Autumn in San Simeon offers a delightful escape for travelers and their furry companions. Tucked along California’s Central Coast, this charming coastal community invites you and your pup to embrace cooler days, sunny beaches, and breathtaking trails. Here’s your guide to making the most of a pet-friendly fall getaway in San Simeon.
Note: Dogs are permitted only on leash at the following locations: William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach, Jungle Ranch Trail off of Lone Palm Drive, Moonstone Beach Boardwalk, and all campgrounds and parking lots. Dogs are prohibited at the following locations: The Boucher Trail, San Simeon Pier, San Simeon Creek Trail, San Simeon Creek Beach leading directly from the campgrounds, Washburn Day Use Beach, Leffingwell Landing, Santa Rosa Creek Beach, and wherever posted. Learn more about Visiting CA State Parks With Your Dog
Coastal Comforts at William R. Hearst Memorial Beach
Let your pup dip their paws in the surf, chase waves along the shoreline, or lounge on soft sands at William R. Hearst Memorial Beach. This welcoming spot features essential amenities—picnic tables, BBQ stands, restrooms, and ample parking—for a seamless beachside outing. Whether you’re picnicking or exploring tide pools together, it’s the perfect setting for fall’s gentle breezes and scenic views.
Scenic Trails Tailored for Tails
Get your steps in together, the Jungle Ranch Trail—nestled within Hearst San Simeon State Park—provides a 2.2-mile out-and-back trail that winds through wildflower-covered terrain. Fall’s crisp air makes it an ideal time for slower, more immersive hikes with your canine companion.
Respectful Wildlife Watching
Bring your dog along for an unforgettable visit to the Elephant Seal Vista Point—a deck viewpoint where leashed pups are welcome to watch elephant seals in their natural habitat. It’s a rare opportunity to pair intimate wildlife observation with peaceful coastline walks.
San Simeon’s Neighbors: Explore Cambria Together
Mild weather unlocks endless possibilities in San Simeon and nearby Cambria. Venture to the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve—440 acres of lush coastal landscapes and miles of dog-friendly trails, teeming with wild flora and birdlife. If your pup prefers to stay close to the surf, the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk offers sea air and scenic strolls—though note that access to the sandy beach itself may have restrictions.
And if you’re visiting in October, don’t miss the Cambria Scarecrow Festival. This quirky, colorful event transforms the village streets into an outdoor art walk filled with imaginative scarecrows. It’s a fun way to get your steps in with your pup while capturing creative seasonal photo opportunities together.
Why Fall Is the Perfect Season for Pet-Friendly San Simeon
- Gentle Temperatures: Enjoy mild, sweater-worthy weather that keeps your pup energized and happy on outdoor adventures.
- Fewer Crowds: With the summer rush faded, beaches and trails invite tranquility—a peaceful playground for you and your furry friend.
- Seasonal Charm: Between golden sunsets, wildlife encounters, and unique events like the Cambria Scarecrow Festival, fall offers an extra dose of magic.
Whether you’re soaking up the seaside or wandering wildflower-strewn paths, San Simeon in fall invites you and your dog to rediscover the joys of travel—together. Learn more on our Pet-Friendly Adventures page.