After a good night’s sleep at The Morgan in San Simeon, not to mention a good breakfast, we packed up and checked out. We had to get over to the Hearst Castle for the 9:40 Grand Room Tour. Unfortunately for us, we arrived to see the giant sign out front indicating that the Neptune Pool was empty and under construction. After years plagued with leaks, they were finally fixing the problem once and for all. No matter. We were there and it was a beautiful day and we were going to enjoy every moment in the California sun. Brian was in awe of the magnificent structures, art, and grounds. I have been to Hearst Castle at least four times before, and have been on almost every tour, but was still just as much in awe. This place is truly an Enchanted Hill. Here is a look at some of the photos from our day (click on the photos to see the captions and view gallery style):

“You must keep your mind on the objective, not the obstacle.”

-William Randolph Hearst

Next, we headed a few miles further north to see the elephant seals at Point Piedras Blancas. The kiddos (and Brian for that matter) have never seen elephant seals this close up before. And there were a ton! or two, or three or more.

Next we had lunch at Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill in Cambria with a gorgeous patio view and a champagne brunch.

Finally, it was time to head to Monterey, our final destination, where we will spend the rest of the week. But, since Highway 1 is closed due to multiple landslides, we have to backtrack a bit to Atascadero to charge the Tesla and rejoin the 101 to continue our journey. We’ll have to drive all the way up Highway 1 another time to see Big Sur. There’s nothing like charging at 316 miles per hour! Now, we are ready for the 17-Mile Drive in Carmel and Pebble Beach tomorrow.