THINGS TO DO IN CALIFORNIA

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.

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.

Highway 1 Big Sur California

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 guided central coast tour. 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 don't want to miss anything when drive the beautiful Pacific Coast Highway.

More California Day Trip Ideas:

Stinson Beach California a 30-minute drive on California's Highway 1 from the Golden Gate Bridge. A popular summer day trip.

Santa Cruz California offer the perfect setting for nearly every type of activity. Santa Cruz Boardwalk is classic California theme park.

Locke Historic District only a 45 minute drive from Sacramento. Historic building and quaint shops make this a fascinating day trip.

Sausalito waterfront community that is across the Golden Gate Bridge. Inspiration for many artists and musicians over the years.

Where to Stay In Big Sur California:

Big Sur Lodge located in ancient groves of redwood and oak trees in Pfeiffer Big Sure State Park. Only a few minutes wlak to Big Sur River

Post Ranch Inn Big Sur luxury 30-room hotel on the Big Sur Coast. A romantic hideaway with unparalleled views and world class cuisine.