Big Sur California, USA Travel Guide
The main mobile phone carriers in the U.S. are AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. Prepaid SIM cards or ESIMs are available from these providers or discount carriers upon arrival.
Consistent internet access is not a given in Big Sur.
A U.S. Post Office in Big Sur is available for sending postcards or letters. Check operating hours, as they are limited.
While not strictly necessary in Big Sur, a few common English phrases are always helpful.
Download offline maps, emergency contacts, and any required digital documents to your phone before entering Big Sur. You cannot depend on live internet or cell service for these needs.
Big Sur’s remote location means businesses often have more limited and variable hours compared to urban centers.
Breakfast: 7-8 AM to 11 AM. Lunch: 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM. Dinner: 5 PM to 9 PM.
Shops and galleries typically operate from 10 AM to 5 PM or 6 PM.
Day-use areas usually open dawn to dusk. Visitor centers have specific hours.
No major bank branches are directly in Big Sur.
Obtain sufficient U.S. Dollars in cash from ATMs in Monterey or Carmel before driving into Big Sur.
Confirm operating hours of specific restaurants, attractions, or services before heading out. Websites or a quick phone call (if you have service) avoid disappointment.
While Big Sur is mainly a natural landscape, it has an unique cultural history and a community of residents. Respectful interaction fosters positive relationships.
A simple "hello," "hi," or "how are you?" is common. A handshake is typical for formal introductions. Eye contact is usually expected.
Most restaurants are relaxed. "Smart casual" is generally suitable for dinner at higher-end resorts.
Practice "Leave No Trace" principles always. This includes packing out all trash (even food scraps), staying on marked trails, and not disturbing wildlife or natural features. This is a practice for Big Sur's preservation.
Big Sur’s dramatic, rugged terrain and undeveloped nature present specific challenges for travelers with mobility needs. While efforts are made, many areas remain difficult to access.
Much of Big Sur's natural environment (hiking trails, beaches, viewpoints) includes uneven surfaces, steep grades, unpaved paths, and natural obstacles.
Many roadside pull-offs along Highway 1 have accessible parking and paved surfaces for enjoying views.
Due to Big Sur's remote nature, highly specialized services for visual or hearing impairments are limited.
The California State Parks website has accessibility details for individual parks.
Rental cars are the main mode of transport. Accessible vehicles are rentable from major agencies in larger cities (book in advance).
Limited public transit (Monterey-Salinas Transit Route 22) has lifts and accessible features.
Prioritize specific attractions known for accessibility. Confirm details directly with accommodations and parks.
When planning an accessible trip to Big Sur, prioritize specific attractions known for their accessibility (like McWay Falls overlook) and confirm details directly with accommodations and parks. Be prepared for general limitations due to the natural terrain.
