The small community of Santa Margarita is located in the foothills of the Santa Lucia Mountains right outside of Atascadero. This small town was established by the missionaries of Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa in 1790 as a location of a branch chapel in the area.

In addition to the beautiful Santa Margarita lake that hosts a wealth of water activities, Santa Margarita also features local wineries and the Pacific Coast Rail Road Company, that features a narrow gague steam powered rail road. This small community also celebrates its Spanish hertitage each September with the Day of the Dons.

One of the major events that happens each year in Santa Margarita is the Savor the Central Coast Food and Wine Festival hosted by Sunset Mgazine. This weekend event showcases local wineries and food with tours of over 200 Central Coast wineries and over 30 chefs preparing meals from local sources including produce and seafood. The event also includes seminars from Sunset magazine, a 2-acre kitchen garden tour, and local gourmet vendors.

Santa Margarita is part of the Atascadero Unified School District features 6 elementary schools, 1 middle school, and 1 high school.

Utilities Information:

Water & Sewer: 	County Water Works District No. 6- 805.781.5252

Gas:		http://www.socalgas.com/ - 1.800.427.2200

Electricity:                http://www.pge.com/  - 1.800.PGE.5000

Waste:                     Mid-State Solid Waste & Recycling- 805.434.9112