Santa Maria Valley: The Best 3-Day Weekend Getaway Guide

Check Into Your Hotel

When planning your visit to the Santa Maria Valley, as with most adventures, first things first: choose a suitable home base. Due to its proximity to several popular locations, the city of Santa Maria is a great choice during your getaway. Settling in at a cozy hotel or Inn means less stress as you gear up for a fun-filled visit.

Two smart options are the Candlewood Suites Santa Maria, 2079 North Roemer Court, near Preisker Park – the town’s largest park featuring several recreation areas – and the historic Santa Maria Inn, 801 South Broadway, adjacent to Santa Maria Valley Discovery, a hands-on museum for explorers of all ages.

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Both hotels are in reputable areas and offer free, on-site parking, and ensure a comfortable stay for your trip. Whatever location you choose, establishing a “home base” takes the worry out of where to recharge and recover.

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Recently, I stayed at the Radisson Santa Maria, 3455 Skyway Drive, next to Santa Maria Airport (SMX). Known primarily as a business hotel, the Radisson Santa Maria is an eco-certified hotel with a modern, three-story lobby and a fantastic on-site restaurant.

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If you’re staying at the Raddison, check out the Santa Maria Museum of Flight, 3015 Airpark Drive, about a 5-minute drive from the hotel. Open on weekends only, the museum is housed in a small building with a collection of aviation history and memorabilia. Well-informed tour guides here love to answer visitors’ questions.

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Step Out for a Special Meal

Once you’ve unpacked and freshened up at your hotel, it’s time to venture out to nearby Arroyo Grande for a delightful dining experience. Indulge in the creative, comfort food of Rooster Creek Tavern, 200 East Branch Street, or savor the culinary flavors at The Mason Bar + Kitchen, 307 East Branch Street. Both restaurants have an extensive selection of sandwiches, salads, and special plates with locally sourced ingredients that shine.

Though the menu at Rooster Creek Tavern boasts many delicious dishes – like the signature Rooster Burger or the Tuna Melt with poached ahi – I opted for something lighter: the Little Gem Wedge salad. The salad included fresh greens, candied pecans, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a thick, blue cheese dressing. I truly enjoyed this little gem …one forkful at a time.

Whether you’re craving upscale cuisine or casual fare, Arroyo Grande offers dining options to suit nearly every palate. After a satisfying meal, return to your hotel and sleep well, knowing your getaway to Santa Maria Valley has just begun!

Shop for Vintage Treasures in San Luis Obispo

Just a short drive from Santa Maria is the popular, historic college town of San Luis Obispo where shopping for vintage goods is a treasure hunt filled with unpredictable discoveries.

Start the day at Fred and Betty’s Thrift Store, 532 Higuera Street, a locally-owned store in the heart of downtown and a haven for seekers of retro gems. Search and find everything from weathered leather jackets to delicate porcelain teacups and other home goods.

Next, head over to Central Coast Vintage, 982 Monterey Street, whose tagline, “the Go-To Thrift Store in San Luis Obispo,” is backed by the buzz of their welcoming atmosphere. Central Coast Vintage is a literal emporium brimming with eclectic finds, from mid-century furniture to oversized neon signs to quirky knick-knacks.

While perusing the racks, if something catches your eye, ask about its history or try it on for size! You never know what you’ll find.

Lunch Break

Remember to eat lunch or have a coffee break during your SLO shop-a-thon. Some recommended places – all locally owned and operated – include Benny’s Pizza Palace and Social Club, Black Sheep Bar and Grill, and Guiseppe’s Cucina Italiana. These long-time favorites offer delectable fare at moderate prices, perfect for a quick refuel before your final shopping destination.

Check out this article on The Rides of March Annual Scooter Rally for more details on where to eat and drink in SLO.

Keep Shopping On

Continuing with your shopping day, check out Village Vintage,  233 Granada Drive, where stepping inside the store feels like entering a time capsule, and every corner reveals a treasure trove of unique finds.

From retro clothing to vintage home decor, you’ll find a masterful, curated selection of items that appeal to nostalgia seekers and fashionistas.

As you plan your visit, remember that locally-owned stores may change their hours on a whim. Call ahead to confirm they’re open for business. Some shops close early or have limited hours on the weekends.

Soak Away Stress at Sycamore Mineral Springs

As you bid farewell to shopping the streets of San Luis Obispo, your journey to relaxation begins with a drive to nearby Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort and Spa, 1215 Avila Beach Drive. Located on lush hills, the springs offer rejuvenating soaks in the warmth of their outdoor tubs, perfectly enjoyed as the late afternoon sun casts a golden glow on tall trees.

While there are many mineral springs in the area, Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort and Spa is the one I visited and enjoyed. The afternoon was memorable and indulgent, but also affordable and effortless.

To start, reservations are needed online to secure a tub. In the past, guests could arrive without advance notice, but now the tubs fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

The reservations are easy to secure and offer dozens of options, from a Couples Sweetheart Soak for two persons to a group soak for up to five people. Other services, like facials, massages, and yoga or pilates classes are also available.

Once at Sycamore Springs, it was easy to find free parking and check in at the main building, where the staff verified the reservation then assigned one of the cleverly-named tubs scattered throughout the hillside. A paper map outlining the entire grounds was helpful as the spread was quite large.

I packed a towel and a swimsuit; the website states that bathing attire is completely optional in your private tub however, clothing must be worn in all public areas. Nudists take note!

While food and drinks are permitted at the springs, alcoholic beverages and anything in glass are not. Refreshments are offered for purchase in their well-stocked, moderately-priced gift shop.

The tubs are accessed via stairs, so comfortable footwear was advised; I’m glad I wore suitable shoes to hike to the assigned one. Once I reached the tub, I was wowed by the awesome view and cooling sensation from the huge trees overhead. A rural, mountain camper feeling adds to this idyllic oasis.

Finally, I let go of stress and tension, embracing the serenity of the retreat. I enjoyed eating snacks and sipping fruit-infused kombucha while watching the sky change into its evening colors.

Soaks are timed for an hour, after which visitors check out with the desk in the gift shop before departure, and have the option of showering or changing your clothes before leaving.

As I departed, I noticed the relaxing spa room where visitors can receive a massage and other services.

Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort and Spa was everything the website promised: relaxing, invigorating, and fun. I found it easy to unwind in the soothing waters and took a moment to immerse myself in the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding nature.

Dinner Idea: The Swiss

With your muscles relaxed from the springs and a short drive back to Santa Maria, dinner should be a no-brainer as you continue your state of bliss back at the hotel.

Stop into The Swiss Steakhouse and Bar, 516 North Broadway, a locally-owned favorite established in the 1940s with a down-home atmosphere enhanced by wood paneling and parquet floors. Here, diners enjoy dishes like Oak-Grilled Chilean Sea Bass, Maple-Glazed Salmon, and steak cooked to perfection.

Enjoy Breakfast in Old Orcutt

Rise and shine! It’s time to begin day three of your getaway to Santa Maria Valley. While your hotel may offer or include a delicious breakfast, you’ll be happier heading out for the most important meal of the day to nearby Orcutt.

A favorite for its familiar fare, Jack’s Restaurant in Old Orcutt, 156 South Broadway, serves omelettes, pancakes, and hearty breakfast sandwiches. An Orcutt landmark for over 50 years, Jack’s Restaurant also serves salads, tacos, and burgers, and features a vintage pie case offering slices, pies and other baked goods.

After breakfast, stroll around Old Town Orcutt, the small downtown area that charms visitors with its welcoming atmosphere.

This pedestrian-friendly enclave invites you to wander leisurely, with its “stroll shop sip savor” campaign, a grassroots initiative inviting visitors to enjoy Orcutt’s vibrant spirit.

Before leaving Orcutt, pop into the beloved Old Town Market, 405 East Clark Avenue, a community cornerstone offering artisanal goods, fresh produce, and a “vintage grocery store” feel.

Walk the Beaches and Dunes in Guadalupe

Heading north on Highway 1, about a 20-minute drive from Orcutt, is the small city of Guadalupe. With a rich history dating back to the early 19th century, Guadalupe boasts a cultural tapestry shaped by its diverse community, including a significant Latin population that adds a colorful flair to its character.

Spend an afternoon basking in the sun at nearby beaches like Point Sal State Beach or walking through downtown, with its many locally-owned shops and restaurants like El Tapatio, 914 Guadalupe Street, reportedly serving the best bean dip for miles: an original version made with chile verde sauce, Monterey jack cheese, and home-cooked beans.

One of Howser’s favorite places is the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes National Wildlife Refuge which features a unique ecosystem among other points of interest and a welcome center with seasonal events and activities. Nature lovers can visit the dunes at 1065 Guadalupe Street, open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Nosh on Traditional Central Coast Fare in Nipomo

The final stop on day three is Nipomo, about a 20-minute drive east of Guadalupe and north of Santa Maria. Despite its small size, Nipomo holds its own as a city and features historic icons like the Dana Adobe, one of the oldest restored adobe homes in California.

Dana is my last name and, as with civil rights activist and author Richard Henry Dana, Jr., I’m somehow related to the ship captain who once lived in Dana Adobe, William Goodwin Dana.

The Dana Adobe, at 671 S. Oakglen Avenue, was carefully restored to look as it did over 200 years ago. Tours and self-guided visits vary in price; be sure to check with the staff about specifics before your arrival.

The Real Santa Maria Special: Pinquito beans and tri-tip

Now, let’s be honest: Nipomo is all about BBQ, and a getaway guide to the Santa Maria Valley must mention Pinquito beans and tri-tip: two culinary treasures synonymous with the area and celebrated for their unique flavors and regional significance.

Pinquito beans, small, pinkish beans native to the area, are known for their creamy texture and subtle, smoky sweetness, making them the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Tri-tip, a tender and flavorful cut of beef, is traditionally seasoned with savory spices and grilled over open flames, resulting in a mouthwatering dish loved by locals and visitors alike.

For a truly memorable Nipomo dining experience, head to Jocko’s Steakhouse at 125 North Thompson Ave, a local institution famous for its hearty oak-grilled meats and cozy ambiance. Try the legendary porterhouse steak, perfectly cooked over an open flame, or devour a generous calamari “steak”.

If you prefer authentic, local barbecue in a casual setting, you’ll love Rancho Nipomo BBQ & Deli, at 108 Cuyama Lane. Chef Ricardo creates mouthwatering dishes like his Beef Chile Colorado – tender, flavorful, and a local favorite – in a family-friendly atmosphere with live music & dancing.

Getting to Santa Maria Valley

If you’re road-tripping to Santa Maria Valley – recommended and my preference to get the most out of the state’s incredible landscape – the area is most easily accessed from the north and the south by taking CA Highway 101.

For air travelers, Santa Maria Valley is served by Santa Maria Public Airport, located at 3249 Terminal Drive, airport code SMX. Currently, only two airlines offer flights to and from SMX: Allegiant Air and Mokulele Airlines; both are American-based, with the latter being a regional airline with its HQ in Hawaii.

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If you’re flying, you’ll appreciate having a rental car to take you to all the places in the valley. Car rental services at the airport include companies like Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise.

Santa Maria Valley FAQS

Q: What are some must-visit attractions?

A: Try venturing out to Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes, take in the history of Dana Adobe or the Santa Maria Museum of Flight, or soak into serenity at Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort and Spa.

Q: What is the best time to visit?

A: May to September. While the area is pleasant most of the year, Spring and Fall offer mild weather and the best of the area’s diverse plants and variety of trees. The rainy season is long-lived, from October to April, which accounts for much of the agriculture.

Q: Is there good public transportation?

A: Not really. Public transportation in the Santa Maria Valley is quite limited. Services like Uber or car rentals are highly recommended. In cities like San Luis Obispo, bike rentals are popular for getting around downtown.

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Q: Are there vegetarian and vegan dining options?

A: Yes! Although famous for Santa Maria-style barbecue, there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options in this farm-to-table region. When in doubt, fill up on the saucy, smoky deliciousness of Pinquito beans!

Q: What are some unique gift shops in the area?

A: Explore nature’s bounty at The Luffa Farm, 1457 Willow Road in Nipomo, where you can find natural sponges and skincare products made from locally grown luffa gourds, or check out JunkGirls, 870 Monterey Street in downtown San Luis Obispo, offering a plethora of handmade arts and crafts, one-of-a-kind greeting cards, and eclectic souvenirs.

Q: What is a reasonable budget for a 3-day weekend for two adults?

A: Two people should budget around $600 to $800 for accommodation (around $100 to $150 per night), dining ($50 to $100 per day), transportation (gas or rental car), and activities (museum visits, bike rentals, etc.). Adjustments may be needed based on personal preferences and chosen activities, such as a dip in the mineral springs.

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Q: Santa Maria Valley is famous for its wines, but what if I’m not a drinker?

While the area is well-known for its dozens of independent wineries producing award-winning vintages from the near-perfect terrain and mineral-rich soil, there are many things to do and beverages to enjoy, none of which involve wine. Check out a local coffee shop, find a kombucha brewhouse, or pop a few bottles of locally-made soda.