Things To Do

Hearst Castle

Formally named “La Cuesta Encantada,” or The Enchanted Hill, Hearst Castle was built as a summer retreat by William Randolph Hearst in 1919. Hearst, who built an empire acquiring newspaper companies, designed the building in several different styles from around the globe. Several antiques, art, and collectibles, which remain at the castle today, were bought from his travels in Europe; he even obtained whole ceilings from Egypt for his prized home! The castle was never completed in Hearst’s lifetime, as he would continually tear down rooms and rebuild them as he saw fit. In 1957, Hearst Corporation donated the estate to Califonia, which now allows tours of the magnificent building. Be prepared for amazing historical treasures, grand views of San Simeon, the famous Neptune Pool, a theater, tennis courts, and exotic animals roaming the grounds!

Madonna Inn

The brainchild of the late Alex Madonna, the Madonna Inn has been a Central Coast landmark for over forty-five years! The original Madonna Inn was a simple motel, but when a fire burnt down the facilities in 1966, Madonna took a chance and completely redesigned the Inn to the famous pink structure seen today. The inn is notorious for its 109 distinct rooms, each with a separate theme. The themes range from lavish and luxurious, such as Bridal Falls, to earthy and minimalist, like the ever popular Caveman Room. Although originally a source of controversy, the Madonna Inn is now well-beloved by the San Luis Obispo locals.

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa

San Luis Obsipo valley was originally named “Valley of the Bears” by Governor Portola on his exploration to the Central Coast. When the abundance of bear meat in the area saved many of the Spanish Settlers, Father Junipero Serra blessed the site and founded Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa in 1772.  The fifth mission in California, San Luis Obispo de Tolosa (Which is named after Saint Louis, bishop of Toulouse, France) is still in operation as a place of worship today. No matter what your beliefs, feel free to roam the magnificent patio area and explore the architecture and authentic artwork of the 1700s.

Morro Rock

The traditional California fishing town of Morro Bay has always been popular among tourists, who travel from miles around to visit the grand Morro Rock. Towering out of the ocean, the Morro Rock stands 600 feet tall and spans 50 acres at its base. It was so large and famous amongst seafaring folk that at one time it served as a navigational landmark for ships at sea. While historians know that Juan Cabrillo named the rock “El Morro” in the 1500s, there is a great deal of confusion about the meaning of the name. Some of the suggested translations are “the pebble,” “the nose” and “crown-shaped hill,” among others. Regardless of the name, Morro Rock is a fantastic sight and a great place to bird-watch. The Chumash Indians believe the rock to be sacred and incorporate it as part of their Summer Solstice festival.

Pismo Pier

Pismo Beach is truly considered a California Classic. The small city streets are filled with surf shops, taffy and candy stores, and classic beach gifts. The Pismo Pier is one of the main attractions in the town, and offers a serene point to stroll along, fish, and maybe even steal a kiss from a special someone at sunset. Surfers can be around the pier trolling for the best waves in Pismo; you can feel the pounding swells break under your feet as surfers test their skills.

San Simeon-Piedras Blancas coastline

Enjoy the amazing coastline of San Simeon, just minutes away from Hearst Castle. The spot has become a nationally protected sanctuary for the Northern Elephant Seal. The elephant seals can be seen almost every day out of the year, but if you catch them between late November and early February, you can witness the stunning sight of hundreds of seals jockeying for a mating ground on the crowded shoreline.

Just north of San Simeon stands Piedras Blancas, a lighthouse which can be seen sectioned off from the freeway. Named after the nearby white rocks which Juan Cabrillo first spotted in the 1500s, the lighthouse was once used as a means to guide ships along the dark point between Point Conception and Point Pinos. Piedras Blancas is currently being renovated for future tourism; however, reserved tours are currently available on the last Saturday of every month. (888) 804-8608.