Quintessential California Tours - Destinations

California Destinations - San Simeon Coast

What's to See and Do | Photos

William Randolph Hearst fell in love with this section of California's Central Coast as a child, and chose it as the site of the now legendary Hearst Castle. Characterized by rolling hills, windswept beaches, and a handfull of small towns, the San Simeon Coast is a place to relax, enjoy the fresh air and rejuvinate.

Among the area's small towns, Cambria is our favorite. A popular spot for romantic weekends among California locals, Cambria features cozy restaurants and b&bs, art galleries and a beautiful boardwalk for strolling the cliffs above the ocean.

Just north of Cambria, San Simeon isn't any more than a hotel strip that provides lodging for area visitors; particularly for visitors of Hearst Castle, the area's most famous landmark.

Several scenic state parks in the area offer nice spots to enjoy the area's scenery and outdoor activities.

WHAT'S TO SEE ?

Highlight Attractions

	Hearst Castle: One man's monument to himself, Hearst Castle is the San Simeon Coast's most famous attraction, and always a favorite with our clients.
	Windswept Coastline: Some are popular with windsurfers. Others see moderate beachgoing traffic. Most offer a quiet venue for a contemplative seaside walk.
	The Charming Town of Cambria: Popular with California romantics, the small seaside town of Cambria features romantic b&bs, intimate restaurants with ocean views, and a number of shops and art galleries.

	Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery: In November of 1992, Piedras Blancas became the part-time home to a colony of Northern Elephant Seals. Starting wtih just a few breeding adults in 1992, the colony's population is now estimated at more than 7000 individuals who return to the beach twice a year (at different times) for breeding and for molting.
	Rolling Coastal Hills: The hills of San Simeon are classic California landscape.
	Springtime Blooms of Coastal Wildflowers: Every year, springtime California poppy blooms bring an explosion of color to the San Simeon Coast.

WHAT'S TO DO?

Highlight Activities

Hike: Several state parks in the area offer a variety of land and seascapes to roam.

Kayak: Rocky coastline, kelp beds and marine life like sea otters and harbor seals make the area popular with sea kayakers.

Go bird watching: Nearby Morro Rock State Preserve is one of California's premier wetlands for migratory waterfowl.

Have a romantic dinner: A handful of intimate restaurants afford couples the opportunity for a romantic meal. A clifftop stroll along Cambria's boardwalk makes a great apertif.

PHOTOS

More Photos of the San Simeon Coast