About Asilomar

In 1912, Phoebe Hearst (mother of the publisher) was instrumental in the founding of Asilomar when she opened her home as an encampment for the YWCA?s annual conference, which was seeking a permanent conference facility and summer camp on the west coast. The Pacific Improvement Company (today the Pebble Beach Company) donated 30 acres of land, and the YWCA hired architect Julia Morgan to design the buildings. Hearst then gifted all the furnishings from the encampment held at her home, and financially supported the first structures to be built on the grounds. Thirteen of Morgan?s original structures remain today and constitute her largest collection of Arts & Crafts style architecture in one location. In 1987, the original Morgan buildings were listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Asilomar is now a California State Park comprising 107 acres of state beach and conference grounds within the quaint town of Pacific Grove. It is celebrated for both its restored dune ecosystem and the architectural significance of Julia Morgan?s cozy, historic structures. While updates have been made throughout the decades, the tranquility and harmony found at Asilomar have been preserved. This special heritage inspires an ongoing commitment to the care and protection of Asilomar?s facilities, flora and fauna ? enabling guests to enjoy the unspoiled surroundings of this tranquil retreat.