Santa Maria, California is a beautiful city located in the Central Coast region of the United States. It is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. Whether you are looking for a beach vacation or a family-friendly adventure, Santa Maria has something for everyone.
The city's beaches are home to some of the best surfing spots in California. The oceanfront boardwalk and pier are perfect for evening strolls or romantic picnics. The nearby Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes National Wildlife Refuge is a great spot to experience nature and wildlife.
Santa Maria is also a great place to explore the history and culture of the area. The Santa Maria Valley Historical Society offers tours of the city's historical sites, including the Santa Maria Valley Railroad Museum. Tours of the Santa Maria Winery and Santa Maria Valley AVA will give visitors a taste of the area's past and present.
Santa Maria is a great place to shop and dine. The downtown area is home to numerous restaurants and shops. The Santa Maria Town Center Mall offers a mix of high-end stores and local boutiques. Or, visitors can find unique gifts and souvenirs on Old Town Santa Maria's main street.
Santa Maria is a great place to visit for a fun, relaxing vacation. With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history, it has something for everyone.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Downtown Santa Maria: Located in the heart of the city, Downtown Santa Maria offers easy access to a variety of attractions, such as restaurants, shopping, and entertainment.
2. Orcutt: Located just south of Santa Maria, the small town of Orcutt is known for its picturesque scenery and vineyards. It is ideal for those looking for a peaceful and beautiful place to stay.
3. Guadalupe: Located just north of Santa Maria, Guadalupe is a charming town with a variety of attractions, such as wineries, historic sites, and more.
4. Santa Ynez Valley: Located east of Santa Maria, the Santa Ynez Valley is home to many wineries, breweries, and tasting rooms. It is ideal for those looking for a more rural getaway.
5. Nipomo: Located just south of Santa Maria, Nipomo is a great option for those looking for a more laid-back atmosphere. It offers plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and golfing.
1. Santa Maria Valley Historical Society Museum: This museum offers insight into the history of Santa Maria, with exhibits on the town's agricultural heritage and the development of nearby oil fields.
2. Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum: This interactive museum provides hands-on exhibits showcasing science, technology, engineering, arts, and math.
3. Santa Maria Fairpark: This large park offers a variety of attractions, including a carousel, a miniature golf course, a haunted house, and a playground.
4. Santa Maria Speedway: This speedway hosts professional stock car racing events and is the only dirt-track racing facility in the Central Coast region.
5. Santa Maria Valley Wine Country: This area is home to numerous vineyards and wineries, with many offering wine tasting and tours.
1. Tri-Tip Sandwich: This is the signature dish of Santa Maria, made with grilled tri-tip steak, fresh salsa, and aioli sauce, all on a freshly-baked roll.
2. Santa Maria Style Barbecue: Santa Maria-style barbecue is made with local tri-tip beef, grilled over an oak fire, and served with a delicious salsa.
3. Santa Maria Style Salsa: This local salsa is made with fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, jalapeno peppers, and cilantro.
4. Fresh Seafood: Santa Maria is known for its fresh seafood, including local catches of halibut, sea bass, and abalone.
5. Fresh Fruits & Vegetables: Santa Maria is known for its abundance of fresh, locally-grown produce, including strawberries, artichokes, and avocados.