Location: San Simeon
Top Things to do in San Simeon
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What to do and see in San Simeon, United States: The Best Places and Tips
San Simeon (ZIP Code: 93452; area code 805) is a town and census-designated place on the Pacific coast of San Luis Obispo County, California. Its position along State Route 1 is approximately halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, each of those cities being roughly 230 miles (370 km) away. A key feature of the area is Hearst Castle, a hilltop mansion built by William Randolph Hearst in the early 20th century that is now a tourist attraction. The area is also home to a large northern elephant seal rookery, known as the Piedras Blancas rookery. It is located seven miles north of San Simeon on Highway 1.
Restaurants in San Simeon
1. Moonstone Drive
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 605 reviews
Oceanfront scenic loop that parallels Highway 1.
Reviewed By Peggy H - Delavan, Wisconsin
The ride along Moonstone Beach is absolutely gorgeous, with views of the ocean and beaches all along. The walk - mostly on a boardwalk - is stunningly beautiful. A must if you are in town or even passing through.
2. Elephant Seal Rookery
Overall Ratings
5 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By GRS-SJS - Sebastopol, California
It was a rainy day but we still walked out along the trail. The beach was wall to wall with seals but there were still a large number of elephant seals. The loud sounds coming from the elephant seals filled the beach. Great fun watching seals making they way into and out of the surf. Great parking area in size but lots of pothole puddles.
3. Piedras Blancas
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 614 reviews
Reviewed By operalover939 - Toronto, Canada
Early March is just the right time to see the rookery. The male elephant seals are at one end of the beach, the females and recently born pups are still together, lazing away the time. The rookery is little more than 25 years old, but the elephant seals have made themselves fully at home. A lovely view!
4. Fiscalini Ranch Preserve
Overall Ratings
5 based on 285 reviews
Reviewed By TravellingJan - San Carlos, California
No one knows about this place that is down a residential street in Cambria along the ocean. Amazing...just incredible wildflowers at end of February, beautiful rock formations along the jagged coast AND an accessible trail, so all can enjoy it. Wow...Don't miss it!
5. Moonstone Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
Charming and natural beach.
Reviewed By Helen R - Port Townsend, Washington
Saw plenty of seals and sea otters. Woodworking and access. Great little trail with wonderful views and wildlife.
6. Hearst Castle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 5 reviews
It took 28 years to complete William Randolph Hearst's lavish estate, which includes 165 rooms on 125 acres.
Reviewed By mattrileyx - London, United Kingdom
Really enjoyed the guided tour of the Grand Rooms (and outside of the house at the beginning). Fascinating to see what eccentric people spend their money on even if it is more kitsch than art. Only shame is that the house is actually split into 3+ separate tours and you're looking at $25 for each one.
7. William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 141 reviews
Reviewed By Perseverance - Kelowna
we stopped in for breakfast in our RV and enjoy the amazing scenery. Just down the hill from the Hearst Castle.
8. Piedras Blancas Light Station
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 158 reviews
Reviewed By sun1967flower - Tucson, Arizona
I have a renewed interest in lighthouses after taking this free tour today. Once a month in the summer they open the lighthouse and you can hike in. I think it was about four miles round trip. There were docents along the trail, and knowledgeable guides stationed in various places. There were spotting scopes set up to see whales and various other wildlife. Spectacular beauty.
9. Leffingwell Landing
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 69 reviews
This state park is a popular spot for picnics, weddings, and watching sunsets - or whales.
Reviewed By Geneen G
One of the most relaxing, gorgeous, serene, extremely beautiful places in California. I also enjoyed Morro Bay, Half Moon Bay and the Bay area. I have lived in California for many, many, many years and have worked in San Luis as well. perfection :)
10. Moonstone Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 349 reviews
Charming and natural beach.
Reviewed By Auntie-Nanuuq - City of Angels
I took some nice photos, there is a boardwalk to the beach. Most importantly there is wide open coastal access and the mcmansions are back from the street....
I didn't see the many stones for which the beach is famous, but there is a nice park with plenty of free parking.
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