When people planning a California road trip ask where they should go, I always tell them Big Sur should be at the top of their list. There is nothing more quintessentially California than this stunning coastline that is part of the Pacific Coast Highway. This 90-mile scenic stretch between Monterrey and San Luis Obispo, is famously known for its dramatic landscape, with its rugged cliffs towering over the Pacific Ocean and landmarks like the Bixby Creek Bridge, one of the most photographed bridges in the state. Start out bright and early so you can make the most of your day road trippin’ through Big Sur. Here’s what should be on your list of what to see on your Big Sur road trip going north to south.
Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary
Get packed for a full day of sightseeing, where you will get to sample some of the best Big Sur has to offer in the form of natural beauty. This Big Sur day trip sample itinerary can be personalized to your own taste, where you can linger a bit longer at some destinations and briefly stop at others.
Early Morning
With two miles of stunning coastline, Garrapata State Park is a great introduction to Big Sur, with plenty of hiking trails that meander through redwood groves and alongside beaches. Soberanes Point is an easy hike and a great spot to take in those coastal views. If you’re out there during the spring you’ll be treated to a colorful wildflower display. If you’re lucky, you may spot some of the local wildlife that inhabits the nearby waters, including California gray whales, sea lions, sea otters and harbor seals. Garrapata Beach is a dog-friendly beach, and a great place to let your pup frolic in the waves.
If you have any images of Big Sur in your mind, the iconic Bixby Bridge is probably what comes up. Constructed in 1922, this stunning concrete structure is the highest of its type at 260 feet and towers above Bixby Creek. There are several viewpoints to pull off and snap some photos. Plenty of parking exists on both sides of the bridge to pull off and take photos from nearby vantage points. Depending on the day, you might be lucky and get some of that famous California fog rolling off the Pacific Ocean that makes for the ideal shot.
A Big Sur road trip is not complete without a stop at the Bixby Bridge.
Early Afternoon
Not to be confused with its other counterpart Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park boasts hiking trails along the Big Sur River Gorge, where the Big Sur River enters this park. Visit the Ernst Ewoldsen Nature Center that is located near the Warden’s Path (on the south side of the river), and learn more about the critters that call this place home. There are many campsites alongside the river that are available for advanced reservation. Entrance fee is $10 per car. The park is open a half hour before sunrise and closes half hour after sunset.
Pfeiffer Beach feels almost otherworldly with its lavender-colored sand and key hole rock formations jutting dramatically out of the Pacific Ocean. The beach can be a bit difficult to find, so keep your eyes peeled for a sign that simply reads “narrow road,” and is about 1 mile south of Pfeiffer State Park. There’s a small parking lot that can get full, especially during summertime. A short walk brings you right to the beach. The park is open sunrise to sunset, and costs $15 to enter (please note state park passes cannot be used here).
Late Afternoon
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is home to the well-documented McWays Falls, a 80-foot waterfall that originates from McWay Creek and cascades into the Pacific Ocean. There are also numerous other trails throughout the park like the scenic Ewoldsen Trail (5-mile loop) ranging from easy strolls to strenuous full-on hikes. Camping is allowed with the proper permits. As of this article publication the trail to McWays Falls has been temporary closed due to severe storm damage and it’s best to check up on the park’s closure on the official website. You can still spot the waterfall though from the pull-off point that’s located just north of the park’s entrance at mile marker 36.2.
Planning a Big Sur Road Trip
The best time take a Big Sur trip is during the late summer/early autumn, when the summer crowds have gone home (trust me you don’t want to be stuck in traffic on this one-lane highway), and the weather is still mild and dry. The worst time to go is during the winter when rain can cause major mudslides and closes off part of the highway, as well as makes it dangerous to drive on the winding roads. Spring can also be a good time, but make sure to check road conditions before you head out.
In true California coast fashion, the one-lane road is very windy and not for faint-of-heart drivers with its sheer drop-offs and hairpin turns (mostly south of Gorda). Speaking of curvy roads, motion sickness medicine (Bonine is a personal favorite) is a must for those who get carsick. The entire drive is about 3 hours without stops and once you get on Highway 1 past Monterrey, you must commit to sticking with it since the only alternatives are equally-as-scary mountain roads. The good news is that there are some turn-offs along the way to soak in the view and gather your composure if necessary.
Where To Eat In Big Sur
There’s not a lot of places to choose from in Big Sur, but here are some options ranging from casual to high-end:
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Big Sur Bakery and Restaurant – a great place to grab a quick breakfast in the form of pastries or for a heartier mid-day meal in the form of wood-fired pizza.
- Sierra Mar – located in the dreamy Post Ranch Inn, this restaurant is definitely the place to treat yourself, with stunning views of the ocean and 4-course dinner options that include local seafood like Monterey abalone.
- Bruno’s Market & Deli – though not technically located in Big Sur, this locally run spot in Carmel is the perfect place to pick up sandwiches to stash in your cooler for later.
Where To Stay In Big Sur
If you plan on staying overnight there are numerous campground options both in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park that you can reserve ahead of time. If you want something a bit more substantial, here are three alternative options.
Big Sur Lodge
Located in Pfeiffer Big Sur National Park, these cottage-style rooms are a great spot to spend the night at the beginning of your trip (especially if you’ve driven from somewhere like the Bay Area). The Homestead Restaurant on property uses local ingredients to whip up creative dishes like a veggie omelets and roasted miso salmon.
Check out reviews on TripAdvisor | Book your stay on Booking.com
Big Sur River Inn
This cozy rustic-style lodging is also located in Pfeiffer Big Sur National Park, and is in a scenic location next to a river. It’s a great place to unplug with a glass of wine and unwind under the stars without cell service, though if you’re looking for all the bells and whistles, this place may not be for you.
Check out reviews on TripAdvisor | Book your stay on Booking.com
Ventana Big Sur
For a taste of luxury, this 5-start resort just outside of Pfeiffer Big Sur National Park is where you go to get properly pampered. It’s pricey, but is the ideal getaway to celebrate special occasions. The property is stunning in the middle of redwood groves and with coastal views. There’s also a glamping option, where you sleep under the stars with all the creature comforts of home.
Check out reviews on TripAdvisor | Book your stay on Booking.com
What is on your itinerary for a Big Sur road trip?
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