Joe and Jill Biden wasted no time finding some relaxation after leaving the White House on Monday, Jan. 20, the day Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th president. The former president and first lady boarded a plane at Joint Base Andrews and headed west for some much-needed downtime. Their destination? The serene Santa Ynez Valley in California.
The Bidens, known for their love of Delaware, seem to have a soft spot for this scenic region, too. According to local reports, their arrival in California created quite the buzz, with residents gathering at the Santa Barbara Airport in hopes of catching a glimpse of the famous couple. The skies even had a “no-fly notice” in effect, hinting at their high-profile visit.
Santa Ynez Valley, nestled a couple of hours north of Los Angeles, is a world away from the hustle of Washington, D.C. With its rolling vineyards, Michelin-rated restaurants, and breathtaking outdoor activities like hiking and horseback riding, it’s no surprise the Bidens were drawn to this peaceful escape. The area also boasts attractions like Figueroa Mountain’s wildflower blooms and the historic Old Mission Santa Barbara.
Shelby Sim, the President and CEO of Visit the Santa Ynez Valley, revealed that the Bidens had visited just last summer. “This is his second trip in less than a year,” Sim said, adding that rumors suggest the couple might even be eyeing a home in the area. However, for now, this trip is all about rest and relaxation.
The Bidens reportedly stayed with Joe Kiani, a prominent Democratic donor and friend, whose sprawling ranch and vineyard, the Kiani Preserve, offers 8,000 acres of pure tranquility. Their previous visit to this stunning property came after another major milestone in Biden’s political career—when he dropped out of the 2024 presidential race and endorsed Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee.
While the Bidens still call Delaware home, with residences in Rehoboth Beach and Wilmington, their growing connection to the Santa Ynez Valley hints at a newfound retreat on the West Coast. Whether it’s a temporary escape or the start of a new chapter, one thing is certain: the Bidens have found a slice of peace in the California countryside.
