Big Sur is a beautiful and rugged 90-mile stretch of California’s central coast that offers breathtaking views, rich history, and plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. Located between San Francisco and Los Angeles, this region is known for its dramatic coastline, towering cliffs, and dense redwood forests.
The area was first settled by Native American tribes, including the Esselen and Rumsen, who lived in the region for thousands of years before the arrival of European settlers. The first European to explore the area was Spanish explorer Juan Cabrillo, who arrived in 1542.
Big Sur became a popular tourist destination in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when a number of luxury resorts and spas were built in the region. These included the Post Ranch Inn, which was founded in the 1990s and is now one of the most luxurious resorts in the area.
Big Sur is a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, who come to enjoy the area’s many recreational activities, such as swimming, surfing, fishing, hiking, and picnicking. The region is home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, sea otters, and whales, which can often be seen from the shore.
One of the main attractions of Big Sur is the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, which spans over 700 feet across the canyon and offers stunning views of the coast. The bridge was completed in 1932 and is a popular spot for tourists to take photographs. It was designed by engineer John B. Leonard and is considered a architectural masterpiece.
The Point Sur Lighthouse is a distinctive feature of the Big Sur coastline and is a well-known landmark in the area. It is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including rocky cliffs and dense forests, and offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding coastline. The lighthouse was built in 1889 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is a popular tourist attraction and is open to the public for guided tours.
Another popular spot in Big Sur is Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, which is home to a beautiful waterfall that cascades into the ocean. It is named after Julia Pfeiffer Burns, a pioneering woman who lived in the area in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The park also has a number of hiking trails that offer views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and photography. Another popular beach in the area is Andrew Molera State Park, which offers a secluded, peaceful setting for visitors to enjoy. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is another popular Big Sur beach, known for its picturesque views and diverse plant and animal life.
In addition to its sandy beaches, Big Sur is also home to a number of state parks and natural reserves, including Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, which features a waterfall that flows directly into the ocean, and Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, which is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including seals, sea otters, and whales.
Big Sur is also famous is its cultural significance. The area has a rich history, with indigenous cultures dating back thousands of years. It is also home to a number of artistic and literary communities and has been a source of inspiration for many writers, artists, and musicians over the years. This includes the Henry Miller Memorial Library, which is dedicated to the life and work of the famous author and Big Sur resident, and the Esalen Institute. This retreat center has been a hub of spiritual and personal growth since the 1960s.
Must do activity
- Hiking: The area is home to a number of hiking trails that offer a variety of difficulty levels and stunning views of the coast and surrounding landscapes. Some popular trails include the Ewoldsen Trail, the McWay Falls Trail, and the Pfeiffer Falls Trail.
- Beach activities: Big Sur has a number of sandy beaches that are perfect for swimming, surfing, and beachcombing.
- Camping: The region is home to several campgrounds, making it a great destination for people who enjoy outdoor adventures.
- Wine tasting: The Big Sur region is home to a number of wineries that offer tastings and tours, making it a great destination for wine enthusiasts.
The area is also home to a number of great places to eat, ranging from casual to fine dining, and featuring a variety of cuisines and atmospheres. So if you’re hungry, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.
There are a number of famous places to eat in Big Sur, including:
- Nepenthe: This iconic restaurant is located on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean and has been a popular destination for tourists and locals alike since it opened in 1949. It is known for its stunning views and delicious California-inspired cuisine.
2. Big Sur Bakery: Located in the heart of Big Sur, this bakery is known for its fresh- baked bread, pastries, and sandwiches. It is a popular destination for breakfast and lunch.
- The Sur House: This upscale restaurant is located in the Ventana Inn & Spa and is known for its fine dining and spectacular views of the coast. It offers a variety of seafood and meat dishes, as well as an extensive wine list.
- Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn: This historic inn and restaurant is located in the heart of Big Sur and is known for its rustic charm and home-cooked meals. It offers a variety of dishes, including locally sourced seafood and produce.
- The River Inn: Located along the Big Sur River, this restaurant is known for its casual atmosphere and delicious, locally-sourced cuisine. It offers a variety of dishes, including sandwiches, burgers, and salads.
Big Sur is home to a number of charming towns and villages, each with its own unique character and charm. Some popular destinations include the historic town of Monterey, the artist community of Carmel-by-the-Sea, and the picturesque village of Pacific Grove.
It is also home to a number of charming bed and breakfast inns and small hotels, making it a great destination for a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat.
Whether you’re looking to relax and unwind in a charming town or village, or explore the great outdoors, Big Sur has something to offer.
If you prefer to take in the views from the comfort of your car, the Big Sur Scenic Byway offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding mountains. Along the way, you can stop at various lookout points to snap photos and soak up the natural beauty of the area.
So why wait? Plan your trip to this breathtaking coastal destination today and experience the wild beauty of Big Sur for yourself.
