It isn't true to say that San Simeon would not exist if it were not for William Randolph Hearst.
However the Hearst State Historical Monument at San Simeon, "Hearst' Castle", is the most famous
tourist attraction in this area of the Central Coast. William Hearst the famous newspaper baron
made his fortune from publishing. He used some of it to create his vision, a US castle that would
rival those found in Europe. Most of the castle' and grounds were designed by San Francisco
architect Julia Morgan and are a truly memorable sight to see. Although Hearst Castle ranks
as the number one tourist attraction on the Central Coast, there are many other wonderful places
to visit.
Halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles along scenic Highway One is a spectacular meeting
of land and sea that is an integral part of the California State Parks system on the Central Coast.
San Simeon State Park - In this breathtaking region of beaches and waterfalls redwoods march down
to the sea, wildlife thrives along the rugged coastline, and sand dunes protect endangered plants and
animals as part of this natural treasure. San Simeon State Park is located 35 miles north of San
Luis Obispo on Highway 1, and 5 miles south of the Hearst Castle. Recreational activities include
camping, picnicking, hiking, fishing, surfing, beachcombing, bird watching and whale watching.
San Simeon has many fine restaurants, gift shops, and miles of raw unspoiled beaches. Recreational
resources include famous Pico Creek surf spot, ocean fishing, arrow head hunting and of course beach
walking.
William Randolph Hearst Memorial State Beach The beach is located near the historic town of San
Simeon along Highway One and gives visitors the opportunity to hike, swim, fish and beachcomb. A
popular beach spot, this protected cove also offers visitors pier fishing and deep-sea fishing from
chartered boats. Ocean kayaking is also popular. Picnic tables, barbecue grills and restrooms are
available. This day use area offers 24 picnic sites, 150 parking spaces, restrooms, water faucets,
barbecue grill stands and easy beach access. Recreational activities include picnicking, swimming,
fishing, boating, kayaking and sunbathing. There is a kayak and boogie board concession in operation
with equipment for rent.
After you have read and digested all we have written about this wonderful holiday destination
we will help you with every facet of planning, booking and savouring that tingle of anticipation
that comes with a major trip to the Golden State. We will offer you the latest offers and best
deals for your cheap flight to California, Hotels in California, best-priced tickets for Disneyland
California, all your accommodation in California if you are traveling, plus the cheapest car hire
in California, a guide to the wine country with a guide to the best California wine to sample.
There is an exclusive guide to the national parks at Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon. We leave
nothing to chance for your holidays in California so while you are "California Dreaming"; we are
constantly updating the offers in our California guide so that you can rest happy "on such a
winter's day!
