paula1470

Sorry I just didn't understand your post. Sounded like you were suggesting Cambria and then Carmel. My mistake.

whoknew

Paula, I could have been a little clearer in my original post by placing "or" between each suggestion. What happens in my brain and comes out my fingertips on the keyboard is never the same.

mkdiebold, I just checked the Hearst Castle website again and it does offer evening tours, in case you may be interested. I went on one a few years ago and it is quite fascinating and a completely different atmosphere at night as opposed to going during the day.

paula1470

whoknew-Do you they offer evening tours every day? Looked like only on Fridays and Saturdays but it's really hard to tell unless you put in the exact date you want. I was just curious.

The OP hasn't been back for awhile so I guess we can just have our own conversation. LOL

I think what we really need to know if when this trip is taking place and I don't think mkdiebold has given us this info.

whoknew

Paula-re Hearst Castle evening tours. I can't tell either if the tours are given every day. I don't think they are as when I took the evening tour they only offered them every other weekend or so.

mkdiebold

Wow! Am I ever surprised to see so much conversation about my situation! I've been out-of-town and in the dark (no internet)since Tuesday. Really glad to see that so many of you have suggestions and opinions for me.

Just to be clear, we will have 2 nights to spend along the way from Costa Mesa to San Francisco. It sounds like visiting or not visiting the Hearst Castle is the question. I'm going to call there and find out for sure about the night tours. Visiting in the evening could be interesting.

Thanks again, to all who took the time to respond. One thing is certain, Fodies freely share their experiences.

paula1470

If you have two days then I would definitely stop at Hearst Castle.

Maybe the first night drive to San Luis Obispo area. You'd have time to stop in Santa Barbara or Solvang along the way. Even though I live in So. Cal, I always like to stay by the beach so Pismo Beach is a good idea. There are quite a few hotels right on the beach. Or stay at Apple Farm Inn in SLO.

Make your Hearst Castle visit for earlier morning (if you don't do the night tour). Once that is over, drive through Big Sur and spend the night in Carmel or Monterey. I did just see a trip report from someone who recently drove through Big Sur and they noted all of the fire devastation. I still think the drive is worth it because of the amazing views of the Pacific Ocean.

The next day you will have plenty of time to get to SF if you stay in Monterey area.