Things To Do
in Santa Maria
Santa Maria sits in the heart of California's Central Coast, tucked in the Santa Maria Valley. The city blends agricultural heritage with access to beaches, redwood areas, and nearby wine country. It offers a family-friendly vibe, with parks, historic sites, and a growing arts scene.
Visitors come for outdoor recreation, farm-fresh cuisine, and easy access to coastal towns like Pismo Beach and Santa Barbara.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Santa Maria Valley Historical Society Museum to delve into the rich local history. Afterward, take a stroll around the historic downtown area, admiring the charming architecture and local shops. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a delightful breakfast featuring freshly baked goods and locally sourced coffee.
Head to the Santa Maria Town Center for some shopping, where you can find unique boutiques and well-known brands. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the many restaurants, perhaps sampling some of the region's famous barbecue. After your meal, visit the nearby Santa Maria Fairpark to check out any ongoing events or exhibitions.
As the sun sets, make your way to a local winery for a guided tour and wine tasting experience. Savor the flavors of the region as you enjoy a beautiful view of the vineyards. End your day with a dinner at a cozy bistro, where you can indulge in farm-to-table cuisine crafted from local ingredients.
Drive to nearby Guadalupe Dunes National Park for a morning of sand and surf. Spend some time walking along the pristine beach, collecting seashells, and soaking in the ocean breeze. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at paddleboarding or kayaking in the calm waters.
After some fun in the sun, have a picnic lunch at one of the designated areas within the park, surrounded by the stunning coastal views. Then, take a guided tour to learn about the unique ecosystems of the dunes and the local wildlife. Wrap up your time at the beach by lounging on the sand or playing beach volleyball with friends.
Return to Santa Maria and freshen up before heading out for dinner at a seaside restaurant. Enjoy fresh seafood and regional specialties while watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the shoreline to cap off a perfect beach day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏡Rent (1 bedroom, city center) | $1,600-2,400 |
| 💡Utilities (monthly) | $120-250 |
| 🚗Gas (1 gallon) | $3.50-5.50 |
| 📶Internet (monthly) | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and family-friendly vibe
- Good access to outdoor recreation and nearby wine regions
- Strong farm-to-table and barbecue traditions
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Can feel spread out and car-dependent
- Summer wildfire season and air quality concerns
Places to Visit in Santa Maria
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic adobe storefronts and colorful street life provide charming backdrops for street photography and urban portraits.
Open floodplain and farmland vistas along the riverbed, especially striking at sunset or during golden hour.
Coastal dune landscapes and bluff overlooks just south of Santa Maria for wide, dramatic seascapes.
Food in Santa Maria
Santa Maria Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tri-tip rubbed with salt and pepper, smoked over red oak, typically served with garlic bread and pinquito beans.
Must-Try!
Small white beans cooked with herbs and sometimes bacon or ham for a rich, earthy side.
Buttery, garlicky bread often served as a staple accompaniment to barbecue meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market featuring locally grown produce, artisanal foods, and casual street eats in downtown Santa Maria.
Seasonal food trucks and pop-up stalls offering tacos, burritos, and other local favorites during market and event days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly, informal tone; greet with a simple hello and a smile; please and thank you go a long way in interactions.
Many residents speak Spanish; attempting basic phrases is appreciated and respectful.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Maria
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard US practice: 15-20% for tables; $1-2 per drink at bars; round up taxi fares; tip more for exceptional service.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; cash is handy for smaller markets and street vendors; contactless payments common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming wildflowers; great for outdoor photography and farm visits. Expect occasional showers but mostly dry days.
Warm to hot days with dry conditions; coastal breezes help, but sun protection is essential. Water activities and wine country tours are popular.
Milder winter with cooler nights and occasional rain; coastal fog can appear in mornings, but daytime warmth is common.
Santa Maria at Night
Hiking in Santa Maria
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Boardwalk and easy loop through wetlands and dunes near Nipomo; ideal for birdwatching and sunset photography.
Several forest trails from short loops to longer day hikes with scenic valley and ridge views.
Riverside path offering farmland scenery and relaxed hiking or biking, suitable for all levels.
Airports
How to reach Santa Maria by plane.
Small regional airport offering domestic flights and rental car services.
Larger international-style airport with more flight options, about 50-60 miles south.
Mid-size airport serving several carriers, about 70-90 miles north.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large, culturally influential community that shapes local cuisine, festivals, and everyday life.
A substantial portion of residents including long-time families and newer arrivals.
Smaller but growing groups contributing to cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Active local leagues and school programs; games frequent at community fields.
Popular among youth and adults; many parks host weekend matches.
Several public courses in the valley offering accessible play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Maria.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose from grilled vegetables, veggie burgers, salads, bean dishes, and sides like rice or potatoes; most restaurants can adjust meat ingredients or offer vegetarian options upon request.