Enjoy the Best Romantic
Things to Do in Cambria
The best romantic things
Known for its stunning coastal views and cozy beachside hideaways, it does not take much to feel swept away by the romance of Cambria, California. From the charming Moonstone Beach boardwalk and the grandeur of Hearst Castle to sleepy cafes and welcoming vacation homes, our seaside village is a beloved destination for couples all year long.
Romantic Things to See
Moonstone Beach
Our central beach offers breathtaking views and a pebbly shoreline perfect for evening strolls. Walk the beautifully maintained boardwalk, search the tide pools for marine wonders, and finish your morning with a warm drink or a slice of pie from Linn’s Restaurant.
Hearst Castle
Just nine miles north of Cambria, this 250,000-acre estate stands as a massive, palace-like testament to architectural grandeur. For a truly romantic visit, book the Art Under the Moonlight Tour (October–November) or the Holiday Twilight Tour. Visiting in the spring or summer? The Cottages and Kitchen or Grand Rooms tours are equally enchanting.
Fiscalini Ranch Preserve
Escape into wild forests and expansive nature preserves. The Bluff Trail is an easy, mostly boardwalk hike that offers incredibly romantic views of ocean cliffs and crashing waves. Keep an eye out for wandering deer, sea otters, and even distant whales!
Highway 1 Scenic Drive
Take your romance on the road along one of the most gorgeous drives in the country. Head two hours north to Big Sur, or cruise south toward Morro Bay and Pismo Beach. Pack a camera and stop at local wineries along the way.
Moonstone Beach
Our central beach offers breathtaking views and a pebbly shoreline perfect for evening strolls. Walk the beautifully maintained boardwalk, search the tide pools for marine wonders, and finish your morning with a warm drink or a slice of pie from Linn’s Restaurant.
Hearst Castle
Just nine miles north of Cambria, this 250,000-acre estate stands as a massive, palace-like testament to architectural grandeur. For a truly romantic visit, book the Art Under the Moonlight Tour (October–November) or the Holiday Twilight Tour. Visiting in the spring or summer? The Cottages and Kitchen or Grand Rooms tours are equally enchanting.
Fiscalini Ranch Preserve
Escape into wild forests and expansive nature preserves. The Bluff Trail is an easy, mostly boardwalk hike that offers incredibly romantic views of ocean cliffs and crashing waves. Keep an eye out for wandering deer, sea otters, and even distant whales!
Highway 1 Scenic Drive
Take your romance on the road along one of the most gorgeous drives in the country. Head two hours north to Big Sur, or cruise south toward Morro Bay and Pismo Beach. Pack a camera and stop at local wineries along the way.
How to Get the Best Rate on Your Getaway
Unforgettable Date Ideas
Picnic with a View
Pack a blanket, pick up delicious sandwiches and desserts from Linn’s Restaurant, and head to Moonstone Beach for lunch by the ocean.
A Unique Nature Encounter
The Central Coast is home to thousands of elephant seals. Visit the Friends of the Elephant Seal Visitor Center in the winter (especially in February when the beach is full of newborn pups) for a magical wildlife experience, followed by an afternoon pick-me-up at Cambria Shores Coffee Bar.
Wine & Dine
Take advantage of California wine country! Explore the Pleasant Valley Wine Trail or the Pacific Coast Wine Trail to visit boutique tasting rooms. If you prefer a central location, the beautiful Hearst Ranch Winery is a must-visit.
Horseback Rides & Ranch Views
For a unique vantage point, book a 1.5-hour ride through lush forests and pastures at Covell Clydesdale Ranch. Even if you do not want to ride, you can visit the ranch to meet their magnificent herd of giant Clydesdales.
Picnic with a View
Pack a blanket, pick up delicious sandwiches and desserts from Linn’s Restaurant, and head to Moonstone Beach for lunch by the ocean.
A Unique Nature Encounter
The Central Coast is home to thousands of elephant seals. Visit the Friends of the Elephant Seal Visitor Center in the winter (especially in February when the beach is full of newborn pups) for a magical wildlife experience, followed by an afternoon pick-me-up at Cambria Shores Coffee Bar.
Wine & Dine
Take advantage of California wine country! Explore the Pleasant Valley Wine Trail or the Pacific Coast Wine Trail to visit boutique tasting rooms. If you prefer a central location, the beautiful Hearst Ranch Winery is a must-visit.
Horseback Rides & Ranch Views
For a unique vantage point, book a 1.5-hour ride through lush forests and pastures at Covell Clydesdale Ranch. Even if you do not want to ride, you can visit the ranch to meet their magnificent herd of giant Clydesdales.
Romantic Restaurants in Cambria
Madeline’s
A Cambria staple for over 21 years! Enjoy expertly grilled steaks, flaky crab cakes, and their famous Moules Marinieres. Reservations are required for the main dining room, but walk-ins are welcome for wine and lite bites at their Moonstone Beach location inside the Cambria Shores Inn.
Robin’s
Located in the East Village, Robin's offers exquisite international cuisine—from rich curries to crispy brussels sprouts. Dine in their beautiful garden under the string lights for an effortlessly romantic ambiance.
Indigo Moon
What began as a wine and cheese shop is now a beloved, dinner-only destination. Make a reservation and indulge in baked brie with fig tapenade, delicate scallops, flame-grilled steaks, and a phenomenal wine list.
Sea Chest Oyster Bar
Established in 1975, this iconic spot leans heavily into the tastes of the sea. Enjoy fresh oysters, clams, calamari, and mussels. Local Tip: They do not accept reservations (first-come, first-served) and are cash or check only!
Feature
Madeline’s
A Cambria staple for over 21 years! Enjoy expertly grilled steaks, flaky crab cakes, and their famous Moules Marinieres. Reservations are required for the main dining room, but walk-ins are welcome for wine and lite bites at their Moonstone Beach location inside the Cambria Shores Inn.
Robin’s
Located in the East Village, Robin's offers exquisite international cuisine—from rich curries to crispy brussels sprouts. Dine in their beautiful garden under the string lights for an effortlessly romantic ambiance.
Indigo Moon
What began as a wine and cheese shop is now a beloved, dinner-only destination. Make a reservation and indulge in baked brie with fig tapenade, delicate scallops, flame-grilled steaks, and a phenomenal wine list.
Sea Chest Oyster Bar
Established in 1975, this iconic spot leans heavily into the tastes of the sea. Enjoy fresh oysters, clams, calamari, and mussels. Local Tip: They do not accept reservations (first-come, first-served) and are cash or check only!