A Complete Travel Guide to Visiting Big Sur

The Ultimate Big Sur Travel Guide

Big Sur is one of those places that you truly have to see to believe. I know that sounds incredibly cliché but the dramatic cliffs, eclectic vibe, and endless views of the Pacific Ocean speak for themselves. The scenery is truly unmatched and it has such a calming energy. Big Sur Village, a quaint stop within the larger region of Big Sur, offers a small collection of roadside businesses and homes for travelers exploring this iconic part of California. In this “Complete Travel Guide to Visiting Big Sur”, I’m going to cover the best things to do, where to stay, and most importantly where to eat when visiting Big Sur. To ensure that you have the best information before traveling to Big Sur, California.

When to Visit Big Sur

For the best time to visit Big Sur, California consider a trip during late spring to early summer. The sun is shining and the crowds are somewhat sparse. March-April is a great time to visit to beat those summer crowds. Also, September to November is a great time to visit Big Sur however it can be very cloudy during those months.

Things to Know Before Traveling to Big Sur

• There is hardly ANY cell phone service when driving on Highway 1 so make sure to download an offline map if you’re directionally challenged.

• You can spend one day here but it’s best to stretch it out to two or three days because the weather is so fickle. One minute it can be sunny the next you can’t see two feet in front of you.

• Big Sur is pricey so be prepared if you’re on a budget. Gas prices are roughly $2 higher than the norm so make sure to fuel up before traveling to Big Sur.

• Currently, a main portion of Highway 1 in Big Sur is closed. Unfortunately, there are no detours available. You have to drive down the 1 from Carmel and then back up. There is no way to go all the way through to San Simeon (last updated January 2025).

Best Things to Do in Big Sur

McWay Falls

This was our favorite stop in Big Sur. Located just outside Julia Pfeiffer Burns Park, it’s a short 1/4 mile hike that will take you to an overlook of an 80-foot waterfall cascading down into a turquoise-blue cove. There. is a small lot with a fee and they only accept cash. However, you can park on the side of the road and walk a bit of the way up to access the trail.

Pfeiffer-Big Sur State Park in the Santa Lucia Mountains

A great option when staying in Big Sur is to camp! Big Sur’s natural beauty and outdoor activities make it an ideal destination for camping. This state park is located right smack in the middle of Big Sur and has the nickname “Mini Yosemite”. Campgrounds tend to book up at least six months in advance so make sure to plan before you go. Furthermore, when visiting make sure to check out Pfeiffer Beach. You can find all information about camping

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Pfeiffer Beach

Pfeiffer Beach is a quaint beautiful beach located off the beaten path. However, it is well worth the 2 miles drive down to the beach! You can park here for $12 a day and it’s a short walk to the actual beach from the lot. You’ll be rewarded with a gorgeous coastline. It’s so unique because it features a huge rock with a hole in the middle.

Bixby Creek Bridge

The Bixby Creek bridge has become famous because of the hit HBO show “Big Little Lies”. But this bridge has been around for ages (1932 to be exact) and is a must-see when visiting Big Sur. There is a small parking lot just north of the bridge to enjoy the beauty of this masterpiece. Furthermore, you can park on the side of the street to access this viewpoint.

Finally, it gets extremely busy at all hours of the day so be prepared to wait for a spot. We witnessed people hiking down to the beach below but it looked extremely dangerous. Hike at your own risk!

Garrapata State Park

Located in North Big Sur (18 miles north) this 3,000-acre state park has two miles of beautiful beaches and many hiking trails on the Monterrey coast. There is no entrance fee to enter this park and the highlights include:

• Garrapata Beach

• Soberanes Point trail

• Little Sur Beach overlook

17 Mile Drive

The starting point for 17 Mile Drive is the entrance of the Pebble Beach golf course, offering a scenic route along the south coast of the southern Big Sur Coast. It costs $10.50 for the day to drive on this portion of the coast and it’s well worth it. The beaches are pristine and you won’t see many people here because of the cost. You can’t miss the Lone Cypress which is a California legend standing tall at 250 years old. Lastly, Fan Shell Beach was our favorite stop along the coast as it was quiet and beautiful.

Morro Bay

Technically, Morro Bay is not located in Big Sur however, it’s a couple of hours south. If you’re driving from a southern city you might want to stop along the way. Morro Bay is a small coastal town that is best known for “Morro Rock” a large ancient volcanic mound in the middle of the bay. You can easily make this a quick pit stop for lunch on your way to Big Sur!

Drive Down Highway 1

There are so many hidden corners of the Big Sur coast. Each unique corner of the Highway has its perspective of the endless Pacific Ocean. So I encourage you to just drive along Highway 1 and stop when you see a beautiful spot!

State and Federal Lands in Big Sur

Big Sur is a treasure trove of state and federal lands that offer endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. The Los Padres National Forest is a prime example, with its sprawling landscapes that encompass rugged mountains, scenic coastline, and diverse wildlife. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a casual nature lover, the trails here promise breathtaking views and a chance to immerse yourself in Big Sur’s natural beauty.

The Ventana Wilderness and Silver Peak Wilderness are also must-visit areas, each offering unique experiences. From challenging hikes to serene camping spots, these protected lands are perfect for those looking to connect with nature. As you explore, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the majestic Santa Lucia Mountains, making every moment in Big Sur unforgettable.

Events and Festivals in Big Sur

Big Sur’s vibrant community spirit comes alive through its various events and festivals, each celebrating the region’s unique charm. One of the most anticipated events is the Big Sur International Marathon, held every April. This challenging 26.2-mile run along the Pacific Coast Highway offers runners and spectators alike stunning views of the coastline.

In January, the Big Sur Foragers Festival takes center stage, celebrating the local culinary scene and the art of foraging. It’s a fantastic opportunity to taste the flavors of Big Sur while learning about sustainable food practices. Come November, the Big Sur Food & Wine Festival offers a delightful blend of gourmet food, exquisite wines, and breathtaking scenery, making it a must-attend event for food and wine enthusiasts.

Responsible Travel in Big Sur

Preserving Big Sur’s natural beauty is a shared responsibility, and visitors are encouraged to follow responsible travel guidelines. The Community Association of Big Sur provides valuable tips to ensure that your visit leaves a positive impact. Simple actions like staying on designated trails, packing out all waste, and respecting local wildlife can go a long way in protecting this pristine environment.

By traveling responsibly, you help safeguard Big Sur’s unique ecosystems and ensure that future generations can enjoy its unspoiled beauty. Remember, every small effort counts in maintaining the delicate balance of this extraordinary destination.

Family-Friendly Activities in Big Sur

Big Sur is a fantastic destination for families, offering a variety of activities that cater to all ages. Start your adventure at the Big Sur River Inn, where kids can enjoy the outdoor play area while you relax by the scenic Big Sur River. For a more immersive experience, the Post Ranch Inn offers guided nature walks and yoga classes, perfect for families looking to explore the area’s natural beauty together.

If your family loves outdoor activities, the Ventana Big Sur resort has you covered with hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. And no family trip to Big Sur would be complete without a visit to Sand Dollar Beach. This stunning spot offers beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and fascinating tide pools that kids will love exploring.

Big Sur Travel Guide: What to Pack for Big Sur, California

While all opinions and recommendations are always my own, my content on this blog post may contain affiliate links for hotels I’ve traveled to, tours I’ve completed, and products I recommend. This means I get a small commission if you book a stay or purchase a product after clicking one of these links. As always, I am so thankful for your support and will continue to share the best properties, things to do, and items I love!

• All the activewear. Most of the things to do in Big Sur are outdoor hiking, biking, and swimming. My favorite brands of activewear that have lasted me YEARS are Lululemon and Athleta. I’ve also found some great lululemon dupes on Amazon.

• Good quality hiking shoes or sneakers: I wore my New Balance the entire time in Big Sur and did not have any issues when hiking, however, it’s best to wear actual hiking shoes since the hikes can get pretty intense

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• A sturdy pair of flip-flops that you can also wear on a nice walk or to the beach. These Olukai Sandals are my go-to and have lasted me years and are the most comfortable.

• A sun hat for the summer months.

• Bathing Suits: Being that Big Sur gets very warm in the summer months you’ll want to always be prepared by bringing bathing suits. I always find quality suits that last for a few seasons at revolve and amazon.

• Sunscreen: This GOOP FACE SUNSCREEN BRUSH is perfect for traveling because it adds SPF to your face all while not messing up your makeup. It’s my new holy grail product and you need to add this one to your packing list!

• A light jacket for the evening.

Where to Stay in Big Sur, California: Big Sur River Inn and More

There are not many options when it comes to hotels in Big Sur. You either have to choose between a low-star hotel or a 5-star resort that will set you back $700 a night and up. Below are some options if you are dead set on staying in Big Sur while visiting.

• Ventana Big Sur ($$$$) 5-star secluded resort located amid all that Big Sur has to offer. This resort is for adults only so it’s perfect for a romantic getaway.

• Big Sur River Inn ($$$)

• Big Sur Lodge ($$) Located in Pfeiffer-Big Sur State Park this 3-star hotel offers cottage-style rooms and cabins.

• Hyatt Carmel Highlands ($$) Located a Point Lobos National Park, this hotel has a prime location near both Big Sur and Carmel by the sea.

Because we wanted to stay on a budget in Big Sur, we chose to stay in Carmel by the Sea. It’s roughly an hour’s drive from everything Big Sur has to offer and is the cutest little storybook town.

Check out my Carmel by The Sea Travel Guide

We stayed at the La Playa Carmel and highly recommend it. It was a bit pricey but we felt as though we were staying in Sorrento, Italy. A couple of other Carmel by the Sea hotels to check out are:

• Cypress Inn

• L’auberge Carmel

Restaurants in Big Sur

Nepenthe Big Sur ($$$) – Ocean views and healthy eats, this restaurant is highly recommended!

Deetjens Restaurant ($$) – Located at the Big Sur Inn, this restaurant is great for breakfast and dinner.

Lucia Lodge Restaurant ($$) – Another Big Sur restaurant with a gorgeous view. This spot is great for lunch and has amazing service.

Sierra Mar ($$$$) – If you’re looking to splurge, this is your place. Located in the Post Ranch Inn, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves superb food. It’s quite literally perched on a cliff and has floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Thank you for reading my Complete Travel Guide to Visiting Big Sur. I hope you’ve found some great tips to help you plan a visit to Big Sur! Please be sure to let me know if there is anything you think I’ve missed in this guide and check out more of my California travel guides.

XX, Courtney