Hearst Castle is located in the tiny coastal town of San Simeon, California. It was constructed by the newspaper mogul William Randolph Hearst in the early 1919 and took approximately 28 years to complete. He pretty much inherited the rights to the land from his mother upon her death and begun building it that same year. I have to say, it sounds kind of “messed up”, but I’m not about to speculate why it worked out the way it did.
In any case, my wife and I took an afternoon tour of Hearst’s “Castle” and we found it amazing how wealthy folks blow their money. It is a very nice “castle”, but I’m not sure I can appreciate his sense of taste (I’m not into antiques). From a historical standpoint, however, I think it’s great that many of his antiquities are hundreds of years old; one in particular, dates back thousands. It provides the average Californian a great opportunity to experience artifacts that we would normally have to Europe and Egypt to see.
A few of the highlights of the “Castle” include:
The Neptune Pool
“Casa Grande” and a statue out front
The Roman Pool
Breathtaking view of the ocean
All in all, it was a treat to see this place. I have driven past it countless of times during my scenics drives up and down the Pacific Coast Highway, which by the way, its an awesome drive if you enjoy road trips. I personally would recommend the southbound route for the best ocean view and definitely stop by Hearst Castle on the way down. It’s definitely worth a visit. For more information visit www.hearstcastle.com. You can schedule a tour online or you can always call them if you driving down. Our docent was very knowledgeable and friendly which made the experience that much more enriching.
Before I forget, in regards to the tours, there are quite a few choices and the prices vary. I took the Experience Tour which is about 1 hr and 45 minutes which gives you a general overview and history of the place. There are four other main tours, three of them going into more detail and different parts of the estate. The fifth one is a night tour that lasts a little over two hours and features a cast of actors in 1920s costumes, providing you with a “flashback” of how parties hosted by Mr. Hearst felt like. Ticket prices currently range from 20-30 dollars depending on the season.
One last thing….SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL AND STATE PARKS!!! 
750 Hearst Castle Road
San Simeon, CA 93452-9740
Amazingly built estate with breathtaking views
Loaded with historical treasures and antiquities
Tours are very informative and docent was very knowledgeable
A tad too “historical” for my taste, but still worth seeing
1. Weirdest thing you have had for breakfast?
* Sushi & Sashimi
2. Most desperate meal you've ever had?
* Canned corn with a slice of American cheese, microwaved.
3. When you eat too much, you...
* Sit back on my chair and stare at the ceiling blankly...in pain. 
