Welcome to Santa Maria Nissan, your gateway to exploring the stunning landscapes around Santa Maria, CA. Whether you're a local or visiting from nearby Paso Robles, Santa Barbara, or Pismo Beach, these scenic drives promise breathtaking views and memorable experiences. Let's embark on a journey through some of the most picturesque routes in and around Santa Maria.
1. Avenue of the Giants Scenic Highway
Overview: Experience the majesty of towering coastal redwoods and sequoias on the Avenue of the Giants Scenic Highway. This 60.5-mile stretch along SR 254/US 101 winds through Humboldt Redwoods State Park, offering views of ancient forests and the scenic Eel River.
Highlights:
- Marvel at the giants of the forest, including coast redwoods and giant sequoias.
- Enjoy occasional clearings and pullouts for panoramic views of the mountains and river.
- Explore Humboldt Redwoods State Park, home to diverse flora and fauna.
The Avenue of the Giants Scenic Highway is a testament to the grandeur of California's ancient redwood forests. Starting from Santa Maria, head north on US 101 towards Humboldt Redwoods State Park. The journey takes you through rolling hills and quaint towns, gradually immersing you in the dense greenery of the state park. Towering coastal redwoods line the highway, their immense trunks reaching toward the sky. These ancient trees, some over 360 feet tall, create a natural canopy that shades the road and invites exploration. As you drive, look out for designated viewpoints and pullouts that offer breathtaking vistas of the Eel River and surrounding mountains. These spots are perfect for capturing photos or simply pausing to take in the serene beauty of the landscape. The Avenue of the Giants Scenic Highway isn't just a drive; it's an experience that connects you with nature on a profound level.
2. Pacific Coast Highway (SR 1)
Overview: California's iconic Pacific Coast Highway, SR 1, spans approximately 656 miles of coastal beauty. Starting from Southern California and passing through Santa Maria, this route offers unparalleled ocean vistas and charming coastal towns.
Highlights:
- Drive along narrow, winding roads that hug the coastline.
- Stop in Santa Barbara and Monterey for local cuisine and scenic viewpoints.
- Take in the dramatic cliffs and crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean.
From Santa Maria, venture west towards the Pacific Coast Highway, also known as State Route 1. This legendary highway traces the rugged coastline of California, offering drivers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean at every turn. The drive is characterized by narrow, winding roads that hug the cliffside, providing thrilling vistas of the azure waters below. Santa Barbara, known as the "American Riviera," is a perfect stop along the way. This picturesque city nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains offers beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural attractions. Take a stroll along Stearns Wharf or explore the quaint shops and cafes of State Street before continuing your journey north. Further up the coast lies Monterey, a charming coastal town famous for its Cannery Row and Monterey Bay Aquarium. Here, you can indulge in fresh seafood, visit historic sites like the Carmel Mission, or simply relax on the beaches overlooking the bay. Don't miss the chance to drive through the iconic 17-Mile Drive, known for its scenic viewpoints and luxurious mansions. Whether you're driving a convertible with the top down or simply enjoying the view from your car, the Pacific Coast Highway promises an unforgettable road trip experience. Take your time to savor each moment as you navigate this iconic route through some of California's most stunning landscapes.
3. Northern CA & Southern OR Coast
Overview: For a longer adventure, consider exploring the Northern California and Southern Oregon coast. This 380.1-mile drive takes you through high elevation forests, coastal towns, and stunning Pacific Ocean panoramas.
Highlights:
- Traverse from Redding, CA, through charming towns like Crescent City and Port Orford, OR.
- Capture the rugged beauty of the Oregon coast and its shifting sand dunes.
- Experience the unique blend of forests, mountains, and coastal landscapes.
For those seeking a longer road trip adventure, the Northern California and Southern Oregon coast route offers a blend of natural beauty and coastal charm. Starting from Santa Maria, head north on US 101 towards Redding, CA, where your journey along the Pacific Coast begins. As you drive through Northern California, you'll encounter towering redwoods and lush forests that give way to panoramic views of the rugged coastline. Stop in charming towns like Crescent City, where you can explore Battery Point Lighthouse or take a scenic hike along the coastal trails. Further north, Port Orford, Oregon, beckons with its picturesque harbor and historic attractions. The Oregon coast is renowned for its dramatic scenery, including pristine beaches, rocky cliffs, and expansive sand dunes. Don't miss the opportunity to visit landmarks such as Cannon Beach, known for its iconic Haystack Rock, or the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, where you can embark on thrilling sand dune adventures. Throughout your journey, take time to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Pacific Coast. Whether you're watching the sunset over the ocean, spotting wildlife in their natural habitats, or simply enjoying the solitude of remote beaches, this road trip promises unforgettable moments at every turn.
4. Vegas to National Parks Loop
Overview: Dive into the desert landscapes of the Southwest with a loop from Vegas to various national parks. This 857.4-mile journey spans Nevada, Arizona, and Utah, showcasing the region's natural wonders and historical landmarks.
Highlights:
- Visit iconic sites such as the Grand Canyon and Bryce Canyon National Parks.
- Explore the unique desert scenery and geological formations.
- Enjoy activities like hiking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing in designated Dark Sky Parks.
For a complete change of scenery, consider embarking on a desert adventure from Santa Maria to explore the Southwest's iconic national parks. Begin your journey by heading east towards Las Vegas, where the glitz and glamour of the Strip contrast sharply with the rugged beauty of the surrounding desert.
From Las Vegas, venture to the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Marvel at the vastness of the canyon as sunlight paints its walls in shades of red and gold. Whether you choose to hike along the rim or descend into the canyon itself, the Grand Canyon offers unparalleled opportunities for exploration and awe-inspiring vistas. Continuing eastward, Bryce Canyon National Park beckons with its otherworldly landscape of hoodoos and spire-shaped rock formations. Explore the park's scenic viewpoints, such as Sunrise Point and Sunset Point, which offer panoramic vistas of the amphitheaters carved by wind and water over millions of years. Further north, Zion National Park in Utah invites you to discover its towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and verdant valleys. Embark on hikes like the Narrows, where you can wade through the Virgin River amid soaring canyon walls, or conquer the challenging Angels Landing Trail for a bird's-eye view of the canyon below. As you traverse the Southwest's desert landscapes, take time to appreciate the region's rich cultural history and geological wonders. From ancient petroglyphs to vibrant desert flora and fauna, each national park offers a unique glimpse into the natural and cultural heritage of the American Southwest.
5. Route 66 - Western Arizona
Overview: Travel back in time along Route 66 through Western Arizona, starting near Santa Maria in Needles, CA. This historic route offers a nostalgic road trip experience through high-desert landscapes and classic American towns.
Highlights:
- Drive through Kingman and Williams, AZ, known for their Route 66 memorabilia and historic sites.
- Experience the rugged beauty of the Arizona desert, dotted with Joshua trees and iconic roadside attractions.
- Stop in Oatman, AZ, where wild burros roam the streets and Old West charm still thrives.
For a taste of Americana and nostalgia, hit the road on historic Route 66, starting your journey from Santa Maria towards Needles, CA. Route 66, also known as the "Mother Road," stretches from Chicago to Los Angeles, but its stretch through Western Arizona offers a particularly scenic and cultural experience.
As you drive through Needles, CA, prepare to be transported back in time with neon-lit motels, classic diners, and vintage gas stations that line the highway. The road winds through the Mojave Desert, where Joshua trees dot the landscape and the rugged beauty of the Arizona desert unfolds before you.
In Kingman, AZ, immerse yourself in Route 66 nostalgia with a visit to the Historic Route 66 Museum or a stroll through the historic downtown district. Discover remnants of the road's glory days, from iconic signage to refurbished gas stations that harken back to the golden age of American road trips.
Continue your journey to Williams, AZ, known as the "Gateway to the Grand Canyon," where you can board the historic Grand Canyon Railway for a scenic ride to the South Rim. Explore the town's charming shops and restaurants or venture into nearby Kaibab National Forest for outdoor adventures amidst ponderosa pine forests and mountain vistas. For a taste of the Old West, make a stop in Oatman, AZ, a former mining town nestled in the Black Mountains. Here, wild burros roam freely through the streets, and staged gunfights entertain visitors on Main Street. Explore local shops for handmade crafts and souvenirs before continuing your journey along Route 66.Route 66 through Western Arizona is more than just a road trip; it's a journey through America's cultural heritage and natural beauty. From the stark desert landscapes to the vibrant communities along the way, every mile offers a glimpse into the past and present of the American West.
Explore Santa Maria & Beyond with Santa Maria Nissan
Santa Maria and its surrounding areas offer some of the most picturesque drives on the West Coast, each route providing a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you prefer the towering redwoods of Humboldt County, the coastal charm of Highway 1, or the desert landscapes along Route 66, there's a scenic drive for every adventurer. Explore these routes from Santa Maria Nissan, where affordable quality cars await to take you on your next journey. Contact us today to learn more about our offerings and start planning your scenic drive adventure from Santa Maria. Ready to hit the road? Contact Santa Maria Nissan today to find the perfect vehicle for your next adventure.
Whether you're cruising the Pacific Coast Highway or exploring the wonders of Route 66, let Santa Maria Nissan be your guide to discovering the beauty of Santa Maria and beyond. At Santa Maria Nissan, we're here to help you make the most of your journey. Explore our wide selection of vehicles, including the 2024 Versa and other new and used offerings, perfect for your next scenic drive adventure. Whether you prefer the comfort and efficiency of a sedan like the Versa or the versatility of an SUV for your outdoor excursions, we have a vehicle to suit your needs and budget. Contact us today to learn more about Santa Maria & Beyond: 5 Scenic Drives and how Santa Maria Nissan can help you embark on your next road trip. Our knowledgeable team is ready to assist you in finding the perfect vehicle and discovering the seven vacation destinations in the Santa Maria area. Start your adventure with Santa Maria Nissan and explore the beauty of California's Central Coast like never before.
