The town of Cambria on the central coast of California is a good overnight stop when driving the Pacific Coast Highway from LA to San Francisco or a good to visit for a relaxing weekend getaway. It is less than miles from Hearst Castle a major tourist destination in the region and also offers nature exploration, good food, nearby wineries and elephant seals.
Moonstone Beach is a highlight in Cambria. The beach is stretch of coastline known for the smooth, colorful pebbles named moonstones, that are scattered along the shore. The trail is a boardwalk that winds through the bluffs, offering views of the Pacific Ocean. It is usually too cold and rough for sunbathing and jumping in the water but on a warm day it is nice to take a leisurely stroll, picnic, explore the tide pools, or bird watch.
The town’s East Village is a hub of activity, is filled with art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants housed in historic buildings. The restaurants serve wine from the local Paso Robles wineries and fresh baked good from local farms. The area is known for the arts scene, with numerous galleries showcasing works by local artists. Quaint houses and gardens, line the streets. Santa Rosa Chapel, at the top of a steep hill is one of the oldest churches on California’s Central Coast. Built in 1870, the chapel is an example of early California architecture. Originally serving as the primary place of worship for the community, the chapel has since been restored and now stands as a historical landmark. It has a simple yet elegant design, with white wooden walls, a bell tower, and stained-glass windows. Today, the chapel is a venue for weddings, community events, and plays significant role in Cambria’s cultural life.
Just North of Cambria is the Piedras Blancas Rookery that hosts up to 24,000 Elephant Seals each year. It is free, and open to the public all year-round. During the pupping and breeding season, Elephant Seals usually return to the same beaches where they were born. Over time the colony continues to grow. The best times to see seals are late January, late April and late October.
