Santa Maria Car Tours: Top 5 Unforgettable Road Trips
Thinking about hitting the road around Santa Maria? You know, that city in the Golden State with a surprising amount to offer? Well, you’re absolutely in the right place! I mean, Santa Maria is practically bursting with awesome driving routes, is that something you were aware of? We are going to check out some amazing car tours, finding those hidden spots and scenic routes. It doesn’t matter if you’re like your average road trip fanatic or you just kind of are up for a weekend escape, there’s very possibly a drive here for you, that’s correct!
1. The Pacific Coast Highway Dream: Santa Maria to Big Sur
Alright, kicking things off with something big! The Pacific Coast Highway, it almost screams “California,” doesn’t it? Starting up in Santa Maria and shooting toward Big Sur, now, that is more than just a drive; it’s almost like a coastal escapade, more or less. So, you are looking at cliffs, that plunge into the ocean, and views that seem to go on just forever. That iconic Bixby Bridge? It’s one for the books, that’s for sure!
Must-See Stops:
- Hearst Castle: A bit of history and grandeur, very amazing!
- Ragged Point Inn: Killer views, alright.
- McWay Falls: Pretty, like, unbelievably pretty, it tends to be.
Read our full review: Pacific Coast Highway Drive Full Review and Details
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2. Santa Ynez Valley Wine Tour: A Sip of Paradise
OK, listen, fancy a sip while you are seeing beautiful landscapes? You bet? Well, the Santa Ynez Valley is like, your ticket to tasting rooms and sun-soaked vineyards. Imagine yourself, more or less, just coasting down these roads, alright, vineyards everywhere you look, and, arguably, the possibility of a glass of something local in your hand is highly possible, that’s correct! The small towns there, places like Los Olivos and Solvang, alright, are very adorable and offer something truly special.
Don’t Miss:
- Sunstone Winery: So very scenic.
- Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co.: When you just slightly fancy something different.
- The quaint shops of Los Olivos: You can find anything there, nearly.
Read our full review: Santa Ynez Valley Wine Tour Full Review and Details
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3. Avila Beach Drive: Coastal Charm
Right then, Avila Beach, it is like this absolute treasure of a beach town. This little drive from Santa Maria brings you to a place with that amazing pier, now, super cute shops, and just, very calming vibes, really! Is that what you would like? That bay? Like, picture postcard stuff, that is, very much so. Renting bikes? A thing there. Just casually cycle the Bob Jones Trail, okay? And like, maybe even grab some clam chowder. Good times.
Highlights:
- Avila Beach Pier: You want to walk it.
- Bob Jones Trail: For cycling, alright.
- Local Seafood: Naturally!
Read our full review: Avila Beach Day Trip Full Review and Details
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4. Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes: A Desert by the Sea
So, time for, something kind of, a little bit different! How about the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes? What about them? Yes. I mean, it’s very nearly a desert right next to the ocean. Wild, alright! Those dunes? Seriously huge. If you are really very into nature, more or less, or maybe, like your photography, then this very might be the best trip. That historical movie set there, which can still be found today on the dunes? Super cool!
Experiences:
- Dune Hiking: Great exercise.
- Photography: The views!
- Rancho Guadalupe Dunes Preserve: Take it in!
Read our full review: Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes Preserve Full Review and Details
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5. Los Padres National Forest Loop: Mountain High
Basically, last but by no means least, fancy like some forest air? Then this drive on the outer edges of the Los Padres National Forest could possibly just do the trick, arguably. It’s kind of away from those coastline scenes, alright, just so you know, and basically right into this mountainous place, where you can just like, be surrounded by a great number of trees and some epic scenery. Places to stop, more or less, include Figueroa Mountain, or the Santa Barbara side is often beautiful as well.
Points of Interest:
- Figueroa Mountain: Views to see!
- Camping spots: If you feel that you must get outdoors.
- Hiking Trails: A little something for everyone.
Read our full review: Los Padres National Forest Hikes Full Review and Details
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