Are you looking for a relaxing getaway but worried about travel restrictions? If you’re in search of a unique destination, San Simeon may just be the escape you’re looking for. Located on California’s Central Coast, San Simeon boasts picturesque beaches, stunning vistas, and a rich history that’s sure to captivate any visitor.
However, with the current global pandemic, is visiting San Simeon even possible? The short answer is yes, but as with most things in the current climate, there are a few things to consider before packing your bags. From guidelines on social distancing to travel restrictions and changes in operating hours for local businesses, it’s important to understand what to expect when planning your trip to San Simeon.
Despite these changes, San Simeon remains a gem of a destination for those in need of a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures or a laid-back beach vacation, there’s something for everyone in San Simeon. So grab your sunscreen, pack a picnic, and let’s explore what makes this coastal town a must-visit destination for your next getaway.
Visiting San Simeon’s historic Hearst Castle
San Simeon, nestled along California’s breathtaking Central Coast, is a destination treasured for its natural beauty and rich cultural history. One of its crown jewels is the world-renowned Hearst Castle, once the residence of media mogul, William Randolph Hearst.
- How to get there:
- What to expect:
- Tour options:
While San Simeon is a small town without its own airport, it is easily accessible by car, with several major highways leading to the area, including Highway 1 and Highway 101. Visitors can also take the scenic Pacific Coast Highway, boasting some of the most stunning ocean views in the world.
Hearst Castle is a historical mansion perched high upon the hilltops of San Simeon, boasting 165 rooms, 127 acres of gardens, terraces, and pools. A visit to Hearst Castle will give you an up-close look at the opulent lifestyle of the rich and famous in the 1920s and 1930s. From the ornate ceilings to the art-filled rooms, it’s a feast for the eyes. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle and its surrounding gardens, each with its own charm and unique features.
There are several tour options for visitors to choose from, depending on their preferences and interests. The Grand Rooms Tour focuses on the spectacular architectural features of the main building, while the Upstairs Suites Tour provides visitors with a glimpse into the luxurious living quarters of the Hearst family. The Evening Tour allows visitors to experience the castle after hours, with the interiors and exteriors of the castle illuminated by magical lighting.
A visit to Hearst Castle is the perfect way to explore San Simeon’s rich history and cultural heritage. You’ll feel transported to a different era as you marvel at the stunning architecture, explore the lush gardens, and learn about William Randolph Hearst’s fascinating life. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience.
Book your tour now and get ready for a trip back in time.
| Location | Ticket Price | Tour Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Hearst Castle, San Simeon, CA | $25-$30 per adult depending on tour type | 9:00 am – 4:00 pm daily (hours vary by tour type) |
Don’t forget to check the official Hearst Castle website for the latest updates, tour schedules, and ticket prices.
Exploring the surrounding wildlife at San Simeon State Park
San Simeon State Park is one of the most biodiverse spots on the California coast. It provides a home to a variety of wildlife species, including sea otters, elephant seals, dolphins, and birds. Exploring the park’s wildlife is a great way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
- Sea otters: One of the main attractions of the park, sea otters, can be spotted floating on their backs or diving for food such as crabs and clams in the waters surrounding the park.
- Elephant seals: San Simeon State Park is home to one of the largest elephant seal colonies in the world. These massive creatures can be seen lounging on the beaches and sand dunes.
- Birds: The park offers a variety of habitats that attract a vast array of bird species, including peregrine falcons, pelicans, and black oystercatchers.
It’s important to remember that the wildlife in the park is wild and should be observed from a safe distance. Visitors should never interfere with the animals or attempt to feed them.
To learn more about the park’s wildlife, visitors can take part in the park’s ranger-led programs such as the Elephant Seal Walk and Talk or the Tidepool Talk.
| Animals to look for in San Simeon State Park | Best time to see them |
|---|---|
| Sea otters | Year-round, but easier to see in the morning and late afternoon |
| Elephant seals | December through March (breeding season), but can be seen year-round |
| Birds | Year-round, but migrations occur in spring and fall |
Exploring the wildlife at San Simeon State Park is a must-do experience for anyone visiting the area. With so much to see and learn, visitors are sure to leave with a greater appreciation for the natural wonders of the park.
Taking a Coastal Drive Down the Scenic Highway 1
A road trip along Highway 1 is one of the most scenic drives in California. It’s a must-do when visiting San Simeon. The highway stretches along the coast for over 600 miles, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, towering cliffs, and picturesque beaches. Whether you’re driving from San Francisco or Los Angeles, don’t miss the opportunity to visit San Simeon along the way.
- McWay Falls: One of the most popular stops on the drive is McWay Falls. This 80-foot waterfall is located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and is accessible via a short hike. The view of the falls tumbling onto a secluded beach is a sight you won’t forget.
- Bixby Bridge: Another iconic spot along Highway 1 is Bixby Bridge. This 714-foot long bridge offers panoramic views of the coast and is an Instagram-worthy photo spot. Stop and snap a picture before continuing on your way.
- Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery: A unique attraction near San Simeon is the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery. During winter and spring months, hundreds of elephant seals come to the beach to mate and give birth. You can watch the seals from observation points along the beach.
Driving along Highway 1 is not just about the destinations, but the journey itself. The winding road, dramatic coastline, and changing landscapes will keep you entertained throughout the drive. Take your time, make stops at vista points, and enjoy the scenery.
If you’re planning a road trip to San Simeon, make sure a drive along Highway 1 is on your itinerary. It’s an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of California’s natural beauty.
| Distance | Driving Time |
|---|---|
| From San Francisco to San Simeon | ~4 hours and 30 minutes |
| From Los Angeles to San Simeon | ~4 hours and 40 minutes |
With easy access from two major cities, there’s no excuse not to take a scenic drive down Highway 1. It’s one of the best ways to see San Simeon and experience the beauty of California’s coastline.
Learning about California history at the San Luis Obispo Mission
If you want to learn more about California history, a visit to the San Luis Obispo Mission is a must. Founded in 1772 by Spanish Franciscan friars, the mission played a significant role in the colonization and evangelization of California.
- Take a guided tour: One of the best ways to learn about the history of the mission is by taking a guided tour. Knowledgeable guides will take you through the grounds of the mission and teach you about the history and significance of each area.
- Visit the museum: The museum at the mission has a variety of exhibits that showcase the history of the mission and the surrounding area. You can see artifacts from the Chumash Native Americans who lived in the area before the arrival of the Spanish, as well as items from the mission’s early days.
- Attend a mass: The mission is still an active Catholic church, and attending a mass is a unique way to experience the history and spirituality of the mission.
Overall, visiting the San Luis Obispo Mission is a great way to learn about California history and experience the beauty of one of the state’s most historic landmarks.
Exploring the quaint town of Cambria, just south of San Simeon
If you’re visiting San Simeon, you simply can’t miss exploring the charming town of Cambria just to the south. This picturesque coastal village is rich in history, filled with unique shops and galleries, and surrounded by gorgeous natural scenery. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Cambria:
- Shop and stroll along Main Street – Cambria’s Main Street is full of quaint boutiques and galleries, perfect for a leisurely afternoon of browsing and shopping. Don’t miss out on the famous Nit Wit Ridge – a local landmark that’s been called the “anti-Hearst Castle”.
- Take a walk on the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk – This boardwalk is one of California’s most iconic places, spanning along the shoreline and providing fantastic views of the ocean.
- Visit the Cambria Center for the Arts – Serving as the heart of the town’s creative community, you’ll find all sorts of exhibits, shows, and performances here throughout the year.
But that’s not all – Cambria is home to many other unique places to discover. When traveling to the town, make sure to also check out:
- Piedras Blancas Light Station – a beautiful 19th-century lighthouse just a few miles north of Cambria.
- The Fiscalini Ranch Preserve – A sprawling nature preserve that stretches along the coast and comprises of 380 acres of pristine natural scenery for hiking and exploration.
- Wineries and Tasting Rooms – Cambria is surrounded by some of the best wineries in Central California, make sure to check out the tasting rooms.
Travel Tips for Exploring Cambria
When planning your trip to Cambria, there are a few things that will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit:
- Dress warmly – The town can get cool and breezy, so it’s best to bring a light jacket or sweater with you.
- Wear comfortable shoes – You’ll be doing a lot of walking in Cambria, especially if you want to explore all the sights and landmarks.
- Bring cash – While most places in Cambria accept credit cards, it’s always good to have some cash on hand just in case.
In Summary
Exploring the quaint town of Cambria, just south of San Simeon is a must-do when visiting the area. From strolling the Main Street shops and galleries to hiking the nearby natural preserves and enjoying the wineries and tasting rooms, there’s plenty to do and see in this charming village.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Rich in history | We can’t think of any con |
| Fantastic views | |
| Unique boutiques and galleries | |
| Great for Families |
No matter how long you’re staying in the area, make sure to set aside a day to explore everything that Cambria has to offer. You won’t regret it!
Witnessing elephant seals sunbathing on the nearby beach
San Simeon is not just about the Hearst Castle. You can also witness a unique and unforgettable experience – observing the elephant seals sunbathing on the nearby beach.
- Elephant seals are the largest seals in the Northern Hemisphere, and their impressive size will leave you in awe.
- The best time to see them is during the breeding season, which is from December to March. During this time, the males fight to establish dominance and access to females.
- You can see them lying on the beach, basking in the sun, and occasionally moving around to assert their territory.
If you want to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures, there are guided tours available that will take you to the restricted areas of the beach where you can witness the seals in all their glory. These tours are organized by knowledgeable volunteers who will provide you with fascinating information about the seals and their habitat.
It is important to remember that elephant seals are wild animals, and it is essential to keep a safe distance from them and respect their space. Do not approach them, touch them, or feed them, as it can cause harm to both you and the seals.
| Location | Distance from Hearst Castle |
|---|---|
| Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery | 5 miles north of Hearst Castle |
| San Simeon State Park | 2 miles south of Hearst Castle |
Witnessing elephant seals sunbathing on the nearby beach is an incredible experience that should not be missed when visiting San Simeon. It is a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent animals in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior and environment. So be sure to add it to your itinerary when planning your trip to San Simeon.
Taking a boat tour of the famous Piedras Blancas lighthouse and wildlife sanctuary
If you’re looking for an adventure on your next trip to San Simeon, a boat tour of the Piedras Blancas Lighthouse and Wildlife Sanctuary should be at the top of your list. Located just 10 minutes north of Hearst Castle, this tour will take you on a journey through history and wildlife.
- The lighthouse was first lit in 1875 and has been operational ever since. It stands at 70 feet tall and guides ships along the coast of California.
- The Piedras Blancas Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of marine life, including elephant seals, sea lions, and whales.
- During the boat tour, you’ll have the opportunity to see these animals up close and learn about their habitat and behavior from an expert guide.
In addition to the wildlife, you’ll also learn about the history of the area from your guide. The tour will take you past sea caves and rock formations that have been around for millions of years, and you’ll hear stories about the people who lived and worked in the area during the 1800s.
The boat tour is offered year-round, but the best time to visit is during the winter months when the elephant seals are congregating on the beaches. Be sure to dress warmly and bring a camera to capture all the amazing sights.
| Boat Tour Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Tour length | 2 hours |
| Cost | $35 per person |
| Departure time | 10:00am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, and 4:00pm |
| Departure location | 6990 Moonstone Beach Dr, Cambria, CA 93428 |
Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see some of California’s most amazing wildlife and history. Book your boat tour today!
Can You Still Visit San Simeon: FAQs
1. Can I still visit Hearst Castle?
Yes, Hearst Castle is currently open for guided tours. However, due to COVID-19, some restrictions apply, and advanced reservations are required.
2. Are the tours of Hearst Castle still available?
Yes, guided tours of the Hearst Castle are still being offered. However, a limited number of people are allowed on each tour, and the availability of tours can change depending on the current COVID-19 situation.
3. What are the safety measures taken at Hearst Castle?
In response to COVID-19, Hearst Castle has implemented new safety guidelines and protocols, including mandatory face coverings, social distancing, and frequent sanitation and cleaning.
4. Can I still visit San Simeon State Park?
Yes, San Simeon State Park is currently open for outdoor activities, including hiking and camping. However, some facilities, such as visitor centers and restrooms, may have limited accessibility.
5. What are the rules for visiting the Elephant Seal Rookery?
The Elephant Seal Rookery at San Simeon State Park is open year-round, and visitors are allowed to view the seals from a designated observation area. However, visitors are not allowed to touch or approach the seals.
6. Are there any current travel restrictions for visiting San Simeon?
At this time, there are no travel restrictions for visiting San Simeon. However, visitors are encouraged to follow all state and local guidelines regarding COVID-19 safety and precautions.
7. What other attractions are open in San Simeon?
In addition to Hearst Castle and San Simeon State Park, there are several other attractions open in San Simeon, including the Coastal Discovery Center, Piedras Blancas Light Station, and Moonstone Beach Park.
Closing Thoughts
We hope this article has answered some of your questions about visiting San Simeon during these uncertain times. Remember, when planning your trip, it is essential to follow all safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Thanks for reading, and we hope to see you in San Simeon soon!