Blake Walsh

16 Best Things to Do in Cambria, CA

  • Published 2022/04/06

California is composed of the world’s treasured gems, and Cambria is one of them.

The seaside village is known for its dramatic landscapes, history, and artistic festivals.

A vacation in Cambria is like no other.

You will enjoy delectable food options, pristine beaches, and historic trails.

If you are anywhere around California, you should not miss out on a trip to this village.

It’s surely a fantastic place to explore the central coast.

Plus, the village is pretty and easy to navigate on foot.

So, here’s a list of the best things to do in Cambria, California:

Go Wine Tasting at Stolo Vineyards

It is said that every wine tastes different.

Each has its aging essence and a local tinge to it.

Stolo Vineyards & Winery, located on the Santa Rosa Creek Road, serves the best wine all over Cambria.

This is your chance to indulge in the royalty of Cambria wines.

They are smooth and tempting, especially their rosé and sauvignon blanc.

Don’t forget to make a reservation beforehand.

Stride around Moonstone Beach

Wooden trail of Moonstone Beach

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Cambria is composed of elaborately gorgeous coastline, and Moonstone Beach is no different from that.

It is one of the most pristine beaches in California.

This place stands synonymous with Cambria—visitors usually identify the town through this beach.

Looking for an escape?

Run to Moonstone.

Scenic view of Moonstone Beach

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The serenity this beach offers cannot be found elsewhere.

The boardwalk attached to the beach is equally stunning.

You can go for a long walk and stare at the waves crashing the shore.

It will definitely be a breathtaking experience here.

It is a magical beach that sparkles when the moonlight hits dusk.

Have a Pint at 927 Beer Company

One of the finest breweries in town, 927 Beer Company has heavenly options to choose from.

The beer is locally brewed, so it catches the Cambria essence.

Along with beer, they pour the best wines and cedars, and you can play some quirky table games.

After a whole day excursion, you can visit here for some relaxation and gulp down pints of beer.

Kids are not allowed inside, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Go Hiking at the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve

Trail in the woods of Fiscalini Ranch

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The Fiscalini Ranch Preserve provides a lot of trails to explore.

Out of the many trails, the Bluff Trail is highly recommended.

The area is spread out into 400-acre property.

All the trails lead up to the coast.

The Bluff Trail has scenic routes to wander, and the best time to go is between afternoon and evening; the best season to visit is spring, when the flowers are blooming to the fullest.

Lone tree at Fiscalini Ranch Preserve

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The path is well marked, making it easier to follow.

En route, you’ll discover the unique flora and stunning sky views.

The walk starts from the northern end.

The pathway meanders along with the tides.

Take it slow and admire nature’s offerings.

It will be a rejuvenating walk for sure.

Sunny landscape of Fiscalini Ranch Preserve

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Explore Cambria’s Downtown Area

Restaurant at Downtowm Cambria

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Downtown areas are always quaint and aesthetic.

Cambria’s downtown houses cute cafes, restaurants, and locally owned stores.

One of the best places to check out is Linn’s.

Exterior of a restaurant at Cambria's Downtown

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Across that is the Tea Cozy, a famous tea joint.

You can sit back and relish a steaming cup of tea.

Apart from this, you can go to Main Street Grill for the best barbecue options.

Tour Nitt Witt Ridge

Exterior of the Nitt Witt Ridge

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Nitt Witt Ridge is of historical importance to the town.

It is one of the oldest and most unique houses in Cambria.

It is an amalgam of contemporary and Victorian age architecture.

The materials used to build it are native.

The architecture is intricately designed, giving it a significant bohemian look.

Old interior of Nitt Witt Ridge

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The colors are subtle, too.

The owner provides a tour of the house and introduces the visitors to age-old stories.

He also explains the making of the house and how it was passed from generation to generation.

The storytelling makes the tour altogether more enthralling.

The interior is artistic and aesthetic.

History marker of Nitt Witt Ridge

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Step Straight into a Fairy Tale at Hearst Castle

Exterior of the Hearst Castle

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Shimmering atop the Santa Lucia Mountains is the magnificent Hearst Castle.

It looks like something straight out of a Disney movie and is a mesmerizing place with an enchanting view.

The gothic architecture enhances the castle’s beauty.

Interior of the Hearst Castle

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Admire long hallways, arches, and gardens.

It is studded with intricate details that will capture your attention.

The luxury roman pool in Hearst Castle

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It’s spread over 125 acres and is composed of 165 rooms.

The carvings convey stories.

It would help if you opted for a guide, as he will explain the vibrant history of the castle.

The famous golden girl statue at Hearst Castle

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Climb Up Piedras Blancas Light Station

Sunset at Piedras Blancas Light Station

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Piedras Blancas Light Station is a renowned lighthouse in California.

It served an important role in maritime navigation during older times.

You need to make a reservation beforehand to lessen the hassle.

You’ll get almost two hours to explore the lighthouse and its surrounding area.

The guide may also tell you some aspects of maritime history.

Wheelchairs are accessible too for those in need.

Also, make sure you carry your own binoculars to explore the wildlife around.

The view from atop the lighthouse is amazing.

The ocean looks immaculate from above.

The grounds circling the lighthouse are worth exploring, too.

Grab a Bite at Robin’s Restaurant

The most comforting place to satiate your hunger is at Robin’s Restaurant.

They have a handcrafted menu that encapsulates everything from spicy treats to scrumptious dessert options.

It is a garden cafe that offers an amazing sunset view.

The cafe’s best delicacy is its enchiladas.

Experience Cambria’s Art and Wine Festival

Stretched over three days, Cambria’s Art and Wine Festival is an experience you don’t want to miss.

All three days consist of zest, excitement, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Various forms of art are showcased during the festival.

Also, a few auctions take place where you can purchase the art piece of your choice.

The weekends are organized for wine tasting.

It is said that this is the best time to taste some excellent wine flavors.

There are a lot of trivial and entertaining events going on simultaneously.

A whole of Cambria’s spirits touches the skies these days.

If you want to experience Cambria in its most exciting aura, then this is your time to go.

You may also meet some intriguing people and share a conversation over a glass of wine.

Spend the Day at Victoria’s Last Resort

Looking for a relaxing day?

Do you want to spend all day in bed?

If you were nodding to these questions, here’s your chance to grab it.

Book a stay at Victoria’s Last Resort.

It is a lavish yet comfortable resort to spend a day in Cambria.

The ambiance of this place is vintage and retro and offers music all night.

It is one of those offbeat resorts that are eccentric and cozy.

You can lay in your room all day or explore the resort.

Both of them will be equally enjoyable.

They offer delicious food options, too.

The warmth of the place will engulf you and take you to a far more soothing place mentally.

Watch the Sunset at Shamel Park

This is the best location to catch a sunset view.

Equipped with picnic tables and benches, this is the best location to relax in the evening.

The vicinity is full of greenery, and a cool breeze caresses your face every now and then.

It is a dog-friendly area and also has some fun kids’ rides.

Lay down in the sand and let your thoughts take a calming course.

Appreciate Artworks Displayed in Vault Gallery

Housed in California’s Historic Bank Building since 1991, Vault Gallery showcases preeminent California Plein Air paintings and Contemporary arts and photographs.

For many years, the gallery has been able to grow artistically by introducing outstanding national and international sculptors, painters, and photographers.

Vault Gallery is quite the innovator and a little bit of a local treasure.

The owner shows off their ingenuity by combining various art styles and presenting them in unexpected ways.

At first, you may feel as if it were nestled in one of San Francisco or Los Angeles cyberpunk-esque settings rather than quaint little Cambria, but that’s just the beginning for this place.

Once you wander inside, what you are about to experience will take your breath away!

Shop for Antique Items at Rich Man Poor Man

Rich Man Poor Man has particular criteria for every vendor brought in, making for an interesting experience for anyone that loves browsing through old things.

This antique mall features thousands of antiques across the two floors.

RMPM houses over 30 dealers representing a wide variety of products on its showroom floors.

The expansive assortment boasts vintage findings like vases, stemware, glasses, furniture, flatware, cabinets, pictures, dishes, and frames, as well as popular jewelry options, including bracelets and rings.

Peruse Different Stalls at Cambria Farmers Market

Cambria Farmers Market rests on the main strip of Cambria, beside the MIA Memorial and the Veterans Center at the beginning of downtown Cambria, right off the 101.

For over 35 years, this quaint little farmer’s market has been operating in Cambria every Friday afternoon.

Cambria Farmers Market is an excellent source of locally grown produce, baked goods, and native crafts.

While there are fair vendors, there are two prominent ones that deserve special mention.

Cambria’s own Mt. Olive Organic Farm from Paso Robles and Linn’s BBQ & Pies have a physical store/farm presence.

There’s also an awesome kettle corn vendor on site who makes delicious caramel popcorn.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Take a Detour to San Simeon Pier

Sunset view from San Simeon Pier

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San Simeon Pier is one of the fascinating spots to go near Cambria.

It is the best place to catch a glimpse of oceanic life.

Since the pier stretches out to the ocean, you can feel the water beneath your feet.

There is a garden attached to the pier that acts as a picnic spot for families.

You can spot many seagulls in the area.

Seals on San Simeon Pier shore

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It is an ideal space if you want to relax for a bit.

You can also go for a pleasant stroll in the evening with waves making a melodious sound.

The water is cobalt blue and pure.

You can just sit on the pier and adore the water flowing.

Daytime view of the San Simeon Pier

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Final Thoughts

During your stay in beautiful Cambria, you’ll be close to many local landmarks.

You can relax on Moonstone Beach as you watch the ocean sparkle under the Californian sun, while old buildings like Nitt Witt Ridge and Hearst Castle will give you a taste of history.

Plan your visit to Cambria in California by following this fantastic itinerary!

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