maria: Boomers has non-stop family fun in one location. Featuring go-karts, mini golf, an arcade, and more.
• Waller Park: Get outside and explore at Waller Park, featuring shaded walking trails, playgrounds, duck ponds, and disc golf.
• Sky Zone Trampoline Park: Get your wiggles out jumping the day away at Sky Zone Trampoline Park.
• The Luffa Farm: Take some time to learn about loofah sponges and see how they’re grown on the vine at this free farm.
• Los Flores Ranch Park: This scenic 1,778-acre property is perfect for family-friendly hiking and mountain biking.
• Oso Flaco Lake: Take a stroll through a lush corridor of willow and wax myrtle trees over sand dunes or bring fishing poles to try your luck at fishing in the lake. Either activity is a refreshing way to spend the day outside.

Don’t Miss These Santa Maria Seasonal Events!

We’re sharing 5 seasonal events taking place in Santa Maria that you won’t want to miss.

• Monarch Dunes Butterfly Grove: Visit the grove between October and February to see thousands of migrating monarch butterflies clustered in the eucalyptus trees.
• Santa Maria Strawberry Festival: Each April, the community comes together to celebrate strawberries with special strawberry treats, carnival rides, and live music.
• Santa Barbara County Fair: Celebrated each July, the county fair has all your favorite fair food, carnival rides, exhibits, livestock, concerts, and more.
• Central Coast Airfest: Taking flight each September is the Central Coast Air Fest, where you’ll find military demos, vintage warbirds, aerobatics, and more.
• Santa Maria Parade of Lights: Join the community each December for the Christmas Parade of Lights focused on winter traditions and the spirit of giving.

Don’t Miss Out on These Fun Things to Do Near Vandenberg Space Force Base

A PCS move can be stressful, but being stationed at Vandenberg Space Force Base puts you right in the heart of California's stunning Central Coast. Don't wait to start exploring—whether you're tasting local wine in Santa Maria, taking the kids to the discovery museum, or walking your dog along Surf Beach, there is something here for everyone.

Step outside the gates, grab some local red oak BBQ, and turn your new duty station into an unforgettable California adventure!