Santa Maria Day Trip California Central Coast

Santa Maria was, for many years, a quiet little town. There was not much to do, and it was little known worldwide. The population has grown because of housing affordability compared to other Central Coast areas.

The climate is some of the best weather in the United States, with a steady temperature of the ’60s and ’70s year-round. Many visitors drive from California’s Central Valley to escape the heat and enjoy wine tasting and Santa Maria’s famous barbecue style.

Santa Maria Style BBQ

Santa Maria’s famous barbecue style is black-on-the-outside, pink-on-the-inside, grilled beef tri-tip steak. This tender and juicy meat is a trademark of the area. If not the best, some BBQ can be found nearby Nipomo, not Santa Maria. Jocko’s Steak House serves the best ribs, steaks, and grilled beef tri-tip steak you’ll ever eat. 125 N Thompson Ave Nipomo, CA 93444. website.

Far Western Tavern

Another steakhouse known for its Santa Maria-style BBQ is just south of town in Orcutt. Far Western serves up steaks, chops, and lamb along with tri-trip. The food is delicious, and the portions were generous. Far Western Tavern is upscale dining with high prices compared to other area BBQ restaurants. 300 E Clark Ave, Orcutt, CA 93455. website.

Santa Maria Karting Association

On weekends you can enjoy the thrill of watching a go-kart race or stock car racing. The Karting Association hosts races almost every Sunday, and best yet, it’s free! The Track Gate is located on the left at the end of Blosser Road near the airport. Website.

Santa Maria Speedway

The speedway features stock cars, demolition derbies, speedway bikes, and many other forms of auto racing. An evening here is one most inexpensive family activities along the central coast. Santa Maria Speedway is the place to be if you like racing and don’t want to spend much money. 1900 Hutton Rd Nipomo, CA 93444. website.

Getting There

Santa Maria is located along U.S. Highway 101 in northern Santa Barbara County. Santa Barbara is about an hour’s drive south, with Buellton, Solvang, and the Santa Ynez Valley about a 30-minute away. Pismo Beach and Arroyo Grande are to Avila Beach, just beyond that, and San Luis Obispo is just north of Avila.

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