Big Sur is a breathtaking stretch of California‘s central coast that has some of the most beautiful and dramatic landscapes in the world. From the iconic Bixby Bridge to the hidden coves and beaches, Big Sur offers endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring. We visited Big Sur on our way to Paso Robles early winter and it was amazing. Here are the best places to see on your road trip to Big Sur.
How to get to Big Sur
Big Sur is located along California’s central coast, approximately 140 miles south of San Francisco and 300 miles north of Los Angeles. The easiest way to get to Big Sur is by car. You can reach Big Sur via Highway 1, which runs along the coast. From San Francisco, head south on US-101 and take the exit for CA-156 West towards Monterey Peninsula. Merge onto CA-1 Sourth towards Monterey and continue for approximately 85 miles until you reach the Big Sur area.
If you are taking public transportation, the Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) bus system provides service to the Big Sur area from various locations, including Monterey, Salinas, and San Luis Obispo. Greyhound also offers service to Monterey, which is the closest major city to Big Sur.
Best time to visit Big Sur
The best time to visit Big Sur, California, largely depends on what you’re looking for. Generally, the summer months, particularly July and August, offer the most reliable weather with warm temperatures and clear skies. However, this is also the busiest time, so expect more crowds and higher prices.
If you prefer quieter times with still-pleasant weather, consider visiting in the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October). During these seasons, you’ll likely encounter fewer tourists, but the weather can be slightly cooler, especially in the evenings.
Winter (December to February) in Big Sur can be rainy and cooler, but it’s still beautiful, especially if you enjoy dramatic coastal views and don’t mind bundling up. Just be aware that some trails and attractions may be closed or have limited access during this time due to weather conditions.
Places to see in Big Sur
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The park features miles of hiking trails that wind through redwood forests, along the coast, and to stunning waterfalls. You can also explore the park’s beach, picnic areas, and historic cabin.
McWay Falls Waterfall
There are several waterfalls in the Big Sur area, including McWay Falls and Salmon Creek Falls. McWay Falls is located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and is easily accessible via a short trail. Salmon Creek Falls is located in the Los Padres National Forest and requires a moderate hike to reach.
Garrapata State park
The park is home to several hiking trails, including the Soberanes Canyon Trail, which leads through a redwood forest to a waterfall. You can also just enjoy the beach or watch wildlife. You can watch sea otters, harbor seals, and a variety of seabirds there.
Calla Lily Valley
Calla Lily Valley is a beautiful spot to see these iconic flowers in bloom. The best time to visit is in the spring, typically from April to June, but you can see a lot of flowers even during winter. The trailhead is located at the Garrapata State Park and the hike is easy.
Pfeiffer Beach
Pfeiffer Beach is a secluded and picturesque beach that offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding cliffs. You can hike along the beach, explore the tide pools, and watch the sunset over the ocean. The beach is also known for its famous purple sand, which is caused by manganese garnet particles that wash up on the shore.
Point Sur Lighthouse
The Point Sur Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse that has been guiding ships along the Big Sur coast since 1889. Visitors can take a guided tour of the lighthouse and learn about its history and significance to the local community. The lighthouse also offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding landscape.
Andrew Molera State Park
Andrew Molera State Park is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and picnicking. The park features miles of hiking trails that wind through the redwood forests, along the Big Sur River, and to the beach. Visitors can also camp overnight at the park and enjoy the peaceful and serene surroundings.
Partington Cove
Partington Cove is a hidden cove that can only be accessed by a short hike through a tunnel and down a steep trail. The cove is surrounded by towering cliffs and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can explore the tide pools, hike along the beach, and even climb up the cliffs for a bird’s eye view of the cove.
Sunset at Bixby Bridge
Bixby Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Big Sur and is an absolute must-see for visitors to the region. The bridge spans across Bixby Creek; you can drive across the bridge and take in stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged coastline. There are also several hiking trails nearby that offer breathtaking vistas of the bridge from different angles. Bixby Bridge is particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset.
During our visit to Big Sur, we spent our day exploring the rugged coastline and hiking. The highlight of our visit was hiking Calla Villi Valley and watching sunset at Bixby Bridge.
Overall, our trip to Big Sur was a truly unforgettable experience.
