Want to have a pool party at Hearst Castle? It’ll cost you $1,000

Elizabeth Wilson
·2 min read
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If you’ve always dreamed of taking a dip in Hearst Castle’s iconic Neptune Pool, here’s your chance.

The Foundation at Hearst Castle is hosting two pool parties in August at the former San Simeon estate of publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst

Formerly called Friends of Hearst Castle, the nonprofit group supports educational, interpretive, and preservation programs at the Castle through membership and fundraising.

On Saturday, Aug. 19, the Foundation at Hearst Castle will hold a “Hollywood at Hearst Castle” fundraiser from 6 to 9 p.m. benefiting STEAM ( (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) programs serving youth from underserved communities in California.

Guests can mingle with celebrities such as actors Paul Scheer and June Diane Raphael and Nigel Lythgoe, creator of “So You Think You Can Dance.”

On Saturday, Aug. 26, members of The Foundation at Hearst Castle and their guests can swim in the Neptune Pool from 6 to 9 p.m.

The Neptune Pool at Hearst Castle is framed by the railing on the dressing room level on April 6, 2022. David Middlecamp/dmiddlecamp@thetribunenews.com
The Neptune Pool at Hearst Castle is framed by the railing on the dressing room level on April 6, 2022. David Middlecamp/dmiddlecamp@thetribunenews.com

Each event begins with a “scenic ride up to the Enchanted Hill,” the foundation website states. Next, guests are led to dressing rooms to prepare for a swim with cabana towels.

“Splash around or stroll spectacular surrounding terraces, and take in the sunset view and jazzy tunes,” while enjoying a “curated selection of savory and sweet treats plus Central Coast wines and beer,” the site says.

Tickets for each event cost $1,000 apiece, with a limit of 50 people at the Aug. 19 event and the Aug. 26 event limited to 40 guests total.

Neptune Pool at dusk. Victoria Garagliano/Hearst Castle/California State Parks
Neptune Pool at dusk. Victoria Garagliano/Hearst Castle/California State Parks

Constructed in three separate versions between 1924 and 1936, the Neptune Pool is 104 feet long and 58 feet wide, the foundation’s website said, reaching 95 feet wide at the alcove.

The pool features multiple Italian structures, marble and an oil-burning heating system.

An annual membership with The Foundation at Hearst Castle costs $500 to $5,000, and features perks such as Hearst Castle tour tickets and access to special event reservation.

Only the $5,000 annual membership includes two tickets to a swim at the Castle’s Neptune Pool or Roman Pool.