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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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
musicPride at The Rock ~ Hungry Boi | Sam Stearns | Dylan Riley
SLO Brew Rock
Local Businesses
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wineryWhite Hills Vineyard
8385, Graciosa Road, Santa Maria, CA, 93455
alcoholBroadway Liquor
1535, South Broadway, Santa Maria, CA, 93454
farmGrowing Grounds Farm
car_partsJiffy Supply
Jason Way, Santa Maria, CA, 93455
petPetSmart
2306, South Bradley Road, Santa Maria, CA, 93455
department_storeRoss
308, East Betteravia Road, Santa Maria, CA, 93454
car_partsAutoZone
department_storeTarget
223, East Betteravia Road, Santa Maria, CA, 93454-7803
alcoholL&K Liquor
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 MariaSanta Barbara County’s 5th District heads to a November runoff
For the first time in years, the race for Santa Barbara County’s 5th District supervisor is heading to a November runoff. According to the Santa Maria Sun, initial June primary counts put Ricardo Valencia and Maribel Aguilera on the general election ballot, with Cory Bantilan out of the running. This is a big deal for Santa Maria and the surrounding North County communities, because the 5th District seat directly shapes decisions on local infrastructure, agriculture, and public services that affect our daily lives. With two candidates now vying for the seat, expect the conversation to heat up around issues like housing affordability, water resources, and economic development that matter most to our area. This runoff gives voters a clear choice—and a crucial opportunity to make their voices heard this November. Stay tuned to the Santa Maria Sun for updates as the race unfolds.
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.