Things to Do at Moonstone Beach
Activities and Important Tips
No visit to Cambria, California, is complete without spending some time at the iconic Moonstone Beach.
Whether you are planning a weekend coastal getaway or taking a scenic drive down Highway 1, this spectacular stretch of coastline is a spot you can return to over and over again, experiencing something new each time. Here is our insider’s guide to the best things to do at Moonstone Beach during your stay.
Whether you are planning a weekend coastal getaway or taking a scenic drive down Highway 1, this spectacular stretch of coastline is a spot you can return to over and over again, experiencing something new each time. Here is our insider’s guide to the best things to do at Moonstone Beach during your stay.
Walk the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk
One of the best features of Moonstone Beach is the gorgeous, two-mile round-trip wooden boardwalk that winds gracefully above the coastal bluffs.
Accessibility: This mostly flat path is ADA accessible, making it effortless for visitors in wheelchairs, parents with strollers, or folks walking their dogs to enjoy the expansive ocean views.
Year-Round Enjoyment: The trail is open year-round. Bring a journal, find a quiet bench, or simply enjoy a brisk morning walk in the crisp salt air.
Dog Policy: While pups are not allowed on the protected sandy portions of the beach, they are more than welcome to join you on the boardwalk, keeping them safe and sand-free!
Search the Shore for Local Treasures
Moonstone Beach earns its name from the shiny, milky stones that line the shore as the tide recedes.
What Are They? While often mistaken for true gem-quality feldspar moonstones, these beautiful pebbles are actually a form of chalcedony quartz. You are also likely to spot colorful jasper, agate, jade, and sea glass.
Collection Policy: Because this coastline is part of the protected Hearst San Simeon State Park, removing rocks, shells, or marine life is strictly prohibited. If you find a unique treasure, we encourage you to capture it in a photo and leave it behind to preserve the area for future generations.
Tidepool Exploration
Tide pooling is a fantastic, family-friendly activity. Be sure to check local tide charts so you know exactly when to arrive for the best experience.
Marine Life: At low tide, look closely to discover vibrant pink and orange sea stars, purple sea urchins, and bright green anemones.
Protect the Habitat: Please stay on the rocky areas and avoid stepping directly into the tidepools to ensure the safety of these fragile creatures.
Where to Park: Free parking is available in roadside pullouts along Moonstone Beach Drive, at the Leffingwell Landing lot to the north, or at the Santa Rosa Creek Access to the south.
Offshore Wildlife Spotting
As you explore the boardwalk or relax on the sand, keep your eyes peeled—and bring your binoculars!—for incredible offshore wildlife.
Year-Round Sightings: Look for playful sea otters, magnificent elephant seals, and pods of dolphins.
Whale Season: From December to April, you can often spot migrating gray whales and their newborn calves. Look for spouts of water spraying into the sky, especially in the early morning.
Fishing, Surfing, and Water Sports
While Moonstone Beach is not considered a swimming beach due to cold water and strong currents, it is a haven for other water sports.
Local Surfing: The beach offers consistent waves best suited for intermediate surfers. Beginners will find gentler conditions nearby at Leffingwell Landing. You can rent boards and wetsuits at the Cambria Surf Shop, with board rentals starting at $25 per day.
Shore Fishing: Anglers can cast a line right from the shore for surfperch, rockfish, lingcod, and California halibut. Please note that a valid California fishing license is required (available online starting at $21.09), and seasonal restrictions may apply.
Dine Nearby: Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill
After a day of coastal adventures, refuel right on the beach at the Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill.
The Menu: Enjoy everything from fresh seafood and steaks to juicy burgers and classic pub favorites. No reservations are needed!
The Views: Because the restaurant faces west, it is one of the absolute best places in Cambria to enjoy a cocktail and watch the sun dip directly into the Pacific.
Hours: Open daily for lunch (11 AM to 3 PM) and dinner (5 PM to 8:30 PM).
Stay Close to the Magic
The best way to experience Moonstone Beach is to weave it into your entire day. Head out for a morning walk, explore Downtown Cambria in the afternoon, and venture back to the sand just in time for sunset.
The best way to experience Moonstone Beach is to weave it into your entire day. Head out for a morning walk, explore Downtown Cambria in the afternoon, and venture back to the sand just in time for sunset.
