2024 Big Sur Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in December)

Big Sur→A wonder on the California Highway coastline

Big Sur, the first place in the 'Rural Landscape' section of the 50 classics recommended by National Geographic. Big Sur is not a fixed attraction, but a road about 90 miles long on Highway 1 in the United States, from Carmel to Hearst Castle, every place is worth stopping, and any casual shot is a blockbuster. Big Sur (Big Sur) is located in the middle of the California coastline, connecting Carmel Fish Saint Simon. The origin of the name Big Sur is Spanish, meaning 'Big South', but the south here refers to the southern part of the Monterey Peninsula. Half cliff, half ocean, this road that combines oddity, danger, and handsomeness, in addition to beauty, is also a test of the driver's skills. This winding road can definitely be called a charming, romantic, thrilling and exciting section in the American coastline, the magnificent Pacific Ocean, the beautiful sunset, the deep canyon, the deep forest, the rugged mountains Various natural landscapes are integrated into this section of the journey, just like a natural art gallery, and you will not feel tired of visiting 100 times. Big Sur✅Must experience ➡️Driving on the coastal highway Driving on California Highway 1 along the cliff, passing through the towering red shirt forest, stopping at the viewing platform, enjoying the beautiful scenery ➡️Feel the beautiful atmosphere of Nepenthe If you come to Big Sur and don't go to Nepenthe, the whole journey is incomplete. ➡️Hike to the secluded bay Go to the small road of Partington Cove, 3 kilometers back and forth, but 90 meters high, the vegetation on the road is rich, you can choose to go left or right halfway (the end point on the left is a small bay with few people), go to the right and pass the small bridge , There will be a tunnel (Paddington made, once walked S wine), pass through it, you can see the slag of Pa Gong Yang. 🧳Preparation before departure: Check the weather: Be sure to choose a sunny day, everything has two sides, how charming the sunny Big Sur is, how terrifying the rainy Big Sur is. Map: Download the offline map in advance, it is common to have no signal on the way. Refuel: Fill up the car before entering Big Sur, there are few gas stations in this area and the price is expensive. Driving time: It gets dark early in winter, it is recommended to play for 1 whole day, 7-8 hours in summer. Check-in point The two big bridges Rocky Creek Bridge and Bixby Creek Bridge have been built for more than 90 years. The two bridges are close in distance, similar in construction style, but the latter has a more magnificent view and is easy to produce big shots. Beach purple beach This beach is not a romantic and leisurely style, it is more like a desert in the forest, an oasis in the desert, to get here you have to cross a forest, drive a very narrow road, we come for the purple, but the naked eye But I can't see the obvious purple. After peeling off the surface yellow sand, the shallow purple will be revealed underneath, so many bloggers take pictures of the purple so obvious, it is really confusing, although I didn’t see the purple beach, but the wild and unruly temperament here also attracts me very much. Smugglers Cave A charming treasure cave, quiet with few people, very filmable.

Big Sur-instagrammable

Big Sur was derived from the Spanish words ‘el sure grande’ which means ‘the big south’. The area is lightly populated and sits at the south of the city of Monterey. There are some stunning views to be had whilst you are in this small area which makes it very popular with tourists. #summervacation#beachvacation#hikingtrails#hotelstay#urbanexplorer

Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur, California

#mybesthotel Perched on cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Post Ranch Inn is an architectural marvel that blends effortlessly with nature. This adults-only retreat offers luxurious accommodations, including treehouses and ocean-view suites. The eco-friendly design features reclaimed wood and solar panels, adding to its charm. The infinity pools seem to merge with the ocean, creating a surreal experience. Solo travelers can find solace in meditation sessions or guided nature walks. Sierra Mar, the on-site restaurant, serves exceptional farm-to-table cuisine paired with stunning ocean views. A stay here is both grounding and luxurious.

The Hidden Beaches of Big Sur, California

#traveldiaries Big Sur, along California’s famous Highway 1, is home to some of the most beautiful and hidden beaches in the state. McWay Falls, Pfeiffer Beach, and Garrapata Beach offer stunning coastal views, dramatic cliffs, and a serene atmosphere far from crowded tourist spots. Big Sur is perfect for road trips, scenic hikes, and peaceful picnics by the Pacific Ocean. #traveldiaries #BigSur #CaliforniaBeaches #CoastalEscapes

Bixby Creek Bridge, Big Sur, CA, US

It is on the Big Sur coast of California, is one of the most photographed bridges in California due to its aesthetic design. It was built in 1932. The scenic qualities and the natural grandeur of the coast which result from the imposing geography, the rich vegetative compositions, and the dramatic meetings of land and sea are the area's greatest single attraction to the public. Big Sur has attained a worldwide reputation for its spectacular beauty. #road_trip #california #monterey

Coastal Serenity in Big Sur

Big Sur, a rugged stretch of California's central coast, is a place where the majestic Santa Lucia Mountains meet the Pacific Ocean in a dramatic display of natural beauty. My journey along this iconic coastline was an unforgettable experience of sweeping vistas, serene forests, and the powerful beauty of the sea. The drive on Highway 1, with its winding turns and breathtaking overlooks, offered panoramic views that encapsulated the essence of California's wild coast. One of the most mesmerizing stops was at McWay Falls, where an 80-foot waterfall cascades directly onto a pristine beach in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. The sight of the waterfall, set against the backdrop of the Pacific's turquoise waters, was a reminder of nature's ability to inspire awe and wonder. The ancient redwood forests of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park provided a stark contrast to the coastal views, offering tranquil trails that meander through towering trees and lush undergrowth. The peacefulness of the forest, with the soft sounds of nature and the cool, damp air, was a welcome retreat from the sun-drenched coastline. For those seeking to connect with the area's rugged beauty, the hikes in Big Sur offer everything from gentle walks along the coast to challenging climbs in the mountains. The Ewoldsen Trail, a loop that climbs through redwood groves and offers views of the canyon and ocean, was a highlight, showcasing the diverse ecosystems of Big Sur. Dining in Big Sur, whether at a cliffside restaurant or a cozy café in the woods, provided opportunities to savor local cuisine with views that made each meal memorable. The region's emphasis on sustainability and local ingredients was evident in the fresh, flavorful dishes that celebrated the bounty of California. Big Sur is more than just a destination; it's an experience that engages all the senses and rejuvenates the spirit. It's a place to pause and reflect on the beauty of the natural world, to explore the wildness that defines the California coast, and to find serenity in the landscape's grandeur. #BigSurBeauty #CoastalWonders #PacificPanoramas #RedwoodRetreat #CaliforniaDreaming #falltrip#historicallandmarks#localguides#familytrip

A Serene Retreat in the Redwoods

Nestled along the picturesque coastline of California, Big Sur offers a serene retreat amidst towering redwood trees and breathtaking ocean views. My visit to this enchanting destination left me rejuvenated and filled with awe. The journey along the iconic Highway 1 to reach Big Sur is an experience in itself, with each curve revealing a new vista that will take your breath away. As you venture deeper into this tranquil paradise, you'll find an abundance of hiking trails that lead to stunning waterfalls, hidden coves, and panoramic viewpoints. One standout trail is the McWay Falls Trail, offering a picturesque view of a cascading waterfall that drops dramatically onto a pristine sandy beach. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Pfeiffer Beach is a must-visit. Its majestic sea stacks, unique purple sand, and iconic Keyhole Rock create a surreal ambiance that captivates the senses. It's the perfect spot to witness vibrant sunsets and embrace the peaceful rhythm of the ocean. If you're a fan of fine dining, the enchanting Nepenthe Restaurant should not be missed. Perched on a cliffside with panoramic ocean views, this iconic eatery offers a delectable menu accompanied by a warm and inviting atmosphere. For a truly immersive experience, consider staying at one of Big Sur's charming and rustic cabin retreats. Falling asleep under a canopy of redwoods and waking up to the sound of birdsong is a soothing balm for the soul. The Ventana Big Sur is a hidden gem, offering luxurious accommodations and stunning views, ensuring a memorable and restful stay. Remember to pack layers of clothing, as the weather in Big Sur can vary throughout the day. Also, be prepared for limited cell phone service, which can actually be a blessing, allowing you to fully disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. In summary, Big Sur offers a retreat of unmatched natural beauty, where the towering redwoods meet the endless horizon of the Pacific Ocean. It's a place where time seems to stand still, allowing you to reconnect with yourself and the world around you. Proceed with gratitude, an open heart, and an adventurous spirit, and you'll find yourself forever spellbound by the magic of Big Sur. #mytravelhacks#historicallandmarks#localguides

Life advice: Always take a drive on Highway 1!

💜 Road trips can be said to be full of surprises, I really like this unexpected feeling. 🤍 The trip to the United States harvested a lot of beautiful scenery on Highway 1, among which the most unforgettable for me is Big Sur. 💜 We arrived at Big Sur at more than 8 o'clock in the morning, a layer of fog shrouded the sea, waited for more than an hour, slowly unveiled its veil, as if in a painting.

Highway 1 'Love of Mountains and Seas' - One of the must-visit spots in life

🇺🇸United States🇺🇸 Highway 1 A trip on Highway 1 in California, USA, is the most popular self-driving route in North America, without a doubt! Almost everyone who comes to the United States has to take a trip. Some people say: Driving on California Highway 1 is a kind of enjoyment, a kind of life attitude, a kind of baptism, a kind of fusion of people, sea, and sunshine. 🛣️Highway 1 starts from the north of San Francisco, winding southward until the south of Los Angeles, crossing the entire western coastline of California. Unlike the desolate and vast 'American Highway' in the impression, Highway 1 is sunny and sea all the way, with distinctive towns and national parks along the way, making it more than just a monotonous sea view. Californians are the most life-loving group of people in the United States. They have their own philosophy of pleasure. For them, Highway 1 is not just a highway, but their life. 🌊On one side is the vast Pacific Ocean, on the other side is the steep and towering cliff mountains, the rocks stir up pieces of white waves, which is the most classic view of Highway 1. In the early morning, the mist is lingering, as if walking in the clouds. In the evening, watching the sunset glow on the sea sprinkling on the Pacific Ocean is the most comfortable! 🚗Friends who go to California Highway 1 can drive to Big Sur and then go back, walk more than 100 kilometers, Monterey to Big Sur round trip takes more than 2 hours, but the scenery along the way to Big Sur is very beautiful, worth a detour. 🌸Wish everyone out there, pay attention to safety, have a pleasant journey

#peaceandlove #beachlife Monterey

Discover Hidden Gems: 3 Ways to Plan Your Next Adventure

3 WAYS TO FIND COOL PLACES TO VISIT ON YOUR NEXT TRIP 🗺 A big part of all the planning when you go on a new trip is finding the best places to visit. Sometimes you see pictures of other people in cities you have already been in spots you never knew existed when you where there. Here are some ways to avoid that. Save this post for future planning. 📍Instagram: this platform is great to find new places. You can search by hashtags, geotags, or using the search engine. You can even ask the person who posted the photo for some information. 📍 Blogs: this is a great place to find more information about a location you are visiting. You can find itineraries, tips, the personal experience of someone, and much more. 📍 Pinterest: this is another tool I use a lot. It works as a search engine and you can find beautiful places here A lot of times it takes you to someone’s Instagram or blog post. Do you use these ones too? If not, which ones do you use?

Big Sur, California

Named one of the "50 places travelers must visit in their lifetime" by National Geographic, Carmel's exquisite tranquility forms a stark contrast with the vast ocean, towering cliffs, swaying trees, lush mountain slopes, rugged reefs, and swaying reeds. The strange rocks of Lingcang, like ghosts or beasts, stand tall and arch in the waves. These exclamation marks alternate and break into our sight, making us still amazed after countless twists and turns, praising and looking forward to new visual impacts.

Escape to Big Sur - A Serene Road Trip Adventure 🌿🌸⛰

Experience the serenity of a California road trip through Big Sur. Take in the stunning views of Highway 1, including Garrapata State Park and Carmel by the Sea. Hiking and exploring all the surrounding parks, you'll find your inner peace and reconnect with nature in this awe-inspiring environment. Don't wait to start your journey to this unforgettable destination.

Exploring the Beauty of Big Sur - An Annual Trip to Remember 💙

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Big Sur, California. With its breathtaking scenery and iconic landmarks like the Rocky Creek Bridge, this coastal paradise promises to leave you in awe. Discover hidden gems along Highway 1 and immerse yourself in the natural wonders that surround you. Don't miss out on this opportunity to create lifelong memories.

Big Sur Beauty: Unveiling Scenic Highway Treasures

The enchanting allure of Big Sur beckons for a return journey. The desire to explore its captivating landscapes, hiking trails, and winding roads rekindles the traveler's heart, fostering dreams of future scenic explorations. 🚗🌄 #BigSurAdventures #ReturnToBeauty

Luxury and Relaxation at Ventana Big Sur 🌲🥂

Thank you for the great trip @dudareva_mv and for the thousands of pictures you took 😅🥂 📍Ventana Big Sur is the most expensive hotel I stayed at so far but it is so beautiful and relaxing and staff takes such good care of you 🌲