Big Sur Drive – California Central Coast Road Trip
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Escape the everyday and take a journey along one of nature’s finest masterpieces – California’s Big Sur drive! This central California road trip is a must.
Whether you are looking for a day trip, weekend getaway or an extended adventure, California’s majestic Pacific Coast Highway offers endless opportunities to explore and discover the central coast outdoors.
The iconic Highway 1 takes you along stunning coastal views of the Pacific Ocean – towering redwood groves, jaw dropping bluffs and historic lighthouses to purple sand beaches, waterfalls spilling into the ocean and impressive scenic overlooks everywhere.
While the best times to visit Big Sur is in the shoulder season, this region is no doubt one of the most beautiful places on Earth any time of the year, and one of my most favorites.
How Long is the Big Sur Drive?
California State Route 1 along the central coast is approximately 156 miles. The most famous section, known as the Big Sur Coast Highway, is about 90 miles between San Simeon and Carmel.
The length of time it will take to travel will depend on how many stops you make along the way, and if you plan on staying the night at various locations.
Which Direction Should You Drive to Big Sur?
Either direction works, but for maximum view and the easiest vantage points, it is ideal to drive north to south.
The pullouts overlooking the ocean are of course on the west side of the highway, and due to the nature of the windy roads driving south makes it easy to pull over for photos.
This is not to say you shouldn’t travel north, as I have done this plenty of times, but south is the preferred direction.
Besides, if you are driving from LA and back, you will get both sides in regardless. Best of both worlds!
Directions to Big Sur
San Francisco to Big Sur, Santa Cruz to Big Sur
For Big Sur directions, you will have 2 options when you drive from San Francisco to Big Sur. Both routes are about 150 miles, but the options along the way are different.
The coastal route takes you through Half Moon Bay, down to Santa Cruz, through Carmel, and then to Big Sur. Leave the city on 280, and merge onto Highway 1 just past Daly City. From here, remain on Highway 1.
The other way, which is more freeway and urban at the beginning, takes you through San Jose, Morgan Hill, then Carmel to Big Sur. Leave San Francisco on 101 and merge onto Highway 1 just past Castroville.
Both routes work well, are not much difference in time, but the coastal route certainly offers more scenic vantage points and experiences.
Los Angeles to Big Sur
The drive from Los Angeles to Big Sur is about 300 miles, with some great stopping points prior to the ‘Big Sur Drive’.
Directions to Big Sur from LA you will have you drive on 101 to San Luis Obispo, passing through Pismo Beach and Santa Barbara along the way.
Once in San Luis Obispo, you will turn onto Highway 1, and drive through a few smaller coastal towns – Morro Bay and Cayucos.
I lived in San Luis Obispo for a couple of years, and Cayucos is one of my favorite central coast beach towns.
The next stop is Cambria – the last town prior to San Simeon. Cambria to Big Sur is essentially the famous Highway 1 drive.
San Simeon is where I would consider to be the starting point of this iconic drive. It is here where you will most likely see elephant seals. I can’t think of a better beginning to this scenic section on California’s central coast.
Best Time to go to Big Sur
The sunniest, warmest and best time to visit Big Sur is April through October.
You will see more people, and a spike in hotel prices, during the peak months of summer. If you are able to plan a trip during the shoulder season, ideally May or late September, you may some spots all to yourself.
Keep in mind, some shops, cafés, and hotels close during the winter, so be sure to check in advance if there is a particular place you want to go.
NOTE: There have been many winter storms that have caused damage to the road, and it’s not unheard of for the highway 1 to be closed in one direction, if not both, for repair. Please check road conditions before going.
Best Big Sur Beaches
There are quite a few small beaches along the coast, and some inaccessible ones as well. Based on my experience, here are the 3 best Big Sur beaches, and ones you should add to your list:
- Pfeiffer Beach – Purple sand and iconic rock formations, but keep in mind, the strong waves make it not suitable for swimming. But it is still worth enjoying the secluded beach and exploring the tide pools.
- Sand Dollar Beach – Rocky at high tide and sandy at low tide, and the longest beach in the Big Sur area. Try and catch it at low tide for the best experience!
- Andrew Molero – this is the most reliable and popular spot for surfing, but keep in mind there are not any lifeguards on duty.
Waterfalls Near Big Sur
There are a few waterfalls in the area and 3 definitely worth visiting!
- McWay Falls – If you’ve seen any photos of waterfalls along the California coast, this is probably the one. McWay Falls is the most iconic waterfall in Big Sur, dropping 80 feet into the ocean. Keep in mind, you cannot get down to this beach, as it is illegal. But the view from highway 1, as well as the lookout trail, is certainly worth it.
- Salmon Creek Falls – this is a short, but rather rugged hike – you will need to navigate over some boulders. The 120-foot falls have a great swimming hole if you are ready for a chilly swim!
- (SOUTH) Limekiln Falls – located in Limekiln State Park, just south of Big Sur, the 100-foot falls are accessible via a short, fairly easy hike. You may have a creek crossing, depending on recent weather, but that just adds to the fun.
Best Hikes in Big Sur
Hiking in Big Sur gives you some of the best of California – rugged outdoors, mountains, trees, beaches, and views! Here are 3 of my favorite hikes along the Big Sur Drive.
- (NORTH) Garrapata Bluff – endless ocean views along this wildflowers coast scrub hike. The trail is about 2 miles and offers countless photography highlights
- (BIG SUR AREA) Andrew Molero State Park – a quieter hike, as it’s about 20 minutes to the beach. I love this area when I want to get away from some of the crowds.
- (SOUTH) Salmon Creek Trail – as mentioned in my section for favorite Big Sur waterfalls, this trail is a great hike, with an added bonus feature – a cold swimming hole! Be sure to add this one to the list.
Bixby Creek Bridge
This iconic landmark is a must-see, and one you will need to drive over, along the Big Sur drive. The arched bridge spans over Bixby Creek along the Pacific Coast Highway, and the views of the ocean are spectacular.
I prefer the view of the bridge from the shoulder, or pull-out, along the north side. Be sure to stop to take in the view, and some photos!
Point Sur Lighthouse
The Point Sur Lighthouse, first lit in 1889 and still active to this day, is certainly another landmark along the Pacific Coast Highway. You are able to visit the lighthouse via a 3-hour walking tour, and one that I highly recommend. The views are stunning, and the tour guides will fill you in on some amazing history.
Be sure to sign up in advance if you are traveling during a busy time.
Where to Stay Along Highway 1
Accommodations along Highway 1 vary in range of comfort and amenities. I certainly love to highlight camping options, but staying at a resort or hotel definitely has its perks.
Here are some camping highlights, as well as mid-range hotels, and a bonus high-end 5-star hotel to drool over.
Camping Along Highway 1
Most of my time staying overnight in this area has consisted of camping, and here are some favorites where I have camped.
- BIG SUR
- Fernwood Campground and Resort – This place has it all – tents, tent cabins, cabins, restaurant, a tavern, the river, deer, all amongst the redwoods. Highly recommend.
- Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park – Fantastic state park with the classic campground experience. Add this one to your list.
- SOUTH OF BIG SUR
- Limekiln Campground – A small gem of a campground. Sites are close to the ocean, and some tucked back in the trees for a quieter experience.
- Kirk Creek Campground – AMAZING. Open, sunny spots and right on the ocean.
- SAN SIMEON
- San Simeon Creek Campground – Great campground with some sites having a close walk to the water, and others tucked up in the hills with ocean views.
As you may have guessed, they do fill up well in advance, so check out reservations online.
Hotels Along Highway 1
If you are looking for more comfort, these hotels along the Pacific Coast Highway and the Big Sur drive will allow for a great night of rest. Be sure to check the views in the last one I have listed.
- NORTH OF BIG SUR
- Monterey Marriott – highly rated Marriott close to Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Carmel Mission Inn – all around great hotel with quick access to downtown
- Comfort Inn Carmel By The Sea – cute rooms, great location, and easy parking
- BIG SUR
- Bur Sur River Inn – Big Sur’s first hotel and still a favorite for a reason. Cute, redwoods everywhere, the Big Sur River, and more.
- Big Sur Lodge – Cozy lodge right in Pfeiffer State Park.
- SOUTH OF BIG SUR
- Cambria Pine Lodge – Highly recommended hotel that is 10 minutes from Hearst Castle
- Fireside Inn on Moonstone Beach – Beachfront hotel not to be missed
- 5-STAR RESORT
- Post Ranch Inn – this place will allow you to escape from the world and transported to pure bliss. Top dollar, but top-notch service, amenities, and design.
Restaurants on Highway 1
Many of the hotels have cafés or restaurants, and a few locations along the way stand out.
Nepenthe is one of the most popular locations on Highway 1, as the view cannot be beat. It gets busy, the service isn’t always fantastic, but the scenery is incredible.
For a more relaxed, local spot, head over to the Big Sur Taphouse. And be sure to try Big Sur Bakery for coffee and morning pastries.
Extra Tips for a Successful Trip to Big Sur
Highway 1 is rather remote, so here are a few suggestions to help make your road trip a bit more comfortable and successful:
- GAS – Fill up your gas tank prior to the Big Sur Drive – gas is expensive in Big Sur!
- SNACKS – Pack snacks, food, drinks for a more enjoyable drive
- CELL RANGE – Cell range is spotty, download whatever you may need before leaving cell range
- CLOTHING – Bring hiking shoes and a jacket. The shade and wind can get chilly.
- GEAR – Bring binoculars – you can often see sea otters below the bluffs. They are very cute!
- PREPARE – If you are camping, try and pack your cooler before you leave home – the markets in Big Sur are limited and quite expensive.
- LASTLY – if you are wanting to drive slow, please pull over to let others pass, that way you are not stressed and can enjoy your trip!
Before You Go …
If you plan on doing a loop and driving back on Highway 101, be sure to check out Pinnacle National Park, just outside of Soledad.
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