Shamel Park Cambria – A nice family park right on the beach

Shamel Park Cambria

Shamel Park in Cambria, is a lovely place with just about everything you could want: lots of grass, picnic and bbq areas, playground, pool, shade. Oh, and did I mention the beach?

The park is a wonderful 6 acre county park tucked away in a residential neighborhood. Since there are no commercial services located there, many visitors to Cambria never find this great little treasure.

It’s a terrific place for picnics as there is some protection from the wind off the ocean, but you’re still close enough to see and hear the waves.

If you are bringing the kids or grandkids, there is a great play area and lots of grass for organized sports or just running.

There are several hiking and walking trails in Cambria. You can walk from Shamel Park north up Moonstone Beach to Leffingwell Landing.

Another trail goes up Santa Rosa Creek, which empties into the ocean just north of Shamel, loops around the residential area behind the West Village and then connects with the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve.

How to get to Shamel Park Cambria

Directions from Highway 1 North & South: Take Highway 1 to Cambria at Windsor Boulevard. Turn West toward the ocean on Windsor. As the road curves to the left, Shamel Park will be on your right. Easy! And there is ample parking as well.

The park can accommodate larger groups (up to 100) for parties or family gatherings. The pool can also be reserved. Groups require a reservation which is easily made by calling the San Luis Obispo County Parks Department or by visiting their site.

Beach Kit

We like to keep a “beach kit” in our vehicles so when the need strikes for a “dose of ocean”, we’re ready to go.

Your needs may vary and this isn’t a comprehensive list, but here’s a few items which may come in handy for a visit to Shamel or any other beach:

Collapsible chairs – light and easy to carry and better than sitting in the sand.

Windbreakers – even on hot summer days, the wind will be up at the beach and it can get quite cool, especially if it’s foggy;

Hats – my bald spot can burn very quickly, but of course, you or someone you know may not have that problem;

Binoculars – Always something interesting to see: ships off-shore, otters, pelicans or ?