Guadalupe is known as the “Gateway to the Dunes,” and this town is the opposite of a big city. At first glance, it looks more like an old wild west movie set. The friendly Central California community of Guadalupe is easily accessed by travelers. California’s Pacific Coast Highway runs through the city’s downtown. Uncover miles of sand dunes at Rancho Guadalupe Dunes Preserve. Although more remote, the long beach and extensive dunes of Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes National Wildlife Refuge are begging adventure seekers to find them. With steep slopes, dangerous rip currents and the occasional shark, swimming is discouraged, though, at Point Sal State Beach.
Enjoy the many wonderful beaches of Guadalupe, (you’ll find a list here), then come visit Guadalupe. Our Guadalupe California Vacations guide has all your answers to start planning your beach vacation. Just keep reading.
Guadalupe Weather – When to Visit
The best time to visit Guadalupe is from March to May or from September to November. Temperatures are fairly mild year-round, hovering in the 60s and 70s, but traveling in early spring or fall ensures you won’t be fighting crowds and rates will be less expensive. Summer is peak season, and the best time to go if you’re looking for a beach vacation, but you’ll have to contend with more crowds. If you’re traveling during the winter months, make sure to pack an umbrella because Guadalupe sees most of its rainfall between December and February. No matter when you decide to visit, pack layers as the as morning and late evening temperatures tend to be much cooler than the daytime highs.
Guadalupe Beaches
Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes National Wildlife Refuge
Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes National Wildlife Refuge contains a remote dunes complex and a seldom visited beach near Guadalupe. The refuge was created in 2000 to protect the dunes habitats of many animals including brown pelicans, least terns, snowy plovers, peregrine falcons, and rare breeds of frogs and salamanders. Eighteen different species of rare plants are protected in the refuge as well.
.
Ranch Guadalupe Dunes Preserve
Approximately 600 acres of coastal active dunes, with undeveloped native habitat including ~2 miles of beach, the Santa Maria River estuary, foredunes, back dunes, and riparian. Open to all sorts of passive recreation: birding, wildlife observation, surfing, fishing, hiking, picnicking and meditation.
.
Point Sal State Beach
The park consist of about 80 acres with about 1 1/2 miles of ocean frontage. Views of the coastline, beach and rugged mountain slopes are wonderful. Recreational activities here include fishing, beach combing, nature study, photography, picnicking and sunbathing. The park consists of approximately 80 acres and includes just over 1 1/2 miles of ocean frontage. Views of the coastline, beach and rugged mountain slopes are exceptional.
Paradise Beach
Paradise Beach is a 19-acre park that contains large lawn areas, picnic facilities, and a small beach. A wooden pier, first built by the Navy in WWII was renovated and turned into a recreational pier to be used by Marin County in 1963. Today’s concrete pier, one that is 302-foot-long with a t-shaped 194-foot-long end, replaced that pier.
.
.
Best Gualupe Restaurants
El Tapatio $11 – 30
This is great authentic Mexican food. Their Mexican inspired dishes combine ancient traditions with contemporary ingredients, spiced to suit your tastes. They invite you to join them for authentic Mexican food that can make any meal a special occasion. Telephone: 805-343-2850 Web: El Tapatio.
La Pasadita Oaxaqueña Under $10
La Pasadita features traditional items found in the heart of Mexico, fresh simple items from Oaxaca, items include Carne Asada, Rolled Tacos, Fresh Guacamole, our signature “Mole Oaxaqueño” Enchilada Sauce, quality Rice & Beans, and the final touch to any item: their House-Made Salsas. Telephone: 805-314-1426 Web: La Pasadita Oaxaqauena
The Butterfly Grille Under $10
Butterfly Grille is a full-service restaurant and bar and features the tastes and trends unique to the Central Coast of California. Whether you’ve just stepped off the course or you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, you’re sure to have a pleasurable experience. Nestled in the Woodlands Village community, with the golf course as a backdrop, the Butterfly Grille’s ambiance is on par with that of a private facility. Telephone: 805-343-9400 Web: The Butterfly Grille.
La Simpatia Under $10
This is one of the hidden gems on the Central Coast. Rich in family history, you will never be disappointed in your meal. Rosa and her crew provide excellent service, and her family recipes are delicious! Don’t miss the chile rellenos, and try a combo plate so you can get a taste of everything. They have a full bar as well. Telephone: 805-343-9284 Web: La Simpatia.
Far Western Tavern $11 – 30
This restaurant is recognized as a landmark of Santa Maria Style Barbecue, a renowned regional fare rooted in native ingredients and methods that were first popularized by 19th century rancheros. The menu blends this local barbecue style with other dishes that reflect our family’s heritage in the Santa Maria Valley’s Swiss-Italian ranching community, all prepared with fresh flavors from nearby farms, ranches and vineyards. Telephone: 805-937-2211 Web: Far Western Tavern.
Best Guadalupe Bars
Far Western Tavern
Besides being an upscale Santa Maria style BBQ restaurants. Sit at the mahogany bar and have some great drinks! Visit the bar from 2-5 pm for a special bar menu and enjoy items not on the regular menu. Telephone: 805-937-2211 Web: Far Western Tavern.
Adelina’s Bistro
The bistro has a great bar, good food and reasonable prices. Never really crowded, and easy parking. Chef is well experienced, prepares bistro fare with quality ingredients. From oven fired pizzas and sandwiches, to full entrees. This is delightful find on the Central Coast. Telephone: 805-343-7510 Web: Adelina’s Bistro.
Rooney’s Irish Pub
Great local venue with a wonderful selection of beers including Smithwick’s on draft! They make a killer black and tan as well. You’ll get some great homemade potato chips on your table while you read the menu. Rooney’s in house micro brews are served straight from the brewery to the tap. Telephone: 805-934-3777 Web: Rooney’s Irish Pub.
Santa Maria Brewing Company
Thirsty visitors can enjoy an impressive gallery of two dozen brews available on draft to satiate every preference. All beers are fresh and locally made in Santa Maria. Half-pound burgers, dogs, large salads and fries are on the menu. Smaller bites and appetizers include pulled pork taquitos, buffalo wings, and a trio of sliders in soft buns with your choice of tri-tip or house pulled pork and fresh slaw. Haystacks of onion rings are served with freshly made chipotle aioli. Telephone: 805-369-2256 Web: Santa Maria Brewing Company.
Best Hotels Near Guadalupe (Santa Maria)
