Cambria, California Is Like a Breath of Fresh Sea Air

by Laralynn Weiss

The faint smell of sea-brine tickles your nose. The surf crashes against the sand, its soothing hum resting gently in your ears. You look towards the horizon where sheer cliffs drop dramatically into the water. And then you turn back for a walk along the bluff to your weekend abode, perhaps a room in a small cottage inn overlooking the shore#8230;.

Welcome to Cambria, a town that offers all the charm and leisure of a quaint village by the sea, along with all the amenities you're used to in daily life. Here, you can browse through an inviting collection of shops, galleries, and restaurants that line the small-town streets; and here you can open your eyes to beautiful beach vistas where the sun sets over a secluded stretch of the sea. Nestled between the central California coast and pine-forested hills, this artists' colony of 6,000 residents provides a perfect weekend getaway for those coming from Los Angeles, California's Central Valley, or the San Francisco Bay Area.

The area of Cambria first developed in the early 1860s around the discovery of copper and cinnabar (from which mercury is extracted) as well as dairy farming and cattle ranching. In the early part of the 20th century it became overwhelmed by the construction of Hearst Castle--still the biggest tourist attraction on the central coast--in neighboring San Simeon. In the 1950s, however, Cambria started to blossom into a thriving artists' community, and to this day it boasts a wonderful collection of galleries, shops, restaurants, and pubs. With relaxing weather year-round (temperatures generally range from 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit), Cambria also has over 30 Bamp;Bs, inns, and motels scattered among the pines, along the coast, and in the center of town.

This seaside community can be divided into three distinct sections, with the first two forming the small town center. Set about two miles back from the coast, the East Village features a string of old Victorians housing restaurants, galleries, shops, and inns. Situated around Main Street just off the ocean, the West Village boasts quaint narrow streets lined by similar attractions. Both sides of the village offer an attractive array of specialty boutiques, antique shops, bookstores, and art galleries, as well as many fine restaurants serving eclectic cuisines--always best complemented by a bottle of a San Luis Obispo County wine! Keep in mind that the greater Cambria area is home to some 20 local wineries, most of which are off Highway 46 just south of the town; you'll want to stop by a few for wine and gourmet-cheese tasting. Other highlights of the area include the farmers' market that occurs in town every Thursday night, plus Hearst Castle, a short six-mile drive to the north.

Moonstone Drive and Moonstone Beach form the third section of Cambria. Moonstone Drive travels along the oceanfront on a scenic loop that parallels Highway 1, and similarly offers a multitude of options for lodging, dining, and shopping. But don't forget to venture to the more natural attractions of the area. For a walk along the bluffs overlooking the rocky shore and tidepools, head to Leffingwell Landing, just off Moonstone Drive. Numerous trails wind along the coast and provide perfect points for watching whales, sea otters, and other marine life. Moonstone Beach itself is a great spot for tidepooling and general exploring. Spend some time combing the sand for driftwood and gemstones; you're sure to find hidden treasures including jasper, jade, and the moonstone agates for which the beach is named. Rock and surf fishing are also quite popular along this stretch of coast, and for those who surf, Spooks on Moonstone Drive has some great spots.

For anyone seeking a break from the asphalt and traffic jams of nearby urban areas, Cambria offers a welcome and leisurely retreat. With its charming shops and fine eateries lining the streets of East and West Village and the glistening sunsets alongside Moonstone Drive, the Cambria Coast offers solace to the most world-weary of city dwellers.

WHEN TO GO

Cambria and the surrounding coast enjoy year-round mild weather, so head out during spring, winter, or fall if you want to avoid heavy summer crowds. To further avoid traffic, plan a trip for mid-week.

HOW TO GET THERE

Cambria is on Highway 1, 16 miles north of Morro Bay and 34 miles northwest of San Luis Obispo.

LODGING AND DINING

Cambria and the surrounding coastal region feature a multitude of quaint Bamp;Bs, inns, hotels, and motels. Here are a few options:

Cambria Pines Lodge, 2905 Burton Drive, 800-445-6868. Sitting atop a hill that overlooks the village, this charming 125-room lodge has a wonderful restaurant and fireside lounge featuring nightly live entertainment. Breakfast is included with the room. The place is perfect for groups, families, or couples seeking a romantic getaway.

FogCatcher Inn, 6400 Moonstone Beach Drive, 800-425-4121. Built in the style of a quaint English village, this seaside Bamp;B has 60 rooms with fireplaces and offers a delicious breakfast buffet.

Olallieberry Inn, 2476 Main Street, 805-927-3222. Here's a charming Bamp;B that serves wine and appetizers in the parlor on weekends. It's located one mile east of Highway 1.

Hamlet at Moonstone Gardens, on the east side of Highway 1, 805-927-3535. Set in the midst of a gorgeous three-acre garden, this patio-restaurant also has an upstairs dining room that overlooks the ocean. Entrees range from a variety of fresh fish dishes to a succulent rack of lamb. There's also a fabulous glass shop next door.

Sow's Ear Cafe, 2248 Main Street, 805-927-4865. Nightly seafood specials complement freshly baked breads, local wines, and homemade desserts. Start the meal off right with delicious fried Brie or stuffed mushrooms. Open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday. Poetry readings are held weekly.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Cambria Chamber of Commerce
767 Main Street
Cambria, CA 93428
Phone: 805-927-3624
Fax: 805-927-9426

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