HOW 2 HWY 1

Nearby Pacific Grove enchants with its Victorian architecture, butterfly sanctuary and oceanfront trails, while Big Sur delivers dramatic beauty with redwood hikes, the iconic Bixby Bridge, and coastal views among the most breathtaking in the world. Add in the grandeur of Hearst Castle and the sun-soaked vibes of the Santa Barbara and Ventura regions, and there’s so much to discover along this legendary route.

Iconic destinations along Highway 1 include:

• 🌊 Monterey
• 🦦 Pacific Grove
• ⛳ Pebble Beach and 17-Mile Drive
• 🏖️ Carmel-by-the-Sea
• 🐋 Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
• 🌲 Miles of Big Sur Coast
• 🌻 San Luis Obispo County
• ⛰️Central Coast Region

Deals & Specials Along HWY 1

Big Sur is Open & Stunning

Big Sur is open and accessible to visitors, offering natural wonders, wildlife and beautiful vistas. Discover hiking trails, campgrounds, hotels, restaurants and quaint shops using the Big Sur itineraries and travel tips below:

• Highway 1 in Northern Big Sur
• Highway 1 in Southern Big Sur
• Highway 101
• Plan Your Trip Like a Pro
• The Right Path: Responsible Travel Tips for a Better Visit
• Discover the Region: Highway 1 is All Connected

Explore Highway 1 in Northern Big Sur

Travelers can explore Northern Big Sur via Highway 1 from the Monterey Peninsula. In Northern Big Sur, you'll discover renowned hotels and resorts like Big Sur River Inn, Post Ranch Inn and the Esalen Institute, as well as restaurants like Nepenthe and attractions including Henry Miller Memorial Library and McWay Falls. More iconic spots not to miss:

• 🌉 Bixby Bridge – Iconic Highway 1 bridge with epic ocean views.
• 🌸 Garrapata State Park – Wildflowers, coastal cliffs and redwood hikes.
• 💧 Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park – Famous for McWay Falls and ocean vistas.
• 🔦 Point Sur Lightstation – Historic lighthouse with guided coastal tours.
• 🟣 Pfeiffer Beach – Purple sand and dramatic rock formations.
• 🌲 Andrew Molera State Park – Laid-back hikes, beach access and big views.

Explore Highway 1 in southern Big Sur

Southern Big Sur offers breathtaking coastal views, peaceful campgrounds and unforgettable oceanfront stays. Whether you're soaking in the serenity at Treebones Resort, exploring the shoreline at Sand Dollar Beach or unwinding at Lucia Lodge, this stretch of Highway 1 delivers the wild, rugged charm Big Sur is known for. More iconic spots not to miss:

• 🏕️ Local Campgrounds – Coastal camping beneath redwoods and stars.
• 🏖️ Sand Dollar Beach – Big Sur’s best beach for surfing and sunsets.
• 🌊 Mill Creek Day Use Area – Quiet cove with tidepools and picnic spots.
• 🌅 Willow Creek Day Use Area – Scenic stop with epic ocean views.

Plan Your Trip Like a Pro

A little planning goes a long way! By doing your research ahead of time, you’ll have a more rewarding Highway 1 and Big Sur experience, while helping to protect this iconic place. Stay informed and avoid surprises with real-time alerts and insider tools. Here are a few key tips: 

• 🚧 Check Conditions – Stay up to date on recent road closures and travel alerts on the See Monterey Travel Alerts Page.
  • For real-time updates and official resources, go to Dot.CA.Gov or follow Caltrans District 5 on Twitter (X).
  • For information on Highway 1 Conditions in Big Sur, visit BigSurCalifornia.com.
  • CHP Traffic Incident Information Page.
• 🌦️ Know the Forecast – Weather can change quickly, so be prepared for all conditions.
• 🗓️ Time Your Trip – Visit mid-week, during the off-season or during non-peak hours to avoid crowds and minimize your environmental impact.
• 🎒 Pack Smart – Bring layers, sunscreen, water and other essential outdoor items.

If you're visiting Monterey County and your plans are impacted by a road closure, use the See Monterey App or the AI Trip Planner to find alternative hotels, restaurants and activities.

The Right Path: Responsible Travel Tips for a Better Visit 

The Central Coast and its many paths offer countless ways to disconnect, recharge and immerse yourself in its natural beauty. There is nowhere else in the world quite like it…leaving its soul-changing mark on each visitor and those who call it home. As a place so extraordinary and home to diverse ecosystems, it requires careful stewardship to preserve its majesty for future generations. 

• 🚗 Drive with Care on Highway 1 – Stay focused, follow speed limits, use designated pullouts for views, park legally and fully off the road.
• 🌿 Stay on Trails & Leave No Trace – Stick to designated paths, respect closures, pack out all waste, avoid disturbing wildlife or plants and help protect Big Sur’s fragile ecosystems by not spreading invasive species.
• 🔥 Fire Safety First – Only build campfires in designated fire rings at approved campgrounds, fully extinguish them before leaving, follow local fire restrictions and never have fires or camp along Highway 1 or side roads to prevent wildfires.
• 🦌 Respect Wildlife – Observe animals from a distance, never feed them, keep pets leashed and off trails and always clean up after them to help protect Big Sur’s natural habitats.
• 🏕️ Camp Responsibly – Always stay at designated campgrounds, book in advance, and explore private options if needed. Never camp along Highway 1 or side roads to protect the land and prevent wildfires.
• 🌄 Honor Indigenous Lands – Help protect the cultural and natural legacy of Big Sur for future generations.
• 🛍 Support Local, Stay Local – Help sustain Big Sur’s unique community by choosing locally owned businesses for lodging, dining, and activities.
• 🤝 Respect One Another – Be patient, considerate, and mindful of others—fellow visitors, groups and residents alike—to preserve the special spirit of Big Sur for everyone.

Discover the Region: Highway 1 is All Connected

Highway 1 is a network of vibrant communities from Monterey to San Luis Obispo and beyond. Learn how it’s all connected.

Additional Resources