Tucked between Big Sur and San Luis Obispo, Cambria is the Pacific Coast Highway's hidden gem. This quiet coastal town offers stunning Moonstone Beach, easy access to Hearst Castle, excellent restaurants, and charming oceanfront inns - making it the ideal overnight for your PCH journey without the crowds of Monterey or the expense of Big Sur.

Why Stop in Cambria?

Cambria serves as the perfect midpoint on a PCH road trip. It's quieter and more affordable than its neighbors but equally beautiful. The Moonstone Beach boardwalk offers stunning ocean views and tide pools. Main Village and East Village provide excellent dining and shopping. Plus, you're just 7 miles from Hearst Castle, one of California's most impressive attractions. Many travelers say Cambria is what Carmel used to be before the crowds found it.

Perfect Cambria Itinerary

Afternoon: Arrive & Moonstone Beach

Check into one of Moonstone Beach's oceanfront inns (many have fireplaces and private decks). Walk the mile-long Moonstone Beach boardwalk - it's one of California's most scenic coastal walks with consistent whale sightings December-April. Search for moonstones and agates at low tide. The view of waves crashing against rocky outcrops is mesmerizing.

Evening: Dinner in the Village

Head to either Main Village or East Village for dinner. Robin's Restaurant offers global cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. The Sea Chest for fresh seafood (cash only, no reservations, worth the wait). Linn's Restaurant for casual farm-to-table fare. After dinner, stroll the shops or return to your inn's fireplace with local wine.

Morning: Hearst Castle Tour

Book the Grand Rooms Tour at Hearst Castle (9am recommended, $30/adult). William Randolph Hearst's legendary estate features 165 rooms, stunning pools, and California's finest art collection. The views alone are worth it. Tours take 90 minutes. Reserve online days in advance - they sell out.

Before Leaving: San Simeon & Elephant Seals

Stop at the Elephant Seal Vista Point just north of Cambria. Hundreds of massive elephant seals lounge on the beach year-round - it's a free wildlife show. Visit Sebastian's General Store in San Simeon for souvenirs. Then continue your PCH journey north or south.

Things to Do in Cambria

• Walk the Moonstone Beach boardwalk at sunset
• Browse galleries and antique shops in the villages
• Visit Nitt Witt Ridge (quirky folk art house)
• Explore tide pools at Moonstone Beach
• Wine tasting at local tasting rooms
• Hike Fiscalini Ranch Preserve with ocean views

Where to Eat

Cambria punches above its weight for dining. The Sea Chest is legendary for seafood (expect waits). Robin's offers eclectic international dishes. Madeline's serves French bistro fare. For breakfast, Linn's or French Corner Bakery can't be beat. Main Street Grill is perfect for casual burgers and local beers. Many restaurants showcase Central Coast wines.

Best Time to Visit

Cambria's climate is mild year-round (50s-70s). Winter (December-March) brings whale watching and dramatic storms but also rain. Spring (April-May) offers wildflowers and less fog. Summer brings more tourists and fog but warm evenings. Fall (September-November) is often the clearest with great weather and fewer crowds - the local favorite season.

Insider Tips

• Book Moonstone Beach hotels months ahead for weekends
• Hearst Castle tickets sell out - reserve online early
• Bring layers - coastal fog can roll in quickly
• The Sea Chest only takes cash - no credit cards or reservations
• Fiscalini Ranch Preserve offers less crowded coastal hiking