This park is a fine place to stop if you want to let the kids or the dog out for a bit…read more Most of the grassy area was taken up by a large group of gentleman playing soccer while we were there but there is a small, unfenced area where you can let your dog off leash for a bit and let them relieve themselves. Most people kept their dogs on leash though Be careful though as it's close to the street and people go around the corner there much faster than I would like, especially for a residential neighborhood. The bathrooms were clean and there is a playground area for kids. You can also access the beach from this park. There is a pool are that was closed, so as busy as it was when we visited, I imagine it gets even busier.

I really have zero complaints about this hidden park. It was…read morein a quiet neighborhood in a corner. I have 3 kids, two who are adults, and one who is 8 years old. There was a play area with slides and swings and they all enjoyed it. The bathrooms were clean, and I noticed there was a pool too. I don't know when it's open or if they open it at all. I just thought it was cute. There was beach access and the beach was pretty clean. There were not too many people, so it was nice to have it practically all to ourselves. There was sand but also beautiful rocks that we all enjoyed playing in. The waves were extremely large and gorgeous. There was a sign that said no lifeguard on site. Overall it was a great experience for all of us, and we would love to return for another day of hanging out!

On my annual trip to Cambria, this trail walk is a must. It's so beautiful! They have a very nice…read morewalkway that borders the ocean on one side and rolling hills on the other side. When your on the trail closest to the water, a lot of times you can find seals, or birds, or if you look way in the distance, whale spouts. Along the trail they have really cool driftwood made beaches for you to sit and just take it all in. The tide pools by the homes are fun to walk around and experience as well. It's just a breathtaking walk. On my last trip it was really neat to see all these people out painting. I loved watching them create their masterpieces. I would almost love to find out if they are for sale. Some of them were amazing that I would love to have in my home! I definitely recommend walking this trail. It's a very easy flat loop to walk.

Fiscalini Ranch preserve offers a rare expense of beauty and solitude on the California Central…read moreCoast. The 437 acre Ranch extends from dramatic ocean bluffs along a mile of shoreline, across grassy marine terraces, rising inland to a forested ridge with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Lucia Range - all in the heart of Cambria. I must mention there are no restrooms along the trails and no water fountains so be prepared. All the trails are easy to moderate with regards to levels of difficulty. Along the trails there are viewing areas to enjoy some of the most magnificent views. Enjoy I will see you on the trails. SYOYC

On A mini vacation to Cambria with my family. This was a beautiful walk on the boardwalk. Great…read moreviews of the ocean and surroundings. Easy pathway for everyone, even good for strollers and wheelchairs. The beach has stone sand and it so colorful. Beautiful pieces to look at. I had lots of fun walking on the beach and looking at the stones. It's a lovely place to be. Part of why I love living in California. So many beautiful beaches and small towns.

My family loves this beach. The parking lot is small, but we usually are able to find a spot…read more There's a public restroom connected to the parking lot. I've never needed it, but I'm glad it is there. Beach access is down some stairs that can be hard if you have mobility or balance issues. They are sturdy, and if you are able to navigate them slowly, it is worth it. The beach itself has driftwood that has washed up, and other beach-goers have fashioned into makeshift structures that are fun to explore. The sand is soft, and has tons of rocks and pebbles to investigate. As the name suggests, there are moonstones to find, if you have a bit of luck. Several times when I've visited, I've found these transparent clear and purplish/blue velella velella all over the shore. Other wildlife seen at this beach include moon jellyfish, sea lions (off shore), pelicans, seagulls, cormorants, and cottontail bunnies along the cliffs. There is a creek outlet that washes into the sea that can be a bit stinky, and tends to make traversing the beach hard past that point. Also along the water's edge, there can be some unstable sand areas, so tread carefully. This beach tends to have a nice breeze, and is refreshing even on hot days. If you are in the area and you can find parking, check it out!

I swear I was a mermaid in my past life. The sounds of the…read morewaves crashing against those huge rocks on the side of the cliffs, the infinite water that never ends, the sand between my toes and the sun beaming down on my skin completed me... oh and the music on my Bluetooth speaker... is just the absolute best feeling ever. I easily lose track of time when I'm there... I was totally inspired by the rescues by the Marine Mammal Center while we were there at this beach... First they came and rescued a bird who couldn't fly... there were two of them... totally patient and very careful they put it in a bag and said they were going to check to make sure everything was okay before releasing it back out... A few hours later there was a sea look who looked like it was not doing very well... Someone must have called and a team of rescue came and did the same... carefully putting him in a cage and said they were taking him to morro bay hospital for observation and then would be taking it to Sausalito to release it. They were speaking with the public which I thought was really cool! I've already done my donation and I think more people need to know about this place. But back to this beach.. There is a bathroom nearby... benches to sit and have lunch... grills to cook... it's just a perfect place to spend the day at... I cannot even explain the beauty that is here Go check it out if you haven't yet!

Part of the reason I love the Central California Coast is their commitment to keeping the…read morebeachfront areas public. You'll find miles upon miles of shore-near cliff trails, walkways and mini parks. It's not like other parts of California where million dollar mansions are taking up prime beach views. You don't have to try and find super secret beach front access and park miles away. It's just... accessible! Leffingwell Landing is across from Oceanpoint Ranch. There's public parking dotted here and there and we've never had trouble finding a spot. There are paved trails, combined with established dirt trails and the occasional newly created trail (which we try to avoid). Some of the cliffs have been eroded over time, along with the stairs and beach access points. There are also several areas blocked off to inhibit foot traffic and encourage plant growth. It's a great place to stroll, or take your leashed pup for a walk. The clear sunny views are breathtaking and the morning fog captivating - you'd be hard-pressed to have a bad weather day here! On our last visit we encountered a lone Great Blue Heron. She had recently finished a freshly-caught meal and was drying off just off the trail. Folks were mesmerized by her and everyone respectfully kept their distance. Leffingwell Landing also has a small grassy park with benches. A nice spot for a small party or wedding - albeit a bit breezy. Don't miss walking the Moonstone Boardwalk and Leffingwell Landing - it's simply Cambria!

I've been vacationing at Cambria/San Simeon since I was a little girl and have never been to…read morePiedras Blancas Lighthouse. During this year's trip, I would make a point of booking a tour. You get a lot in return for the very little you have to pay: The history behind it is really interesting, the grounds and views are spectacular, the guides as super nice and informative and who doesn't love the majesty of a lighthouse?!!!! Go! You won't be disappointed!

We wanted to visit the point after the seal beach visit…read more But visitation is closed for the season

A nice trail that's part nature walk, part moderate hike. The distance ranges from 3.5 - 3.8 miles…read moreit's a loop trail that goes around Sam Simeon State park/Campground. If you're staying at the camp ground you can easily get to the trail by following the park map. If you're not visiting the campsite there is a pullout area across the campground entrance on the other side near the beach where you can walk the trail under PCH. Coming from the beach trail around the loop you'll get around 450 feet of elevation gain, the trail is pretty simple to follow but if you're looking for direction to follow online there is a map on All Trails under "San Simeon trail to Washburn Campground Loop"

This kinda beauty is why I live on the central coast. I cannot believe that views like this are in…read moremy neighborhood! This is definitely more of a walk than a hike as the trails weaves in and out of eucalyptus trees and the cliffside. The views are truly out of a picture book. Words almost do not do it justice. The smell of eucalyptus in the air, the big beautiful ocean on the your right and the forest on your left. On a clear day you can see Hearst castle on the hill and aquatic animals swimming in the ocean. I have never not seen at least some marine life whenever I have visited. Whether that is a sea lion lounging on the beach or a pod of dolphins. The marine life is alive and well in this area! Luckily, it is almost completely flat and not too long so you can bring your pup along for the ride! The only warning I have about this amazing walk is that there can be a great deal of rattlesnakes during rattlesnake season. They can be scary, but remember that they rarely attack humans. Just do not go poking them with a stick and watch your puppy so he doesn't go sniffing around one! This walk is absolutely breathtaking and it is flabbergasting more people do not know about it. It is so close to Big Sur, so people must overlook it. Do not do that! Go visit for yourself!

April 18, 2025 The…read morelocation of this state park can't be beat. Located on the coast, it is near many "must-see" attractions, such as Hearst Castle and the Elephant Seal viewpoints. This State Park has a day-use area and two campgrounds: Washburn Day Use Area, San Simeon Creek Campground and the more primitive Washburn Campground. San Simeon Creek Campground is closer to the ocean; Washburn Campground is about a mile or two inland, overlooking the Santa Lucia mountains. The day-use area is open from 8AM to sunset, and is easily accessed from Highway 1, has picnic sites, parking, restrooms, water faucets, barbecue grills, and easy beach access (unless you are a dog...) One star down from an excellent rating for two reasons: The beach, sadly, is NDA (no dogs allowed), and the day use picnic tables are located next to the highway.

campground is reasonably priced because it is a "primitive" campground, meaning no hookups, no hot…read morespot access or wifi, no cell service and no tv. they have the weirdest generator hours (10 am to 4 pm only?) which means primitive coffee and a cold dinner! I don't get it! a trail leading from the upper campsites to the midsection is overgrown and needs to be cleaned up. it looked like the lawnmower they were using didn't have a sharp blade or no blade. as a californian, this place needs help! we were here years ago and it wasn't this bad. hearst castle and the elephant seal viewpoint are close. we stayed 8 days but recommend a weekend or shorter week.

This is a viewing spot in a residential area. While it is great for sitting on a bench and viewing…read morethe sea life below the cliffs, there is no stairs down to the beach currently. The storm washed them away, so no tide pool rock hopping until the stairs are back. There are otter, herons and seals to watch and an amazing spot for sunsets. If you are looking for a quiet spot to propose to someone, this would be a winner.

We stopped by the park on our way out of town to get one more view of the ocean. Luckily for us,…read morethe tide was out. So we parked in the tiny lot and followed the trail towards the staircase- where we had full access to the beach and tide pools below. There were only a handful of other people exploring. I think unfortunately the stairs and rocky beach puts a limit on who can enter. However don't be discouraged because the views from the benches on the cliff are just as amazing. The hour we spent there was so peaceful and tranquil. My husband and our dog perched themselves on a large rock while I sat on the beach and enjoyed the sun warming my back. We left with a renewed energy and appreciation of the ocean.

Love this, what I would consider, dog park gem in Cambria so much and so do my dogs! If I could…read moregive it six stars I would as everything is wonderful, especially the coastal weather and location. They have small and big dog areas, and the big dog section is huge. Plenty of space for launching a dog ball as far as you can and it still says within the fence (which my little one loves)! Keep in mind there is no grass. It is all thinner pieces of bark, which is pretty standard for this area. Let's talk about the location. It is absolutely perfect. It's just a few minutes from the coast so it's super breezy and refreshing, and the weather is great every time we visit. It's also located a minute away from lots of cute shops and restaurants in Cambria! Always enjoy taking my dogs here!!

Awesome new dog park with amazing Cambria tree line views. A must spot to visit if you have a pet…read more They also have a trail that goes around this dog park to enjoy a walk with your dog.

Checked out the Chinese Temple. Quaint little place with a small red temple and gong. I was only…read moreable to see the outside of the buildings, however. I appreciated the informative placards that helped give me a piece of history and background of the place. I do look forward to their future preservation efforts.

This is a great organization in Cambria that has been around for a long time. They also have…read morepreserved areas of the public. If you are in Cambria go to the Creekside Reserve and Chinese Temple . Also there is the Strawberry Canyon. So many people do not even know about these places. You can book your wedding or party at the Creekside. Love this organization and all they do! Check them out !