During July 4th week, Mary and I escaped the heat in LA by heading up the coast to Cambria, the sleepy sea-side town just south of Hearst Castle. We were really there to relax rather than a hardcore shooting vacation, but we found many good subjects, nonetheless. Here is what you might see.
Visit Hearst Castle
This is the number one attraction in this area. There are several tours. Mary and I did the upstairs bedrooms and chose the first one out to avoid the crowds. And it worked.
We were the only people on a “ten person” tour and enjoyed 1:1 access to our guide who was friendly, knowledgeable, and gave us a bit more access than usual.
There is so much to see and take in, but I really loved the tower bedrooms, all of the intricate ceilings, and his and hers (Marion Davies) owners suite.
On your way back, stop at the San Simeon Pier and don’t forget to photograph the old schoolhouse.
Finally, stop and see the elephant seals on the way back to town.
Walk Moonstone Beach end-to-end
We stayed right on Moonstone Beach drive and enjoyed an oceanfront view with sunset views to the west as the beach faces slightly south. There is a lot to see on the beach, including several tide pool areas, seals, and the eponymous moonstones.
Hike in Fiscalini Ranch Preserve
A short drive from town takes you to the several possible parking areas for this open space. There is a forest trail and a sea bluffs trail. We did the sea bluffs trail that had sweeping views of the coast line.
There are several popular activities we did not engage in, including world class central coast wineries 40-60 minutes away near Paso Robles.
We stayed at the Pelican Inn and Suites on Moonstone Beach Drive, which was very convenient.
We had fine dinners at the Black Cat Bistro, Madeline’s Restaurant, Robin’s Restaurant, and Indigo Moon. We liked Linn’s Restaurant for breakfast and Bridge Street Café for lunch.
To see more of (and buy) our photographs, please go to www.pamphotography.com.
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The pool shots are amazing