Your Guide for Big Sur, California
The West Coast Wow route travels through the heart of big Big Sur along Highway 1. Traveling along Highway 1 has always been on my bucket list, so I’m super excited for this portion of the trip! A lot of people recognize the coastline of Big Sur, but aren’t really sure what there is to do there besides, well, looking at the coast. We’ve compiled a list of the places and restaurants that are on our list in case you need ideas for yours!
Let’s start off with what we’re doing in Big Sur. There are A LOT of things that are on our list for Big Sur, so if these spark your interest too, feel free to research them a little more before you head that way– some of these locations are a little tricky to find!
Things to do:
Monterey - Coastal Town. A coastal town that is 100% worth a visit! Stop at the Historic Cannery Row, Old Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Monterey Museum of Art, stop at First Awakenings for brunch.
Carmel By the Sea - Coastal Town. One of the more popular towns that is near Big Sur is Carmel By the Sea. Make sure to grab brunch at Stationaery, and then shop and gallery hop downtown.
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Called “Mini Yosemite” - this national park is a gem along the coast that is a must-see.
Andrew Molera State Park. Another State Park on our list– you’ll notice this is a common theme!) Bluffs Trail and Creamery Meadow Trail are two hikes that we will definitely be doing.
Pfeiffer Beach. Famous for its purple beach and incredible rock formations, make sure this one is on your list! A little more tricky to find, but if you’re driving south, down Highway 1, look for Sycamore Canyon Rd, which leads you to the famous beach (about a 2 mile drive down this road).
Garrapata State Park. One of the must-do hikes of Garrapata is the Soberanes Canyon Trail. To reach this, hike to Soberanes Viewpoint and then you’ll find the Soberanes Canyon Trail.
Elephant Seal Vista Point. This just might be the best place in California to see Elephant Seals! There is an observation point where you can view them from the beach below.
Partington Cove. This cove is another place that is a little hard to find, but is worth it! Park and follow the walk along Partington Cove Trail - stay on this through the pedestrian tunnel, and then you’ll find the cove.
Bixby Creek Bridge. As seen on many, many Big Sur post cards, Bixby Creek Bridge is one of the more iconic landmarks of Big Sure. A fan favorite place to view the bride is Castle Rock Viewpoint.
Point Sur State Park and Lighthouse. You could spend all day at this park if you have the time. Located on a volcanic rock, this State Park has some spectacular sights to see.
Los Padres National Forest. Almost like a “Mini Redwoods” this National Forest is a peak into what’s to come on the trip!
McWay Falls. People drive from all over the country to see McWay Falls in person. This is one that you’ll definitely want to check out.
And while you're making your journey along the coastline of Big Sur, here are a few restaurants to check out: Nepenthe, Big Sur River Inn & Restaurant, Big Sur Bakery, and Big Sur Roadhouse.
We can’t wait to see where the road takes you along Highway 1, and are super excited to have you on our Adventure Van Rally!
