ADDRESS

9415 Hearst Dr.
San Simeon, CA 93452

HOURS

Open Year Round

CONTACT

(805) 927-4688
Visit San Simeon

AMENITIES

Camping, Picnic Facilities, Restrooms, Wheelchair Accessible

San Simeon’s viewing site is situated on Scenic Highway One, 3 miles south of world-famous Hearst Castle and the 1860’s site of shoreline whaling at historic San Simeon.

Located on a sloping terrace above the Pacific, this site is 7 miles south of Piedras Blancas Light Station where the Eastern North Pacific Gray Whale Cow/Calf Production Survey occurs each March-May. Equipped with three telescopes for close-up viewing, this site is only a few steps north of the Friends of the Elephant Seal’s Shop and the VisitSanSimeonCA.com Visitor Center. The Whale Trail sign is on boardwalk next to the Cavalier Resort.

MAP AND DIRECTIONS

TRAVEL TIPS

To reach this location traveling Highway One from the north, turn right on Pico Avenue and proceed south on Hearst Drive. Driving Highway One from the south, turn left on Vista del Mar Avenue and proceed south on Hearst Drive.

VIEWING GUIDE

View our guide on how to watch marine animals from shore.

NOMINATE A SITE

Fill out our nomination form for that amazing site.

SHARE YOUR STORY

Share your inspiring story below or tag #thewhaletrail.

SUPPORT US

The Whale Trail depends on your support. Get involved!