A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
Big Sur is widely regarded as one of the most stunning landscapes in the United States. Stretching along the untamed California coastline between Carmel-By-The-Sea and San Simeon, Big Sur is an exciting area to explore within the state.
The first thing to know when planning a trip to Big Sur is that this is no typical beach destination. Despite having a few bucket list beaches to its credit, this 90-mile stretch of uber-photogenic California coastline is about far more than sun and sand. Many of Big Sur’s most beautiful beaches are little more than rocky coves, and sun may be scarcer than expected at certain times of the year, thanks to Northern California’s notorious coastal fog.
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.
If there’s one stretch of the California coastline that conjures the imagination like no other, it’s Big Sur, where land and ocean play out an endless drama of thundering surf, sheer cliffs, and tiny coves protected by jagged rocks.
In the Big Sur region of California, the Pacific Coast Highway seems made for a daring road trip: its winding roads hug the curves of the coast, and the highway is set on massive cliffs that plunge straight into the Pacific. Golden sunlight streaks through patches of fog; frothing waves ravage the shore below. If that sounds dramatic, it’s because the drive truly is. In fact, it’s precisely why nature-loving travelers often build the longer and more challenging PCH route into itineraries between Los Angeles and San Francisco (over the shorter U.S. 101). Without any stops, the 90-mile stretch takes roughly two and a half hours to traverse, meaning it’s entirely possible to experience the highlights in just a day. However, Big Sur’s elevated vistas, lush hikes, and wild beaches entice many to linger for a night or two—and make the trip a once-in-a-lifetime ambition for many. Whether you have 24 hours or a weekend, here’s how to do it right.
An epic road trip is one of America’s favorite pastimes, and few drives are more iconic than Highway 1 through Big Sur. Tight turns hug the rugged coastline while mile after mile of stunning vistas inspire awe in even the most seasoned traveler.
Along California’s scenic Highway 1, nestled high on wild mountain cliffs overlooking the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean, lie the picturesque communities of Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Sur. For over a century, these peaceful artist retreats have infused creativity into every aspect of local culture. In this idyllic setting, art is not merely a luxury; it is a way of life.
Enjoy coastal views, buffet breakfasts, and tent and RV sites among the redwoods.
Before you can find out how to get to Big Sur on the California coast, you need to know where you’re going.
Big Sur offers a plethora of camping options, from luxury accommodations to rustic campgrounds. This section will provide insight into the best places to camp, meeting a variety of needs.
Camping in luxury? It can be done, and Glamping in Big Sur offers some of the most luxurious camping experiences you’ll ever encounter.
The ultimate photography guide to Big Sur in California.At the end of 2012, as I was planning my first Big Sur coastal drive along California State Route 1, I was surprised at how little information I could find related to travel photography on the Big Sur drive.