Big Sur is the place to go for those looking for an escape from their everyday routines. Tourists flock here to go on a thrilling adventure or take eye-catching photos. Experience a road trip like no other on California Highway 1. Ride along this winding road while enjoying a seemingly endless view of the Pacific Ocean. Stop by a couple of beachside attractions and go on an adventure into the hidden parts of the region. Big Sur is also a great destination for those who wish to forget about their stress for a while. Everywhere you go, you’ll be provided with an exceptional view of the horizon. With so many things to do and so many places to check out, it can get pretty overwhelming. If you don’t know where to start, scroll through this list to know more about the top 10 things to do in Big Sur, California
1. Adore contemporary masterpieces at Winfield Gallery
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Winfield Gallery on Friday, July 22, 2022
Perfect for art buffs, Winfield Gallery sheds light on works of art made by local and international artists. Established in 1989, this art center features a wide array of art forms such as sculptures, photography, and painting. Christopher Winfield, its founder, aims to give a bigger platform for private individuals and institutions who want to advocate for the arts.
Inside this gallery, you can interact with museum curators who will tell stories behind each featured artwork. Throughout the year, there are exhibitions held in this place, so drop by and see if there’s something worth buying out of these magnificent pieces.
Winfield Gallery
Address: Dolores between Ocean & 7th, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93923, United States
Website: Winfield Gallery
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm
2. Try delectable meals at Big Sur Bakery
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Dinner with Big Sur Bakery North of the slide Can’t get to us? We come to YOU. Chef Philip Wojtowicz and the Big Sur...
Posted by Big Sur Bakery on Saturday, March 25, 2017
After a jampacked trip around Big Sur, what better way to wrap up the day than by delighting yourself with some comfort food? Big Sur Bakery offers delectable American treats, pastries, and baked goods. With its compact space, this food establishment encourages reservations to be made by visitors both for brunch and dinner.
You can try its avocado toast, wood-fired sourdough, and chia seed parfait to start your day right. Meanwhile, some of the meals from its dinner menu include oysters, market greens, and ribeye. To top it all off, you can enjoy a serene view of the nature surrounding the area as you dine in this place.
Big Sur Bakery
Address: 47540 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, United States
Website: Big Sur Bakery
Opening hours: Sun - Mon: 8:30am - 3pm; Wed: 8:30 am - 3pm, 5pm-8pm; Thu - Sat: 8:30am - 3pm, 5pm-8:30pm (closed on Tue)
3. Witness the serene waters of McWay Falls
With an elevation of 200 feet (60.96 meters), McWay Falls offers a scenic waterfall view to tourists. Located in Julia Pfeiffer State Park, this notable landmark is a must-see for natural explorers. It is a perfect backdrop you may use as you take photos around Big Sur.
There are two parking lots situated near the actual waterfall. For public safety, descending to the falls is prohibited. However, you can also check out Saddle Rock and South Gardens, a camping site located atop the falls, if you want to camp out and enjoy the breathtaking view of this point of interest.
McWay Falls
Address: Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Big Sur, CA 93920, United States
Opening hours: 8am - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: Free entry
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Master the art of making macarons on a baking class at Carmel-by-the-Sea (from USD 99.0)
If you want to improve your baking skills, attend the baking class at Carmel-by-the-Sea and learn the perfect way of making delectable macarons. Arranged by Belle Kitchen, this arrangement gives you a chance to master one of the most remarkable French delights with a gourmet. To facilitate a decent learning environment, this baking class accommodates a small group consisting of up to 10 trainees per session.
The baking class is conducted at Sanctuary by the Sea, a condominium property on San Carlos Street. The master chef starts from scratch, so newbies in baking are welcome to join.
Carmel-by-the-Sea Macaron Baking Class with a Mater Chef
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
5. Watch the incredible pink-purple sunset from the Pfeiffer Beach
Travel down a narrow and twisted road and you’ll discover this coastal haven. Getting to Pfeiffer beach is definitely no easy task but it’s guaranteed to be worth it. All your troubles will be washed away as soon as you hear the crashing waves and see the glistening sand. What makes Pfeiffer beach particularly special is Keyhole Rock, a large beautiful rock formation with a natural arch. Try to arrive here before sunset and you’ll see the last rays of the sun peeking through the unique arch.
Pfeiffer Beach
Address: Sycamore Canyon Rd, Big Sur, CA 93920, United States
Website: Pfeiffer Beach
Opening hours: 9am - 8pm (daily)
Price: 12 USD parking fee
6. Drive through the world's most beautiful coastal highway, California Highway 1
Stretching up to 656 miles (1,056 kilometers), California Highway 1 is the go-to destination of road trip enthusiasts due to the stunning attractions and scenic view it offers. You’ll pass by all sorts of natural beauties, such as towering mountains and steep picturesque hills. Take a break at one of the many restaurants along the way Blast some music while you’re on the road and take a couple of photos to remember later on. However, don’t forget to always keep your eyes on the road.
7. See the historic lighthouse at Point Sur State Historic Park
Just 6 miles (10 kilometers) from Bixby Bridge is a volcanic rock that towers over the sea. On top of this giant structure is a lighthouse, which has been in constant operation ever since 1889. It was built after a series of multiple shipwrecks. It’s only open to public whenever there’s a guided tour lead by a docent who will walk you around and tell you stories of the lighthouse keepers and their families who used to reside here. Enjoy unparalleled ocean views from the top. If you’re looking for a unique tour, then visit Point Sur State Historic Park now.
Point Sur State Historic Park
Address: CA-1, Monterey, CA 93940, United States
Website: Point Sur State Historic Park
Opening hours: Closed to public except by guided tour
8. Take an Instagram-worthy photo at Bixby Bridge
Bixby Bridge is an attraction that you should never miss out on especially if you’re in Big Sur. Well, not like you can miss it anyway. This historical giant bridge connects two cliffs and overlooks the beautiful horizon. Whether you love collecting breathtaking photos or you simply want a nice shot to brag to your Instagram followers, stopping by here is a must. There’s a parking area by the north end of the bridge that gives you the perfect position to take photos. If you want to level up your Instagram game, make sure to arrive a little bit before sunset so you can catch the stunning red-orange skies.
Bixby Creek Bridge
Address: CA-1, Monterey, CA 93940, USA
9. Enjoy Ambrosia burger with a spectacular view at Nepenthe
One of the best ways to unwind is eating a hearty meal or staring at calming views. Here in Nepenthe, you can have the best of both worlds. Fill your stomach while sitting on the patio and overlooking a dazzling view of the skyline. While most people come here for the scenery, everyone ends up savoring the food as well. Their popular Ambrosia burger is their upgraded version of a steak sandwich. Take one bite and you can easily tell that it’s been crafted from the finest ingredients and cooked with the utmost care. You’ll have to visit here to see the hype for yourself.
Nepenthe
Address: 48510 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, United States
Website: Nepenthe
Opening hours: 11:30am - 10pm (daily)
10. Explore the undisturbed beach of Andrew Molera
Escape from the city for a couple of hours and reconnect with the great outdoors at Andrew Molera State Park. Wander upon miles of sand filled with rocks and debris or go surfing. There are a number of trails that you can hike on, each with different levels of length and difficulties. If you don’t feel like walking, you can tour around the park while riding a horse. Have a healing time with nature surrounded by the sand and the sea.
Andrew Molera State Park
Address: D 45500 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, United States
Website: Andrew Molera State Park
Opening hours: 8am - sunset (daily)
Price: 10 USD per car
11. Browse through books and art at Henry Miller Memorial Library
The Henry Miller Memorial Library is a cultural hotspot created in honor of the legendary American writer. Whatever the weather may be, you can come here whenever you want and settle down. Sit back, relax, and browse through the library’s large collection of books. You can also look at a couple of art pieces made by Henry Miller himself and a few local artists. Over time, this place also became a performance venue. If you’re interested, you can catch a couple of their shows. Step into a whole new world filled with art and literature.
Henry Miller Memorial Library
Address: 48603 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, United States
Website: Henry Miller Memorial Library
Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 11am - 6pm (closed on Tue)
Price: Free entry
12. Treat yourself with delicious food and amazing sea views at Sierra Mar
Feel like you’re on top of the world at this fine dining restaurant— literally. Located on a cliff, Sierra Mar offers you unparalleled views of the sea and the sky. Treat your taste buds to a curated meal made from seasonal local ingredients. Choose your favorite dishes from their menu or go for the nine-course meal. Whether you eat inside or outside, your eyes will always wander to the magnificent scenery. Sierra Mar also has a collection of high-quality wine that you can pair with your meal. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime dining experience.
Sierra Mar
Address: 47900 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, United
Website: Sierra Mar
Opening hours: 5pm - 9pm (daily)
13. Trek to the secluded cove of Partington Cove
Partington Cove is a serene rocky sanctuary found below Partington Point. Exploring this place is a guaranteed fulfilling adventure. You’ll start off by travelling on a dirt road that leads to the cove. There are two trails that you can choose from. The right trail will lead you to a small cove filled with smooth rocks, while the left trail will bring you to a long tunnel. If you want to hike even more, you can head towards the TanBark Trail. Partington Cove is also the ideal spot for scuba divers, so you should definitely go for a dip.
Partington Cove
Address: 51700 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, United States
Website: Partington Cove
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
14. Connect with nature and camp out at Ventana Campground
Sleep under the stars in this 40-acre (16 hectares) canyon. Don’t let the thought of going out of your comfort zone intimidate you and let yourself find peace outside. Set up your tent and you’re good to go. There are amenities within the area that you can use for your convenience, such as the community bath houses and an on-site coffee shop. Each campsite also comes with a picnic table and a fire ring where you can all gather around and enjoy your meal together. Relish in the beauty of nature while unwinding with your loved ones.
Ventana Campground
Address: 48123 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920, United States
Website: Ventana Campground
Opening hours: 4pm - 11am (daily)
Capture every moment
Staying in Big Sur is like living in a movie. Hop in a car with your friends and go wherever your heart desires. Watch the sunset while feeling the wind on your skin or go on a hike to discover a secret sanctuary. There are so many attractions and activities that you can explore here. But no matter where you go, the sea and the sky are always watching over you. Wherever you look, you’ll find breathtaking landscapes. So, don’t forget to capture photos that you can look back on.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to