William R. Hearst Memorial State Beach Activities
Hiking the Coast
San Simeon Point Trail, 1 mile
From Hearst Beach head northwest around the cove, staying on the sand until you have passed Old San Simeon. Then find a use-trail leading up onto the bluff and pick up the well worn-trail that leads around to the tip of San Simeon Point.
Hearst Beach to Junge Ranch, 4.6 miles
While every hiker may not want to make the full 4.6-mile hike to Junge Ranch to the south of Hearst Beach, you can start out and turn around whenever you are ready. For the first 2½ miles hikers will be close to the ocean, walking mostly on sand, with occasional rock outcroppings. Beginning at the points near Pico Creek the trail climbs onto the bluffs and meanders along them for most of the rest of the hike, with occasional beach interludes.
Caution: Check with rangers or lifeguards that conditions are safe for your planned activities.
Kayaking
The sheltered waters of San Simeon Bay are popular with kayakers. Launching from the beach they explore the bay, the nearby kelp beds, the coast, and point - all the while observing the varied marine wildlife. Kayaks often enjoy views of sea otters, dolphins, harbor seals, and sea lions. A kayak and boogie board rental concession which once operated at Hearst Beach closed in 2019.
Fishing from San Simeon Pier
Fishing is allowed year-round from the pier and no license is required. The pier stands more than 20 feet above the water. Beneath is a sandy bottom. The outlet of nearby Arroyo del Puerto Creek attracts some fish, including steelhead. Fishing for surfperch in the surf zone is fairly rewarding here. Other fish caught here include white croaker, barred surfperch, and calico surfperch.
The pier has benches and fish cleaning stations. Nearby is a bait and tackle shop.
Scuba Diving
Divers generally find the water in San Simeon Bay too shallow and the visibility too poor to rate it as a great diving location. Gentle surf makes for easy entry for divers, but a boat makes reaching the better diving locations much easier. San Simeon Point has some of the best diving spots.
Surfing
Although big surf can roll into Hearst Beach if the conditions are right, generally the break is fairly mild, making it a popular spot for beginners to practice.
Nearby Activities, Attractions, and Events
Hearst Castle
Highway 1, San Simeon, CA
Tour the famous Hearst Castle.
A variety of tours are offered.
Nitt Witt Ridge
Nitt Witt Ridge is the creation of Arthur Harold Beal who spent 50 years creating his own castle in Cambria using a hodge-podge of materials collected over the years. The current owners, Mike and Stacey O'Malley, will take you on a tour of the place for $10. By arrangement only.
Nitt Witt Ridge
Annual Sculpture By the Sea
April 14-21, 2024
Sculptures in stone, metal, wood and clay
10 AM - 5 PM, Camp Ocean Pines, Cambria
Camp Ocean Pines
See Cambria California Events
Pinedorado Days
Labor Day Weekend in Cambria
August 31 - September 2, 2024
Saturday parade, fun activities, music, kiddie rides, and games.
Pinedorado Days
Outback Trail Rides
One mile south of Cambria on Highway 1
One to two-hour trail rides (May - October).
Outback Trail Rides
Gene Cerise Country Coast Bike Ride
June TBA, 2024
Century 100-mile, 50-mile, or 25-mile
Benefits the Cambria YMCA Teen Center.
Begins at Cambria Pinedorado Grounds and heads off along scenic coast and through rolling hills
Country Coast Classic Bike Ride
