Big Sur California, USA Travel Guide
This itinerary assumes you are staying in Monterey or Carmel and driving south for a day.
Begin your scenic drive south on Highway 1.
Plan a shorter Big Sur focus or a more comprehensive California coastal adventure.
This itinerary suggests staying within the Big Sur corridor (camping, lodge, or inn). Book accommodation in advance.
Continue south to Limekiln State Park to explore the historic kilns and waterfall trails.
Head north towards Point Sur Lightstation for a guided tour (book in advance for weekend tours).
Combine the 2-3 day Big Sur itinerary with a detailed Monterey Bay exploration.
Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, Old Fisherman's Wharf, seafood dinner.
Whale watching tour, Carmel art galleries, boutique shops, Carmel Beach, Mission San Carlos.
17-Mile Drive, Monarch butterfly season in Pacific Grove, coastal walks.
Tailor your itinerary to your specific passions.
Dedicate time to the Point Sur Lightstation tour and explore the lime kilns at Limekiln State Park.
Plan meals around Big Sur’s renowned dining spots.
Focus on extensive hiking in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Andrew Molera State Park, and Limekiln State Park.
Choose shorter, easier hiking trails like Creamery Meadow to Cooper Beach at Andrew Molera State Park or the accessible path to McWay Falls.
Admire the engineering and design of Bixby Bridge.
Stay at a luxury resort like Post Ranch Inn or Ventana Big Sur for their renowned spas, yoga, and meditation.
Big Sur can be expensive. These plans assist with managing costs for different budgets.
Rely exclusively on California State Park or National Forest campgrounds. Book 6 months in advance. These are economical options.
Stay at Big Sur Lodge, Fernwood Resort, or Deetjen's Big Sur Inn. Alternatively, stay in a mid-range hotel in Monterey or Carmel and take day trips.
Book a stay at the exclusive Post Ranch Inn or Ventana Big Sur, where the resort itself serves as a destination.
Big Sur is not typically a long-term stay destination for most tourists.
Big Sur offers different experiences depending on the time of year.
Warmest temperatures (often with morning fog), longest daylight hours, and generally dry conditions.
Lush green landscapes, dramatic stormy seas, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
Wildflowers blooming across the hillsides, green landscapes after winter rains, pleasant temperatures, and moderate crowds.
Big Sur offers distinct natural beauty each season.
Discover what makes each season special in Big Sur.
Be flexible with your itinerary, especially during winter. Road closures can occur unexpectedly.
Have alternative plans or be prepared to adjust your route or activities if conditions change.