Garden and Vistas - Tour Information
The Neptune Pool
The Neptune Pool was named for the statue of the Roman sea god atop the temple. Ancient Roman columns dating from the 1st century to the 4th century A.D. support the temple.
C Terrace
C Terrace sits below House C (Casa Del Sol), and provides a view of the natural harbor of San Simeon Bay where the Hearst Family arrived by steamer from San Francisco.
Casa del Mar
Casa del Mar - The cottages are Casa del Mar (House of the Sea), Casa del Monte (House of the Mountains), and Casa del Sol (House of the Sun). Each was named for its view, which Hearst considered the most important aspect of the hilltop
Casa del Monte
Casa del Monte - The cottages are Casa del Mar (House of the Sea), Casa del Monte (House of the Mountains), and Casa del Sol (House of the Sun). Each was named for its view, which Hearst considered the most important aspect of the hilltop.
Casa del Sol
Casa del Sol - The cottages are Casa del Mar (House of the Sea), Casa del Monte (House of the Mountains), and Casa del Sol (House of the Sun). Each was named for its view, which Hearst considered the most important aspect of the hilltop.
The Sekmet Sculptures
The Sekhmet Sculptures, four Egyptian pieces over three thousand years old set into a Morgan-designed granite fountain. Throughout the estate she skillfully blended antique objects with contemporary designs surrounded by abundant planting.
The Main Terrace
The Main Terrace acts as a central plaza for the estate, showcasing Casa Grande as well as the views of the Pacific Ocean to the south and the Santa Lucia mountains to the north. The lily pond reflects the Coast Live Oaks and Southern Magnolia and provides the sound of water, an important effect in Mediterranean gardens.
Casa Grande
Casa Grande at 69,000 square feet and containing 115 rooms, Casa Grande certainly earns its nickname as The Big House. Built over twenty six years, it was never completed. However, it served as the nerve center of the estate and the place where guests gathered for all their meals and indoor entertainment.
The Tennis Courts
The Tennis Courts sit atop the Roman Pool, forming a portion of what was the Gymnasium building. From the Esplanade adjoining the courts, you can see Pine Mountain, a gently sloping pine-covered peak that supplies gravity-fed spring water to the entire hilltop.
California State Parks manages more than 270 park units.
SLO State Parks is an integral part of the California State Parks system.
Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument is accredited by the American Association of Museums.