Santa Maria, California, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Santa Maria, California, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Santa Maria, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Santa Maria, California, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in Santa Maria, California, United States of America, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Santa Maria, California, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Santa Maria, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Santa Maria, California, United States of America by month

January

January for Santa Maria can be chilly. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Maria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the right type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

February

February in Santa Maria can be chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Maria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the necessary type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

March

If you visit Santa Maria during March, you are likely to notice that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Maria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

April

April here is balmy. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Maria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the correct kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

May

May in Santa Maria is balmy and dry with little rain. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Maria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the right kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

June is balmy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Maria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

July

If you vacation in Santa Maria during July, you may find that it is a perfect temperature and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Maria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the necessary kind. Most adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

If you go to Santa Maria in August, you will notice that it is warm and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Maria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the correct type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

September

If you vacation in Santa Maria during September, you will probably see that it is a perfect temperature and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Maria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the necessary kind. Many adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

October

If you vacation in Santa Maria during October, you may see that it is warm and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Maria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the right kind. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

November

November here is mild and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Maria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the correct kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

If you vacation in Santa Maria during December, you are likely to see that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Santa Maria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the correct type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

What to do in Santa Maria, California, United States of America

Nestled in the heart of California's Central Coast, Santa Maria attracts visitors from all over the world with its endless sunshine, white sand beaches, and unparalleled beauty. The city is situated just 65 miles north of Santa Barbara and 150 miles south of San Francisco, making it a convenient stop for those traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway. Here are the top tourist attractions in Santa Maria, California:

1. Santa Maria Valley Wine Country: Santa Maria Valley is one of the most famous wine regions in California. It is home to many award-winning wineries with a wide range of varietals. Visitors can take part in wine tasting tours offered by many wineries in the area.

2. Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes: This is one of the largest and most ecologically diverse dune complexes in North America. The dunes stretch for 18 miles along the coastline and reach heights of up to 500 feet. Visitors can explore the dunes on guided tours, which include hiking, bird-watching, and photography opportunities.

3. Santa Maria Museum of Flight: This museum is dedicated to the preservation of aviation history in the Santa Maria Valley. Visitors can view vintage aircraft, learn about local aviation history, and enjoy interactive exhibits.

4. The Pacific Conservatory Theatre (PCPA): This nationally recognized theatre company presents a wide range of classic and contemporary theatre productions throughout the year. The performances are held at the Marian Theatre and Solvang Festival Theatre, both located in the Santa Maria area.

5. Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum: This museum is a great place to take children to have fun while learning about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) topics. The museum has interactive exhibits, a science lab, and an outdoor play area.

6. Rancho Guadalupe Dunes Preserve: This is a perfect spot for visitors who love outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and picnicking. The preserve nestles along the coastline and offers breathtaking views of the dunes and the Pacific Ocean.

7. Santa Maria Civic Theatre: This community theatre company presents a variety of plays and musical productions throughout the year. The theatre is located in downtown Santa Maria and features comfortable seating and state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems.

8. Santa Maria Style Barbecue: Santa Maria is famous for its unique style of barbecue, which features beef tri-tip that is seasoned with a special blend of spices and then cooked over an open flame. Several local restaurants serve Santa Maria-style barbecue, so visitors can experience this regional cuisine.

In conclusion, Santa Maria is a must-visit city on the Central Coast of California with endless attractions and activities to enjoy. From wine tasting to dune-hiking, theatre productions to museum exhibits, there's something for every kind of traveler. Whether you're visiting for a weekend or a longer period, you won't regret a trip to this coastal gem.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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