William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach

William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach is a coastal strip along the Pacific in San Simeon with a pier and sheltered cove. Rocky cliffs frame the shoreline on both sides, creating a natural amphitheater for the beach below.

This location served as a shipping hub for the Hearst newspaper operations in the early 1900s. The area was later converted to public use for recreation and remains so today.

Local kayak outfitters provide guided tours teaching visitors about marine life, including whales, sea lions, and otters frequently seen in these waters.

The beach has picnic spots, parking areas, and restrooms available to visitors. Come during daylight hours, as wind picks up along the exposed coastline and conditions change with the seasons.

Gray and humpback whales pass along this coast during their annual migrations. Visitors often spot these animals from shore during their seasonal journeys.

Location: San Luis Obispo County

Address: William Randolph Hearst Memorial Beach, 750 Hearst Castle Rd, San Simeon, CA 93452, USA

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 08:00-20:00

Phone: +18059272020

Website: http://parks.ca.gov/?page_id=589

GPS coordinates: 35.64172,-121.19034

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:31