There’s something about walking the coastline in Cambria that stays with you. Maybe it’s the rhythm of the waves or the way the light plays on the water. Maybe it’s the scent of salt and cypress carried in the breeze. Here, a walk isn’t just a walk. It’s a way to reconnect—with nature, with yourself, and with the calm that only the ocean can offer.

Whether you prefer a quiet boardwalk, a bluffside trail, or a rugged path where the wind is your only companion, Cambria invites you to slow down and take it all in.

Moonstone Beach Boardwalk

Distance: 1 mile (one way) | Easy | Wheelchair-accessible

This is the classic Cambria walk. Start at Shamel Park and follow the path north. You’ll walk beside the ocean the whole way, with open views and plenty of moments that make you want to stop and breathe.

It’s a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Otters bob in the kelp beds, pelicans cruise overhead, and the sunsets are nothing short of unforgettable. The boardwalk is flat, well-maintained, and perfect for all ages.

Local tip: Grab a warm drink from Lily’s Coffeehouse before heading over, or treat yourself to a seaside meal afterward at Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill.

Fiscalini Ranch Bluff Trail

Distance: 1 mile loop | Easy to moderate | Dogs allowed on leash

Fiscalini Ranch is a local treasure. The Bluff Trail offers wide-open views of the Pacific, with nothing but native plants and the sounds of crashing waves to keep you company.

The trail runs along the edge of the cliffs, giving you a front-row seat to the raw beauty of Cambria’s coastline. You’ll see hand-carved benches made from fallen trees, and if you come at the right time, wildflowers dotting the edge of the trail.

Local tip: Visit early in the morning for a peaceful, reflective experience. Cell service can be limited out here, which just adds to the charm.

Leffingwell Landing to San Simeon Creek

Distance: About 3 miles roundtrip | Moderate

This one is for walkers who want something a little longer and less traveled. Begin at Leffingwell Landing, at the north end of Moonstone Beach Drive. The trail winds along the bluff and dips into pockets of native grassland with long views in every direction.

It’s quiet, scenic, and offers the chance to see wildlife, especially sea birds and the occasional elephant seal swimming off the coast.

Local tip: Bring binoculars and sturdy shoes. This walk is just rugged enough to feel like a real adventure.

Fiscalini Ranch Forest Trails

Distance: 2–3 miles depending on your route | Moderate | Pet-friendly

Away from the cliffs, Fiscalini Ranch also offers wooded trails under Monterey pines. These paths feel peaceful and a little more enclosed, especially in the morning when the mist still hangs in the trees.

Walk past native grasses, through meadows, and into the deeper parts of the forest. You’ll hear birds you won’t see and come across shaded benches perfect for a quiet break.

Local tip: Combine this loop with the Bluff Trail for a longer, full-scenery experience.

San Simeon Pier and Beach Walk

Distance: Flexible | Easy | Great for families

Just up the road, the San Simeon Pier offers a different kind of coastal walk. The wide wooden pier stretches out over calm waters, and it’s an ideal place for spotting sea lions or just watching the horizon.

From there, walk the beach at your own pace. This area is flat, open, and especially great for younger kids or anyone looking for a slower, relaxing outing. The backdrop is postcard-worthy and there’s plenty of room to explore.

Local tip: Visit late afternoon for soft light and fewer crowds. Picnic tables and restrooms make this spot an easy stop for families.

The Takeaway

Cambria offers a special kind of walk. One that doesn’t rush you. One that lets you hear the wind, notice the details, and remember why you came here in the first place. Whether you’re watching waves crash from a bluffside trail or wandering through a pine forest with the smell of salt in the air, every step brings something new.

These are walks that restore you. And once you’ve experienced them, you’ll carry a piece of Cambria with you long after your shoes are back at the door.