San Benito County, California

San Benito County is tucked between California’s Central Valley and the Pacific Coast. Hollister serves as the county seat and largest community, giving the area a relaxed, small-town atmosphere.

Agriculture plays an important role in the local economy, while the county also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Pinnacles National Park extends into San Benito County and is known for its dramatic rock formations, hiking trails, and excellent rock-climbing opportunities.

Highway 25 winds through the county’s scenic countryside, connecting Hollister with surrounding communities and the greater Bay Area. With a population of around 70,000, San Benito County maintains a rural character despite being relatively close to Silicon Valley.

CategoryDetails
County NameSan Benito County
County SeatHollister
PopulationApproximately 70,000
Cities, Towns, and CommunitiesHollister, San Juan Bautista, Tres Pinos, Aromas
Interstates and HighwaysState Route 25, State Route 156
FIPS Code06-069
Total Area (Land and Water)1,396 square miles (Land: 1,390 sq mi, Water: 6 sq mi)
Adjacent Counties (and Direction)Santa Clara County (North), Monterey County (West), Fresno County (East), Merced County (Northeast), Santa Cruz County (Northwest)
Time ZonePacific Standard Time (PST)
StateCalifornia
Coordinates36.8404° N, 121.5800° W
EtymologyNamed after the San Benito River, which was named by Spanish explorers for Saint Benedict
Major LandmarksPinnacles National Park, San Juan Bautista State Historic Park, Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area

PHYSICAL MAP

San Benito County Topographic Map

This topographic map highlights San Benito County’s valleys and rugged mountains within California’s interior Coast Range. The detailed contours show the varied terrain around the fertile Hollister Valley.

SATELLITE IMAGERY

San Benito County Satellite Map

This satellite map reveals the parallel ridges and valleys of San Benito County’s interior Coast Range. Hollister and San Juan Bautista stand out as developed communities surrounded by predominantly agricultural landscapes.

OUTLINE MAP

San Benito County Blank Map

This blank map outlines San Benito County’s irregular shape within California’s Coast Range region. The simple design highlights the county’s inland setting and mountainous surroundings.

California County Map

Printable California county map showing county boundaries and locations

Ever wonder how California’s 58 counties are organized? Our California county map lays them all out, from the Pacific Coast to the vast desert regions. Explore the map to find the counties you know—and perhaps discover a few you don’t.

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