Things to Do in San Simeon, California

Here are the best things to do in San Simeon, California.  This town is home to Hearst’s Castle and many other wonders.

San Simeon, a small town located halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, is known in California (and beyond) for its castle.

A castle in California’s Central Coast?  Yes, there is a gorgeous one located over a hill and open to visitors.  

In this guide, I am telling you everything about the castle but I am going beyond it.  I am trying to encourage visitors to stay a bit longer and explore more of San Simeon.

I am about to discuss its coast, pier, lighthouse, campsites, and natural resources.  Stand by because I am giving you details on the best things to do in San Simeon.

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Things to Do in San Simeon, California

San Simeon tends to be visited as a stop on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip or as a day trip from other locations on the coast (especially Cambria, located south).

However, an entire day (or longer) can be spent exploring its many attractions.  After many visits, I feel like the town deserves its own guide with ideas on things to do.  So, I have prepared this article for you. Of course, we have to start talking about a particular famous castle.

Must-See: Heart Castle!

I am pretty sure you have noticed how long the U.S. West Coast is.  California alone has a coastline of 840 miles.

Choosing where to stop in such a vast territory can become a nightmare.  However, most West Coast itineraries propose Hearst Castle as one of the main attractions in such an epic road trip.

Personally, I agree with the selection.  I have visited the “Castle” several times and end in awe after each visit.

What we know as “The Castle,” was called La Cuesta Encantada (The Enchanted Hill) by its owner, Willian Randolph Hearst.  Hearst, a media mogul, inherited his fortune and grounds where he built “The Castle” (Rancho Piedra Blanca) from his parents.

Even though the property had a Victorian mansion on it, he wanted to develop it further.  He hired architect Julia Morgan for the job. What started as a small project ended up being a complex with 56 bedrooms, 61 bedrooms, 19 sitting rooms, two magnificent pools (one indoor and another outdoor), gardens, sports courts, and even a zoo.

Hearst ended inviting to his property personalities such as Charles Chaplin, Clark Gable, Charles Lindbergh, and Winston Churchill. Years after Hearst’s death, the estate was donated to the State of California.  

The facade of the main building reminds you of a European cathedral.  The inside and gardens are full of pieces of art (as old as from Egyptian and Roman times). From the top, you can see cliffs, promontories, and miles of coastline.

Everything is a spectacle up there!

Hearst Castle is open to the public and can only be visited through guided tours.  Visitors can choose among 4 tours (there are more options depending on the season).  On a visit, you buy your ticket at the visitors center, watch a movie about the castle’s history at the Hearst Castle Theater, board a shuttle that takes you to The Castle, do the tour, and are given some time to walk around the exterior.  All tours include the Neptune and Roman pools.

Each tour is $25 (cheaper for kids).  Now, I know that is not necessarily affordable but this is a unique place.  I encourage travel, history, and art lovers to check it out.

On-site services include a restaurant, cafeteria, gift shop, and restrooms.

Note: Keep an eye on Hearst Ranch’s property (the area surrounding The Castle).  Zebras, remnants of Hearst’s private zoo, inhabit the hills.  These San Simeon zebras a bit of clebrities in the area!

Spend some time at W.R. Hearst Memorial Beach

Portuguese shore whalers were the first Europeans to settle the area.   By 1800s, San Simeon Bay was an active seaport, exporting a variety of goods, including mining, whaling, and dairy products.

In 1865, the land in the area (known as Rancho Piedra Blanca) was sold to George Hearst, the father of William Randolph Hearst.  Hearst, in partnership with the whalers, built a wharf in the bay so sailing ships could tie up and load and unload goods.

The whaling industry started to die in the late 1800s.  However, in the 1900s, the bay received shipments from all over the world to build and decorate Hearst’s Castle (which is located across the pier).

Today, the bay and the pier (wharf) are part of the William Randolph Hearst Memorial State Beach. Hearst’s descendants donated the coastal property to San Luis Obispo County.  The day-use area offers 24 picnic sites, 150 parking spaces, restrooms, water faucets, barbecue grill stands, and easy beach access. Recreational activities include picnicking, swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, and sunbathing.

The pier has signs describing the area’s history. The northern end of the bay has beautifully carved cliffs accentuated by huge roots.  Scan the surroundings for the possibility to see big birds flying by. I love this spot since it has some of the most beautiful views in the area.

Visit the Coastal Discovery Center

The Coastal Discovery Center, located next to San Simeon’s pier entrance, has interactive exhibits and educational programs highlighting the natural and cultural resources of the San Simeon Bay, California Coastal National Monument, and Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

Admission is free.

Rent Kayaks

There is a kayak, wetsuit, stand-up paddleboarding, and bodyboard concession at the San Simeon Bay. You can rent equipment or join one of their guided tours (reservations are required).

Check out this unique place from the water.  You can also explore the Cambria coast (several miles south).

Taste at the Hearst Ranch Winery

In the vicinity of the W.R. Hearst Memorial Beach, you will find the remains of Old Simeon.  One of the buildings standing since the mid-1800s is occupied by the Hearst Ranch Winery.   At the tasting room, you can try a selection of wines made from Syrah, Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot, Malbec, and Tempranillo grapes.  The views from the property are pretty amazing. Therefore, it is a good option to try if you are visiting The Castle or the beach.

But, wait, there is more.  The structure has been declared a National Historic Monument since this was the place used to feed Hearst Castle’s workers.

Note: This is where Sebastian’s used to be (this joint was a  favorite because of their delicious burgers, chili fries, and onion rings).

Observe Huge Elephant Seals

It is impossible not to stop at the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery.  This place is a birthing and resting spot for elephant seals. 

If you are unfamiliar with elephant seals, let me tell you these pinnipeds (animal family including seals and seas lions) get their name from the elongated snout of the adult male which resembles an elephant trunk.

These seals can reach humongous sizes.  Males can reach a length of 14 to 16 feet and weigh more than 5,000 pounds.

Elephant seals give birth in winter.  That is the best time of the year to see them at Piedras Blancas (and to see the moms and pups). However, seals hang out on the beach the entire year.  These funny creatures have some sweet movements. Go prepared to get a smile on your face.

Members of the Friends of the Elephant Seal organization are daily on site ready to answer questions.  They can discuss at length several topics such as elephant seals’ behavior or the area’s geology.

The rookery is located 5 miles north of Hearst Castle and the pier.  There are multiple signs pointing to the parking lot. This is one of my top recommendations for the area!

Tour the Piedras Blancas Lighthouse

The Piedras Blancas Lighthouse or Piedras Blancas Light Station is famous for one thing: part of the upper floors and the Fresnel lens is missing.  The structure suffered years of earthquake damage. In 1948, the upper part was removed to avoid a total collapse. And, of course, the light is located on a small peninsula or promontory called Point Piedras Blancas.

This peculiar lighthouse, without a light, has given place to all sorts of legends (ghosts, curses, monsters, etc.).  You can ask locals about the most popular stories.

Access to the site is by guided tours, available every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday year-round. During high season, tours are offered Mondays through Saturdays. The fee is $10 for adults; $5 for ages 6 to 17; and free for ages 5 and under. The tour lasts two hours and includes the historic lighthouse and support buildings, wildlife viewing, and spectacular scenery along an easy half-mile interpretive trail.  Tours do not take place on Federal holidays.

The Fresnel lens is displayed in nearby Cambria (Main Street).

Hike the Boucher Trail

The Boucher Trail is accessed through the parking lot of the Piedras Blancas Rookery (there is another entry point and parking lot about a mile north).  

This 1.9 miles trail (one-way) borders the cove where the elephant seals rest and continues half-mile north of the Piedras Blancas Lighthouse.  

The trail offers scenic views of the coast, sea stacks, promontories, and wildlife.

Visit Undeveloped San Carpoforo Beach

For those who want to get out of the beaten track, I recommend visiting San Carpoforo Beach, located 14 miles north of Hearst Castle.

This beach is located in the northernmost part of the Hearst San Simeon State Park.  When driving north, you are going to notice a small parking lot after crossing the San Carpoforo Creek bridge.  You will be meters away from a wild beach. The promontory to the south is Ragged Point.

Before leaving, drive a bit more north to take a gorgeous photo of the beach.

Windsurf at Arroyo Laguna Beach

Arroyo Laguna, a beach lying at the mouth of Oak Knoll Creek stands out since it is a kiteboarding and windsurfing paradise. There are no signs pointing to the beach but you will either see windsurfing sails or cars parked north of San Simeon Point.

Between December 15 through April 30 there are signs indicating the beach is close since elephant seals come to shore to give birth. Irrespective of what the signs say, water-based activities are permitted, providing the seals are left undisturbed. 

The beach has no facilities.

Visit Other San Simeon Beaches

Between San Simeon Point and Ragged Point, the northernmost part of coastal San Luis Obispo County, there are about 15 miles of beaches.

On this stretch of the coast, you will have beaches most to yourself.  Just keep in mind things around here are wild.  But, if that is your thing, you have plenty of choices.  Here is a sample of the beaches you can visit:

• Arroyo del Corral
• Arroyo de la Cruz
• Little Pico Creek
• Point Sierra Nevada Dunes

Camp at the Hearst San Simeon State Park

The Hearst San Simeon State Park protects several non-adjacent areas along 24 miles of the coast (approximation).  For example, it manages the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk, the Leffingwell Day Use area (both located in Cambria), the W.R. Hearst Memorial Beach, the Hearst Castle, and the Piedras Blancas Coastline.

I have discussed how to enjoy several of these areas.  If you are interested in camping, you can do it in the San Simeon Creek part of the park.

In there, you will find the Washburn (undeveloped, 1 mile inland from the beach) and San Simeon Creek (developed, 115 sites) Campgrounds.  Campsites are equipped with a fire ring and picnic table. Restrooms, showers, and hiking trails are part of the facilities.

Attend an Event

Since San Simeon is a small place, there is not a lot happening in terms of events.  Now, Cambria has a wide offering of events.  You can keep an eye on the following:

• Art & Wine Festival (January)
• Easter Egg Hunt (April)
• Cambria Film Festival
• Cambria Garden Tour (May)
• 4th of July Celebrations & Fireworks
• Twilight Summer Concerts (Summer)
• Cambria Scarecrow Festival (October)
• Farmers Market – Takes place Fridays from 2:30 to 5:300 p.m.  In winter, the market closes at 5:00 p.m.

Things to Do Near San Simeon

There is so much to do in coastal San Luis Obispo County.  I completely adore the region and visit more than once per year.

It is very easy to combine a visit to San Simeon with other attractions in the area. Here I am leaving you with several suggestions on how to expand your vacation.

Gateway to Big Sur – You can use a day to explore San Simeon and Cambria and then depart to Big Sur the next day.  By staying overnight in the area, you can maximize your time at the most famous stretch of California’s Coast.

Ragged Point (20 miles north) – Those short on time can have a taste of Big Sur by driving to Ragged Point, a spot with impressive cliff vistas, a waterfall, and some hikes. It is a short drive if you are exploring San Carpoforo Creek and Beach.

Paso Robles (40 miles east) – Wine lovers rejoice! Paso is only a couple of miles away from San Simeon.  Paso’s east vineyards and wineries are even located closer to San Simeon. Use scenic CA-46 to reach the wine area.

Cambria (10 miles south) – Cambria and San Simeon are usually marketed together.  So, it makes sense to visit both on a single trip. Make sure you have enough time to check Cambria’s nature preserves, wine tasting rooms, and Monterey pines.  This town is a favorite of many. I have an extensive guide on Things to Do in Cambria.

Cayucos (23 miles south) – This small, almost unknown town located north of Morro Bay, is a great place to relax and meet some friendly locals.  Did I mention smoked fish tacos and brown sugar cookies are sold in there? That is reason enough to go! I have an entire guide with details on Things to Do in Cayucos.

Morro Bay (29 miles south) – If you want to visit a unique place, Morro Bay should be your choice.  The panorama in this town is dominated by Morro Rock, an enormous volcanic plug.  It is one of the most beautiful places in California. For more info, check out my article on Things to Do in Morro Bay.

Avila Beach (51 miles south) – This community located has hot springs, a wine trail, several piers, hiking trails, and a colorful center.  This is one of my favorite places on the Central Coast! As you can imagine, I have written in detail about this place: Things to Do in Avila Beach

Pismo Beach (54 miles south) – This city, located south of Avila Beach, offers the opportunity to ride ATVs along sand dunes, see monarch butterflies, kiteboard, surf, and kayak among caves.  For more info, check out my complete guide on Things to do in Pismo Beach.

San Simeon Restaurants

To put it is in simple terms, San Simeon is NOT foodie central.

The Hearst Castle Visitors Center has the Chief’s Galley Cafe (serving burgers made with Hearst Ranch meat, chicken sandwiches, Asian-inspired dishes, chicken strips, BBQ beef sandwiches, and more) and the Camp Hill BBQ (open during warmer months).

For a good meal, you will have to drive to Cambria.  I recommend checking out Robin’s, Madeline’s, The Sow’s Ear, Cafe on Bridge Street, The French Bakery, and Linn’s as Easy as Pie. You can find more details on my full Cambria guide.

Note: The is an area in San Simeon called Motel Row.  There are some restaurants catering to people staying around but I do not recommend eating there.  You can find something tastier in Cambria.

How to Reach San Simeon, California

San Simeon is located between San Francisco and Los Angeles, in San Luis Obispo County.  That would be about 230 miles from each of the big cities. It is located 42 miles from San Luis Obispo (seat of the county), 136 miles from Santa Barbara, and 95 miles from Monterey.

The closest airports are located in San Luis Obispo and Monterey.  Keep in mind these airports are quite small and flying to them may be expensive.  Most people reach fly to the San Francisco, San Jose, or Los Angeles airports and start a road trip from one of those points.

I recommend exploring the region by car.

Beach Town Gear

As I spend a lot of time on beach towns, I have my gear packed and ready to throw in the car.  Here is an idea of what I take to the beach.

• Walking Shoes – Comfortable walking shoes are a must.  My go-to brands are Clarks, Tevas, and Sketchers. 
• Flip Flops – Flip flops are a must on any beach trip.  I am partial to the Tevas brand.  >>Take a look at these beautiful flip flops
• Water Sandals – If you want a more polished look, check out these leather-made salt water sandals.
• Sweatshirt – A sweatshirt is a must to keep me warm during chilly mornings and nights. >Click to see this California appropriate option here
• Sun Block – Do not leave the house (or the car) without applying sunblock.  I repeat, always wear sunblock when outdoors. >Buy sunblock here
• Lip Balm with Sunscreen – Protect your lips by applying a balm with sunscreen. >Get one of the best lip balms here
• Wide Brim Hat – A wide brim hat is a great way to protect your scalp, face, and neck.  The ones manufactured by FURTALK come with an anti-UV function.  >Buy this amazing hat here
• Sunglasses – These are another must when it comes to protecting from the sun.  A polarized, sporty pair works better outdoors. >Take a look at this wonderful pair
• Towels –  This is the accessory I always forget about.  WETCAT’s Turkish Towels take minimum space and dry fast.  >Buy a Turkish towel here
• Foldable Chairs – Portable chairs allow you to set camp at the beach, park, winery, and even a parking lot. A classic Coleman portable chair is a solid choice. >>Buy portable camping chair
• Beach Blanket – For laying on the sand, a beach blanket is necessary.  Good ones are waterproof, sandproof, and light.  The blankets manufactured by Wekapo fit several adults and are durable.  >Buy this nice beach blanket here
• Soft Cooler Bag – A soft cooler bag with enough capacity is great for having drinks and some food items at hand.  I love my CleverMade collapsible cooler bag.  >Take a look at my cooler here
• Water Bottle – Do not forget to bring water! Keep yours cold by taking a beautiful Hydro Flask water bottle.  >Check out the insane options here
• THERMOS Tumblers – I have been a fan of the THERMOS brand since I received a tumbler as a gift. The tumblers keep drinks hot for hours.  >>Buy THERMOS insulated tumblers here
• Dry Bag – Keep your valuables (and electronics) protected by bringing a dry bag.  >These dry bag is awesome
• Beach Bag or Large Tote – Carry all your gear on an amazing beach bag.  Get one with tons of pockets (I love pockets).  >>>Check out my beach bag top pick
• Camera – I have never gotten used to taking pictures exclusively with my phone.  I prefer to use the Sony Alpha a6000.  It is compact and takes gorgeous pictures. >Buy Sony Camera here
• Tripod – A compact tripod to take your photos and videos to a different level. >>Check out this popular option here
• Portable Power Bank – It is a pain to keep phones charged on beach trips.  Having a power bank is a lifesaver.  The Anker portable charger can charge a phone 5 times. >Buy this incredible power bank here

Budget Tip

You can save some money on accommodations by staying in Morro Bay.  Hotels tend to cost less there when compared to Cambria. Another affordable place to stay in Arroyo Grande, a city adjacent to Pismo Beach.

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