Every year, the western monarch butterflies migrate to California’s coastal forested groves to spend the winter. The butterflies collect in clusters on eucalyptus trees and Monterey pines all along the Coast, creating a beautiful display for visitors. Then when the weather warms in spring, the monarchs fly away to lay their eggs and drink flower …
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Beginning at Hearst Castle Beach State Park, you can walk along the beach for about a quarter mile, eventually coming to a dirt trail. Ascend the hillside and head up along the bluff for a round-trip hike of about 2.5 miles. This hike is family-and dog-friendly, though dogs must be on leashes.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Walk the Bluff Trail of the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve with a docent. Enjoy the Ranch and ocean views as we learn about seaweed, sea mammals, birds, and the plants along the Bluff Trail.
North of Ragged Point on Highway 1, this secluded trailhead offers views of the ocean and some pretty impressive waterfalls. As you hike further down the trail, there are steep hills, campgrounds, and lush natural surroundings that will make you feel like you’re worlds away from civilization. The best part: every time you come out …
In a secluded and peaceful setting along Highway 1, eight miles south of Cambria in between Harmony and Cayucos, Harmony Headlands State Park sits unassumingly along the coast, secretly home to pristine, diverse natural beauty and a dramatic coastline. A 1.5-mile trail from the parking lot extends west to coastal marine terrace grassland with steep …
Located on beautiful San Simeon Bay, the Coastal Discovery Center celebrates the connection between land and sea. The center offers interactive exhibits and educational programs that highlight the cultural and natural history of San Simeon, California State Parks and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The interface of land and sea is unique here, drawing people for …
Fiscalini Ranch Preserve is home to a number of endangered species and species of special concern, offering a wonderful display of nature’s diversity. The Ranch is bordered by a riparian habitat that encompasses tidal effect zones, seasonal freshwater marshes, and wetlands dotted with birds. The most outstanding natural feature is the dramatic ocean bluff that runs more …
A 2.1-acre state park with trails and two benches overlooking the sea at Sherwood Street and Lampton Street on the Marine Terrace, Lodge Hill. Tide pools are found at the base of the cliff.
Shamel Community Park is a 6-acre county park with a playing field, swimming pool (open in season), barbeques, picnic tables and a children’s play area. Shamel Community Park is adjacent to a long sweeping beach that is the south end of Moonstone Beach. Hunt for Moonstones near the mouth of Santa Rosa Creek.
Moonstone Beach is one of the primary beaches in Cambria. It boasts Central Coast views that run north and south for many miles. The Moonstone Beach State Parklands consists of 30 acres, including Leffingwell Landing State Park, Moonstone Beach Drive, and Santa Rosa Creek access. Famous for its dramatic coastline and breathtaking views, the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk is …
