Be sure to check out the Western Region page for other ideas around the best things to do in Hearst Castle and Central California!
*Last updated 9/6/2023
The Central Coast
The central coast of California from San Francisco to Los Angeles has some amazing coastal views. However, be aware that you will want to keep stopping at every overlook for a picture of the amazing vistas.
Hearst Castle
Hearst Castle, the former home of the newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, is located south of Monterey. Additionally, there are numerous tours. However, it is interesting to tour the excesses of one of the wealthiest people at the time.
Also, the Grand Rooms tour is what is recommended for first time guests. However, if you have more time or are returning for an additional trip you might want to try one of the many other tours. Additionally, take a walk through the mansion itself, the indoor and outdoor swimming pools and immaculate manicured gardens.
Lastly, a list of all of the tours can be found on their website:
- Grand Rooms Tour
- Upstairs Suites Tour
- Cottages & Kitches Tour
- Designing the Dream Tour
- Art of San Simeon Tour
- Hearst and Hollywood Tour
- Julia Morgan Tour
- Evening Tour
- Holiday Twilight Tour
- Select Accessibly Designed Tour
Monterey, Carmel, Pebble Beach and the 17 mile drive
Monterey is home to the famous 17 mile drive. On the tour you can get out for some amazing views of seashore, sea lions and ocean birds.
However, if you have some extra time, there is kayaking and whale watching tours available. Also, there is the Monterey Bay Aquarium featuring some of the oceanic wildlife.
Additionally, in nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea, you can visit Carmel Beach, the basilica and missions or the visit one of the wine tasting rooms. Lastly, near Carmel, you will also pass Pebble Beach, which include some of the country’s most famous golf courses.
