The Most Iconic Foods in California
From fresh oysters and clam chowder to avocado toast and garlic ice cream, here are California's famous foods.
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Santa Maria
Santa Maria is located on the central coast and is the largest city in Santa Barbara County. An ocean breeze blows in from the nearby Pacific Ocean, contrasting the warm days and adding complexity to the grapevines throughout the Santa...
Latest
Santa Barbara County: Experience the American Riviera
Santa Barbara County is home to scenic, laid-back coastal cities replete with alfresco activities, entertaining pastimes, and local eateries
11 Stops To Make On Your San Francisco To Santa Barbara Drive
This guide has all the stops you need to make when driving from the City by the Bay to the American Riviera.
7 California Road Trips to Plan Right Now
No matter the direction you plan on taking, you’re bound to get lost in the many options the Golden State has to offer.
Travel
Santa Barbara County: Experience the American Riviera
Santa Barbara County is home to scenic, laid-back coastal cities replete with alfresco activities, entertaining pastimes, and local eateries
7 California Road Trips to Plan Right Now
No matter the direction you plan on taking, you’re bound to get lost in the many options the Golden State has to offer.
The Best Beaches Near Santa Maria, California: A Comprehensive Guide
Looking for a beach getaway near Santa Maria, California? Check out our guide to the best beaches, including addresses and distances.
What to Do on a Day Trip to Santa Maria Valley
Your adventures in Santa Maria Valley start now. Explore the different attractions and fun things to do in the valley.
Health & Fitness
It's Global Climbing Day. Are You Up For The Challenge?
Each year, The North Face partners with rock-climbing gyms across the world for Global Climbing Day. Here's where to join in on the fun.
Where to Go Snowshoeing in California
Just because snow is falling doesn't mean you can't enjoy a fun hike to experience California's natural beauty.
The 17 Best Places to Kayak in California
Whether you’re holding a paddle for the first time or are on a hunt for the absolute best places to go kayaking, California has you covered.
9 Best Beach Hikes in Southern California
Looking for the best beach hikes in Southern California? Here are the 9 top hikes to check out!
Real Estate
The Best Lakes to Live On in California
Imagine waking up to tranquil views and lush landscapes. You’ll get all this and more at the best lakes to live on in California.
The 11 Best Cities for Public Transportation
And if you’re looking for the best cities for public transportation (to move to or just for visiting), we’ve got you covered there too.
A Rundown on San Luis Obispo's Real Estate Market
How is the future of San Luis Obispo’s real estate market looking? Read on to find out.
The 9 Best Cities to Retire to in the U.S.
Should you retire by the beach or in the mountains? Should you favor healthcare access or recreational activities?
Lifestyle
Top High Schools Near Santa Maria, California: Addresses, History, and Benefits
Discover the best high schools near Santa Maria, CA. From rigorous academics to vibrant extracurriculars, these schools offer something.
Colleges Near Santa Maria, California: A Guide to Higher Education
Discover the best colleges near Santa Maria, CA, and explore their unique programs and opportunities.
UC or CSU? Here's How to Pick What's Right for You
For a better understanding of which public university system is the right fit for you, here’s a UC vs. Cal State guide to help you decide.
Here Are the Top 5 Colleges near Morro Bay
Learn about each of the top 5 colleges near Morro Bay and how they can fit into your educational future.
Dine
The Most Iconic Foods in California
From fresh oysters and clam chowder to avocado toast and garlic ice cream, here are California's famous foods.
The Best Santa Maria Restaurants to Try Out
A trip to Santa Maria is not complete without a gastronomic experience! Here are the best Santa Maria restaurants to choose from.
Notable Urban Agriculture In The Golden State
Visit the state’s standout urban gardens and farms to learn about where your food comes from, pitch in to help, and take home fresh produce.
The Top California Bakeries for Gluten-Free Goodies
Whether you want to eat a donut now, or need a crusty baguette to go, head to one of California's bakeries to get your gluten-free goodies.
Entertain
Discover the Best Museums Near Santa Maria, California: A Guide to Exhibits and Accessibility
Discover the best museums near Santa Maria, California, with exhibits ranging from art to aviation.
17 Fun Facts About San Luis Obispo
This Central Coast gem has a lot to offer to tourists and locals alike. Here are some fun facts about San Luis Obispo to get you started.
A Guide To California's Monsters And Mythical Creatures
From serpent-like sea creatures to tall, hairy beings skulking through the forests, many monsters and mythical creatures lurk in California.
20 Things to Do in Central California That You Can't Anywhere Else
Whether you’re exploring Big Sur or meandering through swoon-worthy beach towns, a trip to the Golden State’s heartland is long overdue.
Events & Weddings
The Golden State’s Best Micro-Wedding Venues
Check out these beautiful micro-wedding venues in California to celebrate your big day in style, and get ready to cue the wedding bells.
The 13 Best Places to Get Engaged in California
Whether it's under the Urban Lights or by Lake Tahoe, California features the very best places to get engaged.
Home & Garden
Santa Maria, California: A Hidden Gem on the Central Coast
Discover the hidden gem of Santa Maria, California, with its abundance of outdoor activities, family-friendly fun, and delicious food.
Atascadero, California: The Hidden Gem of the Central Coast
Explore Atascadero's charm: scenic beauty, diverse eats, family attractions, vibrant arts scene, and warm-hearted community vibes.
Lompoc, California: A Hidden Gem of the Central Coast
Discover the benefits of living in Lompoc, California. From parks and recreation to shopping and dining, there's something for everyone.
The Best of San Luis Obispo, California: A Guide to the Perfect Getaway
Discover the best of San Luis Obispo, California! From natural beauty to foodie havens, cultural sights, and outdoor recreation.
Auto
11 Stops To Make On Your San Francisco To Santa Barbara Drive
This guide has all the stops you need to make when driving from the City by the Bay to the American Riviera.
The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip
Get ready to enjoy a scenic Highway 1 road trip. Our Pacific Coast Highway itinerary highlights the best places to stop along the way.
The Golden State's Best Fall Road Trips
Vibrant hues of reds, oranges, and yellow leaves crunch beneath your army boots; pack your bags; head on the best fall trips to take next.
11 Solo Trips in California to Take at Least Once
Regardless of the route you choose to take, the Golden State’s freeways will lead you to some of the most iconic destinations in the world.
9 things you should know about Santa Maria
1
A beautiful beach town, Santa Maria, California has a long and rich history that dates back to the late...
2
Home to a population of approximately 109,000 residents, Santa Maria is the largest city in Santa Barbara...
3
Located on the Pacific coast, Santa Maria is known for its warm weather, stunning scenery, and agricultural...
4
Santa Maria is home to a variety of attractions including the Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum, the Santa...
5
With a median household income of $59,400, Santa Maria is one of the most prosperous cities in the state.
6
The city is served by two public school districts – the Santa Maria-Bonita School District and the Santa...
7
The local economy is largely based on agriculture and food processing.
8
Local attractions include the Santa Maria Speedway, and the Santa Maria Valley Historical Society Museum.
9
Santa Maria experiences a cool Mediterranean climate.
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