Hearst Castle Tours and Activities

Things to do near Hearst Castle

At Hearst Castle, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including guided tours of the opulent estate, which showcase its stunning architecture and artwork. The castle offers different tour packages, allowing guests to explore the grand rooms and picturesque gardens. Additionally, swimming in the outdoor pools is a popular highlight, providing a unique experience amidst the scenic views. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the rich history and beauty of this iconic Californian landmark.

Shopping

For unique souvenirs, visit the Hearst Castle Gift Shop, where you’ll find exclusive items inspired by the estate. If you're up for a drive, check out the Cambria Farmers Market for local crafts and fresh produce, or the San Luis Obispo Downtown Centre for a broader shopping experience.

Recreation

At Hardie Park, 35.4km from Hearst Castle, enjoy serene walking trails and peaceful picnic spots perfect for relaxation. Meanwhile, the Morro Bay Golf Course, located 46.7km away, offers a vibrant outdoor atmosphere where you can unwind while playing a round of golf amidst stunning coastal views.

Adventure

Embark on the Salmon Creek Falls Trail, a 22.5km hike offering stunning outdoor scenery and adventure vibes. For water sports enthusiasts, Oak Paradise Wakeboarding, located 17.7km away, provides thrilling water activities. Don't miss the Giant Chessboard, 45.1km from Hearst Castle, for a unique outdoor experience.

Nightlife

After a day at Hearst Castle, catch a film at the National Geographic Theater, located 12.9km away. It offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for families and couples alike, blending entertainment with romance for a delightful night out.

Find the best attractions near Hearst Castle

When visiting Hearst Castle in San Simeon, you'll find a variety of attractions that cater to beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, and culture seekers. Explore the stunning beaches, nearby state parks, and reserves while indulging in the grandeur of Hearst Castle itself. Be sure to book your castle tour and tickets for top attractions to make the most of your experience in this picturesque region.

• Moonstone Beach: Experience the tranquil beauty of Moonstone Beach, located 12.9km from Hearst Castle. With its stunning coastal views, smooth pebbles, and gentle waves, it's perfect for relaxation, beachcombing, and watching the sunset.
• San Simeon State Park: Just 11.3km away, San Simeon State Park offers adventurous hiking trails and breathtaking scenery. Explore diverse landscapes, from coastal bluffs to lush woodlands, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
• Piedras Blancas Lighthouse: Immerse yourself in history at Piedras Blancas Lighthouse, located 11.3km from Hearst Castle. This iconic landmark not only showcases spectacular coastal views but also offers a glimpse into the region's maritime heritage.

Best time to go to Hearst Castle

The best time to visit Hearst Castle is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). December and February are its coolest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny.

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 (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	59.4°F (15.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	65.3°F (18.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	66.2°F (19.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	66.6°F (19.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	63.5°F (17.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	57.9°F (14.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	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 on your trip to Hearst Castle, consider visiting between January and March when accommodation prices are lower. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are typically more expensive. Use Expedia to compare options and filter for eco-certified hotels to find budget-friendly choices. Bundling your hotel with flights and activities through an Expedia package can also lead to savings. Keep an eye out for rewards programs and best price guarantees to maximise your budget while enjoying the stunning sights around Hearst Castle.

• 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: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you're after. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Hearst Castle hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.