This coastal village is home to the grand Hearst Castle, beaches with lounging elephant seals, scenic bluffs, and a historic lighthouse. It's a calm stop on California's Highway 1.
San Simeon, a small coastal village in California, is known for the grand Hearst Castle. This scenic stretch of Highway 1 also includes beaches where elephant seals lounge, coastal bluffs with Pacific views, and a historic lighthouse. The area's natural setting and wildlife make it a worthwhile stop on a California coast road trip.
Touring Hearst Castle
Hearst Castle sits on a hill overlooking the Pacific. Newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst built this elaborate estate in the early 20th century. You can only visit through guided tours, which take you through rooms filled with European art and antiques. The outdoor Neptune Pool, with its marble statues and colonnades, is a highlight. Book tours in advance, especially during summer.
Watching Elephant Seals at Piedras Blancas
Just north of San Simeon, you'll find one of the largest elephant seal colonies in North America. At the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery, you can observe these massive marine mammals from viewing platforms year-round. The peak season is December to March when females give birth and males battle for mating rights. It's a free wildlife experience.
Exploring San Simeon's Coastal Trails
The Boucher Trail provides a scenic 2-mile hike along coastal bluffs. Starting near the elephant seal viewing area, it winds past rugged cliffs and gives you chances to spot whales during migration seasons. For a shorter walk, try the San Simeon Bay Trail, which takes you through a eucalyptus grove to quiet coves.
Visiting Piedras Blancas Light Station
This lighthouse has guided ships along the Central Coast since 1875. Tours are available a few days a week and give you access to the grounds and information about the lighthouse's history and restoration efforts. The site also provides views of the coastline and migrating whales in season.
Relaxing on San Simeon's Beaches
William R. Hearst Memorial State Beach, right in town, is a calm cove good for swimming and picnicking. For a less crowded beach experience, head to San Carpoforo Beach at the northern edge of San Simeon. Its remote location means you might have the long stretch of sand almost to yourself. Arroyo Laguna Beach is popular with windsurfers when conditions are right.
Wine Tasting with a View
At Hearst Ranch Winery, located in old San Simeon near the pier, you can sample locally produced wines while learning about the Hearst family's long history in the area. The tasting room has ocean views, making it a relaxing way to end a day of sightseeing.
Camping in Hearst San Simeon State Park
If you want to spend more time in nature, Hearst San Simeon State Park has two campgrounds. San Simeon Creek Campground is in a sheltered valley with access to hiking trails. Washburn Campground is more primitive but has panoramic ocean views. Both put you close to beaches and park trails.
When to Visit San Simeon
San Simeon has a mild climate year-round, but summer can be foggy. Fall often brings clear skies and warmer temperatures, suitable for outdoor activities. Winter is the best time to see elephant seals and migrating whales. Spring brings wildflowers to coastal hikes. Regardless of when you visit, San Simeon's natural setting and unique attractions make it worth exploring beyond just a quick stop at the castle.
