Fill Your Itinerary: Where to Play, Eat, & Drink
Anytime we host a media familiarization tour (aka, a FAM), we curate a special itinerary showing off the best of Santa Maria Valley! In this blog, we’ll take you through some places Fiona Chandra—a journalist for SFGate, Food & Wine, LAist, and more—visited during her three-day stay! Plus, a few of our other favorites you should consider sneaking into your next itinerary!
Outdoor Adventures You Won’t Want to Miss
With a year-round Mediterranean climate, Santa Maria Valley’s landscapes call out to adventurers. Whether you’re a hiker, golfer, or birdwatcher, there’s an outdoor experience for everyone.
Here are two hiking spots where locals and visitors alike get a taste of Santa Maria Valley’s natural beauty:
- East La Cuesta Loop Trail at Los Flores Ranch Park: This easy, 3.8-mile trail offers breathtaking views in every direction. Located in the gorgeous Los Flores Ranch Park trail system, there are plenty more hiking routes if you want to make a full day of it!
- Oso Flaco Lake Trail: Looking for a shorter trek? This 1.7-mile trail is located in the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area and leads you straight out to the Pacific Ocean.
Dive into the possibilities and check out all of our region’s outdoor adventures.
Try These Hidden Gem Experiences
Calling all coffee lovers and tea connoisseurs! Dewlson Family Farm is a truly unique experience for those visiting the Central Coast. Founded in 2010 by Navy veterans, Judy Paulson and Ron Dewey, this Santa Maria Valley farm grows its own pesticide-free coffee, tea, and more—all while prioritizing sustainability. Here, you’ll find five varieties of Arabica coffee, Lisbon lemons, and exotic fruits like caviar limes and dragon fruit. Book a reservation on their website for one of their educational and tasty tours.
Want to explore something you’ve probably never thought about outside of the shower? Don’t let your mind wander too far. We’re talking about luffas! Did you know this skin-exfoliating sponge doesn’t come from the ocean like sea sponges? They’re actually in the gourd family. Santa Maria Valley is home to The Luffa Farm, one of just a few left in the United States. Visitors can buy their natural luffas here as well as other goodies. Stop by for a tour between 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.
Places to Chow Down
With so much exploring to do, you’ll want to stay fueled for every adventure. Luckily, our food scene has you covered! Keep this list of restaurants in mind during your next visit:
- Kay’s Country Kitchen: Voted Best Breakfast in Orcutt for 18 years in a row, swing by Kay’s for a hearty meal before you set out to explore the Central Coast. (Local tip: Try the Santa Maria Style Tri-Tip & Eggs!)
- My Place Coffee Juice & More: Start your morning off right by choosing from this bistro’s selection of breakfast and lunch items. Take your drink and food to go, or enjoy their indoor or outdoor seating.
- Beso Cocina & Cocktails: This restaurant serves up elevated Mexican cuisine, using the finest authentic ingredients for its dishes while creating an inviting environment for the whole family. If you’ve got a keen eye, you may even find yourself at the speakeasy hidden inside.
- Far Western Tavern: Craving Santa Maria Style barbecue? Enjoy it at Far Western Tavern! Their contemporary California ranch cuisine is inspired by local traditions and prepared with fresh flavors from nearby farms, ranches, and vineyards.
- Pizzeria Bello Forno: You can’t go wrong with pizza—especially when it’s wood-fired! This restaurant features cuisine that is influenced by wine countries and Italy.
Wineries & Bars for Those Looking to Raise a Glass
Santa Maria Valley is home to some of California’s most captivating wine country experiences—but their bar and brewery scene is also a treat!
Be sure to reserve your spots for these wineries early:
- Presqu’ile Vineyard & Winery: Taste the Murphy family’s commitment to authenticity and excellence when you sip their wines, which feature a blend of unique soils, vineyard exposures, and thoughtful craftsmanship. They also offer food from their on-site garden and a variety of unique winery experiences and tours. Presqu’ile’s stunning views and expertly crafted vintages await your visit.
- Cambria Winery & Vineyards: This winery captures the soul of Santa Maria Valley in every glass. The Jackson family, with roots deep in winemaking, oversees each vine with sustainable practices, producing cool-climate wines with unbeatable richness. Reserve your spot for an intimate glimpse into this storied vineyard.
From daytime sips to evening pints, Santa Maria Valley’s tasting rooms are ready to raise the bar on your trip. Enjoy an intimate glass at Lark + Sparrow, a cozy wine bar with carefully curated selections from around the world. Or grab a pint at Naughty Oak Brewing Company, a local gem known for its rotating selection of 12 craft beers on tap, each brewed on-site.
When It’s Time to Turn in
The Wine Stone Inn hosted Fiona during her FAM. This charming 12-room boutique hotel provides a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere to travelers and locals alike. It offers spa amenities, premium bedding, luxury bathrobes, welcome snacks, local pastries, gourmet coffee, and personalized concierge services for a cozy yet upscale stay.
On a budget or want to use your points? Santa Maria Valley has plenty of cozy spots for every visitor. Check them out, and start planning your trip!
