(& Everything to Do While You’re There)
If you’re dreaming of a scenic beach escape, look no further than San Simeon. This peaceful coastal destination along California’s iconic Highway 1 offers everything from quiet coves and tide pools to fishing spots and wildlife lookouts. Whether you’re visiting solo, with family, or with your four-legged companion, San Simeon’s beaches deliver a perfect balance of relaxation and outdoor adventure.
Paddle Along the Pacific
Start your day on the water with a kayak ride along San Simeon’s dramatic coastline. With calm, clear waters in spring and summer, this is one of the best ways to take in the area’s natural beauty. Beginners and experienced kayakers alike will enjoy gliding past kelp forests, sea caves, and coastal cliffs all while spotting seabirds, sea lions, or even a curious otter.
Cast a Line
Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty to love about San Simeon’s shores. Try surf fishing for perch or white croaker, or head out offshore to catch rockfish and lingcod. San Simeon Pier remains a local favorite, especially since no fishing license is required. It’s a great way to spend time outdoors, whether you’re hoping for a big catch or just enjoying the ocean breeze.
Unwind and Explore
San Simeon’s beaches offer the perfect blend of beauty and accessibility. W.R. Hearst Memorial State Beach is a well-loved spot for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking, complete with easy parking and restrooms. Just down the road, Pico Creek is a local gem with a wide, sandy shoreline ideal for long walks, beachcombing, and views of the open Pacific. Both spots are great for families and offer that peaceful, uncrowded vibe that San Simeon is known for.
Explore the Tide Pools
For a truly unique experience, head to the tide pools during low tide. These shallow, rocky pockets are teeming with sea life starfish, sea anemones, mussels, and hermit crabs, to name a few. It’s a fun and educational activity for all ages, especially when timed with early mornings or late afternoons. Just remember to tread lightly and look, don’t touch, these delicate ecosystems deserve our respect.
Wild Encounters by the Water
San Simeon is one of the few places in California where wildlife feels truly wild. Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery offers front-row views of these massive marine mammals all year long. Spring is also an excellent time for spotting migrating whales, playful otters, and dolphins offshore. Birdwatchers and wildlife lovers will want to keep their binoculars handy not just for the coast, but for surprises inland too, like the resident zebras that roam near Hearst Castle.
Pet-Friendly Coastal Fun
Your dog is welcome to join the adventure. San Simeon offers multiple pet-friendly beaches and trails, along with lodging and restaurant options that accommodate pets. Whether you’re walking along the shore, watching the sunset, or enjoying a coastal hike, your pup will feel right at home.