2025 Big Sur Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

#onthemove California, the Golden State, is the ultimate road trip destination, offering everything from sun-kissed beaches and rolling vineyards to towering mountains and iconic cities. Ready for an adventure? Let’s hit the road! Start in San Francisco, where the Golden Gate Bridge stands as your gateway to the journey. Grab a coffee in North Beach, snap a photo at Alamo Square’s Painted Ladies, and fuel up on clam chowder at Fisherman’s Wharf. Then, head south along the legendary Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1). Your next stop: Big Sur, a stretch of coastline so beautiful it’ll make you pull over at every turn. Drive across the dramatic Bixby Creek Bridge, hike in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, and don’t forget to check out the purple sands of Pfeiffer Beach. From there, cruise into Santa Barbara, known as the “American Riviera.” Wander the palm-lined beaches, sip wine in the Funk Zone, and explore the iconic Spanish-style architecture. Next, head inland to Yosemite National Park, a natural wonderland filled with towering granite cliffs, roaring waterfalls, and serene meadows. Take a hike to Glacier Point or gaze up at El Capitan and feel small in the best way possible. Continue south to Death Valley National Park, a surreal desert landscape of salt flats, sand dunes, and vibrant canyons. Visit Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and catch a sunset at Zabriskie Point. Wrap up your road trip in Los Angeles, the city of dreams. From the glitz of Hollywood to the beaches of Santa Monica, LA offers endless opportunities to soak up the California vibe. A road trip through California is more than just a journey—it’s a sampler of the state’s diverse beauty and culture. Bring your sunglasses, sense of wonder, and a playlist for the ride!

Big Sur, the first place in the 'Rural Landscape' section of the 50 classics recommended by National Geographic. Big Sur is not a fixed attraction, but a road about 90 miles long on Highway 1 in the United States, from Carmel to Hearst Castle, every place is worth stopping, and any casual shot is a blockbuster. Big Sur (Big Sur) is located in the middle of the California coastline, connecting Carmel Fish Saint Simon. The origin of the name Big Sur is Spanish, meaning 'Big South', but the south here refers to the southern part of the Monterey Peninsula. Half cliff, half ocean, this road that combines oddity, danger, and handsomeness, in addition to beauty, is also a test of the driver's skills. This winding road can definitely be called a charming, romantic, thrilling and exciting section in the American coastline, the magnificent Pacific Ocean, the beautiful sunset, the deep canyon, the deep forest, the rugged mountains Various natural landscapes are integrated into this section of the journey, just like a natural art gallery, and you will not feel tired of visiting 100 times. Big Sur✅Must experience ➡️Driving on the coastal highway Driving on California Highway 1 along the cliff, passing through the towering red shirt forest, stopping at the viewing platform, enjoying the beautiful scenery ➡️Feel the beautiful atmosphere of Nepenthe If you come to Big Sur and don't go to Nepenthe, the whole journey is incomplete. ➡️Hike to the secluded bay Go to the small road of Partington Cove, 3 kilometers back and forth, but 90 meters high, the vegetation on the road is rich, you can choose to go left or right halfway (the end point on the left is a small bay with few people), go to the right and pass the small bridge , There will be a tunnel (Paddington made, once walked S wine), pass through it, you can see the slag of Pa Gong Yang. 🧳Preparation before departure: Check the weather: Be sure to choose a sunny day, everything has two sides, how charming the sunny Big Sur is, how terrifying the rainy Big Sur is. Map: Download the offline map in advance, it is common to have no signal on the way. Refuel: Fill up the car before entering Big Sur, there are few gas stations in this area and the price is expensive. Driving time: It gets dark early in winter, it is recommended to play for 1 whole day, 7-8 hours in summer. Check-in point The two big bridges Rocky Creek Bridge and Bixby Creek Bridge have been built for more than 90 years. The two bridges are close in distance, similar in construction style, but the latter has a more magnificent view and is easy to produce big shots. Beach purple beach This beach is not a romantic and leisurely style, it is more like a desert in the forest, an oasis in the desert, to get here you have to cross a forest, drive a very narrow road, we come for the purple, but the naked eye But I can't see the obvious purple. After peeling off the surface yellow sand, the shallow purple will be revealed underneath, so many bloggers take pictures of the purple so obvious, it is really confusing, although I didn’t see the purple beach, but the wild and unruly temperament here also attracts me very much. Smugglers Cave A charming treasure cave, quiet with few people, very filmable.

Big Sur was derived from the Spanish words ‘el sure grande’ which means ‘the big south’. The area is lightly populated and sits at the south of the city of Monterey. There are some stunning views to be had whilst you are in this small area which makes it very popular with tourists. #summervacation#beachvacation#hikingtrails#hotelstay#urbanexplorer

#springitinerary Pfeiffer Beach in spring felt like a secret coastal gem! The famous purple sand was vivid after winter rains, and the keyhole rock formations created magical light shows at sunset. Cool breezes made exploring the beach comfy, and wildflowers dotted the bluffs above. I arrived early to claim a quiet spot and watched pelicans soar overhead. The waves were powerful, and the whole place had a raw, untamed beauty. #springitinerary tip: bring cash for the entry fee and check tide times if you want to see the best rock arch glow. Absolutely stunning!

#springitinerary McWay Falls in spring is coastal California at its dreamiest! The 80-foot waterfall tumbles directly into a turquoise cove, framed by wildflowers blooming along the cliffs. I hiked the short trail just before sunset — golden light made everything glow. The ocean breeze was cool but refreshing, and the views were simply surreal. Perfect for a quick but unforgettable #springitinerary stop along Highway 1. Pro tip: bring binoculars — I spotted whales offshore! It’s a no-swim zone but the beauty here is all about soaking in the scene. Pure magic.

#earthdayjourney Henry Miller Memorial Library – A Creative Haven in Nature 📚🌱 We explored this hidden gem tucked beneath towering redwoods, where literature, music, and nature blend seamlessly. The library operates with sustainability in mind, using solar power and locally sourced materials. It also hosts environmental talks and workshops, making it a perfect stop for those who care about the planet. I would recommend bringing a book, sipping on organic coffee, and simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings. 📍 48603 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, USA Hawthorne Gallery – Art Inspired by Nature 🎨🌿 We wandered through this breathtaking gallery featuring eco-friendly artwork crafted from reclaimed materials. The space itself is designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating natural lighting and energy-efficient architecture. I would recommend visiting at sunset—the ocean views through the glass windows create a magical atmosphere that reminds us why protecting our planet matters. 📍 48485 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, USA Treebones Resort – Off-Grid Eco-Luxury 🌎🏕️ We stayed at this extraordinary eco-resort, which runs almost entirely off the grid using solar and wind energy. From their organic farm-to-table restaurant to the stunning handwoven yurts, every aspect of Treebones supports environmental stewardship. I would recommend their human nest—a unique stay that truly reconnects you with nature while minimizing impact on the land. 📍 71895 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, USA Big Sur is more than just a scenic drive—it’s a place where sustainability and natural beauty come together 🌍✨

Hey everyone! I found a dreamy hotel in Big Sur, California, called the Ventana Big Sur, an Alila Resort, an all-inclusive, adults-only hotel. The experience was top-notch 💯 🏞️ The hotel is nestled between the mountains and the sea, shrouded in clouds and mist, like a fairyland. The scenery along the winding mountain road leading to the hotel is breathtaking. Cliffs, azure seas, and lush forests blend seamlessly, and every corner exudes natural beauty. 🛏 The room design is ingenious, with floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the outdoor beauty indoors. Lying in bed feels like sleeping in nature's embrace. The rooms are equipped with high-end amenities, from soft bedding to smart devices, every detail reflecting quality and comfort. 🍽 Dining is a highlight of the hotel, with all-inclusive service that takes your taste buds on a global journey. From succulent steaks to exquisite seafood dishes, and a variety of creative cocktails, every bite is a treat. The hotel also updates its menu based on the season and local ingredients, bringing a sense of freshness to diners. 🧘‍♀️ There are plenty of fun activities here. In the morning, join a yoga class on the mountaintop and stretch your body and mind amidst the sounds of birdsong and wind. In the afternoon, swim in the infinity pool and overlook the magnificent ocean views. In the evening, enjoy fine wine by the bonfire under the stars and chat with like-minded travelers. 💁‍♀️ The staff is warm and attentive, from the thoughtful explanations at check-in to the responsiveness to various needs during the stay, making you feel truly cared for. If you're longing for a trip away from the hustle and bustle and back to nature, Ventana Big Sur, an Alila Resort, is definitely the perfect choice!

The Pacific Coast Highway is a scenic highway that runs along the Pacific coast from Mexico to northern California. A friend recommended it as a once-in-a-lifetime must-see, and another friend happened to be going, so we quickly planned a two-day trip. A section of the highway was completely destroyed by a landslide. According to the official statement, the geological structure is still unstable, so for the safety of the workers, it will not be repaired for the time being. 😅 Therefore, it is impossible to travel the entire highway, and many attractions in Big Sur are inaccessible. We could only choose a few attractions based on our friend's travel guide. The section from San Francisco to Monterey is open, so on the first day, we traveled from Half Moon Bay to Pigeon Point View to Monterey, stopping at countless scenic spots along the highway. The road was lined with fragrant rapeseed flowers. I took a few photos. Without the sea in the background, it really felt like I was back home. The visual effect was amazing!

#weekendgetaways Perched on the cliffs of Big Sur, Post Ranch Inn offers a breathtaking retreat overlooking the Pacific Ocean. This adults-only resort is renowned for its eco-luxury design, with treehouse-inspired accommodations that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Guests can unwind in infinity pools, enjoy complimentary yoga classes, or explore scenic hiking trails. The award-winning Sierra Mar restaurant serves gourmet meals with unparalleled ocean views. With no televisions or alarm clocks, the resort fosters relaxation and reconnection with nature. Ideal for couples, Post Ranch Inn promises an unforgettable weekend escape filled with serenity, romance, and dramatic coastal beauty.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Beach is a hidden gem on California Highway 1, known for its dramatic rocks, clear waters, and tranquil atmosphere. It is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the beauty of nature. Beach Features: * Keyhole Arch: The most famous landscape of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Beach is Keyhole Arch, a huge arched rock. When the sun sets, the sunlight will pass through the arch, forming a breathtaking view. 🌅 * Purple beach: The sand on the beach contains manganese particles, which will appear light purple under the sunlight, which is very special. 💜 * Rich ecology: Surrounded by redwood forests and steep cliffs, the beach is home to many wild animals such as seals, sea otters and various species of birds. Self-driving tour information: * Transportation: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Beach is located on California Highway 1, and it is easy to drive from Monterey or San Simeon. * Parking: There is a parking lot in the park, but the parking spaces are limited, so it is recommended to arrive early. * Others: The park has picnic areas, camping sites and hiking trails, which can be used to arrange a full day trip. Tips: * The best time to visit is early morning or late evening to enjoy the most beautiful light. * Remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, and water as the beach gets very sunny. * Be careful when walking on the beach as the rocks can be slippery. Summary: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Beach is a worthwhile attraction. Its beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere will definitely make you linger. If you're planning a road trip on California Highway 1, don't miss this hidden gem! Rating: 7.6/10 #PfeifferBeach #BigSur #California #beach #beach #purplesandbeach #self-driving #roadtrip #CaliforniaHighway1 #Highway1 #nature #landscape #photography #netbeautyattractions #mustvisit #checkin #attractions #United States #USA #2024travelreview

Day 1: Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway and marvel at the breathtaking coastal views. Visit Bixby Creek Bridge for a stunning photo-op at sunset. Relax with dinner at Nepenthe, enjoying their famous Ambrosia Burger with ocean views. Day 2: Hike the trails at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, stopping to admire McWay Falls, a waterfall cascading into the ocean. Explore Pfeiffer Beach, known for its unique purple sands and Keyhole Rock. Savor a hearty dinner at Big Sur Bakery with their wood-fired pizzas. Day 3: Discover the serenity of Andrew Molera State Park, perfect for beachcombing and hiking. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, spotting wildlife and stunning landscapes. End your trip with a cozy meal at Deetjen's Big Sur Inn, known for its comforting pot roast. Must-Visit Attractions 1. Bixby Creek Bridge: Iconic coastal landmark with stunning views. 2. McWay Falls: A rare tidefall that drops directly into the ocean. 3. Pfeiffer Beach: Unique beach with purple sands and rock formations. Must-Try Food 1. Nepenthe: Must-try Ambrosia Burger with panoramic ocean views. 2. Big Sur Bakery: Famous wood-fired pizzas in a rustic setting. 3. Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn: Comforting pot roast in a cozy, historic inn. Accommodations Recommended Area for Accommodation: Stay near Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park for easy access to major attractions and the ultimate tranquil getaway. #travel #bigsur #california #usdestination #travelinfluencer #affiliate #trip.com #seascapes #trip #couplestrip #beachlife #naturalwonders #familytravel #localfood #myitinerary #statepark

Location: California Highway 1, Big Sur There has been a lot of rain this year, and Highway 1 is already green! Go before summer comes! 💡Highly recommended: Nepenthe Restaurant (Photos 11-15) The food is delicious, and the view is unbeatable! The restaurant opens at 11:30 am, so I recommend going around 11:15 am to line up and choose a seat. I recommend dining in the Back Patio area, which is quiet and has a full sea and mountain view! If you go late, you may have to wait for a parking space and a table. 💡Many friends asked about the location of the first photo, so here it is: you can search for Notleys Landing Vistapoint on Google Maps. ⛔️Note: Cafe Kevah is currently closed for the winter season. ⛔️Road closure: Check for road closures before you go, as some roads are still closed. I didn't make it to McWay Fall.

#traveldiaries Big Sur, along California’s famous Highway 1, is home to some of the most beautiful and hidden beaches in the state. McWay Falls, Pfeiffer Beach, and Garrapata Beach offer stunning coastal views, dramatic cliffs, and a serene atmosphere far from crowded tourist spots. Big Sur is perfect for road trips, scenic hikes, and peaceful picnics by the Pacific Ocean. #traveldiaries #BigSur #CaliforniaBeaches #CoastalEscapes

It is on the Big Sur coast of California, is one of the most photographed bridges in California due to its aesthetic design. It was built in 1932. The scenic qualities and the natural grandeur of the coast which result from the imposing geography, the rich vegetative compositions, and the dramatic meetings of land and sea are the area's greatest single attraction to the public. Big Sur has attained a worldwide reputation for its spectacular beauty. #road_trip #california #monterey

Big Sur, a rugged stretch of California's central coast, is a place where the majestic Santa Lucia Mountains meet the Pacific Ocean in a dramatic display of natural beauty. My journey along this iconic coastline was an unforgettable experience of sweeping vistas, serene forests, and the powerful beauty of the sea. The drive on Highway 1, with its winding turns and breathtaking overlooks, offered panoramic views that encapsulated the essence of California's wild coast. One of the most mesmerizing stops was at McWay Falls, where an 80-foot waterfall cascades directly onto a pristine beach in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. The sight of the waterfall, set against the backdrop of the Pacific's turquoise waters, was a reminder of nature's ability to inspire awe and wonder. The ancient redwood forests of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park provided a stark contrast to the coastal views, offering tranquil trails that meander through towering trees and lush undergrowth. The peacefulness of the forest, with the soft sounds of nature and the cool, damp air, was a welcome retreat from the sun-drenched coastline. For those seeking to connect with the area's rugged beauty, the hikes in Big Sur offer everything from gentle walks along the coast to challenging climbs in the mountains. The Ewoldsen Trail, a loop that climbs through redwood groves and offers views of the canyon and ocean, was a highlight, showcasing the diverse ecosystems of Big Sur. Dining in Big Sur, whether at a cliffside restaurant or a cozy café in the woods, provided opportunities to savor local cuisine with views that made each meal memorable. The region's emphasis on sustainability and local ingredients was evident in the fresh, flavorful dishes that celebrated the bounty of California. Big Sur is more than just a destination; it's an experience that engages all the senses and rejuvenates the spirit. It's a place to pause and reflect on the beauty of the natural world, to explore the wildness that defines the California coast, and to find serenity in the landscape's grandeur. #BigSurBeauty #CoastalWonders #PacificPanoramas #RedwoodRetreat #CaliforniaDreaming #falltrip#historicallandmarks#localguides#familytrip

Nestled along the picturesque coastline of California, Big Sur offers a serene retreat amidst towering redwood trees and breathtaking ocean views. My visit to this enchanting destination left me rejuvenated and filled with awe. The journey along the iconic Highway 1 to reach Big Sur is an experience in itself, with each curve revealing a new vista that will take your breath away. As you venture deeper into this tranquil paradise, you'll find an abundance of hiking trails that lead to stunning waterfalls, hidden coves, and panoramic viewpoints. One standout trail is the McWay Falls Trail, offering a picturesque view of a cascading waterfall that drops dramatically onto a pristine sandy beach. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Pfeiffer Beach is a must-visit. Its majestic sea stacks, unique purple sand, and iconic Keyhole Rock create a surreal ambiance that captivates the senses. It's the perfect spot to witness vibrant sunsets and embrace the peaceful rhythm of the ocean. If you're a fan of fine dining, the enchanting Nepenthe Restaurant should not be missed. Perched on a cliffside with panoramic ocean views, this iconic eatery offers a delectable menu accompanied by a warm and inviting atmosphere. For a truly immersive experience, consider staying at one of Big Sur's charming and rustic cabin retreats. Falling asleep under a canopy of redwoods and waking up to the sound of birdsong is a soothing balm for the soul. The Ventana Big Sur is a hidden gem, offering luxurious accommodations and stunning views, ensuring a memorable and restful stay. Remember to pack layers of clothing, as the weather in Big Sur can vary throughout the day. Also, be prepared for limited cell phone service, which can actually be a blessing, allowing you to fully disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. In summary, Big Sur offers a retreat of unmatched natural beauty, where the towering redwoods meet the endless horizon of the Pacific Ocean. It's a place where time seems to stand still, allowing you to reconnect with yourself and the world around you. Proceed with gratitude, an open heart, and an adventurous spirit, and you'll find yourself forever spellbound by the magic of Big Sur. #mytravelhacks#historicallandmarks#localguides

💜 Road trips can be said to be full of surprises, I really like this unexpected feeling. 🤍 The trip to the United States harvested a lot of beautiful scenery on Highway 1, among which the most unforgettable for me is Big Sur. 💜 We arrived at Big Sur at more than 8 o'clock in the morning, a layer of fog shrouded the sea, waited for more than an hour, slowly unveiled its veil, as if in a painting.

🇺🇸United States🇺🇸 Highway 1 A trip on Highway 1 in California, USA, is the most popular self-driving route in North America, without a doubt! Almost everyone who comes to the United States has to take a trip. Some people say: Driving on California Highway 1 is a kind of enjoyment, a kind of life attitude, a kind of baptism, a kind of fusion of people, sea, and sunshine. 🛣️Highway 1 starts from the north of San Francisco, winding southward until the south of Los Angeles, crossing the entire western coastline of California. Unlike the desolate and vast 'American Highway' in the impression, Highway 1 is sunny and sea all the way, with distinctive towns and national parks along the way, making it more than just a monotonous sea view. Californians are the most life-loving group of people in the United States. They have their own philosophy of pleasure. For them, Highway 1 is not just a highway, but their life. 🌊On one side is the vast Pacific Ocean, on the other side is the steep and towering cliff mountains, the rocks stir up pieces of white waves, which is the most classic view of Highway 1. In the early morning, the mist is lingering, as if walking in the clouds. In the evening, watching the sunset glow on the sea sprinkling on the Pacific Ocean is the most comfortable! 🚗Friends who go to California Highway 1 can drive to Big Sur and then go back, walk more than 100 kilometers, Monterey to Big Sur round trip takes more than 2 hours, but the scenery along the way to Big Sur is very beautiful, worth a detour. 🌸Wish everyone out there, pay attention to safety, have a pleasant journey

Big Sur is located along Highway 1 in California, and is known as the most beautiful viewing angle between land and ocean in the world! Big Sur is the most beautiful scenery on California's Highway 1. It is a quiet, natural, fresh, otherworldly and isolated scenic spot! It has unique coastal cliffs formed by nature's miraculous craftsmanship, and the infinitely extending sapphire blue sea! As well as the infinitely extending sapphire blue sea, this section of coastline has twists and turns and beautiful scenery, which makes people feel intoxicated!

Post ranch inn A hotel with a top-notch location on Hwy 1, located on the cliffs of Big Sur in Central California, high up on a ridge overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The rooms are cabin-style, surrounded by large trees. However, if you book a Pacific Suite, the view will be of the cliffs next to the sea, which is incredibly spectacular. This accommodation is quite private. The staff provides excellent service and there is a hot tub with a cliff view next to the sea for you to use. You can soak in the water at night and enjoy the view of millions of stars in the sky. As for the Sierra Mar restaurant, it is located in the Post Ranch Inn. It is considered a famous restaurant in this area. People who visit this area of ​​Post usually book the restaurant to sit and enjoy the beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean. The food tastes very good and is very delicious. For anyone who has a road trip on Hwy 1, try staying here or stopping by. #Bigsur #PostRanchInn #Recommended accommodation #usaloadtrip #california

#peaceandlove #beachlife Monterey

3 WAYS TO FIND COOL PLACES TO VISIT ON YOUR NEXT TRIP 🗺 A big part of all the planning when you go on a new trip is finding the best places to visit. Sometimes you see pictures of other people in cities you have already been in spots you never knew existed when you where there. Here are some ways to avoid that. Save this post for future planning. 📍Instagram: this platform is great to find new places. You can search by hashtags, geotags, or using the search engine. You can even ask the person who posted the photo for some information. 📍 Blogs: this is a great place to find more information about a location you are visiting. You can find itineraries, tips, the personal experience of someone, and much more. 📍 Pinterest: this is another tool I use a lot. It works as a search engine and you can find beautiful places here A lot of times it takes you to someone’s Instagram or blog post. Do you use these ones too? If not, which ones do you use?

Named one of the "50 places travelers must visit in their lifetime" by National Geographic, Carmel's exquisite tranquility forms a stark contrast with the vast ocean, towering cliffs, swaying trees, lush mountain slopes, rugged reefs, and swaying reeds. The strange rocks of Lingcang, like ghosts or beasts, stand tall and arch in the waves. These exclamation marks alternate and break into our sight, making us still amazed after countless twists and turns, praising and looking forward to new visual impacts.

Completed in 1932, the bridge and cliffs and the surrounding ocean background add to the beautiful ⛩️Bixby Bridge in Bix Sur, California I couldn't believe it even when I saw the spectacular view of the ocean with my own eyes 😱 📍CA-1, Bixby Creek Bridge, Monterey, CA 93940 . . . #USATravel#bigsur#bixbybridge#USA#CaliforniaTravel

Experience the serenity of a California road trip through Big Sur. Take in the stunning views of Highway 1, including Garrapata State Park and Carmel by the Sea. Hiking and exploring all the surrounding parks, you'll find your inner peace and reconnect with nature in this awe-inspiring environment. Don't wait to start your journey to this unforgettable destination.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Big Sur, California. With its breathtaking scenery and iconic landmarks like the Rocky Creek Bridge, this coastal paradise promises to leave you in awe. Discover hidden gems along Highway 1 and immerse yourself in the natural wonders that surround you. Don't miss out on this opportunity to create lifelong memories.

The enchanting allure of Big Sur beckons for a return journey. The desire to explore its captivating landscapes, hiking trails, and winding roads rekindles the traveler's heart, fostering dreams of future scenic explorations. 🚗🌄 #BigSurAdventures #ReturnToBeauty

Thank you for the great trip @dudareva_mv and for the thousands of pictures you took 😅🥂 📍Ventana Big Sur is the most expensive hotel I stayed at so far but it is so beautiful and relaxing and staff takes such good care of you 🌲