A First-Timer's Guide to Cambria in the Off-Season

First-time visitors to Cambria are in for a treat, especially in the off-season. The Central Coast is much less crowded, and with mild weather and cool coastal breezes to refresh the senses, visitors will leave feeling relaxed and renewed. No matter what time of year, there is always plenty to see and do in Cambria. Prepare yourself for luxury lodging, delicious meals, boutique shopping, and wines made at local vineyards-not to mention the unforgettable ocean views. Guests can kick back, relax, and enjoy everything this little gem on the Central Coast has to offer.

Begin the day with coffee from Cambria Coffee Roasting Company. The custom, house-roasted brews from the Cambria Coffee Roasting Co. are sure to start your day off right. Try one of their delicious classics, or switch things up with a specialty seasonal latte.

Take a tour of Hearst Castle. Only six miles north of Cambria, 'La Cuesta Encantada,' or the Enchanted Hill, is a must-see for first-time visitors to the Central Coast. The grand estate, built by media magnate William Randolph Hearst in the 1920s, features 165 rooms and more than 125 acres of sprawling gardens, walkways, terraces, and pools, most of which are available for touring.

Stroll along Moonstone Beach Boardwalk. This iconic, protected coastline offers incredible views from the perfect vantage point-a one-mile boardwalk that meanders along the cliff above the beach from Leffingwell Landing to Fiscalini Ranch. Guests can take the stairs down to the beach itself to hunt for moonstones and feel the waves lapping at their feet. During the off-season, visitors may have the whole beach to themselves.

Explore the Shops at the Garden Shed. Cambria famously has no chain stores whatsoever, offering exclusively boutique experiences at independent shops and galleries. This specific group of shops offers something for everyone, but will especially appeal to those with a green thumb. Guests can wine taste at Twin Coyotes, pick up a succulent at Grow Nursery, and find a trinket to signify their trip at Ocean Heir.

Go back in time on the Historic Walking Tour. Cambria is home to a number of buildings with historic significance. Classic, Victorian architecture can be found all over town, so even if visitors decide not to partake in the official self-guided tour, they can pay attention as they wander-many restaurants, stores, and lodging properties throughout Cambria are located in historic structures.

Dine at one of Cambria's finest establishments. With farm-to-table delights, fresh seafood, and an abundance of olallieberry pie, Cambria has what hungry hearts are looking for. Check out Robin's Restaurant for unique, international fare, or Indigo Moon for classic wine and cheese parings. Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill is home to delicious seafood-and no meal would be complete without some olallieberry pie from Linn's.

Listen to live music at the Fireside Lounge. The Fireside Lounge at the Cambria Pines Lodge is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring. Guests can cozy up by the fire with a glass of wine or a cocktail and enjoy music from local bands.

Visitors should download the Visit Cambria app, available on both iOS and Android, for the ability to create their own custom itinerary that includes all of these exciting winter activities!

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