Cambria is a great destination for a weekend getaway on the Central California coast, with its charming village, beautiful ocean views, and great food and drink options. It’s a hidden gem that is definitely worth a visit.
If you’re planning a trip, you might be wondering when is the best time to visit Cambria. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, there are a few things to consider when deciding when to plan your trip.
Before we get into the details, it’s important to note that Cambria is pretty year-round and there are always things to do, but some seasons may be more appealing to you than others depending on your preferences of things to do.
If you like cozying up to the fireplace, then you won’t mind the misty winter weather. If you want to spend as much time on the beach as possible, you’ll want to be there in the height of the summer. Everyone has a different idea in mind for their trip, so we’re going to lay out the seasons below, so you can choose wisely.
Our Recommended Cambria Hotel
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cambria Beach Lodge
✔️ Great views
✔️ Perfect location
Best Time to Visit Cambria
Spring
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Cambria, as the hills are green and the wildflowers are in full force. It’s also a great time to go whale watching, as the gray whales are migrating north from Mexico to Alaska during this time. You may also want to check out the Cambria Art and Wine Festival, which takes place in January or February.
Cambria’s location puts it right in the cool coastal range that often sees mist and grey skies in the first part of the spring. It won’t get much warmer than about 65 degrees F at this time of year, and the nights can still be a bit chilly.
If you visit in spring, you will have to be a pretty big trooper to get in the water and enjoy it. On average, the ocean temperature in Cambria in April ranges from around 52°F (11°C) to 56°F (13°C). That’s wetsuit weather to me. If you want to do some surfing, be sure to come prepared.
Summer
Summer is peak tourist season in Cambria, so you can expect bigger crowds and much higher prices. Since it’s really a prime beachfront destination, the hotel prices reflect it year-round, but particularly in the summer because everyone’s vying for the small number of hotel rooms available.
If you’re a beach lover, and you don’t mind the crowds and prices, this is the perfect time to visit. The weather is warm and sunny, and the water is a bit more tolerable for swimming and surfing.
In July, air temperatures high of 81°F and low of 63°F. The water temp is typically around 56°F (13°C) to 60°F (16°C). These temperatures may still feel chilly for some people, but they are generally considered to be comfortable for swimming, surfing, and other water activities.
The air temps peak in Cambria usually in September, with highs of about 84°F. So even in the summer, it’s not going to get too hot to enjoy it. Do keep in mind that not all hotels on the coast have air conditioning, so check before you book if that’s important to you.
Fall
Fall is another great time to visit Cambria, as the weather is still warm and sunny, but the crowds have thinned out a bit. It’s also harvest season, so you can check out some of the local wineries and taste some of the best wines the region has to offer.
In September, it’s typical to get some surges in warm weather that are a bit uncomfortable (84-90°F), but by October the temps have cooled down to a reasonable 78°F. The fall colors also start to come out a bit along the coast, though it’s nothing spectacular.
We like visiting Cambria in the fall the best of any season. It’s the warmest, and the prices and crowds have died down. The days are still long, and you can have plenty of time to enjoy hikes and sunsets.
Winter
Winter in Cambria can be chilly and rainy, but it’s also a great time to visit if you’re looking for a quiet, peaceful getaway. You can cozy up in a bed and breakfast or inn and enjoy the beautiful scenery without the crowds. Many of the hotels have both fireplaces and hot tubs. No better time to take advantage of those amenities.
The temperatures are very mild, even in the dead of winter. You can expect mid-60s during the day and low 50s at night. That’s actually pretty good in terms of winter destinations. It’s still very pleasant for beach walks.
Winter is the perfect time to go whale watching in Cambria. From December to March, gray whales migrate south along the coast, and you can often spot them from the shore or on a whale watching tour.
Cambria is home to several wineries and tasting rooms (Cayucos Cellars and Stolo Vineyards) that offer a cozy atmosphere to enjoy a glass of wine on a chilly day.
Best Things to Do in Cambria
We have a whole post dedicated to this topic, so be sure to read our guide on the best things to do in Cambria before you go.
- If you’re looking for guided tours, check out Cambria Walks for a historical tour of the village or the Hearst Castle tour for a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of William Randolph Hearst.
- If you’re interested in wildlife, make sure to visit the elephant seal rookery, where you can observe these fascinating creatures up close.
- For art lovers, Ephraim Pottery offers a unique shopping experience with their handmade pottery pieces.
- If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend, walking along Moonstone Beach and exploring the tide pools is a must-do activity.
Where to Eat and Drink in Cambria
When it comes to dining and drinking in Cambria, you have plenty of options to choose from. Most of the places are cozy, sort of rustic local eateries. Don’t go in expecting any kind of chain restaurant. It’s not the done thing here.
Sea Chest Restaurant and Oyster Bar – This seafood restaurant is located in a historic building and offers fresh, locally sourced seafood dishes and an oyster bar. They don’t take reservations so you have to rock up and put your name on the waiting list as close to 5pm as possible. They are also cash only!
Madeline’s Restaurant and Wine Shop – This restaurant offers a farm-to-table menu with a focus on local, organic ingredients. They also have an extensive wine list and offer wine tastings. They have a nice firepit you can hang out at too, while waiting for your reservation.
Linn’s Restaurant – This family-owned restaurant, located downtown, is famous for its homemade pies and farm-to-table cuisine. They also offer gluten-free and vegetarian options.
Coffee shops – For coffee, there are two great places in downtown to visit. Lily’s Coffee House is a cozy place that offers a variety of coffee drinks, as well as tea, smoothies, and pastries. Mojo’s Village Bean is a bit smaller, but they have an extensive coffee list and one of the best Mexican Mochas I’ve ever had.
Where to Stay in Cambria
If you’re planning a trip to Cambria, you’ll need a place to stay. Fortunately, there are plenty of options to choose from, ranging from cozy inns to luxurious resorts. Here are some of the best places to stay in Cambria:
- Cambria Beach Lodge: This roadside hotel offers a unique and modern take on the traditional motel experience. The rooms are stylishly decorated and feature comfortable beds, flat-screen TVs, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The hotel is just a short walk from the beach.
- Cambria Landing Inn & Suites: This hotel offers a few different room locations but the ocean-facing ones are the best. They have a firepit and a hot tub too.
- Fireside Inn on Moonstone Beach: This charming inn is located right on the beach and offers stunning ocean views. The rooms are newly redone and modern, with fireplaces and private balconies in some units. The inn also features a complimentary breakfast and a hot tub.
No matter where you choose to stay in Cambria, you’ll be surrounded by natural beauty and plenty of things to see and do. Keep in mind that prices and availability can vary depending on the season, so be sure to book your accommodations in advance.
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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.