A Winter Family Cycling Trip Checklist in San Simeon
The crisp Central Coast weather in San Simeon makes it an irresistible setting for your off-season, winter cycling fix. But the holiday flair also means the town is an ideal place for a getaway with the whole family. Satisfy both cycling and family by staying in style and touring San Simeon for some killer moments you’ll never forget.
Winter Wildlife Wonders
While riding the Silver Peak Route, you’ll pass by the Piedras Blancas Rookery—the only elephant seal rookery in the world that is free, easily accessible, and open every day of the year. It’s just one example of the outstanding opportunities available for spotting wildlife in San Simeon.
As you explore the area between rides, you and your family can catch sight of local life including birds and sea otters. San Simeon also boasts two designated Whale Trail viewing sites: one at the Cavalier Ocean Resort and another on the San Simeon Bay Pier. These are awesome opportunities to witness these marine mammals in action, and winter is one of their favorite seasons to show off. On land, you may come across one of the few places on this continent in which zebras roam freely—the estate of William Randolph Hearst.
Hearst Castle
Speaking of Hearst, his magnificent Hearst Castle is a must-see on the Central Coast, whether you’re in San Simeon as a solo act or with the whole family. You can spot this spectacular landmark perched atop hills while riding the Ragged Point Route. Spend your downtime by checking out this chateau through its various tours—some of which are only available during winter. Check to see which options appeal to you and your family the most, then get ready to brush up on some true Central Coast history while you’re here.
Cavalier Oceanfront Resort
When you bring your family with you to San Simeon, consider staying in style at Cavalier Oceanfront Resort—the only resort of its kind in town. Located just three miles from Hearst Castle, the resort allows access to the local cycling routes that start in town. While you’re out conquering hills and burning watts, you can rest assured that the resort has the rest of your family accommodated, with amenities including heated pools, a hot tub, and a full-service day spa. The property even has you covered for dinner in the evenings with its own in-house restaurant, the Cavalier Coastal Kitchen.
San Simeon Cycling Routes
The cycling routes of San Simeon take you on tours of all the sights covered above while providing the exciting, enduring rides you seek. Note that these routes are curated for experienced cyclists, each one being at least 30 miles long with varied climbs that push even the toughest athletes out of their comfort zone.
Coastal Cayucos Route
Start pedaling on an expedition from San Simeon to a captivating beach town on our Coastal Cayucos Route. This 42-mile round trip provides an opportunity to power your way across Highway 1 on your way to Cayucos. The route also features multiple opportunities to stop and admire incredible vistas and marine life, perfect for mid-ride breaks as you and any partners cruise down this historic highway.
Ragged Point Route
Check out an experience that only the Central Coast can deliver when you take on the Ragged Point Route. This 37-mile ride goes past several notable landmarks, including Hearst Castle, with some challenging hills in between historic points. This is an exceptional two-wheel tour to take with any other hardcore cyclists in your family, featuring stops at the San Simeon Pier and a Whale Trail location—great spots to check out in the winter.
Silver Peak Route
Experience all the best the San Simeon area has to offer along Highway 1 with the Silver Peak Route. There’s a lot to this 64-mile ride, but it provides chances to pause if anyone in your group needs to, as well as space for optional activities like hiking the nearby trails. Be sure to take the opportunity to head up and check out the Black Swift Waterfalls, which start hitting their beautiful full flow in late winter.
Plan Your Winter Family Visit to San Simeon
The potential for cycling gains and an enjoyable family getaway should land San Simeon on your bucket list. What’s great is that the town offers plenty to do with your family between rides, making it an ideal escape for all.
Book your stay for an unforgettable getaway at the Cavalier Oceanfront Resort, then start planning to get the most out of cycling and winter vibes on this slice of the Central Coast.