San Simeon is a small and picturesque town situated on the central coast of California. It is best known for its stunning coastline and iconic landmarks, such as Hearst Castle and the Elephant Seal Rookery. It is a popular tourist destination due to its unique and diverse attractions.
The town of San Simeon is situated on the Pacific Coast Highway and is surrounded by rolling hills, rugged coastlines, and stunning beaches. It is also the gateway to the scenic Big Sur region. A variety of outdoor activities can be enjoyed in the area, including fishing, kayaking, camping, and whale watching. The nearby Hearst Castle, built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, is a popular destination. It offers tours of the estate, which includes gardens, a library, and a zoo.
San Simeon is also home to the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery, one of the largest breeding colonies of elephant seals in the world. Visitors can take guided tours and observe the seals up close. Other attractions in the area include the San Simeon State Park, Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument, and the Cambria Pines Lodge.
The town of San Simeon offers a variety of accommodations and dining options to suit all tastes. There are also plenty of shops, galleries, and other attractions to explore. With its stunning coastline and unique attractions, San Simeon is the perfect destination for a memorable and enjoyable vacation.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. San Simeon State Park: Located right next to the Pacific Ocean, San Simeon State Park is the perfect spot for beachgoers, offering camping, fishing, and a tranquil atmosphere.
2. Cambria: A quaint coastal village just a few miles south of San Simeon, Cambria is home to several charming shops and restaurants, as well as numerous outdoor activities, including kayaking, surfing, and whale watching.
3. Hearst Castle: This iconic castle was built by William Randolph Hearst and offers spectacular views of the surrounding area, including San Simeon Bay.
4. Moonstone Beach: This beautiful beach is the perfect spot to relax and take in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
5. Harmony: This small town is known for its wineries, which feature a variety of tasting rooms and tours. It's also home to the Harmony Valley Creamery, where visitors can sample local cheeses.
1. Hearst Castle: Hearst Castle is a stunning mansion built by the newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst in the early 20th century. It features a grand main building, several guest houses, and sprawling gardens, all of which make for a wonderful day out.
2. Piedras Blancas Light Station: The Piedras Blancas Light Station is an historic lighthouse near San Simeon. The light station was built in 1875 and is open to the public, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
3. Elephant Seal Rookery: The Elephant Seal Rookery is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. Here, you can watch the elephant seals as they come to breed and molt their skin.
4. San Simeon State Park: San Simeon State Park is a great place to get outdoors and explore the natural beauty of the area. Here, you can take hikes, sunbathe on the beach, or enjoy the park's many picnic areas.
5. Cambria: Cambria is a charming town located just a few miles from San Simeon. Here, you can explore the town's shops, restaurants, art galleries, and more.
1. Hearst Ranch Steakhouse: This local steakhouse offers a unique dining experience, featuring USDA Prime beef, fresh seafood, and locally-grown produce.
2. Sea Chest Oyster Bar & Restaurant: This cozy spot is the perfect place to sample the freshest seafood, including oysters, clams, mussels, and shrimp.
3. Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill: Located right on the beach, this outdoor eatery serves up burgers, sandwiches, and salads with a view of the ocean.
4. Sebastian's General Store & Cafe: This family-run spot offers up classic diner fare with an ocean view.
5. La Petite Auberge: This romantic French bistro serves up authentic dishes like steak frites, bouillabaisse, and crepes.