Top Things to Do in Big Sur, California

A visit to Big Sur is, in truth, an invitation to do nothing. However, enjoying and exploring the area’s breathtaking natural beauty will keep you plenty busy. Therefore, this California jewel boasts enough can’t-miss sights and must-do activities to enhance any itinerary, especially when considering the stunning beaches and scenic hikes. Hence, explore all these top attractions in Big Sur, while also allowing time for some peaceful contemplation.

Take a Photo of the Bixby Bridge

You definitely need to capture a photograph of the Bixby Bridge, if only to show the folks at home that you’ve stood on the spot made famous by numerous movies, car commercials, and TV shows, most recently “Big Little Lies.” Built in 1931, it soars 260 feet above Bixby Creek, making it the highest single-span arch bridge in the world at that time and still one of the tallest. You can’t reach Big Sur without driving across the bridge, but a challenge lies in finding a place to park for your perfect shot. Consequently, the limited pullouts fill up quickly, leading to traffic backups along Highway 1. The solution is to park before or after the bridge and walk to get the shot you want, which also allows for a richer experience of the stunning landscape from various angles.

Dine at Nepenthe

As much a destination as a restaurant, Nepenthe is an essential part of any Big Sur experience. Once you arrive on the terrace, seemingly suspended over the Pacific, you’ll understand why this 72-year-old gathering place is more than just an eatery. If possible, try to secure a dinner reservation for a chance to appreciate Nepenthe’s role as a pioneer in the farm-to-table food movement, enjoyed in locally sourced ingredients. Moreover, timing your visit for a legendary sunset will enhance the experience. Even if you opt for a casual meal at Cafe Kevah or browse local books and crafts, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the fusion of food and bohemian culture that has established Big Sur’s cultural significance.

Visit Henry Miller Memorial Library

This eclectic establishment, the former home of writer Henry Miller, embraces its quirky identity with the slogan “Where nothing happens.” However, that statement doesn’t do justice to its evolution into a vibrant art and event center, hosting readings, folk music performances, and various other happenings. Visitors enter through a grove filled with unique sculptures. Within, a funky bookstore and gallery are surrounded by a sunlit deck and outdoor performance area. Themes of censorship and rebellion echo throughout Miller’s legacy, especially since his most famous work, “Tropic of Cancer,” faced bans in the US until 1964. After Miller’s passing in 1980, his friend Emil White turned the property into a memorial, ensuring its maintenance by the Big Sur Land Trust.

Laugh at Elephant Seals

With their gigantic bulbous noses and enormous bodies, elephant seals are truly the jesters of the ocean, playfully maneuvering across the sand. The Piedras Blancas reserve, located 16 miles south of Ragged Point, is unique, offering the rare opportunity to observe these charming creatures year-round without restrictions. During peak seasons in January, April, and October, crowds of up to 17,000 elephant seals gather at the rookery. The sight of male seals, weighing up to 5,000 pounds, engaging in duels for dominance is particularly exhilarating. Expectant mothers begin arriving on the beach in late December to give birth and nurse their pups, which creates an incredible scene from February to April as the beach fills with pups learning to swim and forage. Furthermore, knowledgeable docents are available to explain the seals’ habits and assist visitors in maintaining a respectful distance.

Ride Horses on the Beach

Big Sur was originally ranch country, a legacy that continues to thrive today. Experience the charm of this rugged land by horseback, and fulfill your dream of galloping down the beach. Outfitters within the area offer scenic trail rides and guided horseback adventures. For instance, the Monterey Bay Equestrian Center provides trail rides in the region, while Seahorse Equestrian brings the horses directly to you.

Eat Scones in a Fairy Tale Garden

No visit to Big Sur is complete without a stop at Big Sur Bakery, which gained national attention for its crusty, wood-fired breads, flaky croissants, and delightful jelly donuts shortly after its inception. Now, two decades later, it holds a legendary status. Behind the bakery, a whimsical botanical garden invites you to enjoy a coffee and scone in tranquil surroundings. Additionally, hearty soups, wood-fired pizzas, and veggie-mushroom lasagna exhibit the same creative touch as their renowned pastries. Expect lines of eager patrons, as locals and visitors alike flock to secure their beloved treats.

Appreciate Local Art in a Gallery

COAST Big Sur stands out not only for its unique location inside a converted water tank but also for its rooftop café, serving exceptional coffee and delectable treats. The gallery showcases a remarkable collection of local art, consistently adding new artists, particularly from the coastal community. This commitment to the local culture is evident and reflects a community-centric ethos, ensuring that visitors leave with a richer understanding of Big Sur’s artistic landscape.