Santa Maria Valley sits just a short turn inland and is full of hidden gems, big flavors, and more unique things to do that you won't want to miss on California's Central Coast. Here is a list of 11 stops that are memorable and perfect for breaking up a long stretch behind the wheel. No major detours required.

Dewlson Family Farm

Far from a typical roadside stand, Dewlson Family Farm is a hidden gem along the Pacific Coast Highway where you can taste the goodies they grow on-site. This family-owned and operated farm grows five varieties of Arabica coffee, several teas, and exotic fruit trees. For roadtrippers craving a full sensory experience, this stop is unmatched.

Visitors can book private tours directly on their website to roam the greenhouse and grounds, sip freshly roasted coffee, or pick fruits like Buddha's hand, ice-cream bananas, and caviar limes.

Monarch Dunes Butterfly Habitat

No need to go to an amusement park or zoo for the butterfly enclosure. The Monarch Dunes Butterfly Habitat in Nipomo gives you a close-up of the migrating orange and black beauties. Tall eucalyptus trees and a temperate climate along the Central California Coast offer perfect shelter. 

Although you'll need to peel off the main road, this pit stop is free to visit, open from sunrise to sunset (weather permitting), and especially dreamy on a sunny winter day. Stop by between late October and February. 

Pro tip: Bring a jacket, maybe some binoculars, a fully charged camera, and plan to slow down as you watch the butterflies flit from tree to tree.

Oso Flaco Lake Trail

Just minutes off Highway 1, Oso Flaco Lake offers a scenic boardwalk trail that crosses calm water and leads out to dunes and the Pacific Ocean. Even if you can only spare an hour or less, this spot is great for stretching your legs and watching wildlife. 

Keep an eye out for birds; American Coot, American White Pelican, Northern Shoveler, herons, shorebirds, and other species are the unofficial welcoming committee.

The Luffa Farm

The Luffa Farm in Nipomo is a neat “Wait, what?” moment on your road trip. On the Central Coast, true luffas—not the plastic loofahs in popular grocery stores—are farmed, harvested, cleaned, and cut into natural sponges here. Any of the folks tending the vines are happy to walk you through how these products start as gourds and end up in your shower. You don't even have to make a reservation!

Want a few more things to spruce up your at-home shower experience? They also sell handmade soaps, bath teas, and lotions.

U-Pick Berry Stands

In Santa Maria Valley, the U-pick stands pop up throughout the seasons, offering sweet strawberries and blueberries. Grab a basket, wander between the rows, and snack as you go (no judgment). Or, if you want a shorter visit, grab a basket of freshly picked berries for the road at one of these places:

• Darensberries Strawberry Stand
• Little Pete's Farm
• U-Pick Blueberries

The Hitching Post

If smoky, simply flavored barbecue is your love language, Santa Maria Style barbecue is calling your name.

The Hitching Post is one of the region's most popular barbecue restaurants. Its oak-fired grill turns out juicy tri-tip and steaks as well as classic side dishes in a 130+ year old building. Not only can you chow down on dishes that have earned their reputation over generations, but the vibe is also exactly what you want from a classic barbecue joint: warm, unfussy, and centered around the grill. 

Hop off the main route and taste one of the best hidden gems along the Pacific Coast Highway.

Garey Store & Deli

Less than 20 minutes off the Pacific Coast Highway is this local favorite. Garey Store & Deli is one of those blink-and-you'll-miss-it spots. Inside, you'll find cold drinks, stacked sandwiches, sweet treats, and the kind of small-town charm that feels like a breather from the road.

Beso Cocina (and a Speakeasy…shhh!)

Beso Cocina is one of those spots you eat at once and think about long after. Known for its elevated takes on Mexican cuisine, this Nipomo favorite serves up tasty dishes and refreshing cocktails. 

Speaking of their beverage menu, let us introduce a unique thing to do on the Central California Coast if you're spending the night: the restaurant's exclusive speakeasy. This cozy and chic bar is perfect for unwinding with your road trip squad, if you can find it!

Guadalupe Social Club

Another option if you're staying over in Santa Maria Valley is the Guadalupe Social Club. It has a modern look that blends pops of color, geometric patterns, and historic elements, and a large dunes-side patio to enjoy the California sunshine. 

Unlike the speakeasy mentioned above, this is a family-friendly hidden gem with plenty of space to snack and play. Bocce ball, life-sized chess, corn hole, Connect 4—you name it, they probably have it. 

Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard's Wine Caves

Proudly recognized as one of California's original vineyards and located only 19 miles from the Pacific Ocean, Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard & Winery has been around since 1988. Stop by to try one of their specialty varietals: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, or Syrah.

While you're there, make sure to check out their wine caves! They're designed to store and age wine. Norm Beko, the owner and winemaker, even built custom cave doors out of a 200-year-old redwood tree. Schedule a tour on their site to see for yourself. 

Presqu'ile Winery's Horseback Tours

Perched on a hilltop with long, sweeping views of the valley, Presqu'ile Winery pairs cool-climate wines with a variety of unique experiences. Tastings are relaxed but thoughtful, with friendly hosts. 

For a deeper look at the place, their Private Riding & Tasting gets you out among the vines via horseback. It's an unforgettable way to explore one of the Santa Maria Valley's wineries and a memorable stop if you're craving good wine, light bites, and an Instagram-worthy backdrop. What better hidden gem along the Pacific Coast Highway than one where you get adventure, views, and delicious food and drink?! 

Go Ahead, Take the Turn

Road trips are better when you let curiosity lead the way. And in Santa Maria Valley, that curiosity pays off fast. Whether you're after flavor, scenery, or a little bit of quirky and wonderful, you'll find that some of the most unique things to do in the Central California Coast are tucked just a few minutes inland. 

So go ahead. Take the turn. Book your stay right here in Santa Maria Valley, the home of some of the most underrated hidden gems along the Pacific Coast Highway!