20 Breathtaking Things To Do in Big Sur for Nature Lovers

Ready to be swept away by dramatic coastal views, towering redwoods, and unforgettable adventures? Big Sur is one of California’s most stunning regions, perfect for road trippers, nature lovers, and anyone craving a scenic escape. Nestled along the Central Coast, this rugged stretch draws millions each year with its cliffs, beaches, hot springs, and redwood forests.

Originally called El País Grande del Sur (The Big Country of the South) by Spanish explorers, Big Sur lives up to its name with epic landscapes and outdoor experiences. Hike through serene forests, marvel at crashing waves along CA Highway 1, or unwind in a natural hot spring. Whether you’re here for the views, the trails, or the adventure, this list of top things to do will help you make the most of your Big Sur getaway.

20 Cool Things To Do in Big Sur 

1. The 17-Mile Drive 

A popular coastal road near Pebble Beach, California, just north of Big Sur, is called the 17-Mile drive. The route is normally accessible to passing vehicles from sunrise to dusk for $11.25 per vehicle (except motorcycles). There are 17 designated stops along the 17-Mile drive that you can visit.

Embark on an electric bike tour, where you can explore on two wheels powered by electricity. The e-bike provides the advantage of extended coverage without exhausting yourself. This tour is suitable for the entire family, offering the choice to ride with your children on a tandem bike.

2. Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea might be your base of operations or a stop as you travel the coast. The village of Carmel-by-the-Sea is quite beautiful, and the buildings there are amazing. The charming downtown is surrounded by lovely flowers, distinctive brick streets, and the most attractive old buildings.

3. Carmel River State Beach 

The Carmel River State Beach, located south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, is a wonderful place to swim and enjoy some surfing. You have choices for exploring the water because there is a lagoon on the opposite side. When the tide is low, you can see a lot of marine life in the tidal pools and have fun exploring the dunes.

4. Point State Natural Reserve

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve in Big Sur is a special section of the coast with lots of cool nooks and aquatic life to explore. The reserve offers stunning views of the Carmel Highlands coastline and Monterey Bay in the distance and is one of the best places to hike if you want to observe unusual natural features.

5. Garrapata State Park

Garrapata State Park is among the entertaining stops along the Big Sur coast. This destination is worth your time because of the rocky shoreline and great hiking trails. You could stay here for an hour or longer if you had more time.

6. Calla Lily Valley

You can reach the famous Calla Lilies, which bloom from mid-February to mid-March, by taking a quick stroll along the Garrapata Trail. Be aware that it’s a tiny area, and the weekends may be very crowded. Do not step on or pick the flowers; be kind to others.

7. Garrapata Beach

There are access points to Garrapata State Beach at mileposts 18 and 19. Before descending the stairs, which most people do at around mile 19, you can traverse the promontory for fantastic ocean views and wander towards the southernmost part of the beach. Sand-covered Garrapata Beach has a spectacular backdrop of cliffs and rocks. 

8. Bixby Creek Bridge

The Bixby Creek Bridge, or the Big Sur Bridge, is one of the most well-known and visited locations. In California, it comes second to the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. It’s hard to fathom how this bridge, erected in 1932, even came to be.

9. Great Sur Turnout

The view from this area is fascinating since you’re practically at sea level and back down at a lower elevation. From this turnout, you can view the entire shoreline. Just two miles separate it from the Bixby Creek Bridge.

10. Big Sur River Inn 

The Big Sur River Inn was the first hotel and restaurant in the region, founded more than 80 years ago. It’s also a much-needed supply stop as you go through Big Sur.

11. Stay at the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

In or around Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, spend the night. Numerous hotel and camping choices, as well as a decent selection of restaurants, are available here. 

Even if you decide to stay elsewhere, reserve a seat for supper at Post Ranch Inn’s Sierra del Mar restaurant as a special treat. The vista is breathtaking, and the meal is outstanding.

12. Andrew Molera State Park

The magnificent Andrew Molera State Park is twenty miles south of Carmel. This park offers a lot on your Big Sur drive, ideal for hiking, surfing, bird watching, and strolling along nearly deserted beaches. You can go as far as you desire before turning around on any of the trails because they all run parallel to the water. 

Given that it is a state park, there is a $10 entrance fee.

13. Pfeiffer Beach

Popularly known as the purple sand beach, Pfeiffer Beach is one of the loveliest places to visit along the coast and one of California’s most famous beaches. This beach is enjoyable to explore thanks to its well-known keyhole bridge and purple sand.

14. Big Sur Station

Big Sur Station is one of the most significant stops on your trip along the coast! You can find all the information you need about the area at the Big Sur station. It has tons of information, souvenirs, and maps for hiking or backpacking.

15. Ragged Point 

The breathtaking coastal views are Ragged Point’s best feature. A little more than 15 mi (24 km) past Hearst Castle is the Ragged Point Overlook. 

If you need gas or snacks for your time in Big Sur, this is a wonderful place to pick them up. Beyond this point, there aren’t many other possibilities. Big Sur has exorbitant gas prices.

16. Partington Cove 

The Partington Cove hike is rated moderate because you’ll descend over 350 feet (107 meters), making the ascent challenging. Grab your water bottle and hiking shoes for this trek, and leave your flip-flops in the car. This hike is free.

17. McWay Falls

A sizable 80-ft (24 m) waterfall called McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. Since the overlook is in a state park, there is a $10 fee to hike the trek there. You’ll need cash to park and go to the falls because it’s a self-pay system.

18. Stop at Salmon Creek Falls

The Salmon Creek Falls Trail, a quick climb that ends at a stunning cascade, is a must-do if you don’t mind some wading through muck. The 120-ft (37-m) tall waterfall cascades down the cliff wall, most potent in the spring.

19, Relax at Esalen and Slates Hot Springs

Make a massage reservation at Esalen for a unique experience. The massage is divine. Take a long, relaxing bath in the mineral waters of the Esalen hot springs before or after your massage. 

The hot springs, directly above the water, provide breathtaking views while you bathe. 

20. Stop at Sand Dollar Beach

Sand Dollar Beach, Big Sur’s longest beach, is reachable via stairs. Although you might not find any sand dollars, it’s an excellent area to go beachcombing. Tide pooling is another well-liked pastime. 

Big Sur’s Sand Dollar Beach is the ideal location for surfing.

Where To Stay in Big Sur 

• Big Sur Lodge – Budget

Big Sur Lodge offers a seasonal outdoor pool, restaurant, and bar. Each unit has a private bathroom with shower, free toiletries, and a hairdryer. Point Lobos State Reserve is within 24 miles (39 km), Carmel Mission is 26 miles (42 km) away, and Pebble Beach is 30 miles (48 km) away. The nearest airport is Monterey Regional Airport, located 34 miles (55 km) from the lodge.

• Big Sur River Inn – Mid-Range 

Big Sur River Inn, located next to the Big Sur River, offers an on-site restaurant and bar. Pfeiffer Day Use Beach is just a 10-minute drive away. All Big Sur River Inn rooms feature a private entrance, free Wi-Fi, and a private bathroom with complimentary toiletries. The rooms are beautifully decorated with wood accents, white linens, and nature-inspired artwork.

• Alila Ventana Inn & Spa – High-End/Luxury 

The Alila Ventana Inn & Spa is an exclusive resort for adults, perched on a hillside with stunning views of the Pacific coast in Big Sur. The resort offers two heated pools and a Japanese hot tub. Free WiFi is available throughout. Nearby attractions include Andrew Molera State Park and Pfeiffer Beach. Guests can also enjoy hiking, whale watching, and horseback riding.

For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.

How To Enjoy Your Big Sur Trip 

• Instead of Going on the Weekend, Go During the Week.

Schedule your Big Sur Road trip for the week, especially from spring to fall. In that case, you will probably avoid sharing magnificent overlooks and hiking paths with many other people because Big Sur is one of the most popular weekend getaways between San Francisco and the Bay Area.

• Before Your Trip, Download Maps and Brochures.

Much of Big Sur has weak cell reception. Before you leave on your journey, get all the road-related maps and brochures you’ll need. Make offline copies of your Google Maps or use your vehicle’s navigation.

• Put On Layers

Even at the height of summer, it can be cold and windy along Big Sur’s bluffs and near the sea if you head to the beaches. Put on layers of clothing and a thin, warm jacket. Keep your arms and legs covered because there is a lot of poison oak along the pathways (leaves of three, let them be).

How To Stay Safe During Big Sur Trip?

Here’s a practical safety checklist for your trip to Big Sur:

• Check Weather and Road Conditions: Before you depart, verify the weather forecast and check for any road closures or warnings, especially along Highway 1.
• Prepare Your Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, with a full tank of gas, as gas stations are sparse. Include emergency supplies like a spare tire and jumper cables.
• Pack Essentials: Bring enough water, non-perishable food, a map, and a first aid kit. Cell service can be unreliable, so physical maps can be crucial.
• Stay on Designated Trails: When hiking, stick to marked trails to avoid getting lost and minimize environmental impact.
• Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from animals to avoid disturbing them and to keep yourself safe.
• Inform Someone of Your Plans: Let a friend or family member know your itinerary and expected return time.
• Dress Appropriately: Wear suitable clothing and footwear for hiking and variable weather conditions.

Additionally, consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Things To Do in Big Sur

Is Big Sur Worth Visiting?

Yes, Big Sur is certainly worth going to. The effects of development in the contemporary world have not degraded the Big Sur. It has breathtakingly gorgeous landscapes that stretch for miles. There is much to see and do along this coast, whether you drive Big Sur in a single day or take a week-long road trip from San Francisco to San Diego.

How Many Days Are Enough To Visit Big Sur?

You can easily spend a week discovering the waterfalls, unwinding on the beaches, camping in the state parks, or taking advantage of Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea nearby. Or you might visit all the highlights of Big Sur in a single day. We strongly advise spending at least 2 days at Big Sur to view the best attractions because there are many things to do.

What Is the Best Time of Year To Visit Big Sur?

There can be a lot of fog in this section of the northern California coast. Locals say that if you want to avoid the marine fog, September and October are the ideal months to visit Big Sur. However, fog or no fog, Big Sur is stunning.

Try going in autumn if you like brilliant blue skies and vibrant water. Take into account the possibility of mudslides during the wet season. There may be road closures during the fire season.

How Long Is the Drive Through Big Sur?

The Big Sur coast does not cover a large area from Carmel in the north to San Simeon in the south. It might take two hours, but pause for vistas, meals, and hikes. Take it all in slowly; it’s all lovely. You may drive to Big Sur in a single day, but many visitors choose to explore the region. 

Conclusion – Things To Do in Big Sur

Whether you’re just passing through or spending a few days along this magnificent coast, you won’t run out of things to do in the Big Sur. 

However, you might run out of time, so choose wisely from the above list of places and experiences that suit your fancy, schedule, and budget.

Capture the magic and magnificence and magic of Big Sur and enjoy the trip of your life!

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