Cruising down the 101, with the cool ocean air blowing through the windows, it felt like being home. From summer 2021 to summer 2022, I called the California Central Coast home. The sunny days, perfect temperatures, and friendly confines made it an idyllic place to live.
In late April 2025, I had the opportunity to visit a new area along the coast: the Santa Maria Valley. In the past, I drive through it on my way north to Big Sur or the Bay Area. Oh, how wrong I was not to stop and take a look around.
After spending three days in Santa Maria Valley, I experienced so many things that make this place incredible. The food? Mouth-watering. The people? So kind. The sand dunes? Dune 3 worthy. The wine? Delicious.
I know that Santa Barbara and Pismo Beach steal a lot of thunder on the Central Coast, but I’m here to expand your horizons and to recommend checking out Santa Maria Valley and to learn why this area is worth a visit!
Is Santa Maria Valley Worth Visiting?
After spending three days exploring Santa Maria Valley, it’s so worth it! With delicious barbecue, tasty wines, and friendly people, I think everyone should spend a few days along the coast in Santa Maria Valley.
Additionally, it’s just a few miles from the Pacific Ocean, offering access to stunning beaches and breathtaking views.
While most people know me as a big-time hiker, that’s not what this area is known for. The Santa Maria Valley is more suited for slow travel. This allows you to immerse yourself in the culture, the wines, and the food, to truly get a sense of what makes this area great. Granted, there are numerous ways to get outside and enjoy nature, and I enjoyed them all, as you’ll see below.
What You Need To Know About Visiting Santa Maria Valley
Nestled 15 miles inland on California’s Central Coast, Santa Maria Valley sits 35 minutes south of San Luis Obispo (25 minutes south of Pismo Beach) and 75 minutes up the 101 from Santa Barbara. It’s a working-class area with strong agricultural roots and plenty of history.
In essence, it’s the type of community that is the backbone of America.
The Santa Maria Valley is relatively large and also diverse. In addition to agriculture, it’s full of top-tier wineries and mouthwatering barbecue. If you find yourself in the foothills to the east and drive the Foxen Canyon Road, you’ll come upon a dozen wineries. Or if you simply type in BBQ into Google Maps, you’ll have option after option of Santa Maria BBQ to choose from.
Much Less Expensive Than in Other Regions
Another reason why it’s worth it to visit Santa Maria Valley is that it’s far more affordable and economical than other areas along the Central Coast. Instead of spending three or four hundred a night on a hotel room in Santa Barbara, spend less in Santa Maria.
You’re just a short drive from the ocean, and you’ll get the exact top-tier wine.
The Best Way To Visit Santa Maria Valley
If you’re driving in, there’s a strong chance you’re either coming from Los Angeles or the Bay Area (but usually the former). I know that when I lived in Santa Barbara, I drove through the valley to visit family in the Bay Area.
Speaking from experience, it’s one of the easiest drives you can take in California.
Travel time from:
- Los Angeles: 3-4 hours
- San Francisco: 4 hours
- Santa Barbara: 75 minutes
- Bakersfield: 2 hours
- San Luis Obispo: 33 minutes
The other option is to fly in. Your closest bet is to fly into San Luis Obispo’s airport and drive 40 minutes south to Santa Maria. The airport is as small as you’d expect, making entering and exiting a breeze. When I landed, I got my rental car in minutes. On the way home, after I dropped it off, I was through the TSA in under 10 minutes.
Another option could be to fly into the Santa Barbara Municipal Airport, spend a few days in my old hometown, and then make your way up north.
There’s a new Hampton Inn and Suites just off the 101 on the east side of town. It was a perfect place to have as a home base for a few days as I explored and ate my way through the valley. They had a decent continental breakfast (though I’d also recommend checking out some of the local breakfast joints), plus the rooms and hospitality were fantastic.
Three-Day Santa Maria Valley Itinerary
Day 1 in Santa Maria Valley” Guadalupe – Nipomo Dunes
Begin your trip with some nature exploration. Either grab breakfast at the hotel or check out Guadalupe Cafe.
Two spots I highly recommend are Oso Flaco Lake or the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes. The dunes cover a large section of the coastline, with several access points. I walked about a half-mile walk through an RV park. The staff had no problem, and I was one of the few people there. If you have a 4×4 vehicle, you can drive on the beach further north.
Oso Flacco Lake
Less than a mile from the ocean, this freshwater habitat is home to an incredible number of birds that kept zipping around the lake in swarms, as well as plenty of fish. The state park built an elevated walkway through the lake, giving you nice views as you make your way towards the beach.
The trail has an uphill tilt as you walk towards the ocean, though it’s hardly noticeable. It’s also almost completely on a boardwalk. (Technically wheelchair accessible but not wheelchair easily accessible due to plenty of bumps along the way.) Each of these should take about 90 minutes without rushing through it.
Rancho Nipomo BBQ
Right off the 101, Rancho Nipomo BBQ was incredible. The Tri-Tip Sandwich was fantastic and could have fed an army. I also got a side of brisket and macaroni salad.
I also had the opportunity to chat with the owner, Richard. He gave me a great rundown on why Santa Maria BBQ is so good (the Red Oak wood gives meat a smoky and sweet flavor) and the history of the region.
I highly recommend stopping here at some point on your trip to Santa Maria Valley. It’ll be so worth it!
U-Pick Blueberries and History
This is a fun opportunity for families with young children. Grab a small or large-sized bucket and pick blueberries to your heart’s content. They don’t use spray, so you can pick and eat as you go!
While you’re in the area, make sure you save some time for a history lesson nearby. For history buffs, stopping by the DANA Adobe Cultural Center is a great way to learn a bit more about the Santa Maria Valley and the clash of cultures this region is proud of.
Food Recommendations:
- Guadalupe Cafe
- Maya Mexican Restaurant
- Bob’s Well Bread
Shaw’s Steakhouse was incredible. I had their baby back ribs, and the dry rub on them was exquisite. I’m still thinking about the taste as I write this. The staff was super friendly, nice, and prompt.
Day 2: Wine Country
If you’re looking for down-to-earth, no-fuss wine tasting, the Santa Maria Valley has you covered. I was able to visit two places along Foxen Canyon Road and had a great time.
But before you start wine tasting, stretch your legs in nearby Los Flores Ranch Park. It’s perfect for the entire family and all athletic levels. I did a nice four-mile loop with views of the surrounding mountains and farms below. For mountain bikers, this is also a great area to hit the trails.
Once you’re done, you’ll only have a short drive to start the tastings! (PS: There’s poor cell service in this area, so download your maps offline before leaving the hotel.)
The two wineries I visited were Zaca Mesa and Foxen Vineyard & Winery. I love Syrahs, and Zaca Mesa’s Red Flight was full of them. Foxen also had some delicious wines, with a preference for Pinot Noirs. I highly recommend these two and am sure the others in the area are also top-notch.
Food Recommendations:
The Hitching Post in Casamilia will transport you to the Old West. It’s a small town 20 minutes from Santa Maria, with almost no cell service, and the community flocks weekly to the steakhouse. And the best part is that those who live in town pay their water bill at the restaurant. You couldn’t make it up if you tried!
But back to the food. Delicious. It’s classic Santa Maria style. In addition to your entrée (the filet mignon was perfect), you’ll get a plate of vegetables, salsa, crackers, a green salad, a baked potato, garlic bread, and to cap it off, ice cream.
Trust me, you won’t go hungry in this town!
Day 3: Keep Adventuring
Hike around Figueroa Mountain
A 45-minute drive will get you into the Los Padres National Forest and explore hiking trails between Santa Maria Valley and Santa Ynez. If you go during spring, you’ll encounter wildflower blooms. You can drive pretty far up the mountain. I stopped near the top and did the Lovers Loop Trail.
Remember to bring plenty of water and sun protection, as this area can heat up in the afternoons.
Take a Tour of the Dewlson Family Farm
I’ll be honest; I was skeptical about what this would entail. But I had a great time! After Ron and Judy Dewlson retired from the Navy, the couple bought a farm. Were they farmers? Nope. But they dove in headfirst.
They sell lemons commercially, but the tour highlights their sustainability practices and their coffee and tea endeavors. After about an hour of learning about the coffee and tea and seeing some of the weirdest fruits I’ve ever seen with Judy, you’ll come back and enjoy their organic coffee and learn the roasting process from Ron.
I highly, highly recommend it. Please call them to schedule a tour, as their website may not display available dates.
Drive or Bike up Tepusquet Canyon
This is primarily for bikers to enjoy a nice, long ride. I headed up in hopes of a hike, and the road was closed. It’s a nice area to enjoy the canyon views. I would recommend double-checking the hiking trails up here if you want to include this in your Santa Maria Valley three-day itinerary.
Explore Old Town Orcutt
There are several breweries and wineries in the town where you can grab a drink.
- Naughty Oak Brewing Company
- Old Town Wine and Brew
- Liquid Gravity Brewing Company
- Blast 825 Brewery
- Lark + Sparrow
Additionally, if you need a break from all the steak and BBQ, consider checking out Trattoria Uliveto for delicious Italian cuisine. I know after about four meals full of meat (including leftovers), I needed a seafood dish, which hit the spot.
Food Recommendations:
- Jack’s In Old Orcutt
- Trattoria Uliveto
- Patricios Pizza
- Kay’s Orcutt Country Kitchen
- Far Western Tavern
Tips for Visiting the Central California Coast
Foggy Conditions During Summer
As the inland valleys begin to heat up in the summer, they draw moisture from the ocean, resulting in cloudy and foggy conditions along the coast. Due to this, expect some morning clouds as you visit. They should eventually burn off and give you all the sun you could hope for.
It’s Not Overly Crowded – Or Crowded at All
One of the nice parts about exploring this area and doing a three-day Santa Maria Valley itinerary is that you’re not competing with a bunch of other tourists. It’s regular life out here without the frenzied crowds and hectic spaces.
I never felt rushed, and the people were so friendly and nice. Having some calm while also enjoying the natural beauty and good food and wine was fantastic!
Bring a Jacket Year-Round
As I mentioned above, there’s a strong chance of clouds throughout the day. Plus, the proximity to the ocean can keep temperatures cool, which means mornings and nights could be chilly. I’d recommend always having a jacket or sweater on you in case you get cold. This will ensure you aren’t chased back to the hotel and can enjoy the long days.
Final Thoughts on Why Visiting Santa Maria Valley is Worth It
With phenomenal weather and proximity to the ocean, a trip to the Santa Maria Valley is an ideal destination for families and those seeking to savor amazing culinary treats.
The next time you’re thinking about a place to visit, explore the Santa Maria Valley and see for yourself why this area is being slept on by so many.