Exploring the Benitoite Mining Company
Welcome to the Benitoite Mining Company, a fascinating tourist attraction located in Coalinga, California. This unique destination offers visitors the opportunity to delve into the world of gemstone mining and discover the beauty of benitoite, the official state gem of California. As you step into the mining company, you will be greeted by a wealth of information about the history of benitoite mining and the geological significance of this precious gemstone. The Benitoite Mining Company is a haven for gemstone enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The guided tours provided by knowledgeable staff members allow you to witness the mining process firsthand and learn about the intricate techniques involved in extracting benitoite from the earth. Additionally, the on-site museum offers a comprehensive display of benitoite specimens and other gemstone treasures, providing a captivating educational experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a seasoned rockhound or simply curious about the world of gemstones, a visit to the Benitoite Mining Company is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and wonder of the natural world.
A brief summary to Benitoite Mining Company
- 48242 Los Gatos Creek Rd, Coalinga, California, 93210, US
- +1833-436-4868
- Visit website
- Saturday 9 am-3 pm
- Sunday 9 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable footwear as the mining site may involve walking on uneven terrain.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning colors and textures of benitoite specimens on display.
- Check the tour schedule in advance to ensure you don't miss out on the guided tours of the mining facilities.
Getting There
-
Car
From your current location in California, set your GPS to 48242 Los Gatos Creek Rd, Coalinga, CA 93210. If you're traveling from a nearby city, such as San Luis Obispo, take US-101 North, then merge onto CA-46 East toward Coalinga. Continue on CA-46, then take CA-33 North. After a short drive, turn left onto Los Gatos Creek Rd. Follow the road until you reach Benitoite Mining Company. Parking is available on-site, and there is no additional cost for parking.
-
Public Transportation
To reach Benitoite Mining Company via public transportation, you can take a Greyhound bus to Coalinga. Check the Greyhound website for schedules and ticket prices. Once you arrive at the Coalinga bus station, you will need to take a taxi or rideshare service to get to 48242 Los Gatos Creek Rd. Expect to pay around $20-30 for the taxi ride, as it is approximately a 15-minute drive.
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
See Monterey
49.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of Monterey County with See Monterey, your ultimate travel guide to this coastal paradise.
Mission San Miguel Arcángel
56.1 km
Explore the historic Mission San Miguel Arcángel, a beautiful Catholic church and museum showcasing California's rich heritage and stunning architecture.
Rios Caledonia Adobe
56.9 km
Discover California's past at the Rios Caledonia Adobe in San Miguel: a historic stagecoach stop, museum, and library offering a glimpse into 19th-century life.
James Dean Memorial Junction
63.1 km
Pay homage to a Hollywood icon at the James Dean Memorial Junction, where the legendary actor's life tragically ended, leaving an enduring legacy for generations of fans.
Mission San Antonio de Padua
63.9 km
Discover California's hidden gem: Mission San Antonio de Padua, a remarkably preserved and serene historical landmark nestled in the Valley of the Oaks, offering an authentic glimpse into mission life.
Hearst Castle
80.6 km
Explore the opulent Hearst Castle, a historical landmark on California's coast, and immerse yourself in the grandeur of early 20th-century American luxury.
Fields of Fresno Ag Tour
80.8 km
Explore the vibrant agricultural heart of Fresno, California, with the Fields of Fresno Ag Tour, where local farms come alive with fresh produce and sustainable practices.
Historic Lime Kilns
86.7 km
Uncover the rich history and stunning beauty of Big Sur at the Historic Lime Kilns, a remarkable landmark of California's past.
Piedras Blancas Light House Lens
87.8 km
Explore the historic Piedras Blancas Light House Lens and experience the coastal beauty and maritime heritage of California's rugged shores.
Piedras Blancas Light Station
89.1 km
Discover the captivating Piedras Blancas Light Station, a historical landmark on California's coast, blending maritime heritage with stunning natural beauty.
Historic Kearny Blvd Arch
89.3 km
Explore the Historic Kearny Blvd Arch in Fresno, a stunning landmark that showcases the city's rich history and architectural beauty.
Hotel Fresno Building
90.3 km
Discover the historical elegance of the Hotel Fresno Building, a magnificent landmark showcasing Fresno's rich architectural heritage.
Van Ness Arch (Fresno entrance gate)
90.3 km
Explore Fresno's Van Ness Arch, a stunning historical landmark that embodies the city's rich heritage and architectural beauty in downtown Fresno.
Chukchansi Park
90.4 km
Experience the thrill of live sports at Chukchansi Park in Fresno, a premier stadium offering exciting games and community events in a vibrant downtown setting.
San Joaquin Light and Power Corporation Building
90.4 km
Explore the historic San Joaquin Light and Power Corporation Building, a stunning architectural landmark in Fresno's vibrant Mural District.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mission Soledad
70.3 km
Discover the historic Mission Soledad, an iconic California mission that offers a glimpse into the state's rich cultural heritage and early Spanish colonial history.
Giant Transformer Robot
71.6 km
Explore the extraordinary Giant Transformer Robot in Lemoore, California, a creative marvel that inspires visitors of all ages.
Doce Robles Winery & Vineyard
73.6 km
Experience award-winning, handcrafted wines in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere at Paso Robles' first 46 West winery. Enjoy stunning vineyard views!
Still Waters Vineyards and Tasting Room
73.9 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and exquisite wines at Still Waters Vineyards, a premier winery in Paso Robles, California.
J Dusi Wines- Winery and Tasting Room
74.2 km
Experience the legacy of Paso Robles winemaking at J Dusi Wines, where family tradition and sustainable practices create exceptional Zinfandels.
Zenaida Cellars
74.3 km
Discover handcrafted wines at Zenaida Cellars in Paso Robles, where sustainable practices meet a century-old winemaking tradition.
Sans Liege Wines
74.5 km
Discover handcrafted Rhône varietals at Sans Liege Wines in Paso Robles' Tin City, where character trumps notoriety and the Central Coast shines.
Peachy Canyon Winery Tasting Room
74.5 km
Explore the exquisite wines and breathtaking views at Peachy Canyon Winery, a true gem in California's wine country.
Jacob Toft
74.5 km
Experience handcrafted, full-flavored red wines at Jacob Toft Winery in Paso Robles' vibrant Tin City. Taste the passion.
Levo Wine
74.5 km
Discover balanced Rhône-style wines in an artistic, industrial-chic setting at Levo Wine, Paso Robles' Tin City destination.
ONX Wines Tasting Room & Winery
74.6 km
Discover innovative blends and sustainable winemaking at ONX Wines in Paso Robles' vibrant Tin City. A unique taste of the region's terroir.
Powell Mountain Cellars
74.6 km
Discover handcrafted Rhone and Bordeaux-style wines at Powell Mountain Cellars, a gem within Paso Robles' unique Tin City.
Aaron Wines
74.6 km
Discover handcrafted Petite Sirah and coastal Pinot Noir at Aaron Wines, a boutique winery in Paso Robles' artisan-filled Tin City.
BarrelHouse Brewing Co. - Brewery and Beer Gardens
74.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of BarrelHouse Brewing Co., where craft beer, live music, and community come together in Paso Robles.
Field Recordings Winery
74.7 km
Discover soulful wines from unique vineyards at Field Recordings Winery in Paso Robles' vibrant Tin City. An approachable and flavorful experience.
Essential places to dine
Chef Paul's Cafe
89.9 km
Discover Chef Paul's Cafe: A cozy downtown gem in Fresno offering delicious comfort food and local flavors perfect for tourists.
Libelula
90.4 km
Discover Libelula in downtown Fresno – where innovative cuisine meets local charm in a vibrant setting.
Kocky's Bar and Grill
90.6 km
Discover Kocky's Bar and Grill: A top-notch American restaurant in Downtown Fresno known for its delicious wings, burgers, and vibrant ambiance.
Country Kitchen Restaurant
90.6 km
Experience hearty American breakfasts at Country Kitchen Restaurant in Fresno—your cozy spot for delicious comfort food.
La Jacka Restaurant
90.7 km
Discover La Jacka Restaurant in Fresno: A premier vegan destination offering fresh flavors and sustainable dining experiences.
GG's Food Factory
90.7 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine at GG's Food Factory in downtown Fresno—where flavor meets affordability.
Aromas Restaurant
91.1 km
Discover Aromas Restaurant in Fresno: A delightful brunch destination with diverse menu options and a cozy atmosphere perfect for every food lover.
Cosmopolitan | Tavern & Italian Grill
91.1 km
Indulge in authentic Italian flavors at Cosmopolitan Tavern & Italian Grill – where every meal is a celebration of culinary excellence.
Di Cicco's Italian Restaurants
91.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Di Cicco's Italian Restaurants in Fresno, where every meal is crafted with love and tradition.
Irene's Café
91.3 km
Discover the delightful flavors of America at Irene's Café in Fresno’s vibrant Tower District – where comfort meets culinary excellence.
Shep's Club at Shepherd's Inn
91.3 km
Experience the fusion of flavorful grilled cuisine and cozy coffee vibes at Shep's Club in Downtown Fresno.
Veni Vidi Vici
91.4 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and nightlife at Veni Vidi Vici in Fresno's Tower District—where flavor meets fun!
Oggi Cosi Si Mangia
91.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Oggi Cosi Si Mangia in Fresno - where every dish tells a story.
Richard’s Prime Rib & Seafood
91.5 km
Experience culinary excellence at Richard’s Prime Rib & Seafood in Fresno - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Rhapsody’s Restaurant
91.7 km
Experience the heartwarming flavors of authentic soul food at Rhapsody's Restaurant in Fresno – where every meal tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Yoshi NOW
89.8 km
Explore Yoshi NOW in Fresno for unique vintage clothing that combines sustainability with style, perfect for fashion enthusiasts and treasure hunters.
Yoshis warehouse
89.9 km
Explore the eclectic treasures of Yoshi's Warehouse, Fresno's premier antique destination for unique vintage finds and timeless collectibles.
The Shop at KLSD
90.3 km
Discover unique fashion treasures at The Shop at KLSD in Fresno's Mural District, where style meets vibrant local culture.
Valley
90.4 km
Explore Valley Boutique in Fresno for an eclectic mix of unique clothing, vintage treasures, and personalized embroidery services.
S Co. Boutique
90.5 km
Explore S Co. Boutique in Fresno's Mural District for unique fashion finds and local artisan treasures, perfect for every style and occasion.
Emerald Thrift Store
90.6 km
Explore the eclectic finds of Emerald Thrift Store in downtown Fresno, where sustainable shopping meets unique treasures.
My Store
90.8 km
Explore My Store in Fresno's Tower District for unique furniture, stylish clothing, and local grocery treasures, all in one vibrant location.
Palm & Olive Antiques-Vintage
90.8 km
Explore a captivating collection of antiques and vintage treasures in Fresno's Tower District at Palm & Olive Antiques-Vintage.
Atrium Gift Shoppe
90.8 km
Explore the Atrium Gift Shoppe in Downtown Fresno for unique gifts, baby clothing, and charming souvenirs that capture the local spirit.
Something Extra Inc
91.0 km
Explore a treasure trove of unique gifts and specialty knives in Fresno's vibrant Tower District at Something Extra Inc.
Bebe O's Vintage Boutique
91.3 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and accessories at Bebe O's Vintage Boutique in Fresno's Tower District, where every piece has a story.
Brass Unicorn Inc
91.3 km
Explore Brass Unicorn Inc in Fresno, CA - your go-to metaphysical supply store for spirituality, aromatherapy, and unique finds.
Vivily Vintage & Handmade
91.9 km
Explore Fresno's unique gift shop for vintage clothing and handmade treasures, reflecting local artistry and creativity.
Forever Vintage
91.9 km
Explore Forever Vintage in Fresno, CA for a unique shopping experience with a diverse selection of charming home goods and collectibles.
Black Marketplace Vintage Boutique | blkmktplc.
91.9 km
Explore the charm of vintage fashion at Black Marketplace Vintage Boutique in Fresno, where unique clothing and accessories await to be discovered.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Intimo Cocktail Lounge Bar
90.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and expertly crafted cocktails at Intimo Cocktail Lounge Bar, a must-visit gem in Fresno, California.
Quail State
90.5 km
Discover Quail State in Fresno, CA - a vibrant bar offering unique brunch delights and signature cocktails in a lively downtown setting.
Modernist Craft Cocktail Bar
90.5 km
Experience the art of mixology at Fresno's Modernist Craft Cocktail Bar, where each drink tells a unique story.
Bespoke
90.5 km
Discover Bespoke, Fresno's premier cocktail bar and event venue, where crafted drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await your visit.
Office Cocktail Lounge
91.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Fresno at Office Cocktail Lounge, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a lively atmosphere.
The Lincoln Pub & Grub
91.1 km
Discover the heart of Fresno dining at The Lincoln Pub & Grub, where delicious grill favorites meet a vibrant atmosphere in the Tower District.
Lucy's Lounge
91.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Fresno at Lucy's Lounge, where innovative cocktails meet live music in a welcoming atmosphere.
Howlin Wolf
91.4 km
Discover Howlin Wolf, Fresno's premier cocktail bar, where innovative drinks and lively atmosphere meet in the heart of the Tower District.
Uncle Tom's Cabin
92.3 km
Discover the charm of Uncle Tom's Cabin, a cozy bar in Fresno offering affordable drinks and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
Bog House Pub
94.2 km
Experience the best of Fresno at Bog House Pub, where craft beer meets delicious comfort food in a cozy atmosphere.
The Captains Brig
95.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Captains Brig, Fresno's favorite cocktail bar offering unique drinks and a lively social scene.
The Shanty
96.1 km
Experience the lively atmosphere, delicious drinks, and unforgettable karaoke nights at The Shanty in Fresno, California.
Next Bar
96.2 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse menu at Next Bar, a must-visit bar and grill in Fresno, California, perfect for socializing and relaxing.
The Bar
96.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Fresno at The Bar, your go-to spot for karaoke, pool, and fun.
The Other Bar
97.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious drinks at The Other Bar, Fresno's hidden gem for nightlife and relaxation.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Sequoia Club
85.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Hanford at The Sequoia Club, featuring lively karaoke nights and a welcoming bar atmosphere for all.
El Vaquero Night Club & Bar
87.9 km
El Vaquero Night Club & Bar: A vibrant nightlife experience in Fresno, California, where music and dancing come alive in an energetic atmosphere.
El Mexico Night Club
88.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at El Mexico Night Club in Fresno, where music, dance, and culture collide for an unforgettable evening.
Aldo's Nightclub & Restaurant
89.6 km
Discover the fusion of authentic Mexican cuisine and vibrant nightlife at Aldo's Nightclub & Restaurant in Fresno, California.
Los Arcos Night Club & Restaurant
89.8 km
Discover the nightlife at Los Arcos Night Club & Restaurant, where vibrant music, delicious food, and an electrifying atmosphere converge in Downtown Fresno.
El Prado
89.8 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at El Prado, Fresno's top night club, where music and dancing create unforgettable moments.
Sunset Nightclub
91.5 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Fresno at Sunset Nightclub, where electrifying music and exhilarating dance create unforgettable experiences.
Club Legends
92.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Club Legends in Fresno, where electrifying music and refreshing cocktails create unforgettable memories.
Club Encore
92.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Club Encore in Fresno, CA - where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await you.
Switch Lounge & Nightclub
96.5 km
Discover the heart of Fresno's nightlife at Switch Lounge & Nightclub, where live music, craft cocktails, and an electric atmosphere await you.
City Lights Nightclub
99.5 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at City Lights Nightclub in Fresno, where vibrant music and captivating crowds create unforgettable memories.
