San Simeon is a unique vacation spot on the California coast. This charming coastal town is located just off of Highway 1 and it’s so small, you might miss it if you blink, but there are actually a lot of fun things to do in San Simeon.
If you’ve never thought to put this charming town on your vacation radar, maybe now you should. We recently spent some time there exploring and reintroducing ourselves to the laidback nature of the area, and we fell in love with it yet again.
One of the most popular attractions in San Simeon is Hearst Castle. This historic mansion was built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst and features stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and an impressive collection of art and antiques.
I’d say this is the number one reason anyone visits San Simeon and it might end up being the only reason, so we wanted to make sure you know about all the other great things to see and do in the area, not to mention that the adorable town of Cambria is also nearby.
Where is San Simeon?
San Simeon is a town located on the Pacific coast of California. It’s situated in San Luis Obispo County, roughly halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. San Simeon is known for its beautiful coastal views and the famous Hearst Castle, built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst.
It’s just a few miles north of the town of Cambria and about 35 miles northwest of San Luis Obispo. The area is known for its rugged coastline, marine wildlife, and wineries.
It’s a very small town. The population is somewhere close to 500. The town itself covers a relatively small area and is mostly known for the nearby Hearst Castle and the scenic beauty of its coastal location.
Best Things to Do in San Simeon
San Simeon Pier
This pier was built in the 1870s and is one of the oldest structures in San Simeon. It’s a great place to go fishing or take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the ocean views.
San Simeon Pier is located within the William R. Hearst Memorial State Beach. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, as well as an array of activities to enjoy.
The pier, extending approximately 850 feet into the water, is an excellent location for fishing. No fishing license is required on the pier, and you can potentially catch species like the Pacific mackerel, jacksmelt, white croaker, and surfperch, among others.
The pier’s location also makes it a popular spot for bird watching, as the area is rich in birdlife, from pelicans and gulls to the occasional osprey or peregrine falcon. Additionally, seals and sea otters can often be spotted in the waters around the pier.
Elephant Seal Rookery
If you’re looking for a unique wildlife experience, be sure to visit the Elephant Seal Rookery in San Simeon. The Piedras Blancas Rookery is the only elephant seal rookery in the world that is easily accessible, free, and open to the public every day of the year. No reservations are needed.
The rookery is located seven miles north of San Simeon on Highway 1. The Elephant Seal viewing area has plenty of parking, and the boardwalks and viewing platforms provide excellent vantage points to observe these fascinating creatures.
The Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery is home to about 17,000 animals. The best time to visit is during the winter months, from December to March, when the seals come ashore to mate, give birth, and molt. During this time, you can witness males challenging each other to fights for dominance, females nursing their pups, and newborn pups learning to swim in the shallow pools.
To make the most of your visit, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Bring binoculars or a camera to capture the seals in action, but be sure to keep a safe distance and follow the guidelines provided by the park rangers to protect both the seals and yourself.
Hearst Castle
A visit to Hearst Castle is a must when you’re in this area. Seeing how San Simeon is such a small place, the number one reason most people visit is for the castle.
Hearst Castle was built by William Randolph Hearst, a newspaper magnate, in the early 20th century, and is now a National Historic Landmark owned by the State of California. There are a variety of tours to choose from, including the Grand Rooms Tour, which takes you through the main building’s ground floor and includes the Assembly Room, Refectory, Billiard Room, and Theater.
The Upstairs Suites Tour takes you through the private suites and bedrooms of Hearst’s guests, while the Cottages and Kitchen Tour takes you through the guesthouses and kitchens.
Reservations are strongly recommended because it’s such a popular attraction and some time slots fill up, especially in high season. Tickets can be purchased online up to 60 days in advance.
Be sure to check out the castle’s website for more information on tours and events. And don’t forget to bring your camera, as the castle offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Central Coast.
Wine Tasting
One of the top wineries to visit in San Simeon is the Hearst Ranch Winery. Located just a few miles from Hearst Castle, this winery is a great place to stop after your tour to complete the experience. You can enjoy a tasting flight of their wines in the tasting room or out in the huge grounds that face the ocean. It’s stunning. They also have a food truck, if you get hungry.
Another great winery to visit is Moonstone Cellars in nearby Cambria. This boutique winery is known for its handcrafted wines and warm hospitality. You can sample their wines in their cozy tasting room or grab a glass or bottle to enjoy in the courtyard. They are open 11am to 5pm.
A third option is Cayucos Cellars, in downtown Cambria. They have a small tasting room that’s a perfect representation of their small family owned winery, doing around 500-800 cases a year. They are open Thursday to Monday 12pm to 5pm.
Fiscalini Ranch Preserve
The Fiscalini Ranch Preserve in Cambria is a scenic and peaceful place to hike, bike, or simply enjoy nature. This 437-acre nature preserve features miles of trails that wind through oak woodlands, coastal scrub, and grassy meadows, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Lucia Mountains.
The Bluff Trail is a popular option for its stunning vistas of the coast, while the Rattlesnake Flats Trail is a more secluded and shaded path that leads to a seasonal waterfall. The Preserve also offers guided walks and talks led by knowledgeable docents who can provide insights into the area’s history, geology, and wildlife.
Aside from hiking, the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve is also a great spot for birdwatching, picnicking, and photography. The diverse habitats of the preserve support a wide variety of bird species, including raptors, shorebirds, and songbirds.
The picnic areas and benches scattered throughout the preserve provide ample opportunities to relax and take in the views. And the stunning coastal scenery makes for some unforgettable photo opportunities.
Piedras Blancas Light Station
The Piedras Blancas Light Station is a historic lighthouse located just north of Cambria. Built in 1875, the lighthouse has been guiding ships along the central coast for over a century. You can take guided tours of the lighthouse and learn about its history and operation, but it’s by reservation only. Don’t try to rock up any time and expect to get it.
Tours can be booked at www.recreation.gov. Adults are $10, kids are $5, under 5 are free. The tours meet at a location nearby (not at the main gate) and include a half-milk trail walk, then you have access to the historic Fog Signal Building and the bottom level of the lighthouse.
Point Piedras Blancas Beach
Located just north of the Piedras Blancas Light Station, Point Piedras Blancas Beach is great for beach lovers. The beach is known for its picturesque beauty, with crystal clear waters and soft, white sand that will make you feel like you’re in paradise.
The beach is known for its strong winds, making it an ideal spot for these water sports like windsurfing or kiteboarding. You can watch the experts show off their skills or try it out for yourself if you’re feeling adventurous.
But even if you’re not into water sports, there’s still plenty to do at Point Piedras Blancas Beach. The beach is great for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. You can also take a leisurely stroll along the shore and enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
One of the highlights of the beach is the Piedras Blancas elephant seal rookery, located just a short walk away. Here, you can observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The rookery is home to thousands of elephant seals, one of the largest colonies in the world.
San Simeon Pier
If you’re looking for a scenic spot to enjoy the ocean views and maybe even catch a glimpse of some marine life, San Simeon Pier is a must-visit attraction in San Simeon, California. The pier is located at the William R. Hearst Memorial State Beach, which is protected under the California Marine Life Protection Act.
One of the main draws of the pier is the opportunity to see a colony of over 15,000 elephant seals that stretches to neighboring Cambria. Visitors can also spot sea otters and migrating humpback whales feeding just off the Central Coast in the autumn.
The pier itself is a great spot for fishing, and visitors can rent fishing gear and purchase bait from the nearby San Simeon Beach Cafe. If you’re not interested in fishing, you can still enjoy a leisurely stroll along the pier and take in the stunning views of the coastline.
For those who want to explore the area further, there are several tours available that depart from San Simeon Pier. These tours include Paso Robles Wine Adventure, Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1, and Guided E-Bike Tour of Morro Bay.
Overall, San Simeon Pier is a great spot to take in the natural beauty of the Central Coast and enjoy a relaxing day by the sea.
Where to Eat in San Simeon
San Simeon offers a variety of dining options for all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a fancy dinner, you’ll find something to suit your needs. Some of the best restaurants in San Simeon include:
- Sea Chest Restaurant & Oyster Bar: Known for its fresh seafood and casual atmosphere, this restaurant is a must-visit for seafood lovers.
- Madeline’s Restaurant & Wine Cellar: This upscale restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients.
- Cambria Pines Lodge Restaurant: Located just a few miles from San Simeon, this restaurant serves American cuisine with a Californian twist in a rustic setting.
- San Simeon Beach Bar & Grill – If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, this is a great option. This restaurant offers ocean views and a menu with a variety of dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads..
What is San Simeon Known For?
San Simeon is known for its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, but it’s most popular for Hearst Castle, the former residence of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. This opulent estate features a collection of art and antiques from around the world, as well as stunning gardens and pools.
In addition to Hearst Castle, San Simeon is also known for its diverse wildlife. You can see elephant seals lounging on the beaches, watch zebras grazing in the fields, and even catch a glimpse of dolphins and whales swimming in the ocean.
For outdoor enthusiasts, San Simeon offers a variety of activities such as hiking, kayaking, and boating. Boucher Trail at Piedras Blancas is a popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the coastline and wildlife.
Is it Worth Staying in San Simeon?
If you’re looking for a quiet and peaceful getaway, San Simeon is definitely worth considering.
One of the main reasons to stay in San Simeon is to visit the famous Hearst Castle. This National Historic Landmark is a must-see attraction and offers a glimpse into the life of William Randolph Hearst. The castle features stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and priceless works of art.
Another reason to stay in San Simeon is to explore the beautiful coastline. Moonstone Beach is a popular destination for beachcombing, tidepooling, and whale watching. You can also take a stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy the scenic views of the Pacific Ocean.
If you’re a wine enthusiast, San Simeon is also home to several wineries and vineyards. You can take a wine tasting tour and sample some of the best wines in the region. Paso Robles Wine Adventure is a popular tour that offers transportation from San Simeon to the wineries.
Where to Stay in San Simeon
If you’re planning a trip to San Simeon, you’ll need to find a place to stay. Fortunately, there are plenty of options available to suit every budget and preference. Here are a few recommendations:
Hotels and Resorts
San Simeon has several hotels and resorts that offer comfortable accommodations and convenient amenities. Some of the most popular options include:
- Cavalier Oceanfront Resort: This resort offers stunning ocean views, a heated outdoor pool, and a hot tub. The on-site restaurant, Cavalier Restaurant, serves delicious seafood and other dishes. Book on Expedia
- San Simeon Lodge: This budget-friendly hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms and easy access to nearby attractions like Hearst Castle and the Piedras Blancas elephant seal rookery. Book on Expedia
- Ragged Point Inn and Resort: About 15 miles north of San Simeon, this resort offers incredible cliffside views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s a bit more isolated, but the scenery is breathtaking. Book on Expedia
Vacation Rentals
If you’re looking for a more private and secluded experience, consider renting a vacation home or condo in San Simeon. Some popular vacation rental websites are VRBO and AirBnB. There are some great places to stay on both.
Before You Go
Looking for more great things to do in the area? Here are a few more articles we think you might enjoy.
- 14 Fun Things to Do in Cambria
- 10 Best Beaches in San Luis Obispo County
- 13 Fun Things to Do in San Luis Obispo
- 7 Great Wineries in San Luis Obispo to Visit
- 16 Fun Things to Do in Pismo Beach
- 12 Fun Things to Do in Morro Bay
Travel Planning Guide
🚙💨 Where should I book my rental car?
Renting a car is one of the best ways to get around in California, no matter where you’re visiting. Public transportation can only get your so far, even in big cities. I always rent with Discover Cars, which checks the prices of all major rental car companies, so you get the best rates.
🛌 What’s the best way to book my accommodations?
For hotels and vacation rentals, Booking.com or Expedia.com are the best sites, but you can also book through TripAdvisor. If you’re considering renting a house instead, don’t forget to also check VRBO, which is often cheaper than Airbnb.
🧳 What do I pack for California?
Head to the our California Packing List or Disneyland Packing List to get all the info on packing.
✈️ What’s the best site to buy flights to California?
For finding cheap California flights from around the world, I recommend Skyscanner. I’ve also had pretty good luck with Kayak.com.
Like this article? Save it on Pinterest so you can find it again.
FOLLOW US on Pinterest and Facebook for more California travel inspiration and tips!
Laura is a travel fanatic who loves seeing and doing new things. She lives in Ventura, CA, and spends a lot of time exploring California’s cities, beaches, and national parks.