Joey Amato from Pride Journeys recapped all of the ways to enjoy autumn and the beautiful fall colors in Santa Maria Valley. Enjoy this excerpt from the article below:
Fall in Love with Santa Maria Valley
Santa Maria Valley tourism spikes in the summer, but some of the most stunning valley views can be seen in the fall. Autumn is a beautiful time to visit because the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange and yellow. The temperate Central Coast climate makes it possible to enjoy the outdoors year-round. There are many ways to experience the changing leaves and agriculture in Santa Maria Valley during your fall getaway. Keep reading for six of our favorite ways to connect with nature and experience autumn Santa Maria Style.
1. At a Winery
Santa Maria Valley is known for complex, balanced and delicious wines, specifically Pinot Noir, Syrah and Chardonnay. After the wine grapes are harvested in early fall, the leaves in the vineyards change from green to orange. Stop by Presqu’ile Winery, which provides guests sweeping views of the surrounding vineyards and beautiful landscape. You can enjoy Santa Maria Valley wine, charcuterie and fall foliage.
2. On a Hike
Make the short drive to Oso Flaco Lake to see autumn leaves along California’s Central Coast. Oso Flaco Lake, near the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes is a beautiful and easy hike that provides guests with views of native plants and wildlife. While you’re there, stop by the Monarch Dunes Butterfly Grove in Nipomo to see the Monarchs, which migrate to eucalyptus groves across the Central Coast each fall and winter.
3. On a Bike
Cycling Tepusquet road is an enjoyable and scenic way to experience changing leaves in Santa Maria Valley. Tepusquet road is a 14-mile stretch of road near Byron Winery and is often used as a scenic walk or drive. Many areas of the road are surrounded by trees, which shed their leaves in autumn. The road has some curves and hills, making for a beautiful and dynamic bike ride that’s perfect for cyclists of all skill levels.
