14 BEST Things to Do in Cambria, California

There are a surprising number of things to do in Cambria, a charming beach town halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles.

With incredible scenery, delicious food, wine-tasting rooms, and laid-back vibes, Cambria is a perfect stop on any road trip.

Table of Contents

1. Explore Moonstone Beach
2. Take the Moonstone Beach Scenic Drive or Walk the Boardwalk
3. Stroll the Town
4. Hike Fiscalini Ranch Preserve
5. Hearst San Simeon State Park Has Seals
6. See What The Town of San Simeon Has to Offer
7. Enjoy the Views at Leffingwell Landing Park
8. Say Hello to the Seals on the Boucher Trail
9. Go Tidepooling at Lampton Cliffs Park
10. Gaze in Awe at Hearst Castle
11. Take a Tour of Piedras Blancas Light Station
12. Head Up North and Visit as Much of Big Sur as You Can
13. Relax on the Beaches of Cayucos
14. Go Wildlife Watching at Morro Bay
Where to Stay Near Cambria
MORE ON THE WEST COAST:

1. Explore Moonstone Beach

Two people sitting on a bench overlooking Moonstone Beach in San Simeon State Park. — Relax at Moonstone Beach

Moonstone Beach is stunning and known for its sparkling gemstones on the shore. Enjoy beachcombing, tide-pooling, and wildlife watching while relaxing on the sandy shores lined with driftwood.

2. Take the Moonstone Beach Scenic Drive or Walk the Boardwalk

A white RV parked up along the Moonstone Scenic Driver overlooking a beach at golden hour. — Parked up along the Moonstone Scenic Drive

For a quick view of the beach, take the scenic drive off Highway 1. Alternatively, stroll along the accessible Moonstone Beach Boardwalk for a mile of breathtaking views and opportunities to spot migrating whales.

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3. Stroll the Town

Old looking shop fronts along one of the main roads in Cambria. — It’s a quaint little town

Cambria is filled with charming streets, restaurants, antique galleries, and a microbrewery. Don’t miss the Piedras Blancas Lighthouse Lens in the town and visit the local farmers market for fresh produce.

4. Hike Fiscalini Ranch Preserve

A man walking along along the cliffs in Fiscalini Ranch Preserve at golden hour. — Views over the coastline of the Preserve

The Fiscalini Ranch Preserve features diverse trails through wetlands, forests, and coastal prairies, offering opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and dog walking. Look for handcrafted benches along the trails and enjoy wildflower blooms in spring.

5. Hearst San Simeon State Park Has Seals

Moonstone Boardwalk trailing off across the coastline of Big Sur near Cambria. — A fun place to explore!

Hearst San Simeon State Park offers rugged natural beauty, where visitors can enjoy hiking and camping, along with the opportunity to see elephant seals basking on the beaches.

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6. See What The Town of San Simeon Has to Offer

Golden sunset light shining through mist at San Simeon Beach in California. — The perfect sunset over Simeon Beach

San Simeon is a delightful beachside town ideal for a stop during your journey along Highway 1. Enjoy the local pier, Coastal Discovery Center, and beautiful beaches like the William R. Hearst Memorial Beach.

7. Enjoy the Views at Leffingwell Landing Park

A couple walking down Moonstone Boardwalk towards the beach and bridge at Leffingwell Landing Park near Cambria. — Moonstone Boardwalk leading to Leffingwell Landing Park

Leffingwell Landing Park is a peaceful spot to relax and take in the stunning views of Big Sur. With picnic tables and access to Moonstone Beach, it’s perfect for a leisurely day.

8. Say Hello to the Seals on the Boucher Trail

Elephant seals all sleeping together on a beach along the Boucher Trail in Big Sur near Cambria. — One of the best places to check out Elephant Seals!

The Boucher Trail is a great spot for seal watching, especially during migration seasons. The easy, well-maintained trail provides beautiful views of the coastline and is home to the largest elephant seal rookery on the mainland U.S.

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Get our curated list of the best adventures, things to do, and places to grab a brew loaded onto your maps with just two clicks!

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✅ Craft breweries ✅ National Parks ✅ 1400+ Pins

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9. Go Tidepooling at Lampton Cliffs Park

Wooden stairs leading down to a stone beach at Lampton Cliffs Park near Cambria. — A great place for tidepooling!

For tide pooling, Lampton Cliffs Park is ideal, especially during low tide when colorful marine life is visible. The park also has benches for relaxing and enjoying the view of the ocean.

10. Gaze in Awe at Hearst Castle

The tropical looking Hearst Castle surrounded by palm trees, bushes and statues. — The unique architecture is captivating!

Although not in Cambria, Hearst Castle in nearby San Simeon is a must-see. The grand estate offers breathtaking architecture, stunning views, and an intriguing history.

11. Take a Tour of Piedras Blancas Light Station

A tall lighthouse surrounded by building in Piedra Blancas Light Station. — Perched right besides the bluest water

The Piedras Blancas Light Station, built in 1875, offers tours that provide insight into its history and operations. The tours typically last around two hours.

12. Head Up North and Visit as Much of Big Sur as You Can

A car towing a caravan over the arched Bixby Bridge along the Big Sur drive. — Big Sur is a great drive!

Big Sur is a must-explore area, easily navigated via Highway 1. Highlights include McWay Falls, Bixby Bridge, Partington Cove, and Pfeiffer Beach.

READ MORE: Things To Do in Big Sur: 16 Best Stops on a Big Sur Drive

13. Relax on the Beaches of Cayucos

A shipwreck off the coast of Estero Bluff State Park in Cayucos, California. — Estero Bluffs shipwreck

Cayucos, just a short drive away, features a beautiful beach stretching six miles to Morro Rock, ideal for swimming, surfing, and tide pooling. Explore antique shops and enjoy local eateries in this charming town.

14. Go Wildlife Watching at Morro Bay

A kayak paddling in front of Morro Rock in Morro Bay State Park in California. — Kayakers exploring the Morro Rock area

Morro Bay is known for Morro Rock and its calm waters, perfect for wildlife watching and kayaking. Enjoy the Embarcadero, dine at waterfront restaurants, and explore the local shops.