Santa Ynez is not a city, but a small unincorporated community in Santa Barbara County, California. It is located in the Santa Ynez Valley, about 30 miles northwest of the city of Santa Barbara. The area is known for its beautiful vineyards, horse ranches, and scenic landscapes. It has a rich western heritage and is home to the Chumash Casino Resort and the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians Reservation. The Santa Ynez Valley also offers outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and wine tasting, making it a popular destination for tourists and wine enthusiasts.