Explore this slice of the old west
This small town is an oasis of rural country life nestled in the heart of the county just off Highway 101 and Highway 58. It’s a little taste of the old west.
Spend the day at Santa Margarita Lake, fishing, hiking, relaxing and then finish the day in downtown with wine and beer tasting, dining, and antiquing before heading to your next destination.
Attractions
Santa Margarita Lake
Follow Highway 58 to Santa Margarita Park to find the lake located in Santa Margarita Regional Park at 4695 A Santa Margarita Lake Road. Be sure to head out with a full tank of gas. The lake and park offer boating, fishing, hiking trails and picnicing. The park is located on several thousand acres of land designated as open space. Call ahead (805) 781-5930 to verify boat launches, swimming and camping.
The Carizzo Plains National Monument
The 250,000 acre Carrizo Plain National Monument is the largest surviving native California grasslands. The plains are reminiscent of Africa’s Serengeti, providing the highest concentration of irreplaceable wildlife in California. To reach Carizzo Plain, take Highway 58 south from Santa Margarita to 17495 Soda Lake Rd.
Santa Margarita Historical Society
The historical society takes local history online, with copies of research material held at the public library located on the corner of I and Murphy Streets. Ongoing projects include documenting a number of the community’s historic buildings and recording the stories of “old timers.” Visit santamargaritahistoricalsociety.org.
Margarita Adventures Zipline Tours
Margarita Adventures is the ultimate blast for the entire family! Here in the heart of San Luis Obispo County, you will embark on six ziplines spanning nearly 1.5 miles total, starting with a thrilling 2,800-foot tandem ride and finishing with an unforgettable 1,800-foot journey over Pinot Noir vines. To book a tour or for more information visit Margarita-Adventures.com or call (805) 438-3120
Dining & Drink
The Porch
Breakfast burritos, bagels, lunch, dinner, coffee craft beer, wine, appetizers and entertainment. Located at 22322 El Camino Real, Santa Margarita. Visit the porchcafe.com.
Ancient Peaks Winery
Taste limited releases, including the limited-edition Pearl Collection reserve wines. enjoy a bite and kick back at our tasting room and café in the historic town of Santa Margarita. Compliment your tasting flight or favorite glass of Ancient Peaks wine with a locally-made artisan cheese & charcuterie board, small bites or delicious entrée. For reservations and more information visit ancientpeaks.com or call (805) 365-7045.
Shopping
The Barn Antiques & Unique
Several vendors featuring vendors with vintage clothes, jewelry, furniture and mid-century treasures. Located at 22390 El Camino Real in Santa Margarita. Find The Barn at facebook.com/thebarnantiquesunique or call (805) 438-5329.
Caliwala Food Market & Deli
And gift shop! Standing out as the only grocery store in Santa Margarita, the shop goes several steps beyond groceries. Stop in for fresh baked goods, lunch, a beverage, beer or wine and shop for locally-crafted art and gifts as well as handmade Nepali goods. Located at 22202 El Camino Real, Santa Margarita. For more information visit caliwala.com.
The Samantha Huston Saddle Shop
Much more than a saddle shop. The shop has a variety of leather goods, western art, hats, boots, belts, clothing, jewelry and home décor. Owner, Samantha, is following a family tradition, making custom-fitted treeless saddles. Drop in between 10 a.m.-2 p.m. most days to catch her at work. Located at in the Rainbow Hut at 22380 El Camino Real, Santa Margarita. Follow on facebook.com/GoldenPondSaddleShop or call (805) 704-9678
The Educated Gardner
This nursery is an attraction all on its own with its lavish grounds that are nice to walk through on a sunny afternoon. Enjoy the atmosphere or pick out a plant or garden decoration to take home. While there, be sure to visit Chicken John, the resident rooster. 22210 El Camino Real. (805) 438-4250.
Santa Margarita Travel Guide stories
- An authentic antique experience
- Margarita Adventures zipline canopy tours
- Educated Gardener is like a walk through grandma’s garden
- A brief history of the Paso Robles wine region
