Spring is one of the most beautiful seasons in the Santa Maria Valley, California. Rainfall in winter make the vineyards, fields and surrounding hills lush and green, providing visitors quite a view. Spring is also the perfect time of year to see wildflowers in bloom through the Valley. The temperate Central Coast climate makes spring a particularly pleasant time to visit, as the weather is warm without being too hot. There are many ways to experience the beautiful scenery and weather in Santa Maria Valley during your spring getaway. Keep reading for five of our favorite ways to connect with nature and experience spring Santa Maria Style.
At The Dunes
The Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes and Oceano Dunes near Santa Maria Valley are beautiful year-round, but spring is an especially great time to see native flora and fauna. The rare Western Snowy Plover makes its home on the dunes in spring and summer. Sections of the dunes get fenced off to protect the plover’s nests and eggs, which allows tourists to observe the birds in an undisturbed habitat.
At a Winery
It’s always wine time in the Santa Maria Valley, but spring is a great time to sample the region’s world-class Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays and Syrahs. There are more than 30 tasting rooms within a 30-minute drive of the Santa Maria Valley, giving winos plenty of tasting options. The Santa Maria Valley Wine Trolley kicks off its season in May and allows visitors to the valley to experience our wine in a different way.
On Horseback
If you’ve always dreamed of riding horseback on the beach, look no further than the Santa Maria Valley. At Pacific Dunes Ranch, you can book a guided horseback ride. Your tour will take you through the Oceano Dunes Preserve, where you’ll make your way to the beach and experience stunning views and fresh ocean air. Saddle up for this unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
In the Fields
The Santa Maria Valley is known for producing more than just wine grapes. The region’s unique climate and extended growing season leads to delicious strawberries and blueberries. You can hit the fields from March through June and pick your own berries at U Pick Blueberries. Don’t forget to stop by the Darensberries fruit stand to also pick up some deliciously sweet strawberries.
Trying out Santa Maria Style
If you draw a 30-mile circle around the center of Santa Maria Valley, you’ll find a treasure trove of the best barbecue in the world. Santa Maria Style Barbecue is a 150-year-old tradition, born on the ranches of this beautiful valley as a simple, delicious way to bring people together. Taste it for yourself by attending the Santa Maria Barbecue Festival showcasing, from 12-4 p.m. Saturday, May 14, 2022.
