“Stories+Sea views+So much Stuff to See!”
I love California history, especially Bay Area history! So the Tour of Sam’s Castle really filled my tank. The tour was lead by Bridget Oates, who gathered the information and authored a book about Sam’s Castle as part of the ‘Images of America’ book collection. How have I lived for 57 years in the greater SF Bay Area and not know about Sam’s Castle before? So many fascinating stories of the previous owners, yummy stories about parties, prohibition and the paranormal! And then there’s the man himself, Sam Mazza, the last owner of the castle. Wow, they should make a movie about him!
I also have become intrigued with castles in CA, so it was great that this one was just an hour drive from my home in the East Bay. I loved the ocean views, the castle-feel and the architecture.
Last but least the eclectic collection that still decorates the castle, fun and funky. Luckily they do not rush you through the tour, so much to see and snap photos of. A great offbeat activity on the San Mateo Coast for adults or teens who enjoy Bay Area history. The ticket price of $30 may seem a bit high but having visited other Nor Cal Castles (Hearst, Winchester Mystery House, and Tor House in Carmel) the price is in line with other tours that allow photography. And it’s the only one where you get to wear a crown & robes, ensconced on a throne!