On 31st may(which is on a friday)we are planning to leave around 8am and drive from Monterey to Hearst castle .I understand that with two stops it will take us about 4 hours to reach San Simeon.
After taking tour no 1 at the Castle ,the plan is to drive back to Monterey.As we are not very used to driving on such roads, I wonder if this plan is workable.
Due to time constraints ,we would like to return to Monterey the same day so that early next morning we can go on a whale watching trip in Monterey!
The other option would be to spend the night in Cambria but that would mean we would miss out on the whales.

I think that trip is wishful thinking.

Make no mistake. That trip, along that section of Calif Hwy 1, is spectacular. But it's not to be taken lightly. To say nothing of the possibility of rockslides or fog.

Southbound is the worst, though northbound (the only way I've done it,) isn't much better. I really hate saying that about that drive. But to tackle it twice in one day--I don't think so. All you'd be thinking about during the castle tour is the trip back....

I agree with George. You itinerary sounds like a prescription for misery, plus you'll feel like you're in a Charlie Chaplin movie at fast-forward.

Suggestion: Make a choice. If it's Hearst, the whales will have to wait.

Thanks a ton for your advice. We will change our plan now and spend the night in Cambria .

probably a wise choice. the drive is soooo spectacular it would be a shame to feel rushed.

I would drive from Monterey to Cambria on Hwy 1 allowing 4 hours to do the 90 miles. Maybe stop at Nepenthe for lunch--food just OK but views worth the price. Do your Hearst tour and enjoy a stroll and dinner in Cambria. Stay on Moonstone Beach--any of the hotels is good or at Ragged Point Inn for spectacular views back up to Big Sur. I would then return to Monterey via the 101 which is the inland route, but will get you up there quickly to enjoy the day in Monterey.Maybe a quick stop near Salinas for a great Mexican lunch. Some wineries along this route as well. I think end of May might be too late for the whales--December to April is what I think of. You can, however, rent kayaks and go in the bay with the sea otters---wonderful fun. The aquarium is spectacular--be sure to reserve tickets ahead and pick up at will call, otherwise you'll stand in long lines. I wouldn't try to drive hwy 1 both ways---too tiring and takes too much time.