Alongside a whole suite of challenging routes that reward your efforts with epic views, San Simeon offers plenty of pit stops and activities to help you get the most out of your downtime on the Central Coast. Read on for our recommendations, then start planning your next cycling escape to this coastal haven.
San Simeon Wildflowers
The full blooms are magnificent during wildflower season in San Simeon, bringing a burst of motivating multicolor into view as you sweat up and down our rolling hills. Your charge through the stunning expanses along the scenic coastline gets an upgrade with the vibrant yellows, purples, and oranges from California poppies and lupines.
Many of our routes run through prime wildflower country, including the Silver Peak Route and the Ragged Point Route. That means the blooms can be a source of motivation, whether you’re on party pace or trying to break PRs. Don’t forget to stop and snap a photo—this natural spectacle is as fleeting as it is breathtaking.
San Simeon Pier
The San Simeon Pier isn’t the average picture-perfect pit stop—it’s a prime spot for cyclists looking to take a well-earned break while soaking in expansive ocean views. Whether warming up or recovering, this is the place to breathe deep and reset.
Picnic Zone
Just off the pier, the picnic area is a solid post-ride recovery zone. Spread out a blanket, kick back with some fresh local eats, and refuel with a view. Bonus points: grab something from Sebastian’s General Store and the Hearst Ranch Winery and enjoy those authentic San Simeon flavors on your pit stop.
Hearst Castle
If you’re up for a detour off the saddle, Hearst Castle is a must. Enter this iconic estate and enjoy one of the many guided tours available. You’ll be treated to a dose of history, jaw-dropping architecture, and a well-earned break from the wheels. Plus, all the views remind you why cycling here is like no other.
Old San Simeon Village
Even the most curmudgeonly cyclist can appreciate the slow roll through Old San Simeon Village. This corner of San Simeon offers a glimpse into the past that still carries on through generations. Stop by for a quick walk-around and grab something from Sebastian’s General Store before heading back onto the road.
Cavalier Coastal Kitchen
Every great ride deserves a great spot to refuel, and Cavalier Coastal Kitchen is where it’s at. With panoramic views of the Pacific, this stop serves up hearty, locally sourced dishes that hit just right after burning those calories on the road.
Whether you’re craving a market-fresh salad, a classic burger, or just a solid cup of coffee to perk you up for the next stretch, this is your go-to refuel station.
Road Trip Destinations
The beauty of San Simeon? It’s not just a cycling hotspot—it’s a gateway to some of California’s best road trip-worthy destinations. Good for an extended adventure or a short post-ride detour, these spots are worth the extra mileage.
Ragged Point
Welcome to the gateway to Big Sur. If you’re looking to add a legendary climb to your ride, this is it. With breathtaking ocean vistas, steep switchbacks, and that glorious feeling of conquering one of the most scenic stretches of Highway 1, Ragged Point is a must.
Hit up our Ragged Point Route to get a tremendous tour of all this on two wheels. It’s challenging. It’s rewarding. It’s exactly the kind of ride you can humble-brag about on Strava.
Paso Robles Wine Country
If you prefer to trade in your water bottle for a post-ride wine glass, Paso Robles Wine Country is an easy and rewarding side trip. Less than an hour’s drive from San Simeon, this region is packed with rolling vineyards, award-winning wineries, and that perfect blend of elixirs to celebrate a long ride. Think of it as your well-earned cooldown. (Just remember to drink responsibly!)
San Simeon Is Calling
The road is wide open and waiting for you in San Simeon. Whether you’re chasing a new PR, looking for an inspiring ride, or simply here to soak in the scenery, all the stops in between on this coastal paradise are here to deliver. So book your stay, then clip in, hit the road, and make your next ride one to remember!