When it comes to a classic California road trip, Big Sur is the first to come to mind. This Big Sur California travel guide will show you where to stay, where to find good food, and scenic stops along the way.
Important Tips Before You Travel
- Big Sur has long stretches without any cell service so be sure to save your stops on google maps.
- Due to its remote location there are a lot of areas where you won’t find restrooms or trash. Please plan accordingly and be prepared to pack out your trash. (Bring trash bags just in case!)
- Gas is insanely expensive in Big Sur so I highly recommend stopping for gas in areas before heading in like Morro Bay or Monterey.
- Respect the locals and park/camp only in designated sites.
- Campgrounds tend to fill up early during high-season so it’s best to reserve them months in advance or keep an eye out for cancellations.
How Much Time Do I Need In Big Sur?
Ambitious travelers can do day trips to Big Sur but I think the experience is much better if you can spend at least a night or two. It takes a few hours to drive the whole coast and trust me when I say, you’ll want to stop a lot. Everything listed on this blog can certainly be done in a day though if you’re on a time crunch!
Where To Stay In Big Sur California
Big Sur has a place for every budget but in general, I’ve found the accommodations here to be on the more expensive side.
Camping
My favorite pick for camping would have to be Kirk Creek Campground but getting a reservation here can be tricky. It’s scenic, affordable, AND there aren’t that many sites so as you can imagine, it fills up rather quickly. We did score a good site through a cancellation so check the reservation site often and you might just get lucky!
Other Campgrounds worth checking out:
Luxury Hotels & Glamping
I have a long list of bucket-list worthy stays in Big Sur but they’re on the pricier side so they’ll just have to wait for a special occasion.
Luxury: Post Ranch Inn starting at a whopping $1,700 a night but once you see the photos, you’ll understand why. Want to check out the property without shelling out so much cash? They offer a price fix dinner at their gorgeous restaurant on property: Sierra Mar.
Glamping: You can’t go wrong with Treebones Resort or Ventana if you’re looking for some luxurious glamping in the redwoods of Big Sur.
Scenic Stops In Big Sur California
You’re going to want extra time for this one, Big Sur has SO many picturesque stops and you’ll want some additional time to pull over and take it all in.
Sand Dollar Beach
Sand Dollar Beach isn’t exactly littered with sand dollars (you might find some!) but it is the longest stretch of beach on the Big Sur coast. This beach can be reached via a short trail and a couple flights of stairs. If you’re not up for the cardio, you can enjoy some amazing views just a short paved walk from the parking lot.
Dog Friendly: Yes
Fee: $10
Camping: No
Wheelchair Accessible: Not to the beach but the viewpoint above
Pfeiffer Beach
Crowds gather here every winter to see the sunset line up perfectly through keyhole arch and if you haven’t already done so, you should add this to your California bucket list. That’s not the only reason I added this to my blog though, everything about this beach is stunning. The walk from the parking lot takes you through a tree lined path that opens up perfectly to the coastline. Visitors also come here to check out the purple sand which happens after rain storms.
Dog Friendly: Yes
Fee: $12
Camping: No
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Mcway Falls
Did you really go to Big Sur if you didn’t stop at Mcway falls? This waterfall is within Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park which requires a $10 day use fee to park. I’ve seen people stop on the side of the road since you can also view the falls from there but I personally think they look much better from the park’s viewpoint since it takes you a bit closer.
Dog Friendly: No
Fee: $10
Camping: No
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Bixby Creek Bridge
Bixby Creek Bridge was built in 1932 and it’s an excellent photo spot along the Big Sur coast. Parking is very limited so I recommend getting there early or on weekdays for the best experience.
Where To Eat In Big Sur
Big Sur Taphouse
This was hands down our favorite food we’ve had in Big Sur! They also have a big outdoor area and a great selection of local brews & wine. The portions were insane so you can definitely save a little bit of money by splitting one of these enormous hoagies. Check out their menu.
Coast Cafe Big Sur California
I didn’t actually eat here but it was one of my favorite stops along the Big Sur coast. The cafe looks a lot like a treehouse and every corner of this place was just so well thought of. Their rooftop lounge overlooks the coast and is the perfect place to enjoy a latte or wine. Don’t forget to check out their gift shop downstairs for unique local crafts.
Looking for a more adventurous California road trip? Check out my Ultimate California Road Trip blog.