Big Sur Travel Guide

Explore the best of Big Sur with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the must-visit attractions, best places to stay, and things to do in Big Sur, California.


Introduction to Big Sur

Big Sur, located in Central Coast California, is a nature lover’s paradise with its rugged coastline, emerald forests, and towering mountains. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to reconnect with nature and escape the stresses of city life. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the list of places to visit in Big Sur, the best things to do, and the local culture and customs of the region. So, pack your bags and let’s explore the beauty of Big Sur!

List of Places to Visit in Big Sur

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Henry Miller Memorial Library - This artsy bookstore and cultural center was founded in honor of author Henry Miller’s time spent in Big Sur. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local arts scene.
  • Point Sur Light Station - Visit this lighthouse turned museum and learn about its history and significance in guiding ships along the coast.
  • Bixby Bridge - This iconic bridge is not just a feat of engineering but is also popular for movies and advertisements. It’s a scenic location for photo opportunities.

Natural Attractions of Big Sur: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park - This park offers diverse ecosystems with more than 80 miles of hiking trails, waterfalls, and beautiful views of the Santa Lucia Mountains and Pacific Ocean.
  • Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park - A short drive from Big Sur you’ll find this park with a 80-foot waterfall that flows into the Pacific. It also offers access to several hiking and camping options.
  • Elephant Seal Rookery - The Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal rookery is a fascinating site famous for its thousands of elephant seals. It’s an ideal location to encounter Californian marine life.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Big Sur

  • Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Trails - The park has several trails ranging from easy to strenuous that take you through a diverse range of ecosystems. The trails offer opportunities to see wildlife, waterfalls, and views of the coastline.
  • Andrew Molera State Park - This park offers several trails for both hiking and biking, and it’s a great place to watch humpback whales during their migration season.

Best Things to Do in Big Sur: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking in Big Sur - Paddle through the clear waters of the Pacific Ocean with guided tours that will take you along the coast and into hidden caves and coves.
  • Whale Watching - Take a guided boat tour to see marine life up close, including whales, sea lions, otters, and dolphins, making memories of a lifetime with your loved ones.
  • Horseback Riding - Ride through Big Sur’s trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the region on horseback.

Week-Long Itinerary for Big Sur

Day Activity
1 Henry Miller Library, Bixby Bridge
2 Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, McWay Falls
3 Andrew Molera State Park, Whale Watching
4 Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Hiking
5 Elephant Seal Rookery, Hearst Castle
6 Kayaking, Wine Tasting
7 Horseback Riding, Sunset on the Beach

Food and Drink Scene of Big Sur

Must-Try Dishes

Big Sur’s cuisine is a unique culinary combination of California’s agricultural legacy and seafood traditions. Don’t miss out on trying these local delicacies:

  • Artichokes - Freshly harvested artichokes are a must-try when in Big Sur.
  • Seafood - Enjoy platters filled with fresh seafood such as oysters, crab, and local fish.
  • Organic Produce - Big Sur is famous for its organic produce, so be sure to try farm-to-table dishes during your visit.

Local Beverages

  • Chardonnay - Big Sur is home to several wineries where you can enjoy a glass of Chardonnay, the region’s specialty.
  • Craft Beers - Enjoy locally brewed craft beers from the many breweries in the region.

Where to Stay in Big Sur: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Big Sur offers accommodations that will cater to all levels of luxury and budget. Here are some options where you can stay:

  • Ventana Big Sur - A luxury hotel offering stunning views and luxurious amenities, including a spa and acclaimed dining.
  • Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campground - Connect with nature and enjoy primitive, walk-in tent sites.
  • Glen Oaks Big Sur - Stay in a rustic cabin surrounded by towering Redwoods.

What to Buy in Big Sur: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Big Sur has many unique shops and stores. Here are some of our top picks to take home souvenirs and gifts:

  • Big Sur Lodge Gift Shop - Pick up locally made products like jewelry, paintings, and prints to bring home.
  • Hermitage Gift Shop - A great place to buy unique handicrafts, books, and locally made gift items.

Local Culture and Customs of Big Sur

Big Sur is famous for its laid-back and relaxed atmosphere. Respect for nature and the environment is ingrained in the local culture, and visitors are expected to follow the same values.

Best Time to Visit Big Sur

Big Sur can be visited all year round, but the best time to visit is from September to November. During this time, the weather is pleasant, the crowds are thinner, and prices are cheaper.

Do’s and Don’ts of Big Sur

Do:

  • Do respect the local culture, customs, and environment.
  • Do carry reusable water bottles and bags to reduce plastic waste.
  • Do dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or harm the environment.
  • Don’t smoke in public areas or on the beach.
  • Don’t forget to make reservations for popular restaurants or activities in advance.

Safety and Health

Safety in Big Sur

Although Big Sur is generally a safe place to visit, it’s always a good idea to take some precautions for safety:

  • Be careful while hiking or swimming in the ocean.
  • Keep your valuables safe.

Health in Big Sur

Big Sur has limited medical facilities, so take precautions to stay healthy:

  • Stay hydrated and protect your skin from the sun.
  • Check for tick bites after hiking or camping.

Getting to Big Sur: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Big Sur

The nearest airports are:

  • Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) - 37 miles from Big Sur
  • San Jose International Airport (SJC) - 93 miles from Big Sur
  • San Francisco International Airport (SFO) - 143 miles from Big Sur.

Bus Stations Near Big Sur

  • Monterey Greyhound Station - 31 miles from Big Sur
  • Salinas Amtrak Station - 44 miles from Big Sur

Other Options

Car rental is the best option to explore Big Sur independently.

How to Get Around in Big Sur

Driving is the best way to explore Big Sur. Limited bus service and shuttle buses operate within the Monterey Peninsula and Big Sur, but a personal vehicle is recommended.

Where to Go Next from Big Sur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Big Sur is located on California’s Central Coast, offering plenty of nearby destinations to extend your trip:

  • Carmel-by-the-Sea - This picturesque town is famous for its quaint architecture and beaches and is just a 25-minute drive from Big Sur.
  • Santa Cruz - Known for its surfing, boardwalk, and vibrant local culture, Santa Cruz is a great day trip from Big Sur.
  • San Simeon - This charming town is home to the famous Hearst Castle.

Conclusion

Big Sur is a paradise for nature lovers and anyone looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your trip to Big Sur, including must-visit attractions, local culture, and customs, and tips for staying safe and healthy. So, pack your bags, and enjoy your adventure in Big Sur, California!

Big Sur coastline with glimpse of Bixby Bridge, Highway 1 Big Sur coastline with glimpse of Bixby Bridge, Highway 1 Redwoods in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Redwoods in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Pfeiffer Beach keyhole formation at sunset Pfeiffer Beach keyhole formation at sunset McWay Falls and McWay Cove McWay Falls and McWay Cove Point Sur and Lighthouse Point Sur and Lighthouse Bixby Creek bridge Bixby Creek bridge