California State Parks Near Santa Maria

Discover 11 parks within driving distance of Santa Maria

Point Sal State Beach

Near Guadalupe, California
18 miles away

"Santa Maria is the largest city in northern Santa Barbara County, known for its wineries and barbecue. Residents often visit Point Sal State Beach for hiking, solitude, and ocean views."

Point Sal State Beach features dramatic coastal bluffs, a remote sandy beach, and abundant wildlife. Its challenging access rewards visitors with solitude and breathtaking scenery along California’s Central Coast.

HikingBeachcombingWildlife ViewingPhotography
View park details

Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area

Oceano, California
21 miles away

"Santa Maria visitors enjoy quick access to the dunes for off-roading, family camping, and coastal relaxation just a short drive away."

Oceano Dunes SVRA is renowned for its open sand dunes, vehicle recreation, and direct beach access. It offers camping, picnicking, and a variety of outdoor activities along the scenic Central Coast.

Off-Highway Vehicle RidingCampingBirdwatchingBeachcombingSurfing+2 more
View park details

Pismo State Beach

Pismo Beach, California
27 miles away

"Santa Maria visitors enjoy the quick access to Pismo State Beach for beach outings, fishing, and a change of pace from the inland valley."

Pismo State Beach features expansive sandy beaches, unique coastal dunes, and a renowned monarch butterfly grove. The park is ideal for camping, fishing, birdwatching, and enjoying the Pacific Ocean.

SwimmingSurfingFishingBirdwatchingCamping+3 more
View park details

La Purísima Mission State Historic Park

Lompoc, California
28 miles away

"Santa Maria is a regional hub known for its barbecue and vineyards. Families and history enthusiasts often visit the mission for day trips and educational outings."

La Purísima Mission SHP is renowned for its authentic restoration and immersive living history programs. Visitors can explore original adobe structures, gardens, and interpretive exhibits set amid rolling hills.

Guided ToursLiving History EventsPicnickingBird WatchingEducational Programs+1 more
View park details

Morro Bay State Park

Morro Bay, California
38 miles away

"Santa Maria families often visit Morro Bay State Park for camping, boating, and exploring the scenic coastline, making it a popular weekend getaway."

Morro Bay State Park offers a unique blend of coastal habitats, including saltwater marshes and forests, with abundant wildlife and recreational opportunities. The park is home to a museum, marina, and popular campground.

HikingBirdwatchingBoatingKayakingFishing+3 more
View park details

Montaña de Oro State Park

Los Osos, California
46 miles away

"Santa Maria locals and travelers enjoy day trips to Montaña de Oro for its pristine beaches, hiking opportunities, and dramatic coastal scenery."

Montaña de Oro State Park offers visitors spectacular ocean vistas, miles of hiking and biking trails, and serene beaches. Its diverse landscapes make it a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

HikingMountain BikingHorseback RidingBeachcombingWildlife Viewing+3 more
View park details

Los Osos Oaks State Natural Reserve

Los Osos, California
49 miles away

"A major agricultural city with a rich barbecue tradition. Visitors come for day trips to enjoy hiking and nature close to the coast."

Los Osos Oaks SNR is known for its ancient coast live oaks and rare dune habitats. Visitors enjoy shaded trails, birdwatching, and a peaceful natural setting close to the Central Coast.

HikingBirdwatchingNature StudyPhotography
View park details

Morro Strand State Beach

Morro Bay, California
49 miles away

"Santa Maria families and outdoor enthusiasts visit Morro Strand SB for its wide sandy beaches and coastal recreation."

Morro Strand State Beach is known for its long sandy beach, picturesque views of Morro Rock, and abundant wildlife. It’s ideal for beach walks, fishing, and family outings.

BeachcombingFishingBirdwatchingSurfingPicnicking+1 more
View park details
Cayucos State Beach

By User:McChizzle, Public domain

Cayucos State Beach

Cayucos, California
54 miles away

"Santa Maria visitors are drawn to Cayucos for its scenic coastline, surfing opportunities, and charming small-town feel."

Cayucos State Beach features a wide sandy beach, gentle surf, and the iconic Cayucos Pier. Visitors enjoy water sports, fishing, and easy access to the quaint town of Cayucos.

SwimmingSurfingFishingPicnickingBeachcombing+1 more
View park details

Refugio State Beach

Goleta, California
57 miles away

"Santa Maria families make the drive to Refugio State Beach for camping, beach days, and coastal relaxation."

Refugio State Beach features sandy beaches, shaded picnic areas, and a popular campground nestled along the Pacific coast. Visitors enjoy swimming, kayaking, fishing, and exploring tide pools in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.

SwimmingKayakingFishingPicnickingCamping+3 more
View park details

Cambria State Marine Park

Cambria, California
57 miles away

"Santa Maria residents often make day trips to Cambria SMP to enjoy the cooler coastal climate, explore marine habitats, and picnic by the ocean."

Cambria State Marine Park features dramatic coastal bluffs, tide pools teeming with marine life, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. It is ideal for wildlife observation, photography, and peaceful walks along the shore.

Wildlife ViewingTidepoolingPhotographyPicnickingBeachcombing
View park details