Why go
- City in California, United States.
- Served by Vandenberg Space Force Base (VBG).
History
Santa Maria is a city in Santa Barbara County, California, United States. Located on the Central Coast of California, it is approximately 65 miles (105 km) northwest of Santa Barbara and 150 miles (240 km) northwest of Los Angeles. Its population was 109,707 at the 2020 census. The city is notable for its wine industry and Santa Maria–style barbecue.
Restaurants & places to go
156 more places in the Ultimate edition. See the Ultimate edition →
Airports
✈ Airlines & flight paths — 2 airlines, 2 direct destinations
- Allegiant Air G4 (MD-80) · 1 route: Las Vegas
- United Airlines UA (EM2) · 1 route: Los Angeles*
Routes and aircraft from OpenFlights (open data; a point-in-time snapshot). * = codeshare. Linked destinations open their own guidebook. Flight numbers are not in the open data — they come from the airline or a paid schedule feed.
Where things are
Photographs
credit: Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons · See source page
When to go
The warmer, longer-day half of the year is the safest bet for a first visit.
Cooler and quieter, with fewer visitors and better value.
Short days and the coldest weather — check local conditions before travelling.
Getting there & around
Getting there. The nearest airport on record is Vandenberg Space Force Base (VBG); 4 other airports serve the wider area. Check rail and road links from the tourism sources below. By air: SMX has direct flights to 2 destinations on 2 airlines (incl. Las Vegas, Los Angeles).
Getting around. Use the map above to orient yourself; nearby hotels, attractions and places to eat are listed from the live Ultimate data for Santa Maria, California. Local transit details will be added as the guide is expanded.