A quaint and scenic small town located on the stunning and historic Pacific Coast Highway, San Simeon, CA is up the road from two of California’s most well known destinations, San Francisco and LA. Most well known as the home of the infamous and popular Hearst Castle, it is well known for its other features as well. From nature to history, take a closer look at San Simeon, CA, a top destination for travel.
Aside from its first settlers believed to have been the Chumash people some 10,000 years ago, it wasn’t until the arrival of the first settlers in the 1800’s that the town we know today began to develop. First settled by Captain Clark and George Hearst, a small community began to grow in around 1869 with the construction of the wharf. The name San Simeon comes from the geologic structures located in the area which date back to the Jurassic Age.
Home to about 460 year round residents, the area is most well known for its tourism today. Aside from the famous Hearst Castle located just 3 miles from the town itself, other attractions found throughout the area make San Simeon one of the most popular stops along the beautiful Pacific Coast Highway today.
Piedras Blancas Rookery is famous today for its natural beauty and wildness. Located just off the coast of the Piedras Blancas Lighthouse, this area is home to around 17,000 elephant seals who migrate to and from the area twice a year. Best seen in late January, late April and in late October, the area is known to have elephant seals residing here throughout the year.
Piedras Blancas Lighthouse not far from the rookery is one of the most recognized features of the area as well. Offering stunning views and history, this lighthouse was built in the 1870’s and remains in service today.
Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary encompasses some 6,000 acres of Federally protected marine habitat. Designated to protect the kelp forest and underwater canyons, it is considered one of the most unique and diverse ecosystems in the world today.
Recreation, parks, beaches, shops, events and restaurants as well as renowned accommodations make San Simeon a great place to visit throughout the year.
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