In North San Luis Obispo County you must visit Cambria, California. Cambria is the sweetest coastal village that welcomes travelers with its natural beauty, artistic flair, and ultra relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, art lover, or foodie, Cambria offers an amazing variety of activities to enjoy. Here are nine must-try experiences that will help make your visit to Cambria unforgettable:
Discover Moonstone Beach
Begin your Cambria journey with a visit to Moonstone Beach, renowned for its picturesque shoreline lined with smooth, colorful stones, ask one of the locals to help you find a moonstone and experience the Zen of focusing on hunting the beach’s namesake. You can even try your hand at searching for sea glass in green, brown, blue and the elusive red. Take a stroll along the boardwalk or on the beach, or simply relax on the beach while listening to the soothing sounds of the Pacific Ocean.
Visit Hearst Castle
Just a short drive north of Cambria lies Hearst Castle, a majestic estate built by publishing tycoon William Randolph Hearst. Take a guided tour to wander through the opulent architecture, stunning gardens, and priceless art collections that reflect the grandeur of the early 20th century. With each tour there’s a free movie that will educate you a little bit before you go. All the tours are wonderful and it’s almost like visiting a museum with the antiques, history, libraries and art. To purchase tickets, visit HERE.
Explore the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve
Nature enthusiasts will find paradise at the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, a 400+ acre coastal reserve that offers miles of scenic trails for various walking levels. Hike through one of only five native stands of Monterey Pine trees remaining in the world. There are also trails that flow along coastal bluffs, and meadows filled with native wildlife. Your camera is a must for life-long favorite photos of the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Explore Cambria's Art Galleries
Cambria's artistic community thrives with many galleries showcasing a diverse range of artworks. Spend an afternoon exploring local galleries such as the Cambria Center for the Arts Gallery, Ephraim Pottery, and the Vault Gallery, where you can admire paintings, sculptures, and crafts created by talented local artists. With many galleries to choose from, you’ll keep coming back for your favorite art pieces.
Enjoy Wine Tasting
The Central Coast is renowned for its vineyards and wineries, and Cambria is no exception. Bordered by the Paso Robles Wine Country, an American Viticultural Area (AVA), and inclusion in the San Luis Obispo (SLO) Coast AVA has its advantages when it comes to the availability of amazing wines to taste and purchase here. Visit wineries such as Moonstone Cellars, Black Hand Cellars, Cutruzzola Vineyards and Stolo Family Vineyards to savor award-winning wines crafted from locally grown grapes. Many tasting rooms offer scenic views of rolling vineyards and the coastal landscape. If you journey up to Hearst Castle, be sure to cross Highway 1 and visit Hearst Ranch Winery for the ultimate in wine with a view!
Dine at Some of the Best Restaurants on the Central Coast
Treat yourself to the flavors of Cambria's culinary scene. From Mexican Cantinas to upscale fine dining, you'll find an abundance of restaurants offering fresh, locally sourced cuisine. Don't miss specialties from Robin’s Restaurant, Linn’s Restaurant, The Sea Chest, Moonstone Beach Bar and Grill, Madeline’s, and so many more options!
Browse Cambria's Antique Shops and Thrift Stores
Antique lovers and treasure hunters can spend hours in Cambria's eclectic collection of antique shops and thrift stores. Explore shops in the East Village and West Village along Main Street and even up the hill from the East Village at Cambria Nursery and Florist that will lead you to discover unique treasures ranging from vintage furniture and collectibles to retro clothing and handmade jewelry.
Attend a Local Event
Immerse yourself in Cambria's vibrant community spirit by attending a local event or festival. Labor Day Weekend's Pinedorado is a huge community event with fun for all ages including a parade, BBQ, rides for the kids, a raffle and more! In October visit Cambria to find the annual Scarecrow Festival! You haven’t seen anything like the scarecrows that line the streets and adorn the shops welcoming visitors in. The day after Thanksgiving through the end of the year you’ll find the Cambria Christmas Market, an old fashioned German market with vendors, lights, food and more! Every Friday afternoon join locals in attending one of the top Farmer’s Markets around, featuring local growers from all over SLO County. There's always something fun happening in Cambria!
Relax and Unwind
Above all, Cambria is a place to relax and unwind with serene coastal surroundings that add to the ease of this amazing Shangri la. Book a stay at a cozy bed and breakfast or boutique inn, where you can check out of your regular life and soak-in the deluxe coastal experience. Take time for yourself to book a massage, take a stroll, and simply unwind and enjoy.
Whether you're seeking adventure, culture, or tranquility, Cambria, California, offers a perfect blend of experiences that will leave you enchanted and planning your return trip. Plan your itinerary to include these nine must-try activities and discover why Cambria is a hidden gem on California's Central Coast.
Ready to begin your journey of buying a home in Cambria? The Brittany Hensley Group wants to get to know you and the lifestyle changes you’re looking for! They'll help you decide if Cambria is right for you and help find your perfect Cambria home that is the best fit for you and your real estate journey.
Brittany Hensley | 805-712-7049 | [email protected]
Tiffani Morones | 805-712-6919 | [email protected]
