Cayucos Beach Inn

In 1865, George Hearst, a wealthy miner, purchased 40,000-acres of ranchland that included the Mexican Ranchos of Piedras Blancas, San Simeon and Santa Rosa. In 1919, the ranch had grown to 250,000 acres and was inherited by his only son, William Randolph Hearst.

Hearst Castle is one of the largest historic house museums in the U.S., with one of the most sophisticated guided tour programs in the country. The tours take the visitor back into time through the interpretation of a combination of many aspects regarding the estate, including William Randolph Hearst and his family, and the collection, architecture, gardens and lifestyle at the Castle.

For more information about Hearst Castle and tour availability, call 1-800-444-4445 or visit the website at http://www.hearstcastle.org/

First illuminated in 1875, the light station at Piedras Blancas is now administered by the Bureau of Land Management. This historic location is an Outstanding Natural Area within the National Landscape Conservation System. The light station, including the lighthouse is located 6 miles north of Herast Castle and is now being restored to its original appearance.

Tours are available and for groups of less than 10 persons, no reservations are required. For further information call (805) 927-7361 or visit the website at http://www.piedrasblancas.gov .

In November 25, 1990 fewer than two dozen elephant seals were counted in the small cove just south of the Piedras Blancas lighthouse. Spring of 1991 brought almost 400 seals to molt and in January of 1992 the first birth occurred. The colony grew at a phenomenal rate. In 1993, about 50 pups were born. In 1995, 600 pups were born. The population explosion was underway. By 1996 the number of pups born soared to almost 1000 and the colony stretched all the way to the beaches that run along the Coast Highway.

The Piedras Blancas rookery, home to about 15,000 animals, is located on Highway 1, 7 miles north of San Simeon. The area is open for viewing every day of the year and there is no admission fee or reservation required. For more information call (805)924-1628, or visit The Friends of the Elephant Seals website at http://www.elephantseal.org .

Morro Rock State Historic Landmark was formed about 23 million years ago from the plugs of long-extinct volcanoes. It is a member of the “Nine Sisters” of volcanic plugs between the Pacific Ocean and San Luis Obispo.

Home of nesting Peregrine Falcons the "Rock" is closed to any climbing or disturbance.

Morro Rock was an important navigational aid for mariners for over 300 years as it height of 576 feet made it the most visible in a chain of nine peaks. Portuguese explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo named the rock “El Morro” in 1542. In Spanish "Morro" means crown shaped hill. Morro Rock, sometimes called the “Gibraltor of the Pacific,” is the last peak which extends from San Luis Obispo to Morro Bay.

For more information visit the California State Parks website at http://www.slostateparks.com/morro_rock/default.asp

The number one "must play" golf course on the central coast, Morro Bay is a favorite among seniors, juniors and anyone who wants to feel they're playing a Pebble Beach-like track at a fraction of the cost. On a clear day, the tree lined fairways and ocean views are stunning, so bring your camera! Situated inside Morro Bay State Park and Estuary, the course is located along Highway 1 just 12 miles Northwest of San Luis Obispo, California. This beautiful facility offers hilly terrain, placing a premium on club selection, but the real test comes in the putting. Crowned by Black Hill above and the sweeping Pacific Ocean below, Morro Bay Golf Course has a straightforward, traditional feel and a refreshing lack of manmade trickery.

For more information, call (805) 782-8060 or visit the website at http://www.slocountyparks.com/facilities/morrobay.htm

This park features over 8,000 acres of rugged cliffs, secluded sandy beaches, coastal plains, streams, canyons, and hills, including 1,347-foot Valencia Peak.

Naturalists and backpackers enjoy the solitude and freedom found along the park’s trails. There are also mountain biking and equestrian trails. The best-known beach is Spooner’s Cove, across from the campground.

The park’s name, "Mountain of Gold," comes from the golden wildflowers that bloom in spring. Wildlife in the park includes black tailed deer and the black oystercatcher. The park includes primitive and equestrian campsites.

For more information call (805) or visit the website at http://www.slostateparks.com/montana_de_oro/default.asp