Hearst Castle Tours and Activities

Things to do near Hearst Castle

At Hearst Castle in San Simeon, you can enjoy a range of activities, including guided castle tours that explore the estate's opulence and history. Don't miss the evening tours for a magical experience under the stars. Swimming is also available, providing a refreshing way to appreciate the stunning surroundings. A visit to Hearst Castle promises an unforgettable vacation filled with fascinating insights and breathtaking views.

Shopping

At Hearst Castle, you can enjoy unique gift shops offering local art and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the Cambria Pines Lodge Gift Shop, about 9.7km away, or head to the San Luis Obispo Marketplace, approximately 64.4km away, for a wider selection of shops.

Recreation

Explore Hardie Park, a serene recreation park 35.4km from Hearst Castle, perfect for relaxation and wellness activities amidst nature. For a different vibe, enjoy a round at Morro Bay Golf Course, located 46.7km away, where you can embrace the outdoors and engage in sports.

Adventure

Embark on the Salmon Creek Falls Trail, a stunning 22.5km from Hearst Castle, where you can hike amidst breathtaking scenery. For water enthusiasts, Oak Paradise Wakeboarding, located 17.7km away, offers thrilling water sports. Don’t miss the Giant Chessboard, a unique activity 45.1km from the castle.

Nightlife

Catch a flick at the National Geographic Theater, about 12.9km from Hearst Castle, where the entertainment and romance vibes set the perfect mood for a night out. Enjoy a cinematic experience in a charming setting, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Find the best attractions near Hearst Castle

Explore the stunning Hearst Castle and its surrounding attractions, including beautiful beaches and scenic state parks. For a taste of local culture, visit the historic lighthouse nearby. Don’t miss the Hearst Castle Information Centre to enhance your experience, and consider stopping by the various points of interest like Hearst Castle 2 and Hearst Castle 9 for a deeper dive into the history and architecture. Perfect for those seeking a blend of beach relaxation and cultural exploration.

• Moonstone Beach: Enjoy the laid-back beach vibes at Moonstone Beach, located 12.9km from Hearst Castle. This picturesque spot offers stunning views and a chance to relax on the sandy shores, perfect for unwinding or a leisurely stroll.
• Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument: Just 161m away, this grand castle boasts romance and culture. Explore the opulent architecture and lush gardens, immersing yourself in the lavish lifestyle of its original owner, William Randolph Hearst.
• San Simeon State Park: Located 11.3km from Hearst Castle, this national park is an adventurer's dream. With breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife watching, it's a fantastic spot to connect with nature.

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 accommodation prices are lower, particularly on Tuesdays. Avoid weekends, especially Saturdays, for cheaper rates. Use Expedia to compare prices, set your budget, and filter for eco-friendly options. Look for package deals that combine flights, accommodation, and activities for additional savings. Don’t forget to check for last-minute deals on hotels to secure the best rates for your stay near 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and much more. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Hearst Castle accommodation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.