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Top Things to Do in Big Sur California During a Day Trip
Northern California road trip would be complete without a drive through Big Sur on the winding Pacific Coast Highway. If you are planning a trip to Big Sur and looking for the best things to do, see and eat while visiting, you are in the right place. Big Sur is known for McWay Falls, Keyhole Arch Rock, and the Bixby Bridge. You will also find 90 miles of coastline, deep blue water, redwood forest, rocky coves, purple sand, whales, sea otters, sand dollars, and jade treasures. Mountain lions, deer, foxes, coyotes, wild boars, and endangered California condors live in the area. Scan this bucket list of top things to do, see, and eat while in Big Sur to ensure you don’t miss a thing. Enjoy your time out of the office!
Read Things to Do in Monterey California
Read Things to Do in San Luis Obispo
Where is Big Sur
Big Sur is a stretch of coastline located three hours south of San Francisco between Carmel and San Simeon in Central California. You will need a car to visit Big Sur, the area is accessed via the Pacific Coast Highway. This scenic drive hugs the Pacific Ocean and winds through the St Lucia Mountains.
Best Time of Year to Visit Big Sur
September is the best time of year to visit Big Sur. Crowds thin, days are sunny and temperatures remain in the 70s through October. Expect rain and temperatures in the 40s and 50s during the winter months. Rains end in late March; mountains are green, waterfalls are full and wildflowers bloom turning the hills purple. Spring temperatures are in the 50s and low 60s. Foggy days begin in April and crowds return in May. Expect crowds and long traffic delays between June and August. Temperatures are in the mid-70s during the summer and there is fog cover until midday on most days.
Things to Do in and Around Big Sur
Hike to Salmon Creek Falls
Explore the tidepools at Partington Cove
See the purple sand of Pfeiffer Beach
Photograph McWay Falls as it flows into the ocean
Go tubing on the Big Sur River
Hike through the redwoods at Big Sur State Park
Listen to music at Big Sur River Inn
Watch the sunset at Keyhole Arch Rock
Photograph the Bixby Bridge
Go horseback riding at Andrew Molera State Park
Check out the sea otters at the California Sea Otter Game Refuge
Take a selfie with the flowers in Calle Lily Valley
Search for sand dollars on Sand Dollar Beach
Tour the Point Sur Lighthouse
Enjoy the view from Ragged Point
Hunt for jade at Jade Cove
Hike to Limekiln Falls
Soak in the hot springs at Esalen Institute
Give glamping a try at Treebones Resort
Spend a night stargazing
Enjoy lunch with a view of the deck of Nepenthe
Stop at Elephant Seal Rockery and say hello to the seals
Tour Hearst Castle
Be sure to check the Big Sur Chamber of Commerce website for upcoming festivals, special events, and what’s happening during your stay.
Tips for Visiting Big Sur
Beware, there is no phone service in this area.
Bathrooms are available at all State Parks and day-use fees are waived to use them.
Be sure to download an offline map and have cash on hand to pay park fees.
Big Sur is expensive. Fill up the gas tank, buy water, snacks, and a picnic lunch before you enter.
It is not a good idea to swim in this area. The coastline is rocky and the waves are fierce.
Pack a jacket, the air is cool next to the ocean.
Stay on designated hiking trails, search and rescue fines are high.
Big Sur is full of poison oak, be on the lookout and wash exposed areas with cool water and soap.
Pets must be leashed at all times.
One day is enough time to explore Big Sur if you start early in the day.
There are a few camping, hotel, and dining options along the drive.
Big Sur is busy during the summer months, so book reservations far in advance.
Winter is the rainy season in Big Sur and mudslides may occur. Summer is wildfire season. Check the road conditions before starting your drive.
Hwy 1 is one of California’s most dangerous roads. The road is narrow and people often stop to take photos, drive defensively.
Most of the pull-offs are on the north-to-south drive. Avoid having the sun in your eyes by driving up the coast.
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Plan Your Trip to Big Sur California
Big Sur California Travel Guide
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Big Sur Attractions and Day Tours
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Have a great vacation!