Santa Maria sits on the stunning Southern California coast in Santa Barbara County, around 120 miles north west of LA. It's a fun-packed, family-friendly resort right at the edge of the foothills of the Sierra Madres, only a few minutes' journey from miles and miles of glorious sandy beaches, pristine nature parks, craggy mountains, top notch golf courses and masses of beautiful hiking trails. Better still, it's a world-class wine destination.
The Blacklake Golf Course offers 27 holes split into three 9 hole courses, for golfers of every level.
You'll find almost sixty wineries spread across just 50 miles of lovely landscapes, many of which are multiple award winners. But there's much more to do and see:
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Experience the Santa Maria Museum of Flight
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Visit the Natural History Museum,
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Go to the Santa Maria Valley Historical Society Museum
Enjoy live music and a vibrant night out at the Santa Maria Inn's Old English Tap Room, a 'typical English pub', states-style. They also have a really good wine cellar.
The unforgettable Foxen Canyon Wine Trail starts in Santa Maria and takes you on a magical journey through wine country, featuring several of the state's best known and loved wineries and vineyards.
The Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes & Visitor Center awaits you, a remarkable complex marking California's second biggest sand dune system, a unique natural environment, natural national landmark and a fascinating visit. The Pismo Beach Premium Outlets isn't far away, ideal for retail therapy fans with more than 40 stores and oodles of big brand bargains to be had. Grab a horse, or hire a bicycle, and explore the lush Californian landscapes in slow-mo, dropping into wineries for tasting sessions along your route. Done all this? Now you're getting a flavour of the best in Californian entertainment.
The entire region is a feast of wonderful things to see, do and experience. Historic Hearst Castle is just along the coast in San Simeon. If you're a Speedway fan you can catch a race or two at Santa Maria Speedway track. There are numerous golf courses, all spotless and smart, catering for every level. The Pacific Conservatory Theater is a prime destination for brilliant entertainment. And Los Flores Ranch Park delivers a superb day out in the laid-back countryside. There are some nice speciality and gift shops in town, a bowling alley, the movies and more.