How to Get to Big Sur. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Major Airports Serving Big Sur

Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) is the closest, about 1-1.5 hours north. San Jose International Airport (SJC) is 2-2.5 hours north, a larger option. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is 2.5-3 hours north, a major international hub with wide flight options. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is 5-6 hours south, another major hub but a much longer drive.

Airlines & Routes

Airlines like Alaska, United, American, Delta, and Southwest operate from SFO, SJC, and LAX.
Flights to MRY typically connect through larger West Coast cities. No direct international flights to MRY.
Flight prices grow during peak season (summer, holidays). Flexibility finds better fares. Dollar Flight Club for deals.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

All listed airports offer standard facilities: dining, retail, currency exchange, ATMs, Wi-Fi, car rental agencies. Skyscanner aids in flight searches.

Getting to Big Sur

Car Rental: This is the most practical transfer option. A personal vehicle is needed for exploring Big Sur.
Shuttle Services: Limited, typically connect airports (SFO/SJC) to Monterey or Carmel, not Big Sur itself.
Ride-Sharing/Taxis: Available from major airports, but direct travel into Big Sur is cost prohibitive and services are scarce there.

International Arrival Choice

When booking flights, prioritize landing at SFO or SJC for international travel, then rent a car. For domestic travel, MRY is more convenient if suitable flights are found.

Driving is

Self-driving is the most practical way to experience Big Sur. The scenic beauty is best explored at your own pace, with freedom to stop at numerous pull-offs.

Highway 1 Experience

Highway 1 is a scenic, winding, two-lane road. Drive carefully, especially on blind curves. Speed limits are lower. Check road conditions always.

Self-Driving Considerations

Requirements for Renting

Driver's License: Valid from your home country.
International Driving Permit (IDP): Needed if your license is not in English.
Age: Typically 21+ to rent, under 25 may have "young driver" surcharge.
Credit Card: Major credit card for reservation and security deposit.

Road Conditions & Safety

Highway 1: Scenic, winding, two-lane road. Adhere to lower speed limits.
Road Closures: Common due to landslides, especially in winter. Check Caltrans updates always.
Limited Services: Gas stations are sparse and expensive. Fill up outside Big Sur.
Parking: Limited. Park only in designated areas. Do not block traffic.

Other Transportation Options

Train Services

Amtrak offers train services to Salinas, about an hour northeast of Monterey. From Salinas, onward travel to Big Sur needs a local bus to Monterey, then a rental car from Monterey. Not a direct route.

Long-Distance Bus

Greyhound serves Monterey. Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) Route 22 offers very limited, seasonal service into northern Big Sur. This bus route does not cover the entire coastline effectively. It is not a comprehensive solution for exploring Big Sur.

Sea/River Arrivals

No direct ferry services or dedicated cruise ports serve Big Sur itself. The rugged coastline and lack of natural harbors prevent this. Big Sur’s rivers are not navigable for transportation. Cruise ships may call at Monterey, requiring land transport to Big Sur.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

For international flights departing from the U.S., no separate exit fees or taxes are paid directly by the traveler; these are included in your ticket. Allow ample time for rental car return, including re-fueling and shuttle to the terminal. U.S. Airports have TSA security checkpoints; lines are long, especially at major hubs.

Timing Recommendations

Domestic Flights: Arrive at airport at least 2 hours prior to departure.
International Flights: Arrive at least 3 hours prior to departure.
Peak Travel: Add an extra hour during holidays and weekends.

Airport Facilities

Major airports like SFO, SJC, and LAX offer a wide range of facilities for departing travelers.

Available Services

Airline and independent lounges for comfort.
Diverse food options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants.
Retail and duty-free shopping for last-minute needs.

Practical Departure Tips

Plan your drive back to the airport from Big Sur with extra time. The winding roads of Highway 1, potential for traffic delays (especially near Monterey/Carmel or if there are unexpected road issues), and the desire for one last scenic stop mean your journey will likely take longer than anticipated.

Pre-Departure Checklist

Confirm flight status before heading to airport.
Check-in online to save time at the airport.
Have all travel documents ready for security and customs.

Final Big Sur Reminders

Ensure your vehicle is fueled up before returning it. Dispose of all trash and recyclables appropriately. Take one last look at the stunning scenery.

Sustainable Exit

Recycle what you can before leaving.
Conserve water, especially during dry seasons.
Leave no trace behind, keeping Big Sur beautiful for others.

Road Condition Warning

Always check Caltrans road conditions (Roads.dot.ca.gov) before you start your drive through Big Sur, especially during winter months.
Road closures are common and can significantly influence your itinerary.
Do not rely on old information; conditions can change quickly.

Drive carefully on winding roads and obey speed limits.
Be aware of limited cell service and use offline maps.
Parking areas can fill up quickly; plan accordingly.

How to Get to Big Sur