Hearst Castle

Things to do near Hearst Castle

At Hearst Castle in San Simeon, California, visitors can enjoy guided tours that explore the stunning architecture and rich history of the estate. In addition to touring the castle, there are opportunities for swimming in the outdoor pools. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the various art galleries showcasing impressive collections. With its breathtaking views and unique experiences, Hearst Castle is a must-visit destination for a memorable vacation.

Shopping

At Hearst Castle, you can find unique souvenirs in the Visitor Center gift shop, featuring local art and specialty items. If you're up for a drive, check out the San Luis Obispo Marketplace, where you'll discover a variety of shops and boutiques perfect for gift shopping.

Recreation

Hardie Park, located 35.4km from Hearst Castle, offers a tranquil environment for relaxation and wellness activities amidst nature. Meanwhile, Morro Bay Golf Course, 46.7km away, provides a vibrant outdoor experience for sports enthusiasts, with beautiful views and a refreshing atmosphere perfect for unwinding.

Adventure

Hike the Salmon Creek Falls Trail, 22.5km from Hearst Castle, for breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventure. Experience thrilling water sports at Oak Paradise Wakeboarding, located 17.7km away. Test your strategy skills at The Giant Chessboard, 45.1km from the castle, for a unique and fun challenge.

Nightlife

While Hearst Castle itself doesn't offer nightlife, you can catch a film at the National Geographic Theater, just 12.9km away. Enjoy a romantic cinema experience that sets the perfect mood for an entertaining evening under the stars.

Find the best attractions near Hearst Castle

Visitors to Hearst Castle can enjoy a variety of attractions, including beautiful beaches, scenic state parks, and historic lighthouses. These points of interest offer a blend of stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences, making it perfect for travelers seeking relaxation by the ocean or a deeper connection to the area's history. Whether you're exploring the coastline or immersing yourself in local culture, Hearst Castle and its surroundings provide a memorable vacation experience.

• Moonstone Beach: Enjoy a relaxing day at Moonstone Beach, just 12.9km from Hearst Castle. This picturesque beach features stunning coastal views, gentle waves, and a serene atmosphere, perfect for beachcombing and soaking up the sun.
• Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument: Located a mere 161m from Hearst Castle, this magnificent castle offers a romantic glimpse into a bygone era. Explore its opulent architecture and rich history, surrounded by lush gardens and breathtaking vistas.
• San Simeon State Park: About 11.3km from Hearst Castle, this national park invites adventure seekers to explore its diverse landscapes. Hike through scenic trails, enjoy picnicking, and take in the stunning coastal views, making it a perfect outdoor getaway.

Best time to go to Hearst Castle

The best time to visit Hearst Castle can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Hearst Castle falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Hearst Castle falls in December and February. February has average visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	53.6°F (12.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	53.4°F (11.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	56.8°F (13.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	59.4°F (15.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
June	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	65.3°F (18.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	66.2°F (19.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	66.6°F (19.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	63.5°F (17.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	57.9°F (14.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	53.4°F (11.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Hearst Castle

To save money on your trip to Hearst Castle, consider visiting between January and March when hotel prices are lower. Tuesdays are the most affordable days to stay, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia's search tool to filter results by your budget and preferred hotel type, including eco-friendly options. Additionally, save more by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal. Opt for public transportation or walking to explore the area, as this can also help reduce costs during your visit.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Hearst Castle are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Hearst Castle is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Hearst Castle is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and more. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can narrow down your choices by hotel type—checking the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Hearst Castle hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.