What's better: Cambria or Santa Barbara
 

Greetings! We will be traveling from San Diego to San Francisco in October and need to decide on an overnight stay along the way. We want to stay in a town along the ocean and, according to our maps/itinerary/limited knowledge of California, have decided on either Santa Barbara or Cambria. Does anyone have any insight on either of these destinations? We're a middle aged couple with no children and are just looking for a relaxing evening and a good restaurant. Any help would be appreciated.

Depending on how far you want to drive. Cambria is roughly 100 miles further north than SB. Cambria is a small quaint town. Lots of artists and shops. The majority of beachfront hotels in Cambria are located on Moonstone Beach Dr. A good meal with ocean view can be had at the Sea Chest, lot of seafood but other things on the menu for the less adventerous. Don't know too much on SB sorry. Been there for daytrips only. Between the two, Cambria is more relaxed with less fuss.

The Blue Dolphin in Cambria on Moonstone is nice--even better would be the Blue Whale.

My vote would be for Cambria. It's a more relaxed setting and has some beautiful coastline which is easily accessible for a sunset stroll. I'd recommend the Sow's Ear for dinner. And in the morning, I'd suggest stopping and taking a tour at Hearst Castle befor driving further up Highway 1. Then after seeing the castle, plan on stopping for lunch a few hours later when you reach Big Sur.

Both are beautiful towns, but you will have quite a drive north if you spend the night in Santa Barbara. Cambria would break it up a bit more...and don't dare go to Cambria without seeing the elephant seals by the lighthouse and or course Hearst Castle...one of the most incredible houses (?) in the world, bar none.

Thinking more aobut it...you will have almost a 5 hour drive from L.A. to Cambria. Being that you are traveling from San Diego (if I understand correctly) you would be in the car for about 7 1/2 hours San Diego to Cambria. That's a forced march in my opinion. You might be better off staying in Santa Barbara.

Hearst Castle IS something everyone needs to see at least once. Just wanted to add a caveat - it's a good thing to buy your tickets in advance, which you can do at their website.