San Simeon Travel Guide
• A WorldWeb.com Travel Guide for San Simeon, California.
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Welcome to San Simeon!
A temperate year-round climate, picturesque scenery and outdoor adventures are all part of the San Simeon experience. This small coastal town lies in close proximity to the Pacific Ocean and is located west of Paso Robles, north of Cambria and south of Big Sur, California. The town is most famous for being the home of Hearst Castle, which was built for media-mogul William Randolph Hearst in the early 20th century and which is situated approximately 3 mi (4.8 km) north of central San Simeon. The castle has its own set of activities and attractions, including the National Geographic Theater that features a movie screen that is eight times the size of conventional movie screens for a truly amazing viewing experience. Highway 1 is another popular attraction that draws in visitors. The area's stretch of it—called the Cabrillo Highway— is designated a National Scenic Byway and offers some of the most scenic views in California.San Simeon and the surrounding area is also home to an abundance of wildlife. From March to April, San Simeon hosts the migrating grey whale, while other popular wildlife to view include elephant seals and numerous bird species such as pelicans. Plenty of exciting outdoor activities are also enjoyed in San Simeon and the nearby area. Visitors can experience everything from fishing and kayaking to hiking and camping, with the San Simeon Cove and William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach being particular hot spots for kayaking, as well for fishing, swimming and other outdoor pursuits.
Tourist Attractions
Hearst Castle
This mansion is located on 127 acres of terraces, gardens, pools and guest houses.
This mansion is located on 127 acres of terraces, gardens, pools and guest houses.
Hotels & Motels
The Morgan San Simeon
Named after Julia Morgan, the famed architect of the nearby Hearst Castle, the Morgan is an upscale boutique hotel along California's Central Coast.
Named after Julia Morgan, the famed architect of the nearby Hearst Castle, the Morgan is an upscale boutique hotel along California's Central Coast.
Tour Operators
Kayak Outfitters
Kayak Outfitters is a seasonal kayak and surf outfitting company along California's Central Coast that offers daily tours of San Simeon Cove as well as fishing tours.
Kayak Outfitters is a seasonal kayak and surf outfitting company along California's Central Coast that offers daily tours of San Simeon Cove as well as fishing tours.
Comfort Inn Beach Boardwalk Area
Conveniently located just one block from the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk!
