Meet Big Sur
Meet Big Sur
WELCOME TO Big Sur, CA
Soulful. Breathtaking. Untamed.
Where the Santa Lucia Mountains tumble into the Pacific, Big Sur invites you to slow down and breathe deeply. Cruise the iconic Highway 1 past sheer cliffs and hidden coves, hike among ancient redwoods and discover tucked-away galleries or rustic retreats that feel a world apart. Here, nature’s grandeur and the community’s artistic soul combine to create an untamed path all your own.
The Bucket List Road Trip
Every mile of Highway 1 through Big Sur is a masterpiece. Breeze through cliff-hugging turns that open to Pacific panoramas, trailheads that lead to redwood giants, and pullouts where condors ride the wind overhead. Whether you’re chasing sunrise at Bixby Bridge or lingering for sunset at Pfeiffer Beach, this is a drive where the journey is as unforgettable as the destination.
Discover How 2 HWY 1EXPLORE Big Sur, CA
From Garrapata State Park in the north to Ragged Point in the south, Big Sur unfolds like a living map of California icons. Follow Highway 1 to discover trailheads, beaches and overlooks tucked between mountains and sea.
PLACES TO STAY IN Big Sur
From the cliff-side ocean view luxury of Post Ranch Inn to the storybook charm of Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn and riverside serenity at Big Sur Lodge, lodging here blends seamlessly with the landscape. Whether you're after an indulgent spa and wellness retreat at Alila Ventana Big Sur, a cozy redwoods yurt at Treebones Resort, Big Sur’s stays make the scenery part of your room.
Post Ranch Inn
Alila Ventana Big Sur
Ripplewood Resort
New Camaldoli Hermitage
Upcoming Events in Big Sur
There's always something to do in nature's playground. Push your limits across breathtaking coastal trails at the Big Sur International Marathon, or treat your taste buds to culinary indulgence at the Big Sur Food & Wine Festival. Discover handcrafted treasures and live music at local art fairs, taste the wild at the Big Sur Foragers Festival, and come play the Big Sur way.
Things to do in Big Sur
In Big Sur, every turn along Highway 1 reveals a new wonder—whether it’s the graceful span of Bixby Creek Bridge, the cascading beauty of McWay Falls, or the violet sands of Pfeiffer Beach. Wander through redwood groves, explore intimate art galleries, savor locally sourced cuisine and unwind in cliffside spas where the Pacific stretches endlessly before you.
Let AI help plan your trip with the itineraries below ✨:
Best Hikes in Big Sur
Nestled between the rugged Santa Lucia Mountains and the stunning Pacific Ocean, Big Sur offers unmatched scenic beauty best experienced through its extensive trail system. Find the best Big Sur day hikes for many levels and abilities, from easy, accessible paths to challenging backpacking routes.
Big Sur Hikes
Camping in Big Sur
Big Sur campsites range from fully equipped RV sites under the shade of redwoods to rustic hike-in tent sites with spectacular ocean views.
Big Sur Camping
Bixby Bridge
For those planning a Big Sur getaway, Bixby Creek Bridge is more than just a photo op – it's a gateway to some of the region's most iconic experiences, including coastal hiking trails, state parks and hidden beaches.
The Right Path to Bixby Bridge
McWay Falls
This rare tidefall—a waterfall that flows directly into the Pacific Ocean—plunges 80 ft from granite cliffs onto a secluded cove, creating a postcard-perfect scene that draws travelers from around the world. Located right off Highway 1, McWay Falls is a must-see stop on any Big Sur road trip.
The Right Path to McWay FallsPLACES TO EAT
IN Big Sur
Big Sur’s restaurants have rich flavors and rich scenery. Locally sourced ingredients, catch-of-the-day specials, and seasonally rotating menus are served up against iconic backdrops. Savor ocean views at Nepenthe Restaurant and Wild Coast Restaurant and Sushi Bar, explore the award-winning wine list at Sierra Mar, or dine among towering redwoods at Fernwood Tavern for a visual (and literal) feast.
Big Sur Bodega
The Sur House
Nepenthe Restaurant
Post Ranch Inn
Pick Your Path
Let AI help plan your trip with the itineraries below ✨:
Big Sur: Frequently Asked Questions
Planning your trip to Big Sur? Here are answers to the most common questions travelers ask before exploring this wild stretch of California coastline.
The best time to visit Big Sur is in the spring (April to June) for wildflowers and pleasant weather, or in the fall (September to October) for the warmest, sunniest days with fewer crowds. Summer can be foggy, and winter often brings rain and possible road closures.
Permits are generally not required for day hiking in Big Sur's state parks, but you will need to pay a park entrance fee. A free campfire permit is required for stoves or fires in the backcountry, and overnight camping trips in the Ventana Wilderness do require a permit.
You can see magnificent coastal redwoods in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, which has several easy-to-access trails winding through groves of ancient trees. Limekiln State Park also offers beautiful redwood trails located a bit further south.
Swimming at Big Sur's beaches is generally not recommended and can be extremely dangerous due to the frigid water temperatures, powerful rip currents, and strong waves. It's best to enjoy the stunning coastal scenery from the safety of the sand.
Big Sur Directory
Browse Big Sur's full listings to find lodging, restaurants, activities, and attractions that match your style—whether you're here for a weekend escape or a long, wild stay.
Big Sur Campground and Cabins
The Village Big Sur
Treebones Resort
Limekiln State Park
Need some inspo?
Looking for travel inspiration? Our blog is packed with insider tips, destination guides and local stories to help you make the most of your Monterey adventure.
-
California's First State Landmark: Visit Monterey's Historic Custom House
Learn More: California's First State Landmark: Visit Monterey's Historic Custom HouseInspired by America 250, Monterey 1000 broadens the lens to recognize histories that long predate the founding of the United States. Discover the stories behind…
-
Family-Friendly Monterey Car Week Events
Learn More: Family-Friendly Monterey Car Week EventsWhile Monterey Car Week is famous for its high-end car shows, auctions and rallies, there is also a plethora of family-friendly events that cater to car…
-
The History of Hospitality on the Monterey Peninsula
Learn More: The History of Hospitality on the Monterey PeninsulaInspired by America 250, Monterey 1000 broadens the lens to recognize histories that long predate the founding of the United States. The Monterey Peninsula’s hospitality…
Just One More Drive
After cruising Big Sur’s breathtaking stretch of Highway 1, take one more drive along Pebble Beach’s iconic 17-Mile Drive.