California’s food scene is as diverse as its landscapes, and when it comes to lunch experiences, the state offers more than just a meal. Whether you’re craving a leisurely picnic in wine country, a guided tour with tastings, or a scenic bike ride combined with local flavors, California delivers. What makes these options stand out? Each combines authentic local flavors with unique ways to explore—all set against the backdrop of California’s stunning scenery. From the rolling hills of Santa Barbara to the charming streets of Solvang, these tours highlight the region’s culinary richness and outdoor appeal.
For travelers seeking a taste of wine country, a small-group bike tour offers an intimate way to explore vineyards and olive groves. Those who want a more relaxed pace might prefer an e-bike guided tour with wine and olive oil tastings. And if you’re after a budget-friendly, electric-assist bike tour with optional lunch, you’ll find an option that’s both affordable and flavorful. Read on to discover the best lunch experiences in California that combine outdoor adventure with delicious local treats.
1. Wine Country Half-Day Bike Tour from Solvang – w/o Lunch
At number 1, this half-day bike tour takes you through Santa Barbara’s wine and olive oil country. It’s perfect for those who want to combine outdoor activity with tastings without the commitment of a full day. The tour begins in the charming town of Ballard, where your guide sets you up on a comfortable bike. From there, you’ll pedal through scenic countryside toward Los Olivos, a town famous for its wineries and vineyards.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on olive oil tasting at Olive Hill Farm. You’ll learn about local olive oil production, sample infused vinegars, and explore groves along the way. The guided small group—limited to 15 travelers—ensures plenty of personalized attention and good conversation. Reviewers praise Neil for his local knowledge and friendly attitude, with one saying, “Such a great day!” The tour is excellent for active travelers who want a more intimate, hands-on experience of California’s agricultural side.
Bottom line: For around $155, you get a well-rounded mix of cycling, scenery, and local flavor. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a small-group environment and want to explore without the hassle of planning.
2. Wine Country E-Bike Guided Tour – w/o Lunch
Number 2 on our list offers a longer, more comprehensive experience—about 6.5 hours—perfect if you’re eager to see more of Santa Barbara Wine Country at a relaxed pace. The highlight is the use of electric bikes, which make covering more ground effortless. This means you can focus on soaking in views and savoring tastings without worrying about physical exhaustion.
This tour includes visits to the charming town of Los Olivos, a tasting at Beckmen Vineyards, and a stop at Figueroa Mountain Road, with views of the San Rafael Mountains. The olive oil tasting at Olive Hill Farm is also part of the itinerary. What’s great here is the depth of the experience—participants learn about the region’s wine industry and its agricultural richness from a knowledgeable guide.
Guests have lauded the balance between scenic riding and wine and olive oil tastings, with one reviewer calling the guide “incredible” and saying, “Will do the tour again.” While this option is pricier at $180, the value lies in the comprehensive experience—perfect for those wanting to combine outdoor activity with in-depth regional tasting.
Bottom line: If you prefer a full-day, scenic tour with tastings and minimal physical strain, this guided e-bike trip is an ideal pick.
3. Nojoqui Canyon Wine Country Tour with Optional Lunch
For travelers on a budget or those with limited time, the Nojoqui Canyon Wine Country Tour offers a shorter, flexible experience. Starting in Ballard, this guided electric-assisted bike tour takes you through the peaceful Nojoqui Falls Canyon. It’s a straightforward ride that combines scenic countryside with a visit to the Folded Hills Tasting Room & Vineyard.
The highlight is the wine tasting at Folded Hills, where you can sample biodiverse wines and enjoy a farm-to-table picnic lunch if you choose the optional meal. The ride itself is moderate, with electric bikes making it accessible for a wide range of fitness levels. Reviews are limited, but the focus on local wines and the opportunity to combine cycling with a meal makes it a flexible, affordable option.
Pricing at $100 is attractive, especially considering the tasting and optional lunch. It’s best suited for travelers who want a quick, scenic ride with a taste of Santa Barbara’s wine and culinary scene without a long day’s commitment.
Bottom line: This tour offers great value and flexibility, perfect if you’re looking to blend a short outdoor activity with wine and food.
How to Choose Your California Lunch Experience
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities—budget, time, fitness level, and interests. If you love active outdoor adventures and want a small-group experience, the Wine Country Half-Day Bike Tour from Solvang offers an excellent balance. For those wanting a more extensive exploration with e-bikes and in-depth tastings, the Wine Country E-Bike Guided Tour is ideal.
If you’re on a tighter schedule or budget, the Nojoqui Canyon tour provides a shorter, flexible experience with the chance for a delightful picnic and wine tasting. Remember to book early, especially in peak seasons, as these tours tend to fill up.
California’s lunch experiences offer a wonderful way to combine outdoor exploration, regional flavors, and scenic beauty. Whether you prefer a half-day biking adventure, a full-day guided tour, or a shorter, budget-friendly ride, there’s an option that will satisfy your appetite for both adventure and good food. For a memorable trip, pick the one that matches your schedule, interest level, and taste for the local — and don’t forget to reserve early to secure your spot.