Destination Guide to the Golden State California Day Trips

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.
Pacific Coast Highway Big Sur California 
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
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
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
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.
Big Sur Coast California
Pacific Coast Highway Big Sur
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
 
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