Santa Maria Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Santa Maria, located in the heart of the California region, is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. Known for its warm climate and friendly atmosphere, Santa Maria is a popular destination for tourists seeking a laid-back yet exciting vacation.

One of the main attractions in Santa Maria is the stunning coastline. With miles of pristine beaches, visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and surfing in the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean. The picturesque beaches offer breathtaking views and are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a romantic picnic.

For wine enthusiasts, Santa Maria is a paradise. The region is famous for its vineyards and wineries, producing some of the finest wines in California. Visitors can embark on a wine tasting tour, sampling a variety of award-winning wines while learning about the winemaking process. The Santa Maria Valley Wine Country is a must-visit for wine lovers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience.

In addition to its natural beauty, Santa Maria is also rich in cultural heritage. The city boasts a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and theaters showcasing local talent. Visitors can explore the Santa Maria Museum of Flight, which displays a collection of vintage aircraft and offers interactive exhibits for aviation enthusiasts of all ages.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Santa Maria offers a plethora of activities. From hiking in the nearby Los Padres National Forest to fishing in the pristine lakes and rivers, there is something for everyone. Nature lovers can also explore the famous Oso Flaco Lake, a hidden gem teeming with diverse wildlife and stunning views.

When it comes to dining, Santa Maria is a food lover's paradise. The city is known for its delicious Santa Maria-style barbecue, featuring mouthwatering tri-tip steak cooked over an open flame. Visitors can indulge in this local culinary delight at one of the many barbecue restaurants, where the aroma of smoky goodness fills the air.

Alternative names: Founded: 1874 (150 years ago)Population: 105.1 thous.Area: 23.42 mi²Elevation: 220 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 34°56'16"N, 120°26'2"W

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CaliforniaUnited States

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Santa Maria Top Attractions

Santa Maria Attractions - What to See and Explore

Santa Maria offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Twitchell Reservoir, The Natural History Museum of Santa Maria, Santa Maria Veterans Memorial Building, Allan Hancock College. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

34°59'56"N • 120°19'58"W
Twitchell Reservoir
Twitchell Reservoir is a reservoir in southern San Luis Obispo County and northern Santa Barbara County in California.
34°56'56"N • 120°26'2"W
The Natural History Museum of Santa Maria
Museum
34°57'29"N • 120°26'20"W
Santa Maria Veterans Memorial Building
Park

Day trips

Santa Maria – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Santa Maria, it's worth seeing attractions such as: La Purísima Mission (Lompoc), Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa (San Luis Obispo), Mission Santa Inés (Solvang).

18 milesS
History museum, Regional park, Church
La Purísima Mission, Lompoc
Mission La Purísima Concepción, or La Purísima Mission is a Spanish mission in Lompoc, California. It was established on December 8, 1787 by the Franciscan order. The original mission complex south of Lompoc was destroyed by an earthquake in 1812, and the mission was rebuilt at its present site a few miles to the northeast.
27 milesNW
Church, Historical place, Hispanic colonial architecture
Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, San Luis Obispo
Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa is a Spanish mission founded September 1, 1772 by Father Junípero Serra in San Luis Obispo, California. Named after Saint Louis of Anjou, the bishop of Toulouse, the mission is the namesake of San Luis Obispo. The mission offers public tours of the church and grounds.
29 milesSE
Museum, Mission, Church
Mission Santa Inés, Solvang
Mission Santa Inés was a Spanish mission in the present-day city of Solvang, California, and named after St. Agnes of Rome.
29 milesNW
Natural attraction, Geologic formation, Lookout
Bishop Peak, San Luis Obispo
Bishop Peak is a 1,546-foot volcanic plug in San Luis Obispo, California. It is the tallest of the Morros or "Nine Sisters", a chain of similar peaks stretching to Morro Bay.
24 milesNW
35°10'21"N • 120°45'22"W
Avila Beach Paddlesports, Avila Beach
Beach, Kayaking, Outdoor activities

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Best Time To Visit Santa Maria

Learn when is the best time to travel to Santa Maria weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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April and June are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in March and July.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in July, August, September and October. While the coldest is in January, February and December.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in June, July and August. Most of it rains in January and February.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Santa Maria?

The top attractions to visit in Santa Maria are:

What is the best time to visit Santa Maria?

April and June are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in March and July. The highest air temperature is in July, August, September and October. While the coldest is in January, February and December.