World-renowned architectural historian, Lord John Julius Norwich, was moved to say that "Hearst Castle is a palace in every sense of the word"
The Piedras Blancas Rookery is the only elephant seal rookery in the world that is easily accessible, free, and open to the public all year long.
San Simeon beaches are among the most spectacular in California. The majority of coastline is uninhabited, unspoiled, and completely beautiful.
Built in 1875, and still in operation today, the Piedras Blancas Light Station warns mariners of the rugged, rocky coastline.Tours are available year-round.
Whether your preferred hike involves a view of the coastline, country or mountains, you will have no problem finding a path that matches your skill level and desired scenery.
Traveling the winding ranch road to Hearst Castle, guests once passed through fenced fields populated with many species of exotic wild animals
Need help planning your San Simeon escape? Have questions about everything there is to see, do and experience here?
Explore the Coastal Discovery Trail Along Highway 1 The new Coastal Discovery Trail is a curated collection of activities that highlights nature, history and local experts. Make the most of your travels to the Central Coast by using the resources and links below to find the best beaches, outdoor activities, historic sites, wildlife viewing […]
Sebastian's General Store has carried on through the generations. Built in 1852 at the peak of the whaling industry, the Sebastian Brothers provided goods and services to whalers, fishermen, miners and neighboring ranches.
Take a break from busy schedules in San Simeon by booking a relaxing experience at one of our local spas. Indulge yourself in a variety of wellness and relaxation treatments and services. After hiking and exploring the coast, round out the perfect beach vacation with luxury treatments and services inspired by the local community. Whether […]
A 1 hour ride to the top of the ridge high above sea level. From the Ragged Point Plaza, we take you up in a Polaris Ranger with a driver/guide to the top of the mountain & return to Highway level. Be awestruck by the views of the Coastline from Ragged Point to the Lighthouse at Piedras […]
San Simeon is reliable and popular in the spring among local surfers, with wide beach breaks and chest-high swells.
A Museum Like No Other The estate popularly known as Hearst Castle is a National Historic Landmark and California Historical Landmark located on the Central Coast of California, about 250 miles north of Los Angeles. It was designed by architect Julia Morgan between 1919 and 1947 as a residence for William Randolph Hearst, who died […]
No matter what you’re looking for, San Simeon Beach’s tide pools are teaming with plenty of sea life to observe and explore.
The Whale Trail is a series of sites where the public may view orcas, other cetaceans and marine mammals from shore.
After a day of sightseeing and exploring the San Simeon coast, fuel up at one of these classic local favorites. From quick and casual, family friendly eateries to fine dining worthy of a date night, taste the best of the Central Coast’s food and drinks at San Simeon. No matter your craving, San Simeon is […]
Home to the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and Hearst San Simeon State Park, San Simeon is the perfect spot to observe wildlife in their element. Hike along family-friendly coastal bluff trails with lookout points to view seabirds and marine life, explore nature up close at tidepools full of life and observe the elephant seals […]
The day use area offers 24 picnic sites, 150 parking spaces, restrooms, water faucets, barbecue grill stands and easy beach access.
The winds around San Simeon beaches offer an excellent chance to take part in wind sports such as windsurfing and kiteboarding.
An insider’s guide to everything you need to know about San Simeon’s main attraction. Read More >