Summary
Before you start looking for a place to stay near Hearst Castle, it is essential to understand the area. San Simeon is the town closest to the castle, with several other towns within a half-hour’s drive. Although Hearst Castle is the most famous attraction in this region, it is far from the only one. You can conveniently stay in any of the towns listed below.
Options for Hotels on the Central Coast
As you begin your search for accommodations, it’s advisable to explore each town individually or select one to focus on. Tools like Tripadvisor’s map view can help visualize your options by allowing you to zoom out and browse the area.
Understanding the towns’ locations, along with their advantages and disadvantages, can significantly narrow down your choices. From south to north, options include:
Morro Bay
Morro Bay is an excellent place for visitors seeking outdoor activities. Families, birdwatchers, fishermen, kayakers, and surfers will all find something to enjoy. Moreover, it’s an ideal location if you are concerned about pricing, as it provides a variety of affordable hotel options. Additionally, the waterfront area offers ample dining and recreational opportunities, making it an appealing choice.
Cambria
Often regarded as the most charming town in the area, Cambria features delightful shops, restaurants, and beautifully landscaped streets. It is a fantastic destination unto itself and serves as a convenient base for visiting Hearst Castle and the surrounding coastline.
Along the coast, accommodations near Moonstone Beach provide stunning ocean views, even though they aren’t located directly on the sand.
Cayucos
This quaint town is a favorite for many along the coast. Visitors will discover a selection of hotels—some boasting excellent ocean views—as well as several inviting restaurants and boutique shops.
San Simeon
San Simeon is often associated with Hearst Castle, and many travelers believe it is the only place to stay when visiting the renowned mansion. However, it is a small town with limited dining and entertainment options.
Ragged Point
Just north of San Simeon and Hearst Castle, Ragged Point offers some of the most scenic vistas in the region. The only hotel here is the Ragged Point Inn, which provides breathtaking views and an on-site restaurant. It is approximately a 20-minute drive north of Hearst Castle, making it a suitable choice for an overnight retreat between visits to the castle and more explorations along CA Hwy 1.
Things You Need to Know About Central Coast Lodging
On this coastal stretch, large chain hotels are scarce, although some Best Westerns and similar options do exist. It is important to note that no hotels are located directly on the beach. Some establishments in San Simeon sit atop cliffs just above the shoreline, while others in Cambria are across the street.
Do not be misled by distances; for instance, traveling from San Simeon to Carmel covers 90 miles yet takes 2 to 3 hours. If you intend to spend a full day sightseeing in the Hearst Castle area, it is advisable not to plan a late-night drive to Carmel or Monterey. Doing so may cause you to miss the stunning landscapes while navigating unfamiliar, winding roads in the dark.
Central Coast Vacation Rentals
Vacation rentals are available in all the towns mentioned through platforms like Airbnb. However, be aware that prices may be relatively high, and you might not find the bargains typical in larger cities. Additionally, high cleaning fees can significantly increase your daily rate for short rentals, and cancellation fees can be steep, with no refunds on booking fees.
Camping Near Hearst Castle
If you’re seeking a place to set up your tent or connect your RV, consider exploring the local campgrounds and RV parks available near Hearst Castle. There are various options to suit your camping needs.
