San Benito County Travel Guide

A comprehensive tour guide for San Benito County, including places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to San Benito County

San Benito County is situated in Central Coast, California, in the United States of America. The county is known for its rich history, natural attractions, and adventurous outdoor activities. San Benito County is also home to some of the most delicious local cuisines that you can try out.

List of Places to Visit in San Benito County

San Benito County offers an array of culturally important attractions and natural wonders that you will surely enjoy. Here are some of the must-visit places in the county:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • San Benito County Historical Park - A perfect destination for history enthusiasts, the park offers a glimpse into the county’s past.
  • Pinnacles National Park - A stunning natural landmark that features towering rock formations and breathtaking views.
  • San Juan Bautista State Historic Park - This historic park is home to one of California’s most beautifully preserved missions.

Natural Attractions of San Benito County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Fremont Peak State Park - Enjoy panoramic views of the county from the highest point in the area.
  • Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area - A perfect spot for off-roading enthusiasts and hikers.
  • Bear Gulch Reservoir - The reservoir is a perfect spot for fishing and paddling.

Hiking/Biking Routes of San Benito County

With its rugged terrain and amazing landscapes, San Benito County offers some of the best hiking and biking routes in California. Here are some of the most popular trails in the county:

  • Pinnacles High Peaks Trail - A challenging hike that offers magnificent views of Pinnacles National Park.
  • Johnson Canyon Trail - A picturesque hike that takes you through a diverse range of flora and fauna.
  • Paicines Reservoir Loop Trail - A beautiful bike ride that takes you through scenic rolling hills.

Best Things to Do in San Benito County: Activities and Tours

San Benito County offers a wide range of activities and tours that are sure to make your trip memorable. Here are some of the best things to do in the county:

  • Balloon Rides - Experience San Benito County’s stunning landscapes from above by taking a hot air balloon ride.
  • Wine Tasting - The county has numerous wineries that offer wine tasting sessions for visitors.
  • Horseback Riding - Take a horseback ride through the beautiful hills and valleys of San Benito County.

Week-Long Itinerary for San Benito County

San Benito County has so much to offer that it can be challenging to plan your itinerary. Here is a week-long itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day Activity
1 Visit San Benito County Historical Park
2 Hike the Pinnacles High Peaks Trail
3 Take a hot air balloon ride
4 Go on a wine tasting tour
5 Horseback ride through the hills
6 Visit San Juan Bautista State Historic Park
7 Relax and enjoy a day at the beach

Food and Drink Scene of San Benito County

San Benito County has a unique and diverse food scene that showcases the region’s agricultural abundance. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages in the county:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Artichokes - The county is known for growing some of the best artichokes in California.
  • Tri-Trip Steak - A tender and flavorful cut of steak that is popular among locals.
  • Santa Maria BBQ - A traditional Californian BBQ style, featuring beef that is slow-roasted over an open air pit for hours.

Local Beverages

  • Wine - San Benito County is home to numerous wineries that produce award-winning wines.
  • Beer - The county is known for its craft breweries that offer a variety of beers.

Where to Stay in San Benito County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

San Benito County has plenty of accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in the county:

  • Joshua Inn Bed & Breakfast - A beautiful and cozy B&B located in Hollister.
  • Ridgemark Golf and Country Club - A luxurious resort that offers golfing and spa facilities.
  • Pinnacles Campgrounds - Affordable camping sites located close to Pinnacles National Park.

What to Buy in San Benito County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

San Benito County offers an array of unique and interesting items that make perfect souvenirs and gifts. Here are some of the must-buy items in the county:

  • Local Wine - Purchase a bottle or two of San Benito County’s award-winning wines.
  • Artisanal Cheese - The county is home to several dairy farms that produce delicious artisanal cheeses.
  • Olive Oil - The region’s warm climate makes it perfect for olive oil production.

Local Culture and Customs of San Benito County

San Benito County boasts a friendly and welcoming culture that is reflective of its vibrant communities. The county has a long history of agriculture and ranching, which has had a significant influence on its way of life. It is also home to several Native American tribes, whose customs and traditions are celebrated through various cultural events and activities.

Best Time to Visit San Benito County

The best time to visit San Benito County is during the spring or fall seasons when the weather is mild, and the crowds are fewer. Spring brings gorgeous wildflowers, while fall offers stunning foliage displays. Summer can be quite hot, making it less popular among visitors. Winter can be chilly, but it is still a great time to visit if you enjoy the outdoors and winter sports.

Do’s and Don’ts of San Benito County

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment and follow the Leave No Trace principles
  • Explore the county’s rich history and culture
  • Try out the local cuisine and beverages

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural habitats
  • Disrespect local traditions and customs
  • Ignore safety signs and warnings

Safety and Health

San Benito County is generally a safe destination for visitors, with low crime rates and a friendly community. However, visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and take appropriate precautions.

Safety in San Benito County

  • Follow all posted signs and warnings
  • Stay on designated trails and paths when hiking or biking
  • Secure your valuables and belongings

Health in San Benito County

  • Visitors should bring sunscreen and hats to protect themselves from the sun
  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
  • Be aware of poison oak when hiking or camping

Getting to San Benito County: Transportation Options and Logistics

San Benito County is located in Central Coast and is easily accessible by various means of transportation.

Airports Near San Benito County

  • Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) - Located 50 miles west of San Benito County.
  • San Jose International Airport (SJC) - Located 60 miles north of San Benito County.

Bus Stations Near San Benito County

  • Greyhound Bus Station - Located in Salinas, approximately 30 miles northwest of San Benito County.
  • Amtrak Station - Located in Santa Clara, approximately 55 miles north of San Benito County.

Other Options

  • Driving - San Benito County is easily accessible by car via the US-101 and CA-156 highways.
  • Cycling - The county has several cycling routes that make it ideal for bike enthusiasts.

How to Get Around in San Benito County

The best way to get around San Benito County is by car or bicycle. Renting a car is easy and affordable in the county, and there are several bike rental shops available in the major towns.

Where to Go Next from San Benito County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

San Benito County is located close to several other popular destinations in California. Here are some of the nearby destinations you can explore after your visit to San Benito County:

  • Monterey/Carmel - Famous for its seafood restaurants, beaches, and golf courses.
  • San Francisco - Known for its iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz.
  • Santa Cruz - Home to the legendary Boardwalk amusement park and some of the best surf spots in California.

Conclusion

San Benito County is a beautiful and exciting destination that offers something for everyone. From breathtaking natural landmarks to delicious cuisine to thrilling outdoor adventures, San Benito County is a must-visit destination in California. Plan your trip today and experience the best of San Benito County!



    Pinnacles National Park
    San Juan Bautista