As the new year starts, we’re filling our calendars with everything we want to do this year around San Simeon! Here are our top picks throughout every season.
Winter
January might not seem like prime travel time but in San Simeon, it’s the best time to visit elephant seal rookeries. These enormous sea mammals are truly magnificent, and winter is birthing season for mama seals at the Piedras Blancas Rookery vista along Highway 1.
On warmer February days, bring the dogs to San Carpoforo Creek Beach in San Simeon for open space to run and play. Winter rains ensure the creek runs steadily and our canine friends love to swim in the fresh water.
Throughout March, sea mammals flourish off the coast of San Simeon. Whales, dolphins, and otters are easily spotted along the coast as they feed and play. If they’re close enough, you’ll be able to see baby otters resting on their mothers since winter is birthing season.
Spring
In April, rains tend subside and wildflowers blanket the coast. Head to Piedra Blancas Light Station for a ruggedly serene tour of the blossoming cliffs.
May can be windy along the Central Coast, which means it’s a prime spot for surfers. Kite, wind, and regular surfing are major draws to the area and even just watching surfers in action is exhilarating.
And once June arrives, it’s officially summer wine tasting time! Head to the ocean-front Hearst Ranch Winery tasting room in San Simeon for stunning wines, tasty bites, and gorgeous views.
Summer
The newly-renovated Sebastian’s General Store in San Simeon is the perfect place to stock up on picnic supplies for July 4th – or any other – celebrations. Once serving as a postal and grocery hub, the General Store now offers artisanal goods with old time ambiance.
The summer harvest comes to a peak in August and the Avocado Shack in Morro Bay has the freshest produce possible. Stock up on fresh fruits and veggies, some of which were picked just hours before. Chat with owner Michael to learn some of his favorite hiking spots in the region, too.
Speaking of which, September is prime hiking time! Check out Harmony Headlands for a peaceful hike through ranchland to the dramatic ocean cliffs. Or, check out Fiscalini Ranch Preserve in Cambria for a multitude of dog friendly trails.
Autumn
Spooky season brings the annual Scarecrow Festival in Cambria and San Simeon! Throughout October, locals show off their inventiveness with whimsical scarecrows clustered throughout both villages. Keep an eye out for photo contests and other events!
November starts the holiday bustle and is time to stock up for holiday dinners! Visit the many tasting rooms throughout Cambria and San Simeon to find the perfect pairing for every dish.
And finally, no year along the Central Coast would be complete without holiday fanfare! Perennial favorites are holiday tours at Hearst Castle, and the Cambria Christmas Market. Both start just after Thanksgiving and are must-sees.
