Get to Know Downtown Cambria

If you’re looking for a glimpse of old-school California charm, before they paved paradise to put up a parking lot, so to speak, then Cambria, California, is exactly where you want to be. With eclectic local businesses, wide open coastal views, historic buildings, and even a castle, this tiny community truly has it all.

Located just four hours north of Los Angeles and three hours south of Big Sur, it’s the perfect stop as you’re cruising California’s scenic Pacific Coast Highway. Get to know downtown Cambria and everything that makes this vibrant town worth visiting as we walk you through the can’t-miss sights.   

In this article:

• Cambria’s East Village: History and Shopping
• West Village Beach: Access and More
• Best Priced Vacation Rentals for Your Stay
• Frequently Asked Questions about Downtown Cambria

About Downtown Cambria

With only a few thousand people (just over 6,000, actually), you may expect downtown Cambria to be rather uneventful. The reality couldn’t be farther from the truth. Divided into two distinct regions, the East and West Villages, the Main Street thoroughfare is loaded with antique stores, beach and nature preserve access points, the Cambria farmers’ market, restaurants, and much more!

Cambria’s East Village

Located further inland, the East Village is where we’ll begin our tour of downtown. Here, you’ll find many ties to the town’s historic past with establishments like the Bluebird Inn, the Tea Cozy, and The Red House dating back to the 1860s and early 1900s. One of the most iconic of these historic buildings is Mozzi’s Saloon, a cowboy bar built in 1866. Stop in for a drink and get transported back in time to days when gamblers and pool sharks stalked the grounds.

Beyond history, the East Village affords easy access to the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, where you can see some of the most picturesque views, diverse landscapes, and unique wildlife. If you have time, the Bluff Trail is a short, 0.9-mile walk that offers incredible ocean views and features a mix of paved and gravel pathways, making it easy to traverse and stay on course. There are also several benches and spaces to stop and enjoy the views along the way. Visit at sunset for some incredible photo ops of golden hour over the water. 

For shopping and dining, the East Village is packed. Free parking is abundant in downtown Cambria, so we recommend ditching the car and seeing the sights on foot.

Top Shops to Visit in the East Village:

• Sea + Green
• Antiques on Main
• Among Friends
• Lin’s A La Carte Boutique and Books
• Spellbound Gift Shop and Garden
• Rich Man Poor Man
• Re-Create Thrift Store

The shop owners in Cambria pride themselves on originality, evidenced by their individual styles and aesthetics. The common thread? Intentionality in creating something wholly unique. While you’ll find antiques, clothing, and souvenirs in each one, no two things are the same, which makes hunting to find the perfect piece all the more enjoyable.  

Once you’ve worked up an appetite browsing all the great, one-of-a-kind stores, fuel up at Robin’s Restaurant, Indigo Moon, or Linn’s Easy as Pie Café. These East Village staples will give you a true taste of the town.

• Indigo Moon – Dinner only. Elevated menus that highlight fresh, local ingredients.
• Robin’s Restaurant – Winner of the Best North Coast Restaurant award for 10 years! Enjoy the largest selection of vegetarian dishes on the coast. Global flavors and hand-crafted recipes in a gorgeous setting.
• Linn’s Easy as Pie Café – Linn’s is practically synonymous with Cambria. The Café offers a casual dining experience featuring sandwiches and deli classics. But the star is the olallieberry pie and ice cream—a must-try. 

View More Cambria Restaurants

Cambria’s West Village Art Scene and More

Separated by three-quarters of a mile, the West Village of downtown Cambria continues the cozy coastal vibe with more shopping, dining, art galleries, and even tasting rooms! 

If you’re looking for a commemorative piece of art to take home from your trip, be sure to check out spots like:

• Melanee Sylvester Gallery – Gorgeous beach scenes and seascapes
• Monarch Gallery – Home décor, pottery, paintings, and more
• Ephraim Pottery – Pottery, tile, and wood items
• Maressa Studio Fine Art Gallery – Disney artist turned gallery owner; they feature everything from watercolor to illustrations

As with the East Village, you’ll find boutique stores with clothing and excellent antique shopping opportunities. When you want to take a break, stop by the Cutruzzola Winery tasting room for some of the best wine on the Central Coast!

Located just four miles south of Hearst Castle, this downtown Cambria favorite is open Wednesday through Monday from 11 AM to 5 PM. Walk-ins are welcome, though reservations are required for parties of seven or more.

Tasting Features

• 4 samples, including their estate varietals
• Cheese pairings
• $20 per tasting
• Tasting fee waived if you end up purchasing two bottles

After your wine tasting, take a short five-minute walk to the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk Trailhead. A stroll along the shore is the perfect cap to your downtown day. 

Book Direct and Save on Your Cambria Vacation

Featured Property: 2166 Sherwood

Planning a trip to the Central Coast? Did you know booking a vacation rental directly vs with Airbnb or VRBO can save you hundreds of dollars?

How, you ask? Well, almost every home listed on those sites is also managed by a local company like ours. Booking directly cuts out the middleman, which means you can get a lower rate on your stay. In addition to the best rates, you also get to work with people who actually live in Cambria. We know this town inside and out and can help you plan an unforgettable visit, whether you’re sticking to downtown Cambria or venturing into the surrounding communities.

Check out our available inventory of Cambria vacation rentals from oceanfront homes to pet-friendly properties and find your dream getaway today!

Frequently Asked Questions About Downtown Cambria 

Does Cambria have a downtown?

It does! Divided into two unique areas: the East and West Villages, Cambria’s downtown area is filled with great shopping, art galleries, tasty restaurants, scenic landscapes, and much more!

How long is the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk in downtown Cambria?

The Moonstone Beach Boardwalk is about 2 miles down and back. For easy access from Downtown Cambria, walk approximately five minutes from the Cutruzzola Winery tasting room.