Explore Surrounding
Aside from exploring 7,500 acres of the beautiful Paicines Ranch, there are endless delights in the area. Less than thirty minutes south, see California Condors or rock climb at Pinnacles National Park. Head down to the stunning Big Sur coastline, have a beach day in Santa Cruz, or visit the seaside town of Monterey and their amazing aquarium.
Some of our favorite nearby adventures:
Pinnacles National Park
Only twenty minutes south on Hwy 25, you can visit the newest National Park added in 2013. Hike (or rock climb) numerous trails through the diverse landscape of rock formations created by volcanos, talus caves that host Townsend’s big-eared bats, and a chance to glimpse of an endangered California Condor.
Cienega Wine Tour
Drive twenty minutes down Cienega Road from Paicines Ranch to sample the famous pinot noirs of Calera Wine Co., the wonderful pinots of Eden Rift, and the award winning zinfandel, negrette, and cabernet franc of DeRose Winery.
Watch the Skydivers
Head to Tres Pinos to watch the skydivers land or glimpse a hang glider soaring with the birds overhead.
Monterey
Only an hour and fifteen minute drive, you can see the charming seaside town. Check out the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, historic Cannery Row, or scan the sea for migrating whales.
Big Sur Coastline
This stunning section of craggy coastline is a California must do. At less than two hours south, the ideal day consists of a leisurely driving the Pacific Coast Highway starting south of Carmel. Visit waterfalls, state parks, and hidden beaches along the way.
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Santa Cruz
If you crave world-class surfing or mellow California beach vibes, this is your town. Visit the Beach Boardwalk for a retro rollercoaster experience, the wharf for delicious chowder and to watch the sea lions, or to downtown for numerous dinner and nightlife options.
Nearby Groceries & Restaurants
The closest store is Paicines General Store. It is one mile from the ranch entrance north on Hwy 25. You can stock up on basic necessities for cooking, snacks, and home-made burritos.
Just ten minutes north on Hwy 25 is the small town of Tres Pinos which has four restaurants and a gas station. The bakery is located outside of town.
Flapjacks: Great breakfast and brunch with outdoor seating. Wed-Sun til 2pm
Eva Mae’s Café: Casual breakfast and lunch. Thur-Tue til 3pm
19th Hole: A cowboy style saloon & restaurant. A local’s favorite for burgers and beer. Wed-Sun
Inn at Tres Pinos: Delicious food, high class feel, and superb service. Dinner only. Tue-Sun
Suncoast Bakery: Exceptional bakery & pizzeria with a charming back patio. Fri-Sat
The next town north on Hwy 25 is Hollister at twenty minutes from the ranch. A small town feel with all the stores and services you may need. Numerous grocery stores such as Safeway, Nob Hill, Lucky’s, and Target. Visit the quaint downtown for many dining and shopping experiences.
Travel about forty-five minutes north and you can reach the Gilroy-Morgan Hill city area which has a large selection of shopping, outlets, and restaurants.