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Big Beauty in California's Big Sur

The best Big Sur has to Offer

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Created by Christopher Warren - June 3rd 2016

Exploring Big Sur is like stepping into a storybook. It sounds too good to be true, but this central California wonderland is very real. It boasts stunning ocean scenery, forests of giant redwoods, sun-soaked canyons and wildflowers galore. The surreal landscapes have even inspired authors like Ferlinghetti, Steinbeck and Kerouac. Whether you're looking to become one with nature or just relax in its beauty, Big Sur is a dream come to life.

Photo of Hearst Castle
4.5

750 Hearst Castle Rd, San Simeon, CA, US

Hearst Castle

Big Sur is located in between Los Angeles and San Francisco if you want a taste of metropolitan glamour on your retreat into nature. Hearst Castle also makes a great day trip from Big Sur- William Randolph Hearst's former-estate-turned-museum is opulent, yet eerily empty.

48510 Highway One, Big Sur, CA, US

Cafe Kevah

If you're looking for something quick and more casual but still delicious, Cafe Kevah is great.

47520 Hwy 1, Big Sur, CA, US

Big Sur Taphouse

Or, if you're looking to unwind after a long day of exploring, grab a drink and some apps at Big Sur Taphouse.

Photo of Ewoldsen Trail
4.3

Big Sur, CA, US

Ewoldsen Trail

Another great hike in Big Sur is Ewoldsen Trail, which takes you through redwood forests and canyons and offers breathtaking ocean views.

Photo of Sun Portal at Pfeiffer Beach
3.5

Some would consider Pfeiffer Beach the crown jewel of the region- it has the picture perfect McWay Falls right on the beach (even though you can't get close enough to frolic in the falls, the view from afar is much more impressive) and a borderline magic sun portal- the best time to snap a shot with that perfect golden glow is about 2 hours before sunset in December or January.

Photo of McWay Falls
4.5

Hw 1, Monterey, CA, US

McWay Falls

Pacific Coast Hwy, Big Sur, CA, US

Nepenthe Restaurant

Take advantage of California's fresh, local food and dine at some of the region's best restaurants. Nepenthe has been open since 1949, serving everyone, from tourists to hippies, fresh food and spectacular seaside views.

Photo of Point Sur Lighthouse
3.7

Highway 1 At Mile Post 54.1, Big Sur, CA, US

Point Sur Lighthouse

The Point Sur lighthouse is another spot with prime sightseeing. The lighthouse is California's only Victorian-era lighthouse that's open to the public, so you can climb to the top and soak up the ocean air and gorgeous views.

Photo of Point Lobos State Reserve
5.0

62 California 1, Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA, US

Point Lobos State Reserve

You can also explore the coves at Point Lobos— search for secluded secret beaches, spot sea lions, scuba dive, and hike amongst wildflowers.

Bixby Creek Bridge, Monterey, CA, US

Bixby Creek Bridge

As you drive through Big Sur, make a point to cross Bixby Bridge; it offers gorgeous panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding landscape- it's impossible to not feel like you're driving into a really extraordinary place.

Feeling the wanderlust? Let Roadtrippers help you plan your ultimate getaway- Big Sur is calling.