Hearst Castle | California State Parks and Recreation

”…Miss Morgan, we are tired of camping out in tents at the ranch in San Simeon, I would like to build a little something…”

This statement from William Randolph Hearst to renowned architect, Julia Morgan, is what started it all in 1919. By 1947, Mr. Hearst had created an estate boasting 165 rooms and 127 acres of gardens, terraces, pools, and walkways.

This legendary California manor sits at 1,600 feet above sea level; often just resting on the coastal fog. Hearst Castle® presents guests with a choice of five different guided tours, including daytime and evening opportunities.

HEARST'S SAN SIMEON: THE GARDENS AND THE LAND

Announcing the arrival of Hearst's San Simeon: The Gardens and the Land.

Available beginning on May 1, 2009.

Written by Hearst Castle's official historian Victoria Kastner, this book shows that Hearst Castle in San Simeon, California, was more than just a country house, and many of its finest features were outside. Readers take a time-traveling tour of the estate, from the beginning of its construction to the present and in the process enjoy one of California's most beautiful and unspoiled treasures. Featuring stunning photographs by Victoria Garagliano, senior photographer at Hearst Castle, this volume also includes original drawings and lively anecdotes. For more information about this book and to find speaking engagement dates, click here.

To purchase this book beginning on May 1, 2009, click here.

The museum shop and gift shop offer a collection of books as well as home furnishings reflective of the time period. With reproductions of classic Castle art pieces, the museum shop encourages guests to take home a piece of the Hearst Castle® experience. In addition, the National Geographic Theater at the Visitor’s Center offers a five-story screen theater with regular showings of the film, Hearst Castle: Building the Dream. Experience all this and more at “The Gateway to Hearst Castle®”.

Hearst Castle Brochure
Almost all the information you need for your visit to Hearst Castle can be found in our brochure. You can download the brochure and even print it out as a reference for your visit.

		SLO State Parks Halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles along the central California coastline is a meeting of land and sea that is an integral part of the California State Parks system.				Friends of Hearst Castle Support Hearst Castle by becoming a member and receive invitations to special events. Lodging, Dining, and Wine Tasting referrals from our memberships.
		Hearst Castle Press A collaboration between California State Parks and Friends of Hearst Castle, publishes books that educate and inspire interest in the art and history of Hearst Castle.				Hearst the Collector Don't miss your chance to explore even more of Hearst's fascinating art colection at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art's Exhibition on view November 9,2008 - February 1, 2009.