Big
Sur Central Coast California
|
Big
Sur, California is one of the
most beautiful regions in the world with visitors coming from
thousands of miles away to drive along the California Pacific
Coast Highway. Big Sur is about 150 miles south of San Francisco
and about 300 miles north of Los Angeles. It covers a 90 mile
stretch of wilderness from the north at Carmel, by Monterey, to
the south at Hearst Castle. The untouched landscape with aromatic
redwood trees soaring overhead has a temperate climate. It is
always a good idea to pack both cold and warm weather clothes
when visiting this area. The morning fog can burn off and leave
a warm afternoon. The climate and beauty of this area is what
brought the first rugged settlers over 100 years ago. Through
most of the 1800’s, Big Sur was still uninhabited, named
Big Sur from its original name, “El Sur Grande”, or
“The Big South.” Most people did not see a way to
live on the rugged coast and mountainous region. Gradually in
the late 1800’s, people started moving there, creating logging
companies and homesteads. Many of the ancestors of these people
still live there today and names of places are named after them.
The current highway took 18 years to build
and was completed in 1937. It is one of the best maintained highways
in the world but because of the twists and turns, one is forced
to drive slowly and enjoy the view. There are many places to stop
and look at the scenery, take photographs, or explore the beaches
and waterfalls. Many people make it a day trip just to drive up
this scenic coast. This
drive along Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most scenic in
the world.
|
|
|
|
Pfeiffer Big State
Beach is loved and referred to by many as the most beautiful secluded
beach in the world. It can be hard to find, you will want to turn
in at mile marker MON 45.64, but when you find it, you will be rewarded
with a gem that is worth the effort.
The Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is another great beach with
an 80 foot waterfall dropping from the cliffs into the ocean. It
is a photographer’s dream and a great daytime getaway for
the entire family. Another stop along the beaches is the Point Sur
State Historic Park. The sandy beaches and rocky views are protected
by the Point Sur Lighthouse making this a favorite stop for anyone
driving up the coast. The bridges along the coast are worth stopping
for as well. The Bixby Bridge, the Little River Bridge, and the
Big River Bridge are just a few that photographers drive for miles
just to get the chance on a nice day to get a great shot. To relax
and stretch your feet, stop in at the Henry Miller Library. You
can check your email for free, play a free game of ping pong, sit
and relax, or wander around and look at some amazing photography.
It is a really nice spot to enjoy with the family when you are ready
to get out of the car.
|
|
Big Sur California Hotels |
|
Ventana
Inn & Spa, a Joie de Vivre Hotel
- Nestled on a hillside overlooking Big Sur's dramatic Pacific
coastline, Ventana offers the ultimate in accommodations for those
seeking a romantic getaway, luxurious escape or a relaxing vacation.
Relax by one of two pools, soak in Japanese hot baths, dine at the
Ventana Bistro, re-center at Allegria Spa or just contemplate the
sky from your own private hammock. Complimentary daily yoga classes
and a sumptuous breakfast complete the Big Sur experience at Ventana.
More
information. |
|
Big
Sur Lodge is located in ancient groves of redwood and
oak trees in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Big Sur; California is famous
for its pristine natural beauty and dramatic; rugged coastline and
has been an inspiration to writers; artists; and seekers of a more
simple life. Only a few minutes stroll to the Big Sur River; with
gorgeous views of the Santa Lucia Mountains. More
information. |
|
Post
Ranch Inn A luxury 30-room,architectural tribute comprised
of Ocean,Coast, Mountain, Tree and Butterfly Houses. Environmentally
sensitive and completely in keeping with its natural, tranquil setting.
Unique accommodations include king beds, fireplaces,private decks,
massage tables, spa tubs, stereo systems-all first class amenities
with panoramic ocean or mountain views.Dramatic architecture using
a unique combination of glass, redwood,sweeping arches and sky-lights
to entice the guests More
information. |
|
|
The waterfalls are more spectacular sights to see at Big Sur. The
one at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, McWay Falls, is worth the
stop and the others are Limekiln State Park, Salmon Creek, and Ragged
Point Inn.
The restaurant at Big Sur River Inn is another great stopping place
for your drive. You can order from the restaurant, eat in a relaxing
environment, or out on the lawn, porch, or even eat on a chair in
the middle of the creek with water bathing your feet. Let the kids
play on the playground and get that pent up energy out.
If you don’t want to do the driving yourself, take a tour
of the area with various Central Coast Tours. The enthusiastic guides
will leave you with lifetime memories, a detailed history of the
region, and breathtaking views for photos.
Another popular tour is the one you do on horseback. Molera Horseback
Tours is located at the Andrew Molera State Park and takes you through
meadows blanketed by flowers, babbling creeks, dense redwood forest
groves, and out onto the beautiful beaches. It is a day trip in
itself! Big Sur will leave you wanting more and more and might be
best seen as a passenger! Make more than one trip and take turns
driving. You will not want to miss anything when you take your day
trip up the beautiful Pacific Coast Highway.
Article by Robin Canada
|
|