San Simeon State Beach
San Simeon, CA
San Simeon State Beach is reached via the San Simeon Creek access point, part of the larger Hearst San Simeon State Park system with a mix of rock and sand typical of this stretch of coast. It's a straightforward state beach stop between the more famous elephant seal colony to the north and Moonstone Beach to the south.
A solid, straightforward state beach that's easy to combine with the more famous stops nearby, without much to distinguish it on its own.
How we score beachesCombine this with a stop at Moonstone Beach just south if you're spending the day in the area, the two make an easy pairing along the same drive.
Free parking is available at the San Simeon Creek access.
A path and blufftop trails lead down to the beach.
Dogs are allowed on leash in the San Simeon Creek and Washburn campgrounds and parking lots, but are banned from San Simeon Creek Beach, Washburn Day Use Beach, and all park trails.
Fog is common most mornings year round, typical of this stretch of the Central Coast.
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