This was one of our absolute favorite attractions while living on California’s Central Coast—and it’s easy to see why. Visiting Hearst Castle feels like stepping into a world of history, luxury, and breathtaking views. I felt like I was on the movie set of a glamorous 1920’s Hollywood movie.
The History of Hearst Castle
Built in the early 1900s by newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst, the estate sits high above San Simeon on land he inherited from his father, who made his fortune during the Gold Rush. Yes, the Actual California Gold Rush.
Originally, the Hearst Land in San Simeon was a working ranch. Hearst reportedly grew tired of camping in tents when visiting and was reported to have said, “I want to build a little something” on the hill. Which is a little comical, because over time, that “little something” expanded into the grand estate that we now know as Hearst Castle.
Choosing the Best Hearst Castle Tour
There are several tour options available, each offering a unique look into the estate.
👉 Explore tour options here: https://hearstcastle.org/tour-hearst-castle/daily-tours/
These are the most popular 3.
- Grand Rooms Tour
- Upstairs suites Tour
- Kitchen and Cottages Tour
We visited twice and tried two different tours. Each tour lasts about 70 minutes.
Tip: I recommend doing one tour per day to fully enjoy the experience, although you can book multiple tours in one day if you’re short on time.
I did feel that with each tour, you get to see an adequate amount of the property and hear stories to be satisfied for the day. If you want to pack it all in, though, it is possible.
A few of the Many Elaborate Ceilings in The Castle.
Grand Rooms Tour (Best for First-Time Visitors)
The Grand Rooms Tour is recommended for first-time visitors. It explores the main gathering spaces and gives you a feel for what it was like to be a guest at the castle.
Fun Fact: Hearst would invite interesting guests to his estate and then write about their visit in his newspaper, The New York Times.
Highlights:
- Main social rooms
- Both famous pools
- Stories about Hearst’s guests
This tour also has the fewest stairs and is wheelchair accessible.
Upstairs Suites Tour
The Upstairs Suites Tour includes more stairs but offers a deeper look into the private side of the estate.
This was one of the tours we did and enjoyed.
Highlights:
- Guest bedrooms and suites
- Pool views and pool house access
- One of the tallest towers
One of the tower rooms felt straight out of a fairytale—like Rapunzel’s tower! It was legit up a staircase in a tower.
Other Tour Options
The Kitchen and Cottages Tour is another of the most popular 3, and there are additional tours that highlight holidays, historic relics, and evening tours.
- Art Under the Moonlight Tour
- Julia Morgan Tour (The Architect)
- Holiday Twilight Tour
What to Expect When Visiting
The California State Parks now manages Hearst Castle, as it was donated by the Hearst family and designated a historic state monument.
Your visit begins at the Visitors Center off California State Route 1.- Check in at the Desk and explore the Center and it s historical exhibits.
Here you’ll find:
- Exhibits and short films
- A gift shop
- Food options (including burgers sourced from the ranch)
From there, a tour guide takes your group on a 15-minute bus ride up a scenic, winding road to the mansion. Keep an eye out—you might even spot zebras roaming the hills!
Why zebras? William Hearst had imported exotic animals for his private zoo on the property, including lions, tigers, giraffes, and Zebras. Zebras can still be seen roaming the fields alongside the cattle. Sometimes the zebra can be seen from the 1 highway.
Architecture & Design Details
Hearst’s travels through Europe with his mother as a young child influenced the castle’s design. He loved Gothic and Renaissance styles, which are reflected throughout the estate.
The architect, Julia Morgan, brought his vision to life.
Fun Fact: Throughout the property, you’ll find authentic historical pieces imported from around the world. At the time this market for historical foreign “pieces” were displayed in a catalog and auctions. Can you imagine? – I used to look in The Sear’s’ or Macy’s catalog for Christmas. Hearst was looking at Egyptian and classical relics Catalog to order from.
One of these relics includes a 3rd-century Roman sarcophagus featuring scenes from The Odyssey.
Inside Hearst Castle
The cavernous Assembly Hall features massive tapestries, some of which once hung in the court of Louis XIV at the Palace of Versailles. I was impressed, if only those tapestries could talk! Makes you feel closer to history to be in the presence of an article that was there during it.
Other highlights include:
- A private movie theater- Hearst had a liking for Drama.
- The Morning Room contains a ceiling that was brought from a 14th or 15th century Spanish palace. In 2010 paint and grime was flaking off, which initiated a cleaning process that revealed the vibrant spanish design that had been hidden by paint.- Lots of fun mysteries to find in this place.
- One of the interesting pieces as a lover of DIY and Upcycling myself. Sheet pages from an old Gregorian chant music score- were repurposed into delightful lamp shades.
The Famous Hearst Castle Pools
Neptune Pool
The Neptune Pool is one of the most iconic features of Hearst Castle.
- Greek-inspired design
- Mountain views
- Stunning symmetry and architecture
It was even featured in a music video by Lady Gaga.
Roman Pool
The indoor Roman Pool is just as breathtaking.
- Mosaic tiles in blue, gold, and orange
- Reflective surfaces that shimmer
- Roman bathhouse-inspired design
Fun Facts About Hearst Castle
- Hearst hosted lavish parties with celebrities and influential guests.
- Guests were sometimes given designated costumes.
- The property has its own airstrip and dock
- Zebras from Hearst’s private zoo still roam the land today.
Visitor Tips
- Do not touch artifacts- this is a family-friendly place, but they are strict on no touching.
- Stay on designated walkways
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Book tours in advance (they sell out!)
- Not Dog Freindly
Final Thoughts
Hearst Castle is a stunning blend of history, art, and architecture. It’s a must-see stop along California’s Central Coast—especially if you’re driving toward Big Sur.
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