Day Trip to Hearst Castle: Stepping into California’s Iconic Estate

Visiting Hearst Castle in San Simeon, California, is a fantastic day trip to the California Central Coast. This colossal estate sits atop a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean and is surrounded by a 40,000-acre ranch, some of which is still owned by the Hearst family. Here’s a guide to making the most of your day at Hearst Castle.

Overview: La Cuesta Encantada (“The Enchanted Hill”)

Architect Julia Morgan designed this magnificent estate for newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. The Castle features 56 bedrooms, 61 bathrooms, 19 sitting rooms, 127 acres of gardens, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, a movie theater, an airfield, and at one time had the world’s largest private zoo. Hearst Castle was occupied by William Randolph Hearst from 1919 until 1947 and was used to entertain high-profile guests and Hollywood celebrities.

Hearst Castle San Simeon, Guided Tours

You must join a guided tour to visit the Castle, as no self-guided exploration is allowed. Tours start at 9:00 AM, with the last departing around 3:20 PM. Cars are not allowed to drive up the hill to Hearst Castle. You must board one of the buses (included with the tour) and then take the winding road to the estate. Once there, your guide will take your group on a walking castle tour.

Grand Rooms Tour (60 minutes) is ideal for first-timers, covering social rooms like the Assembly Room and Refectory. A wheelchair-accessible version of this tour is available.

Upstairs Suites Tour (60 minutes) Explores Hearst’s private quarters and guest rooms, offering intimate insights.

Cottages & Kitchen Tour (60 minutes) Visits guesthouses and the massive kitchen, great for a practical perspective.

Evening Tour Features docents in 1930s attire, best in spring or fall.

Hearst Castle Tickets and Reservations

Book tickets online up to 60 days in advance, as tours often sell out. Daytime tour tickets include the 40-minute film Hearst Castle: Building the Dream at the Visitor Center theater. Duration: Plan 3–4 hours total, including a 60–100-minute tour, a 30-minute round-trip bus ride from the Visitor Center, and time for the film, exhibits, or gift shop. Ticket information and reservations.

Location and Parking

Hearst Castle is along Highway 1, midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, and 45 minutes north of San Luis Obispo. Free parking is available at the Visitor Center at 750 Hearst Castle Road, San Simeon. Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially in summer. Public transit options include buses from nearby towns like Cambria or San Luis Obispo.

Nearest Hotels Near Hearst Castle

San Simeon Lodge is five minutes from Hearst Castle and across from San Simeon Beach. There is a heated outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant with a bar area. Being able to dine at the hotel comes in handy after a long day touring the Castle; this is a relatively isolated area of the central coast and a five-mile drive to the nearest town.

Best Western Cavalier Oceanfront Resort. This hotel is on the ocean side of Highway One. Many rooms have ocean views, a plus if you’re on a romantic getaway. There is a restaurant on-site and a beautiful lawn area with fire pits where you can enjoy the view of the Pacific Ocean. Walking paths are down to the beach; he is welcome if you travel with your dog.

The Morgan San Simeon. The hotel is named after Julia Morgan, the mastermind behind Hearst Castle. Although this hotel is on the beachside of Highway One, you will have a short walk to access the beach. A complimentary continental breakfast is offered, but for dinner, you will walk next door to the El Chorlito Mexican Restaurant or drive to Cambria for more dining options.

Hearst Castle Nearby Attractions:

Harmony California: Harmony Valley Creamery

A fascinating detail about William Randolph Hearst is his connection to the small town of Harmony. During Hearst’s peak years at Hearst Castle, from 1919 to 1947, he and his distinguished guests—from Hollywood stars to political figures—occasionally stopped at the Harmony Valley Creamery while traveling along Highway 1. They would pick up fresh buttermilk, butter, and other dairy products from the creamery, which was part of the Hearst Ranch’s dairy operations. This creamery supplied the lavish feasts at the Castle, ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality goods to support Hearst’s extravagant lifestyle—the town of Harmony website.

Cayucos, California: Laid-Back Beach Town

Cayucos, California, is a charming getaway on the Central Coast, perfect for surfing, kayaking, or relaxing on the beach. The iconic pier offers excellent fishing and stunning sunset views. Stroll downtown to explore antique shops, boutiques, and the quirky Cass House Museum. For a bite, try fresh seafood at Sea Shanty or Duckie’s Chowder House. Ruddell’s Smokehouse is a must-visit for its delicious smoked fish tacos. Don’t miss the chance to sip local wines at Stolo Vineyards or enjoy craft beers at Cayucos Brewing Company. Cayucos Chamber of Commerce website.

California Central Coast Trip Ideas.