Big Sur Visitors Guide
Often called “the most scenic roadway in America”, Highway 1 (30 miles south of Monterey) hugs the craggy Big Sur coastline. As you travel the stunningly picturesque coastline road, you will pass by huge redwoods, deep canyons, quiet beaches and magnificent mountains—so take your time and enjoy the view. Along the rambling, rugged route there are plenty of places to stop for a picnic or take spectacular photos. The route provides access to many state parks as well where you'll find some of the most interesting hiking in America. If you do decide to hike in Big Sur check out our hiking blog for updated tips.
The Garrapata State Park outside Carmel, like many other parks along Highway 1, offers numerous outdoor activities. You can go hiking, mountain biking, fishing, visit the tide pools and canyons, watch the whales during the winter months or simply relax by the Pacific shore. Andrew Molera State Park is the largest park in Big Sur and is a great place for hiking and easy access to the beach.
 At Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park you can go ambling along the paths of the coastal Redwood Forest, go swimming, hiking, picnicking and camping. The hiking trails here offer a panoramic view of the Pacific and as you tour the backcountry you will see an 80 foot waterfall on the Overlook Trail. The Park is also home to 1,680 acre underwater reserve and a special use permit can be obtained for scuba diving. Animals such as seals, sea lions, and sea otters can be seen in the Park’s coves.
Point Sur State Historic Park hosts historic Point Sur Light Station which is an active Coast Guard light facility. You can tour the station and see the sensational stone building which has been part of the landscape for many decades.
Bixby Bridge stretches over a large canyon along the Big Sur coastline and is one of the 10 highest single span bridges in the world. The weather frequently changes the bridge’s appearance making it a favorite spot for photos.
Photo Credits: Big Sur Banner by Brian C; Rock Island by Tim Parkinson; Last Big Sur Picture by Eric Chan |
