Santa Maria

Day Trips

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.

Begin your day with a scenic drive through the Santa Maria Valley wine country, stopping at a few of the local vineyards. Participate in a morning wine tasting session, where knowledgeable staff will guide you through the profiles of their finest wines. Enjoy a light breakfast at the vineyard’s café, featuring local produce and artisan cheeses.

Continue your exploration by visiting several more wineries, each offering unique tasting experiences and beautiful views. Take part in a vineyard tour to learn about the winemaking process and the importance of the local terroir. For lunch, enjoy a meal at a winery restaurant that pairs beautifully with their wines, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.

As the day winds down, consider attending a wine and food pairing event at one of the local wineries, where chefs showcase their culinary talents. Enjoy a multi-course dinner, each dish thoughtfully paired with the perfect wine. Conclude your evening under the stars, with a glass of your favorite wine in hand.

Kick off your day with a visit to the Nearby Los Padres National Forest for a refreshing hike. Choose a scenic trail that offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys, where you can immerse yourself in nature. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife such as deer and various bird species as you trek through the lush surroundings.

After your hike, enjoy a packed lunch at one of the forest's picnic areas, surrounded by towering trees and fresh air. Spend your afternoon exploring additional trails or participating in a guided nature walk to learn more about the area's ecology. If time permits, visit the nearby Cachuma Lake for some birdwatching or fishing.

Return to Santa Maria and unwind at a local café, sipping on a hot beverage while reflecting on your day's adventures. For dinner, seek out a rustic dining spot that offers hearty meals inspired by the great outdoors. End your evening with a stroll through a local park, embracing the tranquility of the night.

Start your day with a visit to the Santa Maria Arts Council, where you can explore local art exhibitions and meet local artists. Participate in a morning workshop that allows you to engage with different mediums or techniques. Afterward, grab a quick breakfast at a nearby café that showcases local art on its walls.

Spend your afternoon visiting the Santa Maria Museum of Flight, where you can learn about aviation history and see various aircraft on display. Engage with interactive exhibits and enjoy a guided tour led by knowledgeable volunteers. For lunch, head to a nearby eatery that offers a taste of local cuisine and culture.

In the evening, attend a live performance at the Santa Maria Civic Theatre, showcasing local talent in theater, music, or dance. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you immerse yourself in the artistic community of Santa Maria. After the show, consider dining at a nearby restaurant known for its lively ambiance and delicious fare.

Start your Saturday at the Santa Maria Farmers Market, where you can browse fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and local delicacies. Engage with the farmers and artisans, learning about their products and the importance of supporting local agriculture. Enjoy a breakfast burrito from one of the food stalls, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

After the market, take a scenic drive to nearby orchards or farms that offer tours and tastings of their products. Participate in a fruit-picking adventure, selecting seasonal fruits straight from the trees. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant that emphasizes local flavors and sustainable practices.

Return to Santa Maria and spend your evening at a local brewery, sampling craft beers made with regional ingredients. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while trying a flight of beers and pairing them with gourmet pub fare. Wrap up your evening by mingling with locals and enjoying live music, if available.

Begin your day with a visit to the historic Santa Maria Pioneer Museum, where you can learn about the early settlers and the region's development. Enjoy a guided tour that showcases artifacts and exhibits from the area's history. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the adjacent park, soaking in the serene environment.

Next, explore the Santa Maria Valley Railroad, an iconic landmark that showcases the importance of the rail industry in the region. Enjoy a packed lunch at a nearby picnic area, surrounded by views of the historical sites. After lunch, visit the nearby Orcutt Community Park for an afternoon of relaxation and outdoor activities.

In the evening, dine at a historic restaurant that has been a staple in the community for decades, offering traditional dishes and a charming atmosphere. After your meal, take a stroll through the downtown area, appreciating the beautifully lit streets and local shops. Conclude your day with a visit to a local ice cream parlor for a sweet treat.

Start your day with an adrenaline rush by heading to a local adventure center for zip-lining or rock climbing. Enjoy the thrill of scaling walls and soaring through the trees, all while being surrounded by nature. Don't forget to fuel up with a hearty breakfast at a nearby diner that offers classic American fare.

After your morning adventure, head to a nearby lake for some kayaking or canoeing. Spend your afternoon paddling through the calm waters while enjoying the breathtaking scenery. For lunch, pack a picnic to enjoy by the water's edge, taking in the beauty of your surroundings.

As the sun begins to set, return to Santa Maria for a relaxing evening at a local sports bar. Enjoy a casual dinner while catching up on the latest games and enjoying the lively atmosphere. End your day with a friendly game of bowling at a nearby alley, making memories with friends.

Begin your culinary adventure with a visit to a local farmer's market to gather fresh ingredients for your cooking class. Engage with local vendors, selecting seasonal fruits, vegetables, and artisanal products. After shopping, head to a nearby cooking school where your culinary journey begins.

Participate in a hands-on cooking class led by a local chef, learning how to prepare traditional Santa Maria-style barbecue or other regional specialties. Enjoy the camaraderie as you cook alongside fellow food enthusiasts, sharing tips and techniques. After the class, sit down to savor the delicious meal you’ve all prepared together.

Conclude your culinary experience with a visit to a local wine bar, where you can pair your meal with the perfect wines from the Santa Maria Valley. Engage in conversation with fellow diners and share your cooking experiences. End your day with a leisurely walk through the neighborhood, reflecting on the flavors and connections made.