Come see the Elephants!

Big Daddy about to go for a swim and a nosh.

Where the seals rest, squawk, birth & fight.

This is the best time of year to come visit Cambria and see the amazing Elephant Seals just north of San Simeon. At this point you can see the entire family! Dads, Moms and babies. 

This is also the time of year that offers one of Cambria's largest and exciting events... the Cambria Annual Art & Wine Festival. January 27, 28 & 29. Three days of wine tasting, demonstrating artists, good food, shopping specials, and beautiful Cambria! You can get all the details at CambriaArtWine.org... tickets available online and at the Cambria Chamber of Commerce (767 Main Street).

Plan A Holiday Visit to Cambria

Cambria decks out for “Holidays in the Pines” throughout the month of December with an unforgettable display of decorations, deals and discounts.

Enjoy holiday lights and decorations throughout the town. Shop for unique “one of a kind” gifts, enjoy fine dining in Cambria’s gourmet restaurants, rest and relax at any of the lovely lodgings offering discounts and specials. 

Join in the festivities and celebrate the Holidays in the Pines—Cambria Pines by the Sea. 

December 6: Don't miss the Christmas Tree auction. An evening of wine, great food and absolutely glorious trees and wreaths that will be auctioned off and the proceeds go to the non profit the item represents. 6:30 pm at the Veterans' Hall (1000 Main Street)

For additional information visit: www.CambriaHolidays.com Or call 927-3624

And don't forget to visit See Cambria Photos for your choice of Cambria Photos suitable for framing, great holiday gift!

Cambria's History & Near Future Events

Not your everyday scarecrow

We just enjoyed a wonderful October here in Cambria. The villages were full of hand made scarecrows of all personalities. Thanks to our Cambria Historical Society and all their good work. 

The scarecrows will return next October for the entire month, so plan on it. I will be posting photos of some of my favorites on the SeeCambria.com website soon.

On your next visit don't miss our museum which is one of Cambria's oldest homes, the Guthrie-Bianchini House, built in 1870. Step back in time and enjoy the painstaking work done by our historical society to bring the home back to it's original state. 

The next big occasion here in Cambria is "Holiday in the Pines". Another month long series of events to make your visit to Cambria not only pleasurable but practical. Visit dozens of unique shops in town to find the perfect gift for your family members and friends. Items not found in boring department stores. Unique, personal, fresh and very special.

In January (27th, 28th & 29th) you must come by for the annual Art and Wine festival. For as little as $25 you can have access to several wine tasting and art demo venues. This event sells out so get your tickets early CambriaArtWine.org. The tickets make great holiday gifts!

Reflect, Rejoice, Rejoin....

I'm a bit late in adding a new photo to my blog. Gets busy in Cambria, when you let it. This image is a remote spot in Cambria's front yard which I enjoy from time to time. The waves stroll in as I reflect on how quickly time goes by and how often we just do not get around to those experiences we mean to do, but don't quite find the good sense to get done.

The next big "do" in Cambria will be the "Holidays in the Pines". A month of celebrations and events. I will share some Christmas Light photos from days gone by and invite you to visit for unique shopping adventures and wonderful dining experiences.

Don't forget to get your tickets for the Art & Wine Festival in January. We sold out last year and the Kick Off Party is selling fast. Visit CambriaArtWine.org for all the details.

I hope you enjoy my photos and would appreciate hearing from you.

Moonstone Beach in Fall... a lovely time of year.

Our beaches are clean and breathtaking. An ideal place to rest and rejuvenate after a long hot summer.

Stop by in October and you will have the joy of seeing over 200 hand made scarecrows positioned throughout the villages. Everything from Pirates to Nuns.... The scarecrows will be up the entire month of October and will take you more than a day to see them all! So, book a room, enjoy a few gourmet meals and make your way through our villages and the Moonstone Beach drive for an incredible assortment of creations guaranteed to delight and cause wonder.

Cambria Offers Mysteries of the Sea...

One of our favorite past times, when the grand kids come to call, is a visit to the tide pools. A fascinating metropolis of creatures living among the rocks and pools... even the adults get pulled in by the mystery of how it all comes together on the beautiful shores of Cambria. Sandy beaches and rocky terrain offer hours of exploration and wonder.

A visit to the Coastal Discovery Center is a must see to help explain the many wonders we encounter.... and of course lunch at Sebastians for one of the best sandwiches or salads you have ever encountered. The wait can be a bit long, but worth it. Those with no patience, need not attempt... but also miss out.

Where the Pines Meet the Sea...

One of the unique elements of the Cambria California area is the absolutely beautiful forests that surround the villages and meet the sea. You can hike to your hearts content through the forest down to the beach, along the bluff and back again. Enjoy the wonderful combination of trees and shore, sights and sounds that offer a calming and extraordinary taste of nature not found anywhere else on the Central Coast. Visit SeeCambria.com to see more and learn more of what Cambria has to offer as the perfect vacation destination for a refreshing and relaxing holiday... Add to that gourmet foods to excite your taste buds and unique galleries and shops to be fascinated by original creations and compelling gifts.

A Day at the beach?

A day at the beach can be educational and fun! Just a few miles north of Cambria is a small casual park where you can enjoy the surf, the sun and visit a Discovery Center with all sorts of magic lessons on the mystery of the sea and it's residents. 

Stay the night in Cambria near dozens of wonderful restaurants and galleries. After breakfast at the Creekside Café drive to the park, enjoy the Discovery Center then relax and enjoy the surf, sights and sounds of San Simeon Bay.

Cambria offers a full range of lodging selections. From the traditional and beautiful Cambria Pines Lodge surrounded by an extraordinary garden to the nontraditional Victoria's Last Resort Bed & Brunch, which offers a unique atmosphere, brunch (served when you are ready), hot tub, complete privacy and fun innkeepers who will gladly fill you in on all there is to see and do in Cambria.

The view looking north toward the San Simeon Bay and pier.

The Coastal Discovery Center is a joint venture between the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and California State Parks. Located on beautiful San Simeon Bay, the Coastal Discovery Center celebrates the connection between land and sea.

The Center offers interactive exhibits and education programs which highlight the cultural and natural history of Old San Simeon, California State Parks, and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The interface of land and sea is unique, drawing people for its rich bounty, economic opportunity, recreation and inspiration. Protection of these special places preserves them for use and enjoyment for generations to come.

Free Admission
Open Fri-Sun 11-5 (summer), 11-4 (winter)
Info, call: 805-927-6575

San Simeon, Naked Ladies and Incredible Sandwiches

Just a few miles drive north, from Cambria, are some of the best deli sandwiches you can find on the Central Coast at Sebastian's in Old San Simeon. As you near the Hearst Castle turn off, go to the left instead of right. Don't go into the park but stay on the side road until you see this lil ole school house in the middle of the field and a dozen or so picnic tables just waiting for you to set down with your sandwich in hand to enjoy.

The pink flowers you see are known as "Naked Ladies" and are found all over the Cambria and San Simeon area this time of year.

Visit SeeCambria.com for more photos to enjoy in and around Cambria.

Rest, Renew, Refresh Cambria Style

Pockets of space where you can rest, renew and refresh are plenteous in Cambria. All along our shoreline and within the forests of pine and cypress trees.

Or enjoy one of our many wonderful restaurants and the special ambiance they have to offer.
• Robin's offers patio dining;
International inspiration collides with the season’s bounty.
• Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill has oceanview and patio;
Steaks, Seafood, Pasta, Full Bar
• Las Cambritas will entertain you on the weekends on their back yard deck.
Great Mexican food and a full bar.
• Tea Cozy offers a fun little cottage with each room decorated as an English parlor.
Homemade traditional British lunches and teas all day.
These are just a few of the deliciously fun eateries in Cambria.

For more photos visit SeeCambria.com and remember to share these photos with your friends and family on Facebook.

Hidden Treasures in Cambria - Secret Gardens?

I could not decide which of these photos to include as part of a series I will be adding occasionally of "Hidden Treasures" in Cambria. Which do you prefer? These are both a small part of the extraordinary gardens you can find at Cambria Pines Lodge. Fountains, spheres, critters and peace surround the Lodge. 

Did you know the Lodge has a wonderful restaurant available to the public?... I have enjoyed their salad bar for lunch on many an occasion and have never had a less than exceptional meal when I come by for dinner.

Visit SeeCambria.com for more photos and information about Cambria.

How many Bird Houses do you see? 

The Flower Bed....

Rest and Refresh in Cambria's Front Yard...

Looking for a place to rest and refresh? Take a leisurely walk along the Fiscalini
Ranch where you can embrace the clean ocean breezes and marvel at the beautiful, natural, landscape. Hand crafted benches are found along the bluff walk way and offer a unique place to enjoy the quiet, calm restorative ambiance of the surf, the sun, the sea. 

Fiscalini Ranch walk way along the bluffs of the ranch

Shopping in Cambria, a Unique Experience!

Looking for just the right gift that can't be found on a huge department store shelf?.... Something that special someone would relate to instantly and keep as a treasure forever.... You must visit our shops. 

We have two main areas for shopping: East and West Village. Hand crafted gifts, unique creations, artistic reproductions and gifts made just for fun. You can't miss the Teresabelle Gallery in the West end for fun and fantastic or Exotic Nature for aromatic and healing oils, fascinating jewelry and comfortable clothes. Or venture to the East end of the village to experience the Heart's Ease Shop for natural herbs, lotions, soaps, plants and even spices. Their spice and potpourri room is worth the trip to just stand and savor the aroma then fill a bag and take it home. Another East village favorite is A Matter of Taste in Cambria. You will not believe the amount of gourmet foods, seasonings, cookware, servingware and just plain fun gadgets you will find in this incredible shop! 

There are dozens of shops in between that are just fun to visit. Do a little wine tasting while you browse and enjoy a gourmet meal at one of many restaurants scattered between the shopping delights.... more to come on that....

Cambria is a Picnic... everyday!

Early morning view from Leffingwell landing looking south along Moonstone Beach.

Fancy a picnic? Visit one of many of our unique take out eateries... Sandy's deli offers great sandwiches, healthy smoothies and juices, the Main Street grill has great barbecue, cold beer, sandwiches and excellent salads, or venture into East village to create your own deli sandwiches made with the finest ingredients at Soto's market.

After lunch walk along the sandy beach or explore the tide pools just a few yards from the picnic area.

For more photos and information regarding the Cambria area and services offered there please visit SeeCambria.com and don't forget to share with your friends!

Explore Leffingwell Landing in Cambria

Everyday events in Cambria include exploring the area and all the natural wonders Cambria has to offer. One of my favorite areas to explore is at the very edge of Leffingwell Landing. The rock formations are fascinating and, when the tide is low, offer a multitude of micro villages of plant life and sea creatures you can view. Leffingwell Landing is at the north end of Moonstone Beach which is the north end of Cambria.

Shown here is a brief video of that area. I hope you enjoy these photos and videos. If so, don't forget to share with your friends on Facebook.

Tide pool wonders in Cambria

After the picnic at Shamel Park and before the fireworks tonight celebrate our nations freedom by searching the abundant tide pools all along Moonstone Beach.

This is one of my favorite areas in Cambria. a set of steps leading down to the rocks and tidepools that are surrounded by lazy seals and busy birds. Moonstone beach is a wonder of dramatic shoreline abutted by a slight bluff with a wooden boardwalk along the edge where you can stroll along and enjoy at your leisure, all a safe distance from the incoming waves.

A place to appreciate our freedoms and our lives away from the chaos of daily challenges.

Cambria is a Cool Place to be... literally

Cambria is the cool place to be in the summertime.... literally. When the temperature reaches three digits, book a room and plan a relaxing few days in Cambria. Walk the boardwalk or the Fiscalini Ranch. Sip wine or a cold beer at Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill as you watch the birds fly by and the waves roll in. Enjoy the Mid State Fair in Paso Robles and once you are par-boiled coast over to the coast to cool down and refresh!

Check out more activities on the Cambria Chamber website calendar...

I hope you enjoy these photos and Cambria impressions. Share with your friends and neighbors.

First Day of Summer in Cambria, let's walk...

Any wonder why I live here? Now is the time to hike the dozens of trails to be had throughout Cambria from the bluffs, through the village. Walk the boardwalk along the edge of Moonstone Beach. About half way take a rest at Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill to sip a glass of wine or enjoy a great meal. Then head on down to the tide pools where you will be amazed by what our sea has to offer, not to mention the rascal seals basking in the sun watching you!

Stop by the Cambria Historical Society Museum on Burton for a book of historical walks guided by the experts. While you are there enjoy the beautiful gardens of the museum which was lovingly restored by the Historical society in 2008. The orginal home had been built in 1870. I will leave the details for you to discover on your own!

Discover Cambria, a charming village with the quiet and ambiance of yesteryear and the beauty and excitement of the best nature has to offer.

Horses in Cambria?

Did you know?... you can go horse back riding just south of the village? Enjoy beautiful landscapes and ocean views while enjoying the sheer pleasure of being on horseback. Visit Outback Trail Rides for the details on creating a very special experience for you and your family.

Also, for riders and non-riders don't miss the upcoming "Fun Day at the Ranch" July 9th spend the day at The Historical San Simeon Arabians Pico Creek Rancho. There'll be plenty of action and great food. Sponsored by the Cambria Sunrise Rotary Club.

Cambria Chamber Showcase & A Craft Show

I have been associated with the local Cambria Chamber of Commerce since I moved here in 1994. I have always believed in supporting the Chamber of Commerce, within my community, for so many reasons... not the least of which is to have multiple opportunities to get to know the business owners and operators who can make our community successful, or fail. Fortunately our Cambria Chamber of Commerce is viable and strong with members who care about our community and constantly strive to make it a better place to live and play. This month the Veterans' Hall will be busy.... on June 17, the Chamber offers a "Business Showcase" with many of the businesses offering displays and giving away treats in an effort to share what they can do for you. There will also be a "Craft Faire" over the weekend of the 11th in the parking lot.... and don't forget the Piedras Blancas Light Station and Hearst Castle tours going on throughout the week.

My photo of the week shares a small contingency of a much larger group that decided to meet down the road from our home. There were at least 18 to 20 bucks who took over an empty lot and just "hung out" for awhile before splitting up and going back to their does and fawns. Go figure, networking goes on from cyberspace to forest.

Welcome to SeeCambria.com

I often receive calls regarding Cambria and what is going on there. I have decided to add a weekly update on upcoming events along with one of my many Cambria photos. I hope you will enjoy and sign on for automatic updates by email.

This photo is taken from Lodge Hill above Marine Terrace. The darker blue you see is the sea.... hence the phrase "Cambria Pines by the Sea".

The month of June offers several venues for your pleasure and comfort: In addition to the usual Piedras Blancas Light Station Tours and Hearst Castle Tours (Hearst is offering a new set of tours this season!), Harmony Cellars is offering a Summer Fete & Dinner, the cyclists will be enjoying the coast during the Annual Country Classic Bike Ride and a couple of Craft Fairs for those of you excited about handmade goods. Of course there is always the exquisite beaches to enjoy and refresh the spirit. Details for all of these events and more can be found at the SeeCambria.com Calendar.