Things to Do at Moonstone Beach: Activities and Important Tips
No visit to Cambria, CA, is complete without spending some time at the iconic Moonstone Beach. From the boardwalk to fishing to nearby dining, it’s a spot you can return to over and over again, experiencing something new each time. If you’re planning a coastal getaway or a scenic drive down Highway 1, be sure to add Cambria to your route and check out all these great things to do at Moonstone Beach while you’re here!
In This Article:
- Explore the Boardwalk
- Search the Shore
- Tidepool Exploration
- Wildlife Spotting
- Fishing, Surfing, and More
- Nearby Dining
- Where to Stay Near Moonstone Beach
Walk the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk
One of the best things about Moonstone Beach is its gorgeous boardwalk that winds above the bluffs. This wooden path makes it easy for visitors in wheelchairs, parents with strollers, or folks with dogs to enjoy the expansive views and salt air breezes. Plus, at just two miles (round trip), it’s an easy stroll you can easily do more than once during your stay.
Take a sketchbook or journal and enjoy a quiet moment on one of the many benches, or use the boardwalk for a quick bit of exercise. The trail is open year-round and is one of the most popular things to do while you’re in Cambria.
Popular Boardwalk Features:
- Mostly flat and easy to navigate
- ADA accessible
- Open year-round
Are Dogs Allowed on Moonstone Beach?
No. Dogs are not allowed on the sandy part of Moonstone Beach. As a protected area, it’s important to keep the beach undisturbed by pets. Most pups and their owners love the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk, though. It runs parallel to the shore, giving you the same views, while keeping your pet safe and sand-free.
Search for Moonstones Along the Shore
As you may guess, Moonstone Beach gets its name from the shiny pebbles that line the shore. While these rocks are not true gem-quality feldspar moonstones, they’re still quite beautiful. As the water recedes, look for the bright stones peeping through the sand. You’re likely to find all kinds of treasures, from jasper to agate, jade, and even sea glass.
What Are the Moonstones at Moonstone Beach Actually Made Of?
The milky stones most often mistaken for moonstones are actually a form of chalcedony quartz.
Can I Take Stones or Shells from Moonstone Beach?
No. As part of the Hearst San Simeon State Park area, removing rocks, shells, or marine life from Moonstone Beach is prohibited. If you find something unique, capture it in a photo and leave it for others to enjoy. This way, the area is protected and preserved for future generations and for all our natural wildlife.
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Explore Tidepools at Low Tide
Tide pooling is a fantastic thing to do at Moonstone Beach! Each day, head out onto the shore and see what marine wonders you can find. Bright pink and orange sea stars, purple sea urchins, and green anemones are just a few of the vibrant creatures you can spot. Be careful as you walk, though. Stay on the rocky areas and avoid stepping directly into tidepools so you can ensure the safety of the fragile creatures.
When is low tide on Moonstone Beach in Cambria?
The tides for Moonstone Beach occur at different times each day. Check local tide charts before heading out so you know when to arrive for the best tide pooling experience.
Where to Park for Moonstone Beach?
Parking is available along Moonstone Beach Drive near boardwalk access points. Look for free spots in roadside pullouts and along side streets. You can also park at Leffingwell Landing’s lot on the north end or at Santa Rosa Creek Access to the south.
Watch for Offshore Wildlife
One of the most popular things to do at Moonstone Beach Park is to watch for wildlife. As you explore the boardwalk or even just relax on the sand, keep your eyes open for playful sea otters, elephant seals, dolphins, and breaching whales in the distance. Always bring binoculars with you for easy viewing/
When is Whale Season in Cambria, California?
Whale season runs from December to April in Cambria. During this time, migrating gray whales and their newborn calves are often visible near the shore. Look for spouts of water spraying into the sky, especially early in the morning.
Surf, Fish, Enjoy the Water
For visitors who want to enjoy some watersports during their Cambria vacation, Moonstone Beach offers great conditions for fishing and surfing. While swimming is allowed, it's not typically considered a swimming beach due to strong currents, cold water, and shifting ocean conditions.
What Kind of Fish Can I Catch on Moonstone Beach?
From the shore, anglers can cast a line for surfperch, rockfish, lingcod, and even California halibut. Be sure to pay attention to different seasonal restrictions for certain varieties.
Do I need a Fishing License to Fish on Moonstone Beach?
Yes, a valid California fishing license is required. You can get one online from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. One-day sport fishing licenses start at $21.09.
Is Moonstone Beach Good for Beginner Surfers?
Moonstone Beach has consistent waves, but they tend to be better suited for intermediate-level surfers and beyond. If you want more gentle conditions, Leffingwell Landing is good for beginners.
When it comes to surfing, check out Cambria Surf Shop for boards, wetsuits, and other gear rentals. Board rentals start at $25 per day for soft tops and $50 per day for hard tops.
Dine Nearby at Moonstone Beach Bar and Grill
After a day on the boardwalk or getting active on the water, refuel at the Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill, where juicy burgers, crisp fries, and cold drinks await. Located right on the beach, you can dine with great views, especially around golden hour. Moonstone Beach faces west, making it one of the best places in Cambria to watch the sun dip directly into the Pacific.
No reservations are needed, and the menu covers everything from seafood and steaks to traditional pub favorites, so there’s something for everyone.
Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill
- Open: Daily – Lunch from 11 AM to 3 PM | Dinner from 5 PM to 8:30 PM
- Menus
- Price: $$
- Food Pics and Reviews
Stay Close to Moonstone Beach
One of the advantages of visiting Moonstone Beach during your Cambria vacation is that you don’t have to fit everything into one visit. Head out for a morning walk along the boardwalk, then explore Downtown Cambria. At low tide, venture back to see what the tidepools reveal, then grab dinner at a local restaurant. Afterward, if the sun is still shining, find a place on the sand to watch the sun set over the water. The beach weaves itself into every part of life here, so make sure you incorporate it into your visit as much as possible!
As you look for places to stay near Moonstone Beach, we invite you to browse our collection of Cambria vacation rentals. With everything from pet-friendly homes to oceanfront properties, we can help you find your dream getaway. Plus, with frequent specials, there’s always a great price waiting! Get the lowest rate on your stay by booking direct and skipping the third-party fees from Airbnb or Vrbo.
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