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Best Things to Do in Santa Maria, CA: Santa Maria-Style BBQ, Wineries & Dunes
Santa Maria, on California’s scenic Central Coast, is a rewarding day-trip destination. This affordable gem draws visitors with its Santa Maria-style barbecue, wine scene, coastal dunes, and family entertainment. With mild Mediterranean weather—temps typically in the 60s and 70s year-round—it’s a relaxing stop along Highway 101 or an escape from the Central Valley heat. Whether you’re craving tri-tip, Pinot Noir tastings, or dune hikes with ocean views, Santa Maria delivers authentic Central Coast vibes without the crowds or high prices.
Savor Iconic Santa Maria-Style BBQ
Santa Maria-style barbecue is a regional legend: tri-tip beef simply rubbed with salt, pepper, and garlic, then grilled over red oak for a charred exterior and a juicy pink interior. Served with pinquito beans, fresh salsa, garlic bread, and salad, it’s hearty, flavorful Central Coast comfort food.
Top spots include Jocko’s Steak House in nearby Nipomo (125 N Thompson Ave), a local favorite for perfectly grilled tri-tip, ribs, and steaks with an old-school vibe. Far Western Tavern in Orcutt (300 E Clark Ave) offers upscale steaks, chops, lamb, and tri-tip in generous portions—expect higher prices but excellent quality and ambiance. Other strong options include Shaw’s Steakhouse in Santa Maria for classic oak-pit grilling, The Hitching Post in Casmalia for historic charm, and Rancho Nipomo Deli & BBQ for casual favorites. Many spots emphasize oak-grilled traditions passed down through generations.
Santa Maria Valley Wineries & Tastings
The Santa Maria Valley AVA shines for cool-climate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah, and sparkling wines, thanks to ocean breezes funneled through its east-west orientation. The Foxen Canyon Wine Trail and Santa Maria Valley Wine Trolley (weekends in peak season) make exploration easy.
Highlights include Presqu’ile Winery (stunning hilltop views and ocean glimpses), Rancho Sisquoc Winery (historic ranch setting with the charming 1875 San Ramon Chapel), Cambria Estate Winery (sustainable estate wines), Riverbench, Cottonwood Canyon (wine caves), Bien Nacido, and Foxen Vineyard. Many offer seated tastings, picnics, and weekend events. Plan a half-day loop for a relaxed wine experience.
Rancho Guadalupe Dunes Preserve – Towering Coastal Wonders
Just west of Santa Maria near Guadalupe, this preserve features some of the tallest coastal dunes in North America (up to 550 feet) and pristine beaches. Hike the sands, spot wildlife (including nesting snowy plovers—check seasonal restrictions March-Oct), fish, or enjoy the Santa Maria River estuary. Access via Main Street in Guadalupe; open sunrise to sunset (free/donation). Pair it with a stop at the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Center for exhibits on local ecology and film history (Ten Commandments sets were buried here).
Point Sal State Beach
For a more adventurous beach day, hike to Point Sal State Beach (access via Brown Road trailhead near Guadalupe; ~4.5-mile one-way hike with elevation). Dramatic cliffs, wildflowers, and seclusion reward the effort—vehicle access is limited. Check conditions, as military operations nearby can affect access.
Santa Maria Valley Railroad Museum
Rail fans should visit the Santa Maria Valley Railway Historical Museum (open second and fourth Saturdays, noon-4pm, near the Transit Center). See vintage equipment like an 1890s switch engine, boxcar, and caboose, plus exhibits on local railroad history that shaped the valley’s growth. Free/donation; great for all ages.
Thrilling Motorsports: Karting & Speedway
Motorheads will love the Santa Maria Karting Association (3951 S Blosser Rd). Free spectator viewing for weekend go-kart and stock car races—check the 2026 schedule for events (gates open early; family-friendly).
The Santa Maria Speedway (1900 Hutton Rd, Nipomo) hosts dirt-track action with sprint cars, modifieds, monster trucks, demolition derbies, and more throughout 2026. Affordable family nights make it a highlight for racing fans.
Getting There & Visitor Tips
Santa Maria sits along U.S. Highway 101 in northern Santa Barbara County. It’s about 1 hour south of San Luis Obispo, 30 minutes from Buellton/Solvang/Santa Ynez Valley, and a manageable drive from Orange County or the Central Valley. Santa Maria Public Airport (SMX) offers convenient flights. Combine with nearby Pismo Beach, Arroyo Grande, or Avila Beach for a longer coastal loop.
Santa Maria blends old-school California charm with growing appeal. From oak-grilled tri-tip feasts and vineyard hops to dune explorations and trackside thrills, it’s an underrated Central Coast gem best known for foodies, families, and adventurers.