5 days in California's Wine Coast Country Itinerary

When you arrive in tiny San Simeon, which lies halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, you can see why William Randolph Hearst chose this coastal locale for his famous hilltop castle.

San Simeon is known for historic sites, wildlife, and beaches. Your plan includes some of its best attractions: look for all kinds of wild species at Friends of the Elephant Seal Visitor Center and Gift Shop, explore the historical opulence of Hearst Castle, visit a coastal fixture at Piedras Blancas Light Station, and admire all the interesting features of Moonstone Beach Dr.

To find photos, maps, traveler tips, and other tourist information, use the San Simeon online trip itinerary builder.

Newark to San Simeon is an approximately 12-hour flight. You can also drive; or do a combination of bus and car. You'll gain 3 hours traveling from Newark to San Simeon due to the time zone difference. Traveling from Newark in November, you will find days in San Simeon are a bit warmer (70°F), and nights are about the same (40°F). Cap off your sightseeing on the 25th (Sat) early enough to travel back home.