Santa Barbara County
Santa Maria
Where BBQ smoke meets vineyard dreams
About Santa Maria
Santa Maria's legendary tri-tip barbecue fills the air with smoky perfection while world-class Pinot Noir vineyards stretch toward rolling hills. This authentic working town serves up the Central Coast's most famous culinary tradition at places like Far Western Tavern, where cowboys and wine lovers share the same tables. Beyond the iconic red oak pits, discover the enchanting Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes and a Main Street that feels refreshingly real.
Upcoming Events
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musicGuttermouth, Cryptilians, Grimedog, Bunker Club
SLO Brew Rock
musicDogs in a Pile
SLO Brew Rock
musicThe Crane Wives
Fremont Theater
artsPatton Oswalt
Fremont Theater
musicStephen Marley
Fremont Theater
musicSir Woman w/ special guests Hot 45 & Uncle Roy and Spice
SLO Brew Rock
musicKenny G
Fremont Theater
musicDeath Angel
Fremont Theater
musicShordie Shordie
Fremont Theater
musicMariachi Sol De Mexico
Fremont Theater
musicIsrael Vibrations & Roots Radics w/ special guest Rastan
SLO Brew Rock
musicAsleep at the Wheel
Fremont Theater
Local Businesses
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alcoholCosta de Oro Winery
farmGrowing Grounds Farm
department_storeTJ Maxx
department_storeWalmart
2220, South Bradley Road, Santa Maria, CA, 93455
petPetSmart
2306, South Bradley Road, Santa Maria, CA, 93455
convenienceSpeedway
1144, West Main Street, Santa Maria, CA, 93458
second_handNew Image Thrift Store
2512, South Broadway, Santa Maria, CA
department_storeBig Lots
1417, South Broadway, Santa Maria, CA, 93454
department_storeTarget
223, East Betteravia Road, Santa Maria, CA, 93454-7803
Latest News in Santa Maria
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Santa MariaRide on: After being closed for more than a month the Oceano Dunes reopened to vehicles and camping
The roar of engines is back at the Oceano Dunes. After more than a month of closure to vehicles and camping, the popular off-roading destination reopened on May 21, much to the relief of local business owners like Randy Jordan of SunBuggy Fun Rentals. For families and thrill-seekers across Santa Maria and the Central Coast, the dunes are more than a playground—they're a driving force for our local economy and a cherished piece of our coastal identity. As the Santa Maria Sun reported, the closure hit hard for outfitters who depend on the spring season. But now, with the gates open again, we can once again enjoy the unique blend of sand, surf, and adventure that makes our region special. Whether you're renting a buggy or just camping under the stars, it's a welcome sign that summer is truly here.
Santa MariaLompoc voters came up short at the polls for a special road repair tax
Lompoc residents know the struggle of dodging potholes on their daily commute, and many were hoping a special sales tax would finally pave the way to smoother streets. But as the Santa Maria Sun reported, the proposed half-percent sales tax for road maintenance fell short at the polls this week, leaving the city to search for other solutions. The measure would have generated an estimated $3.75 million annually to fix our crumbling roads. For a town where every bump feels personal, this feels like a missed opportunity. The City Council had discussed putting the tax on the primary ballot back in January, but voters ultimately said no. While the desire for better roads is strong, the rejection shows just how tough it is to pass new taxes, even for something as universally hated as potholes. Lompoc will now have to get creative with its budget—or hope state and federal grants come through.
Santa MariaPride is alive: Drag queens, PCPA, dance, wine, brunch, and more celebrate the season
June is here, and the Central Coast is glowing with Pride. From drag shows in Santa Maria to PCPA's special Pride Nights in Solvang, our region is celebrating the LGBTQ+ community with music, dance, wine, and brunch. It's a joyful reminder that love and inclusion are part of our local fabric. Senior Staff Writer Caleb Wiseblood highlights these events in this year's Santa Maria Sun Pride issue, showcasing how both Santa Maria and San Luis Obispo are coming together to honor the season. Whether you're catching a performance or raising a glass at a Pride brunch, these gatherings are about belonging—and they matter deeply to our community. This isn't just a calendar of events; it's a reflection of how far we've come and how much we cherish diversity here on the Central Coast. Pride Month gives us all a chance to support local artists, connect with neighbors, and celebrate the vibrant spirit that makes 805 life so special. Mark your calendars and join the fun—because Pride is alive and thriving in Santa Maria and beyond.