Top 30 Things to Do in Big Sur, California

Top 30 Things to Do in Big Sur, California - What to Do in Big Sur

Here is a list of top 30 things to do in Big Sur, California - What to Do in Big Sur. These list of the best things to do in Big Sur will be a magical event during your visit. Big Sur, California, and the Monterey region are wonderful places. The countryside is stunning and the landscape is dramatic at this moment. Rock formations and coastline views are magic. Our post starts out at Monterey, but then moves up the Pacific Coast Highway into Big Sur. Sharing our Top 30 Things to Do in Big Sur. Always check the state parks website to know whether or not a partial closure has occurred. The Fire and Rock Slides will close things down here.

The California coast spans almost 300 miles and Big Sur covers 90 miles. Big Sur is situated on one of the most picturesque road systems in the United States and boasts stunning cliff-top landscapes with hidden waterfalls tumble through redwood-covered mountains and a famous bridge in all of the world. Highway 1, particularly, is an engineering feat that clings onto the Santa Lucia mountain range and presents an Instagramworthy picture after another! Big Sur is home to several state-owned parks.

I suggest spending a full day in Big Sur in California to explore nature. The oceans dominate the drive down the road with crashing seas and breathtaking views. The campground is in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, hiking in Point Lobos, shopping and excursions. Big Sur has a lot of fun things to see, especially April to Oct when it's a nice time to come. However, in these article i discuss 30 things to do in Big Sur, California. So, continue reading and discover these prettiest the best things to do in Big Sur in 2023!

01. Admire Point Sur Lighthouse

Point Sur Lighthouse has guided ships since the 1800s making it a crucial part of Big Sur's heritage. It is advisable for visitors to experience LightHall with guided tours that take in the fog signal and lens display area. Interestingly enough, this lighthouse itself was built over an ancient volcanic rock, so walking across this area would have been fun!

The view from top is incredible as the sea stretches out in every direction. Point Sur Lighthouse is situated near Andrew Molera National Park, so you can get back in the car and take the ride to the Andrew Molera beach when you're finished.

02. Garrapata State Park

Garrapata State Park is an amazing location on the picturesque Big Sur coast. The area features two miles of beach and hiking trails that lead to incredible views across the Pacific Ocean. Garrapatata State Park also has an impressive whale migration route.

You have to walk a steep route to Whale Peak where you can see nearly all of the rugged coastline from north to south. This is an excellent vantage point for California gray whales who travel along the coast along the way.

The fun stop along the Big Sur coast is a stop at Garrapata StatePark. It's a stop you can't miss with rocky beaches and a good hiking route that you'll want to visit. Perhaps an hour here. A highlight is Garrapatta Beach. The beach is perfect for surfing, or watching wildlife. If you want to hike, then try the Soberana Points or the Whale Peak.

This trail is only 1.8 miles and is considered easy to navigate and offers amazing views over the ocean, particularly at Whalepoint. Take a closer look at marine animals during your hiking trip!

03. Carmel Highlands Vista Point

The Big Sur drive has over 1,000 lookouts. This might be overstated. Sadly, some things have been missed. It focuses on places worth stopping. As you exit the town from Carmel-by-the-Sea into Big Sur just before you enter the town you can see this tiny pulloff.

There are only five or six vehicles available. Stop and look around. A short distance reaches Point Loma State Nature Reserve. And obviously views to the sea on clear days!

04. Bixby Creek Bridge

Bixby Creek Bridge is a stunning masterpiece on Big Sur's highways. Among the most photographed bridges in the US is the Golden Gate Bridge near San Jose, California. It can't be imagined that a bridge has ever been constructed. Concrete Arch is a world-class high bridge.

We were nervous to take the trailer out to Big Sur but the trip wasn't as bad. If your vehicle crosses the famous Bixby Bridge then it's obvious that you're coming to Big Sur. Since we had parked the truck there was no stop for a picture.

But this is why I wish we had drones on our way. It seemed as if we were on Scottish high land. Aside from that, the ocean colors are incredible. The view over the ocean was wonderful when the car came.

05. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Parks

Big Sur is the best campground area, you can park if camping at the Big Sur State Park in Pfeiffer. Get a night's sleep and watch the stars before getting ready for a spectacular view of the Big Sur River and the Santa Lucia Mountains!

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park has great wildlife viewing opportunities. Black-tailed raccoons tiptoe around the area, and a host of other birds are seen as well as turkey skunks and birds. There are miles of trails that traverse the park.

The park sits less than 0.5 miles south of Big Sur Visitors Centre/Big Sur Station. This campground is beautiful with redwood trees and redwoods. There is trail to be taken by walking to the entrance of State Parks or parking in the trailhead parking areas and then walking outside to explore.

The trail was great – he explained the Buzzards' Roost – the river was excellent – and the hike was good too! There are no national parks in Big Sur but Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park offers some great rangers' activities during the summer months. For a complete hike to Pfeiffer Big Sur, visit this site.

06. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

A must-see while driving Big Sur California

One of the unique experiences in Big Sur would be a trip to Point Lobos State Nature Reserve. This region has its own unique character with many beautiful coves and marine species and is an excellent location. You can admire magnificent views of Monterey Bay at the far end and the sea at Carmel Highland.

It's an excellent spot for hiking and seeing unique nature too. The Cypress Grove Trail runs about 0.8 miles and follows a grove of Cypress trees at only two natural locations around the globe. Look how the red algae grows.

A hiking tour in Point Lobos is ideally suited to those seeking beautiful views. You can swim in a tide pool or enjoy an afternoon stroll along the shoreline. Point Lobos offers many attractions including Cypress Grove Trail, Old Veteran Cypress and spotting sea lions and sea Otters at Sea Lion Point.

China Cove offers many photographers and it is beautiful. Visiting Point Lobos is ideal near the Padre Lands National Park for families. Parking is restricted at Point Lorenza. There are approximately 75 parking spaces available.

We've been told by many experts that Point Lobos State Park is the most beautiful state park in California. There was much to do, but the result is amazing! They're also an excellent place to watch California sea otter.

You have two options: parking outside the park or walking around the park. You may go to the park pay entrance fees and park at the trailside. It's advisable for me to do it. And otherwise you hike a long way until you reach our trailhead.

Point Lobos State Nature Reserve is amongst the most beautiful state forests. It is located in southeastern California on Highway 1. It has 4,000 acres that are bursting with natural beauty. The area offers several trails for hiking but our favourite is this small but lovely path towards China Cove.

The jade green waters of a quiet, cliff-topped bay rise against sandy beaches and rock walls. You don't have access to the beach because there's a fragile habitat, but the birds are a beautiful sight. There are many trails in Point Lobos that offer an opportunity to see the coastline in person.

07. Henry Miller Memorial Library

The Henry Miller Library is a museum of art devoted to author and artist Henry Miller. The library was the second largest collection he wrote. It's an interesting building that you can explore and enjoy!

Another fascinating visit to the park is Molera Ranch's house museum. Ranch House can be visited during weekend tours from 11:00 to 12:00 hours. It offers visitors an overview of life in Big Sur 100 years ago.

It is both a meeting place for community entertainment and a bookshelf. It is an excellent spot to see local artists work. Henry Miller was an active resident of Big Sur.

08. Partington Cove

To hike in Julia Pfeiffer Burn State Park it is possible to walk Partington Cove Trail. There are about two miles to travel. Partington Cove is a small cove located below Partington Point near Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.

The cove is low in sand and therefore, unless you want to spend a day on the sea, this is unlikely to be your place. The path is separated from the main route by 2 trails. The second takes us through the rocky beach within the cove.

The second trail leads you towards another cove. The second trail takes the user to an icy 60 foot tunnel.

09. Julia Pfeiffer. Burns State Park

Julia Pfeiffer Burns Park has the famed McWay Falls, an amazing waterfall flowing across the Pacific Ocean. A short 1.3 mile overlook path leads to a nearby waterfall. The waterfall is around 80 feet high and surrounds granite ridges and sand coves.

The beaches are not accessible by visitors. If McWay Falls is the most important attraction, you'll find a view of Highway 101 before entering the park. The view is pretty good for hiking but will be less costly than going on hikes.

10. Visit Carmel-by-the-Sea lions

These must-haves are essential when you travel to Big Sur! It is possible to get started at Carmel at sea, or make an overnight trip down the coast. It has an impressive city and amazing architecture.

The charming city centre is dotted with stunning flower and brick streets with a stunning history. Ocean Avenue has many shops and restaurants. Neither will there be any chains of restaurants here.

It all seems to be local which really helps! Carmel is also very dog-friendly with a variety of dog food at restaurants, and a very dog-friendly beach on the Monterey Peninsula - Carmel Beach.

Carmelby the Sea is a modern European town with a constant ranking among America's top 10 destinations. The charming town and beautiful white-sand shoreline make an overnight visit from Big Sur close to Los Padres National Park very enjoyable.

You may combine this easy trip with the 17-Mile Road. Make sure you go shopping in the centre to see the charming shops and try out some sweets from Cottage of Sweets. This company specializes in British chocolates.

11. Sand Dollar Beach

Sand dollar searches are often performed on sandy dollar beaches. Sand dollars are rarely found on shores but they are readily found. The crescent beaches on Big Sur have the biggest stretches of sand in the region.

Keep an eye out for migratory whales. There is an optional short walk to the Sand Dollar Beach viewpoint to enjoy the best view. Sand Dollar Beach will be open from 10 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Parking costs $10.95.

12. Ragged Point

Ragged Point is famous for its spectacular coastline views. Ragged Point overlook lies 15 km from Hearst Castle. It is located south of Big Sur. This will help you save some money for the day you visit Big Sur. There aren't many alternatives to the above mentioned. Gas prices in SF are high.

13. Point Sur State Historic Park

It hosts the Point Sur Light House. The lighthouse is the only fully operational lighthouse open to all residents of California. The tour runs all year around on weekends and is seasonal on Wednesdays. They're walking tours for 3 hours. On weekends, you can visit Point Sur Naval Station.

14. Enjoy the Highway 101 Drive

A great activity on Big Sur is enjoying an exciting drive. Highway 101 is dotted with spectacular coastline, breathtaking views, and curvy highways. Many places to take a look at this view are nearby. Take your time enjoying your surroundings.

15. Pfeiffer Falls

It's an amazing trail that takes you into Big Sur Redwood Forest. Probably the most common hike in Pfeiffer Big Sur National Park. It takes place close to the lodges. It is suitable for every skill level and a great route for picnics.

16. Carmel River State Beach

Nestled south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel River State Beach offers a perfect place to swim and enjoy the water. On both sides of the shoreline are the small coves that lead into the Pacific Ocean.

On the other side there's the lagoon which allows you to really enjoy the water! Sand dune sands are fun to explore and if it's low tide, you may see a lot of marine animals in seawater pools.

Note that the park area has little parking and the nearby park is limited, so you should hit the beach before sunset or go walking. It also offers bathrooms which feature solar panels, which is very modern and unusual for California.

17. Bird Island Trail

After that we went for Bird Island Trails. I'll say I like the trail. There you enter a cove where you can see something that is merely fictional. It's stunning water colour, soft sand and Sea Lion just sitting on a beach.

I sat in front of it all night for an hour, staring into a cave. I really hope that you will come here, but you will understand how he does it. You arrive at a small corner where a beach awaits you to walk along.

Earlier we started on a loop on Bird Island and then we went back. What are the rocks on the ocean which contain 100 birds?

18. Cyprus Grove Trail

Our first trail went through Cyprus Groves. The trip began with a nice stroll around the lovely coastline. Keep an eye on where children go on these hikes as they have many cliffs to navigate.

Its color is incredible, and the rugged coastline is unique in its design. Here we also saw Birdspoop Island. A large boulder at the bottom of the ocean dripped from birds' poop!

19. What to do in Big Sur River

Then we walked through the Big Sur River by the Pfeiffer Big Sur camp site. Our car parked in lot 2 and ran down to the river to find a nice place to hang out in the hammock and to hang out on the river. These tubes are better. It worked because there were boards for boogie. The water was cool but if you had stayed under the sun it was refreshing. Mid-Range Hotels : The Big Sur River Inn is one of the area's oldest hotels, celebrating over 80 years in the region.

20. Buzzard Roost Trail

We tried out the Buzzard Roost Trail at the Big Pfeiffer State Park - but we wouldn't recommend it. I like uphill trails when you get amazing views but these aren't as great. The trail up was warm and sheltered in the trees, however it was not worth it.

21. Photograph Bixby Creek Bridge

A great sight in Big Sur is the Bixby River Bridge. You may know the place by its nickname of Bixba Bridges or Bixby Canyon Bridges. The 1932 bridge has been deemed one of the most photographed in Los Angeles.

The bridge links two ragged cliffs with an open cliff bridge spanning an open cliff. The view is there! If you want to take your perfect picture take the stop at a roadside view point. Our recommendation is Northbound pullout, which has excellent views of both the bridge and the Rock Coast. Nevertheless, take photos carefully especially if it rains. Rocks are slippery.

22. Limekiln State Park

Walk Among the Redwoods at Limekiln State Park

Limekiln State Park hosts a high number of redwood forests on large portions of the Sur. This peaceful location allows hikers to enjoy nature and to enjoy the soothing sounds of Limekiln Creek. The park offers three canyon paths each with their own distinct landscape. You can visit four limekilns while there.

This furnace was commissioned in the '1700s for purification of lime for cement. Please do not overlook Lime Kiln Falls! The cascade spans 100 feet in Limekiln Creek. There is a campsite endpoint near it. Just follow directions and save energy by going uphill.

23. McWay Falls

See McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

The 82-ft Mc-Way Falls are a must for every Big Sur sightseeing itinerary. Its surround is surrounded by sandy coves, granite cliffs and the flowing water reaches the water. It is amazing!! It can be seen on two levels.

By hiking half an acre on a scenic trail that is simple and accessible to young people. Alternatively the famous waterfall is viewable by your car. There is a stop sign on Highway 1 with an unobstructed view of McWay Falls for your enjoyment without breaking a sweat. After enjoying the waterfalls, visit Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.

24. Andrew Molera State Park

The next stop was Andrew Molera State Park, where we heard about some trails we might try. It was actually really difficult when we got there since trailheads lie in a parking lot near a house. That's what we followed and I've been waiting for it. That's the Creamery Meadow Trail. You Should Go Your fantastic getaway to Big Sur isn't complete without exploring the wonders of Andrew Molera State Park. Andrew Molera State Park is the largest state park in Big Sur. Andrew Molera State Park is mainly undeveloped and offers a wide array of fun activities.

We went down that path to the river we crossed and had to get your shoes off or the water would get wet. I'm almost wearing short sleeves when I hike up! I read online they have installed an annual footbridge – I think they're going to have one. Then the walk was easy.

25. Pfeiffer Beach

We drove around a little to get the exact entrance to the beach. It was also mentioned that the rangers sometimes stand on the entrance door if people are not allowed in the parking lot. Talk with visitors for a brief summary of what is going on at the beach right now.

The hotel also offers shuttles to and from the museum, but this is very expensive per person. Find the best places in Pfeiffer Beach by clicking the link below. If you need to find the way here, this is where it will show.

26. Look into the Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach

Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur is hidden in view. Hidden behind cliffs near the northern end is the Keyhole Arch rock formation, which illuminates for just one day a year. You'll have to walk along a steep road to get to Keyhole Arch.

Here you will see massive rock formations with tiny holes inside that were made from centuries of waves falling on it. The Key-hole Arch is breathtaking at all times throughout the year but is particularly spectacular during winter solstice. During your trip, the sun will sink down into the core of the keyhole.

27. See Purple Sand at Pfeiffer Beach

It's an essential activity in Big Sur: Walk along the sand with sparkling purple colors! Pfeiffer Beach has a few places to visit that can be seen in America. Sand on the beach has their colors because it has a small piece of manganese garnet. The minerals are found near the mountain and are washed up on the beaches after the rain.

The sunlight hitting the surface creates the right color purple. The purple sand only exists on Pfeiffer Beach. You can find the most important spot in the south-east corner of the beach close to the water.

28. Visit Henry Miller Library

This is an unusual Big Sur attraction where the Henry Miller Library reflects on the life and works of author and artist Henry Miller. He once held a house and an apartment here which holds a second-largest collection.

The library serves as a performance venue, bookstore and gathering place for people who want more knowledge of the history.

During this time you’ll be watching live performances and sifting through the shelves for new readings. You can take 20 minutes to get to Molera Ranch House Museum on the park grounds.

29. See Elephant Seals in San Simeon

Watching the elephants seal can be a unique activity on Big Sur! It is not easy to catch these majestic creatures in Piedra blancas Elephant Seal Rookery in San Simeon. It is located south of Big Sur. It is actually part of the California Coastal National Monument, protecting that coastline.

Many thousands of ostrich seal calls this area home. The girls are also extremely friendly. You will hear them before you've seen them. Imagine thousands of huge Seals barking or bellowing simultaneously!

30. Waterfall Overlook Trail

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park – Waterfall Overlook Trail

We watched a spectacular Mcway Falls coming down from Julia Pfeiffer State park. Oh, I wish I could go under the waterfall. It was a very short walk on a bridge over a tunnel and on the shoreline. It was pretty epic.

Big Sur coasts are spectacular. Keep in mind there are usually very many people and viewing areas are fairly small - keep your patience! . It looked as though there were several more nice paths but the entire trail was blocked by erosion. Please look at the opening when you go.

Big Sur Visitor Center

It's my job to start with a quick walk to the visitor centre and get the recommendations from local experts. We've been there only briefly. I thought it would be cool to take the drive down to where the road stops but it was closed because of the flooding last winter.

Apparently the man who was there told him it's not worth it. Oh okay! Rather his suggestion is to walk and visit beaches. We went for an exploration into Big Sur.

What should you not miss in Big Sur?

Simple answers are all right. Realistically, unless you visit Pfeiffer Beach, the park is ideally located. You should also have plenty of spare time to relax at the Big Sur rivers! Bring a hammock and playboards or tubs. Here are a few suggestions for visiting Big Sur.

Guided Explore Big Sur trip

If driving to Big Sur would make sense to have an additional driver take care of you, please see the Big Sur Half Day Guided Tours. You can do a self-driving trip here - self-guided tours. You can also fly in from San Francisco on this Monterey Carmel Private Tour.