Big Sur

One of the world's most scenic coastal drives featuring dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and redwood forests meeting the Pacific Ocean. A quintessential California experience with iconic landmarks like Bixby Bridge.

Things to do

• Bixby Bridge — Walk across or photograph this iconic 1932 concrete arch bridge spanning a dramatic coastal gorge with sweeping ocean views.
• McWay Falls — Hike the short, scenic trail in Julia Burns State Park to see a 80-foot waterfall cascading onto a pristine white sand beach.
• Pfeiffer Beach Purple Sand — Explore the rare manganese garnet-rich purple sand beach at sunset when the minerals glow most vividly against the ocean.
• Point Lobos State Natural Reserve — Hike coastal trails through cypress groves and past rocky coves where sea otters, seals, and migrating gray whales are commonly spotted.
• Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Redwoods — Walk among ancient coast redwoods in a verdant canyon with a river, experiencing the dramatic contrast between forest and ocean.
• Ventana Cone Trail — Trek to an elevated viewpoint with panoramic vistas of the entire Big Sur coastline and the Santa Lucia Mountains.

Food to try

• Fresh Caught Fish Tacos — Local seafood restaurants serve fresh rockfish or halibut caught daily in nearby waters, typically grilled and served with cabbage slaw and lime.
• Artichoke Soup — A signature dish celebrating Monterey County's agricultural heritage, creamy and often served at Big Sur's coastal dining establishments.
• Abalone — When available, sustainably-sourced abalone is prepared simply grilled or breaded, showcasing the region's rich diving and culinary tradition.
• Wild Mushroom Risotto — Local chefs feature foraged mushrooms from the coastal forests in creamy risotto, a signature seasonal comfort dish.
• Sourdough Bread with Local Butter — Fresh-baked sourdough from regional bakeries, often served with cultured butter from small Californian dairies, is a staple at most establishments.

Local customs & good to know

• Arrive Early for Parking — Popular pullouts and trailheads fill quickly, especially on weekends and holidays; arriving by mid-morning maximizes your chances of securing parking.
• Respect the Road's Difficulty — Highway 1 through Big Sur features narrow lanes, sharp curves, and occasional landslides; drive slowly, use pullouts safely, and avoid night driving in unfamiliar sections.
• Plan for Limited Services — Gas stations, restaurants, and lodging are sparse and often expensive; fill your tank and budget meals in Carmel or Cambria before arriving.
• Leave No Trace Ethic — Big Sur's beauty relies on visitor respect for fragile ecosystems; stay on marked trails, take all trash, and avoid removing rocks or plants as souvenirs.