48 Hours in Santa Maria: Red Oak Smoke, Cool-Climate Pinot, and Working-Town Charm

Friday Evening: Settling In and Raising a Glass

Arrive in the Santa Maria Valley as the late afternoon sun softens over the rows of vines. Drop your bags and make your way out to one of the region's most striking modern tasting rooms. Presqu'ile Winery feels like a piece of contemporary architecture dropped seamlessly into the coastal hills. The family-owned estate specializes in cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, but the real draw is the view. Grab a flight, find a spot on the expansive outdoor terrace, and watch the evening light shift across their sustainably farmed vineyards. The breeze up here is a constant, welcome companion on a summer evening.

Presqu'ile Winery — Opt for a seat on the outdoor terrace—the panoramic views of the estate vineyards are unbeatable as the sun begins to dip.

Tip: Pack a light sweater or jacket, even in the peak of summer. The afternoon ocean breeze rolls through the valley quickly, and temperatures drop rapidly once the sun sets behind the hills.

Saturday Morning: Sights, Supplies, and Scenic Routes

Start your Saturday the way locals do—by mapping out an adventure. If you are planning a picnic or need provisions for a day of exploring, Santa Maria has you covered. I highly recommend skipping the highway and taking a scenic detour out Foxen Canyon Road. Make a point to stop at the Garey Store, a true historic country general store. It has been serving travelers and locals for years. Step inside to feel the rustic California charm, load up on cold drinks, and chat with the staff. You will likely want to spend the rest of your morning just driving the canyon, peeking at the old ranches and rolling oak-studded hills.

Garey Store — The perfect rustic stop for cold drinks and local flavor; snap a photo of the classic country storefront before you head back toward town.

Tip: Foxen Canyon Road connects Santa Maria to the Santa Ynez Valley and makes for one of the best scenic drives on the Central Coast. Roll the windows down and take it slow.

Saturday Afternoon: Local Finds and Afternoon Wine

After a morning in the hills, spend a few hours wandering Santa Maria's retail and antique scene. Swing by the expansive Deja Vu Antique Mall at the Loading Dock. You can easily lose an hour or two browsing the curated booths of vintage collectibles, estate jewelry, and Central Coast memorabilia. If you are looking to refresh your summer wardrobe, the nearby TJ Maxx and Ross locations on East Betteravia Road reliably stock excellent brand-name finds at a steep discount. Before dinner, cap off your afternoon with a relaxed tasting at Costa de Oro Winery. This family-owned operation crafts incredible estate-grown Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in an unpretentious, laid-back setting that perfectly captures the spirit of the valley.

Deja Vu Antique Mall at the Loading Dock — Set aside a good hour for this expansive space; the multiple dealer booths offer everything from mid-century glassware to vintage furniture.

Costa de Oro Winery — Their relaxed tasting room is the ideal spot to decompress after a busy afternoon of shopping and sightseeing.

Tip: Keep an eye out at Costa de Oro for their Gold Label Chardonnay, a beautifully balanced pour that highlights the unique minerality of the Santa Maria Valley AVA.

Saturday Evening: Santa Maria Style Barbecue

You cannot visit Santa Maria without partaking in the town's legendary culinary tradition. The aroma of red oak smoke permeates the evening air. While the pitmasters at the Far Western Tavern do incredible work, you can easily create your own authentic feast by grabbing premium cuts and local supplies. Head over to Broadway Liquor on South Broadway to browse their curated selection of Central Coast wines and spirits to pair with your dinner. If you are looking for an extensive craft beer selection to accompany your smoked meats, BevMo! is fully stocked with options. For the classic Santa Maria sides, stop by Boone Street Market to gather fresh salsa, pinquito beans, and tortillas for a true backyard-style feast.

Broadway Liquor — A well-stocked local shop on South Broadway, perfect for picking up a Central Coast Pinot to pair with your evening barbecue.

Boone Street Market — Grab your everyday essentials, fresh salsa, and barbecue sides at this convenient neighborhood staple.

Tip: Pair your Santa Maria tri-tip with a local Syrah. The region's cool climate creates a peppery, earthy profile in the wine that perfectly complements the rich, smoky flavor of the red oak.

Sunday Morning: A Relaxed Farewell

Take your time waking up on Sunday. Before hitting the road, drive out to the quieter edges of town to visit White Hills Vineyard on Graciosa Road. It is a beautiful, peaceful estate that showcases the quieter side of the Santa Maria Valley AVA. Their tasting room features estate-grown wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region, making it a serene spot to reflect on your weekend before the drive home. If you happen to be visiting during the summer of 2026 and are traveling with family, you might want to plan your Sunday departure around the spectacular Circus Vargas at Madonna Meadows. Catching the July 5th or 6th morning matinee is a brilliant way to cap off a Central Coast weekend with a touch of classic spectacle.

White Hills Vineyard — Make the short drive out Graciosa Road for a calm, scenic Sunday morning tasting featuring estate-grown varietals.

Tip: If you are visiting over the Fourth of July weekend in 2026, grab your tickets early for Circus Vargas at Madonna Meadows—it's a fantastic, family-friendly way to wrap up your Sunday before heading south or north.