With the subtle stirring of the autumn breeze, Cambria comes to life. From delicious harvest treats to delightful scarecrow displays, the Central Coast is the ultimate definition for your fall getaway. Beginning Friday, October 1, more than 400 scarecrows will line the streets of Cambria, bringing the annual Scarecrow Festival to life. Find yourself spellbound in Cambria by following along our enchanting fall-themed itinerary and scouting scarecrows along your journey!
Nature Walk on the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk
After you grab a coffee and pastry from the French Corner Bakery, head to the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk to experience the essence of Cambria. This one-mile long boardwalk stretches across Moonstone Beach Drive so you can enjoy a morning stroll while stopping to take pictures with a few of the scarecrows scattered along the area. Don’t forget to wear your coziest sweater!
Spells & Potions at Spellbound Herbs Gift Shop & Garden
This quaint shop, located in one of the oldest buildings in Cambria, was originally an 1870s homestead. Wander through the shop to brew your own potion of incense and be certain to take a stroll through their beautiful gardens filled with sweet-smelling herbs and flowers.
Treats & Sweets at Linn’s
October may be “Spooky Season,” but in Cambria we also deem it “Soup Season.” If the seasonal goodies are your favorite part of fall, stop by Linn’s for a treat! From Clam Chowder to Tomato Basil Bisque and Grilled Cheese, Linn’s has menu items to get everyone in the mood for the season. Don’t leave without a slice of Linn’s famous olallieberry pie—it’s delicious all year round and is sure to please even the biggest pumpkin pie fans.
Time Travel at Black Hand Cellars
If you’re visiting Cambria for the “boos,” step back in time to the speakeasy-themed tasting room, Black Hand Cellars. This wine lounge offers outstanding red wines and even better stories. Black Hand specializes in red wine blends—from Rhone to Bordeaux, you can’t go wrong with any of the varietals they harvest in their cauldrons.
Seasonal Sips at Cambria Coffee Roasting Company and 927 Beer Company
Autumn is all about seasonal brews! For a midday pick-me-up, head over to the Cambria Coffee Roasting Company for a Pumpkin Spice Latte or one of their October specials, the “Ghost Mocha.” If craft beers are more up your alley, visit 927 Beer Company to taste one of their unique creations on tap, like the Olallieberry Wheat Ale—made with Linn’s fresh olallieberries.
Explore via the Historic Cambria Walking Tour
Cambria is brimming with historic architecture dating back to the 1800s, and visits to places like the Bucket of Blood, a saloon built in 1893. Whether you’re on your feet or a broomstick, start your tour at the Cambria Historical Museum and explore to your heart’s content.
A Ghoulish Visit to the Cambria Cemetary
The Cambria Community Cemetery, also referred to as the Cambria Cemetery District, is the final resting place for many Cambria pioneers. With the earliest marked grave dating back to 1870, Cambria’s cemetery is the only true California cemetery resigning in the pines by the sea. (No word on whether there are any lingering ghost hosts ready to welcome you in.)
Dinner at Black Cat Bistro
After a day full of spooks and scarecrows, enjoy a delicious meal under the moonlight at Black Cat Bistro. Sample unique appetizers such as stuffed fried green olives and try hearty entrees such as maple leaf duck breast with mushroom red wine barley risotto. If you’re superstitious, don’t worry—we consider black cats signs of good luck in Cambria.