Things To Do
in Santa Maria
Santa Maria is a city located in Santa Barbara County in California, United States. Known for its agricultural heritage, Santa Maria is one of the largest producers of strawberries in the region. The city has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities.
Santa Maria is also home to a thriving wine industry, with many vineyards and wineries nearby for visitors to explore.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with breakfast at a local café. Enjoy fresh coffee and pastries before heading out to explore.
Visit the Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum for interactive exhibits. Grab lunch at a nearby taco truck for some authentic flavors.
Take a stroll at the Santa Maria Fairpark and check out their events. End the evening with dinner at a charming local restaurant.
Hike the trails at the nearby Bodega Dunes. Take in the breathtaking views and fresh air.
Pack a picnic and eat at the riverbank of Santa Maria River. After lunch, visit a local winery for a tour and tasting.
Enjoy the sunset over the vineyard. Have dinner at a winery restaurant for a delightful meal paired with local wine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful weather year-round with mild winters and warm summers.
- Access to scenic locations including beaches, vineyards, and parks.
- Growing community with a diverse culture and friendly atmosphere.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other coastal areas in California.
- Proximity to larger cities like Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo for additional amenities.
- Limited public transportation options can make commuting difficult.
- Job opportunities may be fewer compared to larger metropolitan areas.
- Higher crime rates relative to some nearby communities.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options for younger residents.
- Potential for seasonal tourism to create crowded conditions during peak times.
Best Activities in Santa Maria
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vineyards and wineries for wine tasting and scenic views.
Enjoy hiking, birdwatching, or horseback riding in this beautiful coastal dunes area.
Great for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Santa Maria with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Santa Maria
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the vineyards and rolling hills of Santa Maria Valley
Scenic spot with a boardwalk trail and wildlife perfect for photography
Provides beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and Santa Maria River
Food in Santa Maria
Santa Maria Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local specialty featuring tri-tip beef seasoned with a simple yet flavorful dry rub, often grilled over native red oak wood. The meat is traditionally served with pinquito beans, salad, and garlic bread. Some renowned spots to enjoy this dish include The Hitching Post and Far Western Tavern.
Must-Try!
A small pink bean native to the region and a staple of the local cuisine. These beans are often prepared in a savory broth and frequently accompany Santa Maria Style BBQ, adding a delightful flavor to the meal.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Santa Maria better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held every Wednesday and Saturday, this market offers an abundance of fresh produce, artisanal food products, and locally crafted goods. Visitors can savor ready-to-eat treats like fresh fruits, grilled corn, and homemade tamales from the various vendors.
While not native to the area, the birria tacos served from food trucks or stands have gained popularity in Santa Maria. These flavorful tacos filled with stewed meat and melted cheese are a must-try for street food enthusiasts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Santa Maria, it's important to respect people's personal space, and not invade it without permission.
Santa Maria residents appreciate politeness and friendliness, so greet people warmly and use 'please' and 'thank you' often.
Santa Maria is culturally diverse, so it's important to be respectful and open-minded towards people of different backgrounds and traditions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Santa Maria with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Maria
Ensure a smooth experience
In Santa Maria, United States, tipping is customary in restaurants, bars, and for various services such as hotel staff, hairdressers, and taxi drivers. The standard practice is to tip around 15-20% of the total bill in restaurants and bars. For other services, a tip of 15-20% is also common, but it may vary depending on the quality of service.
Payment in Santa Maria, United States, is primarily done through credit/debit cards, cash, and mobile payment methods. Most businesses accept major credit and debit cards, and contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular. Cash is also widely used, especially for smaller transactions and when visiting local markets and smaller vendors.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Santa Maria.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather, blooming flowers, and the annual Strawberry Festival in April.
Warm and sunny weather, perfect for beach activities and outdoor events.
Pleasant temperatures, wine harvest events, and fall festivals.
Mild and cool weather, holiday celebrations, and whale watching along the coast.
Santa Maria at Night
Hiking in Santa Maria
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail with panoramic views of the Santa Barbara coastline, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
An easy, flat trail that runs along a creek, ideal for hiking and biking, with access to Avila Beach.
A beautiful trail that follows SLO Creek, offering a peaceful hiking experience with spots for picnicking.
Features rugged coastal cliffs and a variety of trails for hiking, with stunning ocean views and unique geological formations.
A large national forest offering numerous hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes with diverse landscapes.
A short hike through a grove where thousands of butterflies gather, best visited in the winter months.
Aiports
How to reach Santa Maria by plane.
Located approximately 120 miles south of Santa Maria, LAX is one of the busiest international airports in the world, serving millions of passengers annually with numerous international flights.
Situated about 170 miles north of Santa Maria, SFO is a major international airport that offers flights to a wide range of global destinations.
Located approximately 150 miles south of Santa Maria, SNA serves the Orange County area and has a variety of domestic and international flights.
About 180 miles north of Santa Maria, OAK provides various international connections in addition to numerous domestic routes.
Approximately 200 miles south of Santa Maria, SAN is the primary airport serving San Diego and offers several international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Santa Maria, representing a significant portion of the city's population.
The second largest demographic group, including individuals who identify as White and do not identify as Hispanic.
A smaller but growing demographic group, including individuals from various Asian backgrounds.
A demographic group representing a smaller percentage of the population, including individuals of African descent.
Includes individuals identifying with mixed races or other ethnic backgrounds not specifically listed.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A highly popular sport in Santa Maria, with local leagues and teams participating at various levels.
Soccer is widely played among youth and adults, with several leagues and recreational programs available.
A popular sport in schools and community centers, with numerous pickup games and organized leagues.
Softball leagues are common, attracting both men and women for competitive play.
Beach and indoor volleyball are popular activities, with many residents participating in local tournaments.
Running events and marathons are frequently organized, promoting fitness and community participation.
Cycling is a popular recreational activity, with many scenic routes available in and around Santa Maria.
American football is a major sport, with high school teams and local clubs fostering community spirit.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Maria.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Santa Maria provide vegetarian and vegan menu items, with some, such as The Garden Mediterranean Cafe, dedicated entirely to plant-based cuisine.
Several restaurants and cafes in the area offer gluten-free options, ensuring those with dietary restrictions can enjoy a variety of dishes. Visitors can explore places like Vino et Amicis, known for its gluten-free pasta choices.