The Best Hotels to Book Near Hearst Castle, California

Snuggled into seaside acres amid bright green grass and fragrant California pines, this Moonstone Beach hotel has a rustic feel. There’s the lobby fireplace with its quarry stone wall, a chandelier hanging from a tin ceiling and a Chesterfield couch. Parquet floors, horse prints, leather accents and vaulted wood ceilings create a homey atmosphere – perfect for those who like their stays to be chilled out. Padded plaid headboards and bull horns complete the ranch-chic vibe, and the outdoor pool, restaurant, plus private beach trail make for an unforgettable coast escape.

Set on the shores of Moonstone Beach, enclosed by rolling grass hills, Fireside boasts a warm summer house look. Earth colors dominate the spacious rooms – and hardwood floors, plush beds, velvet chairs and a firepit make the place cozy. Rather than bland towel hooks, the owners have used sparrow sculptures perched on a branch, paying attention to little details to ensure your stay is memorable. Whether you sip a glass of wine on your natural stone patio or lounge at the pool, drifting off to the sound of ocean waves is second to none.

Steps from Moonstone Beach Boardwalk, El Colibri is for wine lovers and chill-seekers. Terracotta roof tiles and arched windows characterize this three-star hotel, radiating a typically Tuscan-Mediterranean charm. Some rooms come with a jacuzzi air-jet tub and natural stone shower – others score with woodland or town-side views. All have a gas fireplace, wood galore, carpets adding elegance and the softest linens in town. Complete with a full-service spa, sauna and wine bar serving vintages, this Tuscany-inspired hotel sets the bar for central coast hotels in Cambria.

Minutes from elephant seal-viewing at Piedras Blancas, this San Simeon beachfront resort sits on a seaside bluff and boasts Pacific coast views out of this world. The lobby welcomes guests with a fireplace and couches and adds aesthetic value with ceramic tile flooring. Carpets, velvet armchairs and bedding in matching earth tones give the rooms an elegant, warm design. Cribs are free – and adjoining rooms are available. Like dining in style? There’s a natural stone restaurant overlooking the ocean. Outdoor facilities include a giant chess set, barbecue area and two pools with recliners.

Just 4mi (6.4km) from Hearst Castle and a short walk from the beach, Sea Breeze is a no-frills San Simeon motel. The earth-colored non-smoking rooms have retro accents with wooden chairs, bedside tables and an old-time bed frame. Carpets and marble sinks add a touch of luxury, and the windows offer views of the Pacific Ocean. Need in-room amenities? They’re all kitted out with a fridge, microwave, TV and ironing board. On-site parking is free, and there’s an outdoor pool with recliners to soak up the sun.

Hiding in a garden near Moonstone Beach, this pine-and-flower-surrounded lodge is a popular wedding area. No wonder! The sun peeping through the trees creates an utterly serene atmosphere. This spa hotel makes a statement with early 20th-century style – wood and natural stone prevail in the bar and restaurant with a fireplace. The rustic charm continues in wood-dominated rooms with maroon-brown baroque sofas. The breakfast area, with its kitchen decor, chandelier and wood ceilings, enchants even spoiled hearts. Still not enough? An outdoor pool and spa tub complete this delightful experience.

Separated from Moonstone Beach by fragrant pines and colorful flowers, this mansion – with its delightful toy-house look – offers a quiet escape. Sit back on your patio or balcony, where the peace will only interrupted by squealing herring gulls. This smoke-free, pet-friendly property – partly built with natural stone – has warm-hued rooms with couches and comfy beds with padded headboards. You can cozy up by the fireplace or enjoy other convenient amenities such as the spa and 24-hour business center. Keen to work on your tan? Grab a recliner and lounge by the heated pool.