A Weekend Road Trip to Cambria, California: Small Towns, Seals, and Pie
There’s something timeless about hopping in the car with the family and heading up the California coast. That’s exactly what we did one beautiful weekend—leaving the Los Angeles area on a sunny Saturday morning with our sights set on Cambria. While Cambria was the destination, the journey there became just as memorable. What started as a quick overnight trip turned into a charming escape through coastal towns, beach boardwalks, and breathtaking scenery.
Saturday: The Coastal Drive to Cambria
1. Harmony, CA – Population 18 and Full of Character
Our first stop was the blink-and-you’ll-miss-it town of Harmony. With a population of just 18, it was quiet, quirky, and full of charm. We grabbed a bite at a local mobile café (yes, the food was surprisingly great) and treated ourselves to Harmony Valley Creamery’s small-batch ice cream. After that, we wandered through a pottery studio and glassblowing shop—both full of local artistry and peaceful vibes.
2. Hearst Castle Drive-By
We didn’t have time for a full tour of Hearst Castle, but driving past the grand entrance and seeing it from afar still felt like a brush with history. Another time, maybe.
3. Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery
A quick drive north led us to one of the most unforgettable stops—watching hundreds of elephant seals lounging along the shore. Some were napping, others sparring in the water, and it was both calming and fascinating to witness. Nature’s reality show, free of charge.
4. Moonstone Beach Boardwalk
We headed back south and made a stop at Moonstone Beach. The boardwalk is just long enough for a refreshing stroll, and we took our time walking along the sand, letting the ocean breeze work its magic. It was peaceful, low-key, and everything a coastal walk should be.
5. Cambria Pines Lodge Gardens
We checked in to our hotel at Cambria Pines Lodge—nestled among tall pines with its own nursery and garden paths. We explored the gardens, which felt like a mini botanical oasis tucked into the hills.
6. Downtown Cambria & Dinner at JJ’s Pizza
Later that evening, we explored Downtown Cambria—a cozy stretch of antique shops, small galleries, and inviting storefronts. We ended the evening with casual pizza at JJ’s, which hit the spot after a full day of adventuring.
7. A Sweet Stop at Linn’s
Before heading back to the hotel, we made one last detour to Linn’s for their famous Olallieberry Pie. It was every bit as good as the hype—flaky, sweet, and a perfect end to a wonderful day.
Sunday: Trails, Towns, and the Drive Back
8. Fiscalini Ranch Bluff Trail
Sunday morning greeted us with more blue skies and coastal crispness. We took a short but scenic walk along the Bluff Trail at Fiscalini Ranch Preserve. The combination of forest greenery and panoramic ocean views made it feel like we were worlds away from the hustle of city life.
9. Pismo Beach – A Quick Cruise Through
Next up: Pismo Beach. We rolled through Main Street in search of brunch, but the parking gods weren’t on our side. With limited time and a crowded strip, we decided to save Pismo for another visit.
10. Santa Barbara Stop – California Pizza Kitchen
Hungry and ready for a pitstop, we made our final stop in Santa Barbara. We grabbed a casual lunch at California Pizza Kitchen, a reliable family-friendly choice that gave us a chance to stretch out, refuel, and reflect on the trip.
A Weekend Well Spent
In just two days, we visited small towns, explored coastal gems, spotted seals, and indulged in some amazing food. The weather was perfect—clear skies, ocean air, and not a single moment of rush. This trip reminded us that you don’t have to go far to feel like you’ve gotten away. Sometimes, a short road trip with a well-planned (or loosely planned) itinerary is all it takes to reconnect, recharge, and make a few new memories.