Hearst Castle

Things to do near Hearst Castle

At Hearst Castle in San Simeon, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including guided tours of the estate and its opulent cottages. Reservations for tours are essential, with options for private tours available to enhance your experience. Additionally, the stunning grounds offer opportunities for swimming and exploring the picturesque surroundings, making it a delightful destination for tourists seeking a blend of history and leisure.

Shopping

In San Simeon, visit the Hearst Castle gift shop for unique souvenirs and local arts. If you're up for a drive, head to Cambria's Moonstone Beach Drive for charming shops and galleries, or explore the nearby Morro Bay for eclectic boutiques and coastal treasures.

Recreation

The National Geographic Theater offers a delightful cinema experience, perfect for family and romantic outings, located 12.9km from Hearst Castle. For sports enthusiasts, Morro Bay Golf Course, 46.7km away, provides stunning outdoor views. Alternatively, enjoy wellness and relaxation at Hardie Park, just 35.4km from the castle.

Adventure

Experience the breathtaking Salmon Creek Falls Trail, a captivating hiking adventure 22.5km from Hearst Castle, offering stunning outdoor scenery. Alternatively, enjoy the excitement of Oak Paradise Wakeboarding, located 17.7km away, perfect for water sports enthusiasts. Don't miss the unique Giant Chessboard, a fun activity 45.1km from the castle.

Nightlife

While Hearst Castle itself doesn’t offer nightlife, nearby San Simeon has charming spots like the Cavalier Oceanfront Resort's bar for a relaxed drink. For a lively atmosphere, travel a short distance to Cambria, where you can find pubs and restaurants with live music and a vibrant local scene.

Find the best attractions near Hearst Castle

When visiting Hearst Castle, immerse yourself in the stunning scenery and cultural experiences it offers. Explore nearby beaches, the picturesque Hearst Castle State Park, and the historic lighthouse. Consider taking a guided tour of Hearst Castle for a deeper insight, or plan a day trip to fully appreciate the majestic surroundings. Don't miss the opportunity to discover the unique charm of this iconic landmark and its captivating landscape.

• San Simeon Pier: This charming jetty offers a serene spot for leisurely walks and fishing. Located 4.8km from Hearst Castle, its historical significance and picturesque views make it perfect for a relaxing excursion by the coast.
• Piedras Blancas Lighthouse: Situated 11.3km away, this historic lighthouse stands as a symbol of maritime culture. Visitors can enjoy stunning coastal vistas and learn about the rich history of navigation and coastal life in the region.
• Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument: Just 161m from Hearst Castle, this grand estate exudes romance and culture. Explore its beautiful gardens and opulent architecture, immersing yourself in the lavish lifestyle of its original owner, William Randolph Hearst.

Best time to go to Hearst Castle

The best time to visit Hearst Castle can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Hearst Castle falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Hearst Castle falls in December and February. February has average visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	53.6°F (12.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	53.4°F (11.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	56.8°F (13.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	59.4°F (15.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
June	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	65.3°F (18.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	66.2°F (19.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	66.6°F (19.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	63.5°F (17.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	57.9°F (14.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	53.4°F (11.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average

Tips to save on your trip to Hearst Castle

• Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Hearst Castle.
• Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically January to March) for more affordable package holidays to Hearst Castle.
• Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
• Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.