August’s Fresh Take
There’s no better place to escape from the everyday than Santa Maria Valley. From outdoor adventures and local flavors to upcoming events and the latest travel tips, this monthly update has all the insider info you need to plan a one-of-a-kind, Instagram-worthy getaway.
#SantaMariaStyle means more for less, a valley unlike any other, and a place where you’re always treated like family.

August Trip Tips
Do More for Less at the Holiday Inn & Suites Santa Maria’s Holiday Inn & Suites is the perfect home-base for your coastal getaway. Take a dip in the Pacific at Pismo Beach (yes, please!), explore local wineries, or head to the nearby Guadalupe Dunes for a day of outdoor adventure—and do it all for less.
Local Flavors
Free Movies in the Park Come make a splash at the Paul Nelson Aquatic Center on August 4 for a free showing of “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales” and a free swim!
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Free Movies in the Park Bring a lawn chair (and a super-hero attitude) for a free showing of “Black Panther” on August 18 at Rotary Centennial Park.
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Culture Corner
Legally Blonde the Musical | August 10-26 The Santa Maria Civic Theatre is serving up unforgettable musical performances of this Hollywood hit. Join Elle Woods on her journey to Harvard Law as she crushes stereotypes with serious style.
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Adventures & Experiences
Hollywood History Unearthed at the Dunes Center The largest movie set in history was built in 1923 at the Guadalupe Nipomo Dunes for Cecil B. DeMille’s silent epic, The Ten Commandments. When filming wrapped, the producer ordered the entire set be dismantled and secretly buried in the sand. The area is now a registered archaeological site. Visit the Dunes Center to view an exhibit of recovered artifacts including the most recent unearthed sphinx that measures six feet tall and is over 300 pounds.
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More Exciting Events
Foxen Second Sundays | August 12, 2018 Every second Sunday, Foxen Vineyard serves up the sounds of live music and the unforgettable tastes of local food trucks on its stunning, sun-soaked property.
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