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Santa Maria Valley
Sip and Save in Santa Maria Valley
by ilona kauremszky
Santa Maria Valley, tucked along California’s dreamy Central Coast, is your golden ticket to an epic wine country adventure—without the Napa price tag. This under-the-radar gem revered as the wine country of Santa Barbara County, delivers lush vineyards, mouthwatering barbecue, and exceptional experiences that make a road trip here an absolute must.
Whether you’re a vino lover on a budget or an adventure-seeker in search of offbeat experiences, Santa Maria Valley invites you to indulge in a memorable vacation where every sip, bite, and scenic drive feels like a buried treasure waiting to be discovered.
Wine Country without the Pretense
Let’s talk wine—because, honestly, that’s why you’re here. You have reached Santa Barbara County wine country. Grapes produced here are arguably more complex and flavorful, thanks to cool ocean air, resulting in one of the state’s longest growing seasons for vineyards.
The Foxen Canyon Wine Trail is a 30-mile stretch of vineyard paradise that’s refreshingly unpretentious. Think rolling hills dotted with 16 wineries where you can sip top-tier Syrah, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Places like Riverbench Vineyard and Winery serve sparkling flights in a charming farmhouse setting, while Foxen Vineyard and Winery offers tastings in a funky, old blacksmith shop known as “The Shack.” The big takeaway? Award-winning wines in a laid-back, affordable setting.
Cheers to that!
BBQ, Tacos and Flavors that Pack a Punch
Now, let’s talk about the real MVP of Santa Maria Valley: the food. This is where beef tri-tip barbecue reigns supreme. Santa Maria Style barbecue is a 150-year-old, smoky tradition grilled over red oak. Find it sizzling at local spots like Shaw’s Steakhouse and The Hitching Post (yes, the one from Sideways fame).
Craving tacos? Hit up the local scene for Mexican fare guaranteed to rock your taste buds. And if you are seeking an extra special night out, you’ll find Bell’s–a Michelin star restaurant–in Los Alamos, towards the southern tip of Santa Maria Valley.
Hidden Gems & Road Trip Gold
Santa Maria Valley isn’t just about food and wine—it’s loaded with epic experiences that make for an unforgettable road trip. Ever been to a luffa farm? See how these natural sponges grow at the Luffa Farm in Nipomo. Prefer a wild ride? Hit the Oceano Dunes on an ATV for an adrenaline-pumping adventure. Love horses? Saddle up for vineyard horseback riding at Fess Parker Winery or Presqu’ile Winery, where you may even catch an ocean view. And if nature calls, stroll through the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove, where thousands of delicate beauties flutter in eucalyptus trees during the seasonal winter migration.
Whether sipping, savoring, or hitting the road, a visit to Santa Maria Valley shows you don’t need deep pockets to enjoy a wine country escape. It’s time to head to the Central Coast.
Budget-friendly, Wine, Dine, Meander!
Santa Maria Valley Visitor & Convention Bureau santamariavalley.com
