Hearst Castle at San Simeon is the one place you must see when visiting the California central coast. Hearst Castle is located about nine miles north of Cambria, California along Highway one. Hearst Castle was occupied by William Randolph Hearst from 1919 until 1947 and was used to entertain high profile guests and Hollywood celebrities. The huge estate is about five miles inland and sits atop a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Hearst Castle is surrounded by a 40,000 acre ranch some of which is still owned by the Hearst family. Your trip to San Simeon begins at the visitor center where you can purchase tickets for the various tours. Tours depart about every 30 minutes and only during the busy summer season will there ever be a need to make reservations. The night time tour is popular and may sell out all others you should be able to get tickets with little or no waiting. You can not drive up the hill to Hearst Castle you must board one of the buses (included with the tour) and then take the winding road up to the estate. Once there your guide takes your group on a walking tour of the castle. First time visitors can get the most out of their trip by taking the "Experience Tour" which covers all the major highlights and gives you a good overall view of Hearst Castle. If this is your second trip then there are several other tours which visit different areas of the estate. Tours are not cheap a family of four will end up spending close to $75.00 for a one hour and 45 minute tour. Throw in the souvenir picture they sell you at the end of the tour and your looking at a 100 bucks to see the castle. On the other hand this is really a fascinating place to see and if you have driven all the way to Hearst Castle go ahead, spend the bucks and enjoy.
Hearst Castle Swimming Pool
Hotels near Hearst Castle at San Simeon - Just three miles south of Hearst Castle
The Best Western Cavalier Oceanfront Resort
The Best Western Cavalier Oceanfront Resort - Cambria and San Simeon's only oceanfront accommodation, is located just three miles south of Hearst Castle. A destination for discovery and unbelievable natural beauty, where classic luxury and gracious hospitality ensure you a memorable stay. More information
 
San Simeon Lodge
San Simeon Lodge - Located in a resort area, San Simeon Lodge is the closest hotel to Hearst Castle. The property is across from the San Simeon Beach on the beautiful central coast. The hotel is just 3 miles north of the charming village of Cambria. All the hotel rooms are newly remodeled and some ocean view rooms. More information
 
Sea Breeze Inn
Sea Breeze Inn is located on Highway One near several restaurants and just down the street from the San Simeon Chamber of Commerce visitors center. At the visitors center you will be able to get more information on what to do while visiting San Simeon. Pool and in room coffee makers. More information

Hearst Castle Facts -
The total square footage of the castles on the estate exceeds 90,000 square feet (8,300 m²). The area of Casa Grande, the "castle", is 60,645 square feet (5,634 m²). - Hearst Castle joined the National Register of Historic Places on June 22, 1972 and became a United States National Historic Landmark on May 11, 1976. - Hearst Castle is located approximately 250 miles (400 km) from both Los Angeles and San Francisco, and 43 miles (69 km) from San Luis Obispo. - Hearst Castle was designed by architect Julia Morgan for newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. - Hearst Castle featured 56 bedrooms, 61 bathrooms, 19 sitting rooms, 127 acres (0.51 km2) of gardens, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, a movie theater, an airfield, and the world's largest private zoo.

Hearst Castle Visitor Center
Hearst Castle
Campgrounds near San Simeon
San Simeon State Park - Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Pacific Ocean while camping at San Simeon Creek Campground (water + showers) or Washburn Campground (water fill-up in lower campground + no showers). Closest camping to Hearst Castle.
Morro Bay State Park- Morro Bay State Park features lagoon and natural bay habitat. The bay's most prominent landmark is Morro Rock. The park has opportunities for sailing fishing, hiking, and bird watching. Pismo Beach 16 miles.
Montana De Oro State Park - Park features over 8,000 acres of rugged cliffs, secluded sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, canyons, and hills. Naturalists and backpackers enjoy the solitude and freedom found along the park trails. Pismo Beach 13 miles.
Hearst Castle is located on California Highway 1, about halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Driving time from either city is four to six hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Hearst Castle San Simeon, CA 93452 750 Hearst Castle Road
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