Day Two
If you’re planning your romantic weekend getaway in California’s Santa Maria Valley between October and February, don’t miss the monarch butterflies at the Monarch Dunes Butterfly Grove in Nipomo. Thousands of monarch butterflies spend the colder months among the eucalyptus trees in groves along the Central Coast. This grove is a scenic half hour drive from Santa Maria and a beautiful place to see native plants and wildlife.
Then, head over to the Rancho Guadalupe Dunes Preserve, where you’ll find a host of outdoor activities. The preserve allows you to enjoy the beautiful temperate coast climate while viewing and learning about native plant life, birds and other animals. Trek to Oso Flaco Lake and enjoy a 1.7-mile hike to the ocean. The trail is mostly on a boardwalk, making it a smooth and enjoyable walk, perfect for your romantic weekend getaway in California. If you’re lucky, you may spot a rare Western Snowy Plover. Plovers often make their nests along the beach from March to September.
Adrenaline-seeking couples should head to the nearby Oceano Dunes, where you can rent an ATV from Steve’s ATV Rentals and drive across the beach. The Oceano Dunes are the only place in California where you can ride dune buggies right on the beach. Or, you can ride horses in the surf at Pacific Beach Riding Ranch. If you’re the adventure type, the dunes are a must-see during your romantic getaway in California.
For lunch, make your way back into Old Town Orcutt to dine at Pizzeria Bello Forno. This charming eatery serves pizzas, salads and more. You can enjoy lunch at Pizzeria Bello Forno and grab a beer at Naughty Oak Brewing Company for dessert. Another great option is to order out from Bello Forno and eat at Naughty Oak. If you prefer wine over beer, head to Old Town Wine & Brew. You can order food to go from Old Town Wine & Brew too, if you’d prefer to have a cozy night in one of Santa Maria’s hotels instead.
While in Old Town Orcutt, make a quick pit stop at Old Town Market to pick up a bottle of wine to go, a jar of Santa Maria Style seasoning, or some red oak chips. Bring the flavor of Santa Maria Valley back home with you after your romantic getaway so you can have our mouth-watering barbecue any time you’d like.
To finish off your romantic weekend getaway in California, kick it old school during date night at the Hi-Way Drive-In Theater, one of the last authentic outdoor drive-in movie theaters in California. You can pick up movie snacks or dinner to go from Old Town Market to enjoy in your car.
Your romantic getaway in California’s Santa Maria Valley awaits! Plan your trip and get ready for the perfect weekend getaway with your sweetheart. Whether you want a relaxing getaway or a trip filled with adventure (and all the wine and Santa Maria-style barbeque to indulge in for either experience). After spending your days exactly how you imagine, get some rest at one of our hotels.
Finish your first evening with a romantic dinner and date night, beginning with Far Western Tavern. This iconic Santa Maria Style barbecue destination is well-known for grilling over red oak coals, which provides dishes with that classic smoky flavor. Far Western Tavern also pours many local wines to perfectly complement your meal.
