10 things to do in big sur

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“Big Sur has been called the “longest and most scenic stretch of undeveloped coastline in the contiguous United States“- and it’s time to go!

The 10 must see items to add to your family’s Big Sur list!

Welcome to where Earth meets heaven at the sea, better known as Big Sur.

Big Sur found on Central California’s Pacific Coast is an amazing spectacle where land dramatically meets foggy sea. The craggy cliffs jutting into the ocean provide remarkable views that will surely take your breath away and leave you wanting more!

This remote destination takes you far away from the world you know… including your phone, because there is no cell service! And go prepared with not only maps, but food and gas because if you need to fill up (if you can even find a station) be prepared to pay over $6 per gallon. So, while Big Sur is not known for it’s budget friendly hotels, restaurants and more; it is known for it’s breathtakingly beautiful scenery and surroundings. It’s a place unlike any other.

1 McWay Falls Overlook

McWay Falls is the postcard image of Big Sur. Nestled in a large cove the 80-foot waterfall falls right onto the sand leading to crystal clear blue water. The best and worst part about this area is that visitors are not allowed on this beach. Which means it you can’t get up close and personal, but it also remains in pristine condition. While there are longer, more difficult trails available at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, like the Ewoldsen Trail, the Tan Bark Trail, the Tinhouse Fire Road, and The Partington Cove Trail, the most popular and famous trail is the McWay Falls Waterfall Overlook Trail. Or you can do what we did (because of Covid the park was filled to capacity and we could not get in) so we simply parked right off the side of Hwy 1 and looked over the falls from there.

McWay Falls is the picture perfect image of Big Sur, Ca

2 Bixby Bridge

The iconic Bixby (Canyon) Bridge framed by the cliffs and sea is one of the most photographed areas on not only Hwy 1, but maybe in all of California. Located about 18 miles south of Carmel by the Sea, this beautiful concrete arch is a must add to any itinerary that leads you to the area.

Be sure to add the Bixby Canyon Bridge to your Big Sur itinerary

3 Pfeiffer Beach

You might have heard of Big Sur’s famous purple sand, and this is the place to see it! And if you come between December and January you get the best views of the keyhole in the rock. This beautiful beach is perfect for families to get out and explore.

4 Andrew Molera State Park

The driftwood made a beautiful accessory at the beach in Andrew Molera State Park

You might see hints and traces of the popular purple sand here, but more importantly are the picturesque hiking trails, cascading falls, and one of the oldest lodges in Big Sur. Our family took the Creamery Meadow Trail and enjoyed finding the driftwood on the beach and building structures near where the river joined the ocean.

5 & 6 Limekiln State Park

The 3 large historic limekilns found in the middle of the redwoods was a spectacle to behold

5 The Limekilns

This hidden treasure was a unique site to see in the middle of a redwood forest. On this short, easy, scenic hike throughout the fairy-like forest of trees and ferns you will cross bridges and streams until you come across 4 giant lime kilns surrounded by giant redwoods. Enjoy the natural beauty and history of this area.

6 Limekiln Falls

The trail from the falls branches off from the limekilns to a stunning 100-foot waterfall! Take the Kiln Trail to see both the limekilns and falls from the same path. Easy enough that my 4 year old did it with absolutely no problems whatsoever. This State Park was definitely a highlight of our trip and one I would recommend to anyone for the best of all Big Sur has to offer: coastal views, redwood forest, waterfalls, history and so much natural beauty! (*State Parks usually charge $10 for parking)

7 Sand Dollar Beach

The hikes down the stairs to Sand Dollar Beach was beautiful and led to a perfect destination.

Growing up in Southern California I’ve been to my fair share of beaches. But both my husband and I agreed that this was one of the most remarkable and memorable beaches we’ve ever been to. The hike down to the water (which does have a lot of stairs) was not easy (must be able to do stairs) but gave amazing views of the white sandy beach we were about to enjoy, and the scenery around us as we were basking in the sun (the only day we had sun) was truly unforgettable. The cliffs that created a natural cove and the large beach area was perfect to play in the water, find many sea creatures in the rocks, see jade rocks, and simply enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

The sandy beach surrounded by the cliffs made for a wonderful beach day.

So many awesome sea creatures to find at Sand Dollar Beach in Big Sur, Ca

8 Salmon Creek Falls

One of the first stops on Hwy 1 brought us to one of my favorite spots in Big Sur, CA. The hike to Salmon Creek waterfall is about a quarter of a mile up and heavily trafficked. But can you blame people for flocking here? For such an easy hike, and such an astounding ending, there is a reason people want to be there! The pool at the end looks like something you might see in Hawaii. And though it was cold, a quick jump in the crystal clear water leaves you feeling refreshed (and maybe a little frostbitten). And if you are feeling a little on the adventurous side, make sure to walk up behind the falls for a killer photo op.

9 Nepenthe Restaurant

Okay, confession. We did not eat here. But I was dying to! I can’t tell you how many times I read about this place and how many people recommended this restaurant to us. I will try it next time. And I am going to share this information here, simply so you know what I know.

10 Camp

Camping at Big Sur is an amazing alternative to staying in a hotel

There are many places to camp in Big Sur. We chose to dry camp (in a tent) at Kirkcreek Campground. It was absolutely gorgeous. We woke to the sound of waves each morning and the ocean laying at our feet. It was one of the prettiest places I have ever camped. It’s best if you have a camper because there is no water at all on site, so all food and water must be brought in with you. There are also vault toilets on site, firepits, and a great walking trail down to the beautiful rocky beach. Each and every site provides amazing ocean views. Things to note: poison oak is abundant in the area, so be careful! (Hotels are much pricier in the area than camping but head up to Carmel roughly 20 miles north for affordable hotel options—Hofsas House is a fantastic option).

This is the beach found at the Kirkcreek Campground in Big Sur, Ca

The Kirkcreek Campground is a dry campsite; meaning their is no running water. But the views are extraordinary and there are many other campgrounds and options with amenities.

This is a magical area and I am glad we finally had the opportunity to visit and explore. This is a definite must see if you are looking for the best California has to offer.

More to see in the area:

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Hearst Castle

San Simeon Sea Elephants

Monterey Bay Aquarium

17-Mile Dr

Need help planning the ultimate road trip? Check out this amazing list with over 85+ attractions to see in California!