Melina & Christopher
Things To Do
Big Sur Information Guide
The official, complete and definitive travel guide to California’s Big Sur Coast, provided by Big Sur Chamber of Commerce. Find information on lodging, restaurants, hiking trails, beaches, road closures, and all other things Big Sur! Hours: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM PDT Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
Big Sur Visitor Guide
The Big Sur Visitor Guide provides useful information on driving Highway 1, mile markers, turnouts, drones, congested areas, road conditions, weather, cell phone reception, camping, hiking trails, campfires, restrooms, fuel stations, lodging, public transit, emergencies, and shopping.
River Inn Restaurant - General Store - Burrito Bar
Renew your spirit at the restaurant and full service bar at the Big Sur River Inn. Enjoy a fabulous lunch or dinner on the outdoor decks, the lawn, or along the bank of the Big Sur River. Have a seat on one of the chairs in the river and let the smooth current cool your feet. Boasting a 100-year-old tradition of locally grown fine food, friendly, efficient service and warm hospitality, and still serving the original homesteader’s version of “Hot Apple Pie!" Enjoy appetizers, salads, entrees, sandwiches, burgers, lunch, dinner and dessert. Providing a picnic-style counter service, at this time. The General Store hosts locally produced goods, a great collection of local beers and wines, and house-made prepared foods for take away. The Burrito Bar located inside the general store serves up handmade burritos and wraps, smoothies, pizzas, and breakfast sandwiches…all made to order! The Burrito Bar is a long time local favorite and has been a staple in the community for over 25 years.
The Village Shops
A wellness-driven destination along scenic Highway 1 in Big Sur, featuring an organic café + restaurant with vegetarian and vegan options, daily yoga classes, a boutique shop + gallery featuring local crafts and artists, as well as a dynamic event space.
Ripplewood Café & Grocery
Ripplewood Café serves local standard fare. You'll enjoy American and authentic Mexican food for breakfast, lunch or brunch in the dinning room or on our sunny patio. The cafe offers free WiFi access and is open from 8:00 am - 2:00 pm. The small grocery store offers a wide variety of food products, gifts, basic camping gear, and items for most general over-the-counter needs. Ripplewood Resort is also home a Chevron Gas Station and the Big Sur branch of the Monterey County Free Library, with free WiFi access. Store and gas station open from 8:00 am - 8:00 pm.
Big Sur Roadhouse
The Big Sur Roadhouse features delicious California cuisine with fresh, local ingredients. In keeping with our Big Sur ethos, the seasonal menu is filled with locally sourced organic ingredients. Also, not to be missed, San Francisco designer Steve Justrich’s “homegrown modernism” has transformed the Roadhouse into a truly unique and fitting environment for dining in Big Sur. Stop by for coffee, a glass of wine, a snack or a full meal.
Fernwood Tavern - Bar & Grill - General Store
Fernwood's tavern is a popular local watering hole built in the traditional Big Sur style with redwood timbers. Fernwood's homespun atmosphere attracts a variety of locals and tourists. Very popular on evenings when live entertainment is available - usually Saturday night beginning at 9:30 PM. Check the "Calendar of Events" page on their website (link above) to see who's playing while you're in town. The Bar & Grill serves up a variety of great dishes and pizzas to complement their quality beer and mixed drink selections. Fernwood promotes a very relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Have a seat on the couch and watch the big screen televisions. The back deck offers another comfortable setting to eat lunch or just hang out under the enormous redwood trees and relax. The General Store & Espresso Cafe is stocked with cold drinks, fresh hot coffee and espresso, camping supplies, beer, wine, and a little bit of just about anything you could think of.
Big Sur Lodge
The Homestead Restaurant and Espresso House at Big Sur Lodge are open daily. You can dine inside or out on the patio at the restaurant while enjoying delicious dishes prepared fresh daily. If you need a quick pick-me-up or need to grab a snack, the Espresso House is the perfect spot for a specialty coffee or tea, hand-dipped ice cream, a deli sandwich and other tasty snacks. The Gift Shop and General Store located inside Big Sur Lodge offers unique souvenirs, keepsakes, and apparel. There’s also a full assortment of grocery items, sundries, and camping supplies from sleeping bags to cookstoves to firewood, and everything you need to make your stay in Big Sur fun and comfortable.
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
On the western slope of the Santa Lucia Mountains, the peaks of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park tower high above the Big Sur River Gorge, where the Big Sur River enters this popular park. Walk along the banks of the river and among the redwoods, conifers, oaks, sycamores, cottonwoods, maples, alders and willows. A large campground accommodates hikers, bikers, car campers and RVers. Many campsites are located along the Big Sur River. Wildlife includes bobcats, black-tail deer, gray squirrels, raccoons, skunks, and birds, such as dippers and belted kingfishers. Hikers can enjoy many scenic trails, including a self-guided nature trail. With the exception of working service animals, dogs are not allowed on State Park trails but are allowed in the picnic or day use areas, some campgrounds and on paved roads throughout the park. Dogs must be on a leash no more than 6 feet long at all times and may not be left unattended. See website for policies.
Big Sur River Gorge
The gorge is one of the big draws at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, facilitating a romp to a popular swimming hole in the wilds of Big Sur. The trail starts between sites 111 and 112 at the northeast end of the campground. Non-campers can pay a $10 fee to park and set out up Gorge Trail from Day Use Lot 3. From the campground, a wide path leads up to the river and abruptly stops; unmaintained paths persevere. A route along the right bank goes much of the way, at one point climbing 50 feet above the water over boulders and fallen trees. Wade/boulder-hop to the path on the left bank when it feels appropriate. Keep heading upstream to reach the big pool. To continue past the big pool, swim up river and climb out onto the rocks on the other side. The water splits around massive boulders; there’s a waterfall to the right and another cascade to the left. Climb under/over logs and boulders to continue upward. Diving and cliff jumping have risks - explore safely. Sorry, no pets allowed.
Pfeiffer Beach
Pfeiffer Beach is off the beaten path, but well worth the drive. Just south of Big Sur Station on Highway 1 there is unsigned Sycamore Canyon Road which winds its way down to the shore. The two-mile long road is paved, but it is twisty and narrow so RV’s and trailers are not allowed (look for the yellow “Narrow Road” sign at the turn-off). From the parking area you have a short walk down to the beach. On the right is a steep sandy dune, and to the left is a cove partially protected by rocky Pfeiffer Point. You can't miss the massive rocks in the crashing surf. One rock has an arch in it known as the Keyhole Arch. This amazing natural arch allows waves and the last rays of daylight to pass through. This spot is strikingly beautiful at sunset and is frequently photographed. The north end of the beach is special, too. You can find purple sand that comes from manganese garnet rocks in the cliffs, and tide pools at the north end during low tide. Dogs are permitted on a six foot leash.
Big Sur Deli & General Store
Located at the center of Big Sur next to the United States Post Office. A family owned and operated full service deli, serving the local community with good food at affordable prices for over 25 years. Featuring made to order and specialty sandwiches, burritos, tamales, calzones, salads, baked potatoes, BBQ chicken and much more! Opens early for coffee, chorizo burritos, breakfast sandwiches, and pastries. Featuring a huge selection of micro-brews and wine as well as Big Sur souvenirs and T-Shirts. Open daily from 7:00 A.M. - 8:00 P.M.
Big Sur Taphouse
Located in the heart of scenic Big Sur, the Taphouse offers excellent food, great drinks, and a fun place to hang out. With big screen televisions, relaxed atmosphere, and friendly service, it's the perfect place to watch your favorite sports events. Discover the different local brews and wines from around Monterey County. Whether you are rooting for your favorite sports team, touring Big Sur and the Monterey Bay, or simply enjoying a break from your drive by the coast, the Big Sur Taphouse is the place to be. The Big Sur Taphouse is a locally owned and operated establishment. We are located next to the Big Sur Deli, under the same ownership. Ordering from the deli? Feel free to bring your order to the Taphouse, and enjoy!
Big Sur Bakery
Big Sur Bakery is located in an intimate 1930's ranch style house that provides a meal setting similar to that of family dinners. They offer fresh housemade pastries, pizzas, sandwiches, coffee/espresso drinks and more on their seasonal menu that changes daily. Due to their small size and limited tables, we highly recommend reservations for dinner and brunch services.
Big Sur Station
Big Sur Station ("Ranger Station") personnel are available everyday from 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Big Sur Station has information about hiking, camping, backpacking, road conditions and more. While in Big Sur, you can pick up trail maps, books, posters, and lots of other information. They also have public restrooms. No public telephones, but cell phones work in this area. CalTrans has created a toll-free hotline to provide information about traffic and road conditions on Highway 1 from Cambria to Carmel which encompasses all of Big Sur. The hotline will be updated as needed with information about construction, traffic delays and road closures. Call (888) 836-0866.
Andrew Molera State Park
Pay entry fee at the gate, or park across the freeway and walk in. Sorry, no dogs allowed. Creamery Meadow to Molera Beach: 2 miles roundtrip, easy. A stroll through Creamery Meadow to a driftwood covered Andrew Molera beach. Molera 8-mile loop: 8 miles roundtrip, moderate to strenuous. A combination of the Ridge Trail, the Panorama Trail and the Bluffs Trail with great coastal views and beach access. East Molera Trail: 3.2 mile round trip. The trailhead begins about one-third of a mile south of the park entrance on the east side of Highway 1. Sweeping views of the Big Sur valley. Hike through coastal oak forest. River Loop Trail: 4 mile loop. This trail offers the opportunity to take a dip in the Big Sur river. Some of the trails at Andrew Molera have mountain bike access. Ventana Wildlife Society has their California condor field office and Big Sur Discovery Center in the park. They often offer guided birding adventures, so check the local bulletin board for their schedule.
Big Sur Smokehouse
Big Sur Smokehouse is a classic barbecue joint with a California twist: We serve home-smoked meats and sauces, with salads and sides made from farm-fresh ingredients. It’s smokehouse dining in a comfortable setting—a place to rest and recharge on your drive along the coast. Chill inside or watch the world go by on the patio. Kick back and dig in with local beers, wines, and craft cocktails. Share with your dining companions, or keep it all for yourself. The historic locale is the old Post family homestead, built in 1867 and now meticulously restored. Like those rustic hole-in-the-wall diners and shacks that dotted the highway (some of which are still around), the Big Sur Smokehouse is unassuming—it’s easy to miss if you aren’t looking. Once you’re here, among the vintage newspapers, you’ll find fellow diners sharing the best barbecue around and swapping their own unique stories of the road. Be sure to share yours, too.
Hawthorne Gallery
Having opened in 1995, the Hawthorne Gallery is a comparatively new landmark on the Big Sur coastline. Designed by legendary architect Mickey Meunnig it is a fitting home for the works of nearly twenty known artists including those of the multi-talented Hawthorne family. See everything from Albert Paley’s prominent forged steel design, to Gregory Hawthorne's contemporary paintings, to the woodcarvings of renowned local artist Barbara Spring, all set against the ultimate backdrop of the Pacific coastline.
Nepenthe/Café Kevah/The Phoenix Shop
With Big Sur views that can only be beaten if you’re a seagull, this cliff-topping restaurant rightfully makes it onto everyone’s bucket list. Located on Highway 1 between Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge and Castro Canyon, locals and visitors to the area alike flock here, drawn to the relaxed vibe first created by Lolly and Bill Fassett in 1949. Try the famous Ambrosia Burger, the roast chicken with sage stuffing, or a variety of vegetarian entrees. Take in the view from a seat on the patio—a wide-open space that is the epitome of unfussiness—or step inside the main building, designed by a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright’s and hints at the master architect’s style of creating structures that are striking, yet at one with their environment. You can even take home a bit of Big Sur style: The Phoenix at Nepenthe gift shop, located just below Nepenthe and atop another establishment well worth a visit, Café Kevah, features handmade jewelry, ceramics, and even instruments for that perfect drum circle.
Henry Miller Memorial Library
The Henry Miller Library is a public benefit, non-profit organization championing the literary, artistic and cultural contributions of the late writer, artist, and Big Sur resident Henry Miller. The Library also serves as a cultural resource center, functioning as a public gallery/performance/workshop space for artists, writers, musicians and students. In addition, the Library supports education in the arts and the local environment. Finally, the Library serves as a social center for the community. The Library hosts events throughout the year, but particularly in the summer months (May-October), including music, lectures, book signings, and countless community events. Open 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Thursday - Sunday.
Deetjen's Restaurant
In 1939, Barbara Blake came to Deetjen's and was captivated by the natural beauty and spiritual quality of Big Sur. She knew how to operate country inns and had funds to invest in the depth of the Depression. Mrs. Blake leased the barn and added a wing to the south, now the Fireplace and Family Rooms. She created the restaurant's traditional English décor and added the beautiful redwood bar from a nearby ranch. Little has changed since she established the place over 70 years ago. Today, you can enjoy fine dining nightly in one of four romantic candlelit rooms. The dinner menu includes local, organic foods, prepared in stimulating and hearty blend of flavors. The wine cellar offers carefully selected wines from small California vineyards, complementing guests’ dining pleasure. Deetjen's Restaurant serves breakfast daily. Their Eggs Benedict, homemade granola, smoked salmon bagels, and huevos rancheros have earned the Restaurant the “Best Place for Breakfast” award in Monterey County!
COAST Big Sur
Nestled within the natural beauty of Big Sur, COAST is a truly unique destination along Highway 1 for fine art, one-of-a-kind gifts and elevated casual cuisine. COAST cafe offers a picnic-inspired menu, coffee, beer and wine sourced from California's Central Coast, grab n' go pastries, soft-serve ice cream and stunning ocean views from a rooftop terrace.
Point Sur State Historic Park Lighthouse and Naval Station
Point Sur lighthouse and its supporting lightstation buildings, now a California State Historic Park, stand atop a dramatic volcanic rock just off-shore in Big Sur, California. This historic aid-to-navigation has a modern aero-beacon which still guides ships along the treacherous Central California Coast. On the National Register of Historic Places and a California landmark, Point Sur can be visited by guided walking tours year round. The former Point Sur Naval Facility is now open for walking tours. It is the only remaining complete, stand alone (SOSUS) Naval Facility (from the Cold War) on the West Coast. As part of the Point Sur State Historic Park, restoration is beginning and limited access is possible. Docents will share the formerly top-secret mission of the base and how the base worked.
Partington Cove
The 1.5-mi hike to Partington Cove begins at the top of a gated fire road on the west side of Highway 1 and descends to a junction at an information kiosk 0.3-mi below. To the left of the kiosk, a 0.1-mi spur goes to a shady area along the creek. To the right, a single-track continues a few hundred feet to another junction. The main trail turns left across a bridge to the cove, while a footpath heads to an isolated beach. Definitely visit both destinations. The trail to the cove crosses the creek and goes through a 60-ft tunnel constructed in the 1880s for John Partington, who transported oak from the mountains above to ships moored in the cove. Beyond the tunnel, follow the trail along the edge of the cove to Partington Point and enjoy coastal views before hiking back to the junction. The path to the beach is a quick 0.15-mi through brush that ends at a bouldered beach where Partington Creek spills out over the rocks, joining the sea. No fee/permit required! Sorry, no dogs allowed.
Esalen Institute
Esalen Institute is located approximately 20 miles south of Big Sur's main drag. Although typically an exclusive resort offering retreats, workshops, and massages, on most nights from 1:00 to 3:00 a.m., Esalen offers 25 spots for public night bathing in its sulphur baths, which have been used by the area’s Native American tribe, Esselen, for over 6,000 years. Esalen Hot Springs are some of the most alluring hot spring baths in the United States. Along the Pacific Ocean in gorgeous Big Sur, are a set of baths perched above the rugged California coastline. Esalen is more than a hot springs it is a retreat center and an educational institute. It is an sanctuary of the mind and body. Reservations are required. Clothing is optional. Call early and often same-day to reserve a space!
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
This state park is named after pioneer Julia Pfeiffer Burns and stretches from the Big Sur coastline into nearby 3,000-ft ridges. It features redwood, tan oak, madrone, chaparral, and the famous McWay Falls, an 80-ft waterfall that drops from granite cliffs into the ocean waters of Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. McWay Waterfall Trail: 0.64 mi, easy. A quick walk to an overlook facing McWay Falls, an incredible 80-ft waterfall that drops directly onto the sandy beach. Ewoldsen Trail: 4.5 mi, moderate/strenuous. A loop trail starting in the redwood forest by McWay Creek and climbing to incredible coastal views. Partington Cove Trail: 3/4 mile, easy. About 0.25 mi down from Highway 1 to Partington Cove tunnel which takes you to Partington Landing, built in the late 1800's to ship redwood and oak lumber to San Francisco. Tan Bark Trail: 5.6 mi, moderate/hard. The Tan Bark trail begins 2 miles north of the park entrance on Highway 1.
McWay Falls
The overlook trail for McWay Falls is a must-stop for anyone taking the scenic drive up Highway 1 along the Big Sur Coast. The waterfall drops 80 feet onto a pristine beach in an enchanting cove. It is a short 0.6-mi round trip hike to a viewpoint for McWay Falls, which can be reached directly from Highway 1 or from parking areas within Julia Pfieffer Burns State Park. McWay Falls Overlook Trail can be accessed two different ways: you may simply park along the west side of Highway 1 south of the State Park entrance for free and start down the trail past the tunnel and continue to views of the falls, or pull into Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and pay an entrance fee to walk a bit farther. From the park parking lot, take the signed trail at the inside of the curve in the road between the upper and lower parking areas. Walk down the trail and through a tunnel beneath Highway 1 and turn right.
Wild Coast Restaurant & Sushi Bar at Treebones
Wild Coast Restaurant boasts garden-to-table honest food in a casual, relaxed setting with scenic heated outdoor seating and cozy indoor seating. We utilize fresh produce from our on-site organic garden and local farms whenever possible, and offer local wines and regional beer. Lunch daily 12:00 – 2:00 PM. Dinner nightly 5:30 – 8:30 PM (reservations recommended). The Sushi Bar: sushi guests delight in an elaborate 16-course tasting menu incorporating the highest quality seafood available with highlights of herbs and seasonings harvested from Treebones organic garden. $120/person (tax, drinks and gratuity additional), optional Sake pairing $80/person. Sorry, no customized, vegetarian, or vegan options. Open Wednesday through Sunday, three seatings nightly at 4:30, 6:00, and 7:30 PM. Overnight guests are given first priority due to limited seating. Off-property guests can call to make a sushi reservation up to 7 days prior. Full payment is taken at time of reservation - no refunds.
Bixby Creek Bridge
Welcome to Big Sur’s version of the Golden Gate—a must-see road trip spot for many and probably the most Instagrammed feature along the Highway 1 coastline. And rightly so. Pull over at numerous turnouts to get amazing views, particularly from the bridge’s south end at sunset. Completed in 1932 for just over $200,000, the concrete span, one of the highest bridges of its kind in the world, soars 260 feet above the bottom of a steep canyon carved by Bixby Creek. To build the bridge, a massive wooden framework had to be built, with materials brought by truck on what was then a narrow, one-way road riddled with hairpin turns. 45,000 individual sacks of cement had to be hauled up the framework— before advanced heavy machinery could help do the lifting. Each bag was transported via a system of platforms and slings suspended by cables 300 feet above the creek. Curiously, the span was completed five years before the road linking Carmel to San Luis Obispo would even be opened.
Rocky Point Restaurant
Rocky Point Restaurant is located 10 miles south of Carmel. Enjoy spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean as you sit perched cliff-side; either inside through panoramic windows next to a cozy fireplace or outside on the open deck. Catch a glimpse of playful sea-otters, dolphins, seals, and many whales as they migrate up the coast.
Garrapata State Park/Beach
Garrapata State Park has two miles of beach front, with coastal hiking and a 50-foot climb to a beautiful view of the Pacific. The park offers diverse coastal vegetation with trails running from ocean beaches into dense redwood groves. The park also features outstanding coastal headlands at Soberanes Point. Sea lions, harbor seals and sea otters frequent the coastal waters and California gray whales pass close by during their yearly migration. Dogs are ONLY allowed on the beach at Gate 19 (south end of park) and on the trails leading to it. Dogs are NOT allowed in all other areas.
California Market at Pacific's Edge
The new California Market at Pacific's Edge is the exciting fusion of the Hyatt Carmel Highlands' two popular and award-winning restaurants, the casual bistro California Market and the fine dining Pacific's Edge. After the biggest renovation in the hotel's 100-year history, the restaurant is ready to welcome diners for breakfast, lunch and dinner on its expansive new 870-square-foot deck, featuring louvered roof and glass-panel walls with dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Big Sur coast. Combining the best of both worlds, California Market is committed to fresh, organic, locally grown and raised ingredients to create food that not only fulfills our appetites but pleases our sensibilities. Menus are curated by Executive Chef Chad Minton and feature local producers, including Bellwether Farms Creamery, Swank Farms, and Monterey Abalone Company. The restaurant participates in the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch program and serves only fresh cage- and GMO-free eggs.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Point Lobos is outstanding for sightseeing, photography, painting, nature study, picnicking, SCUBA diving, and jogging. In addition to the spectacular beauty, nearly every aspect of its resources is of scientific interest. There are rare plant communities, endangered archeological sites, unique geological formations, and rich flora and fauna of both land and sea. Deriving its name from the offshore rocks at Punta de los Lobos Marinos, Point of the Sea Wolves, where the sound of the sea lions carries inland, it has been called "the crown jewel of the State Park System". The offshore area forms one of the richest underwater habitats in the world popular with divers. Wildlife includes seabirds, seals, sea lions, sea otters and migrating gray whales. Hiking trails follow the shoreline and lead to hidden coves. Formerly the home of a turn-of-the-century whaling and abalone industry, a small cabin built by Chinese fishermen from that era still remains and is now a cultural history museum.
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small beach city on California's Monterey Peninsula. It's known for the museums and library of the historic Carmel Mission, and the fairytale cottages and galleries of its village-like center. The Scenic Bluff Path runs from surf spot Carmel Beach to bird-rich Carmel River State Beach, with a scuba entry point. South lie the sea animals and whaling museum of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.
The Barnyard Shopping Village
Built in Carmel in 1976, the Barnyard Shopping Village is a landmark on the Monterey Peninsula featuring more than 50 merchants and small businesses, ranging from couture fashion shops and International restaurants to professional services and art galleries. Enjoy a variety of boutique shops and family owned businesses specializing in art and gift collections, couture clothing, jewelry designs, men’s and women’s apparel, comfort, dress and casual shoes, and an array of salon, wellness and professional services. Eight locally owned restaurants offer a variety of casual and fine dining, featuring authentic local, regional and international cuisine options. Dogs on leash are welcomed on restaurant outdoor patios to join their owners during meals (call the individual restaurants for full details). When not hosting events, the rear event field offers four-hole practice disc golf course. Stop by Carmel Brewing for discs.
Carmel Beach
Carmel Beach attracts visitors and locals alike to take in the majestic scenery and fun activities. For surfers, the view from the water is stunning. The beach to surf is significantly affected by tide, wave duration, sand bar formation and swell direction. Wave and water conditions change rapidly, so check often for when to jump in. A wet suit is a must if you plan to remain in the water for any length of time, as the water hovers at 50 degrees. Dogs are allowed off-leash under voice control. Playing near the surf line and wading are allowed, but visitors should be aware of rip currents and rogue waves. There is no lifeguard service and conditions may change quickly. The Scenic Bluff Path is a pathway that parallels Scenic Road just above Carmel Beach. Eight stairways access the beach below. The trail meanders through Monterey cypresses and landscaped gardens to Carmel Point. Walk along the coastline from Carmel Beach to Carmel River Beach with views from Pebble Beach to Point Lobos.
Carmel Valley
Among the rolling hills and grapevines of Carmel Valley, California, you can play on championship golf courses, dine at award-winning restaurants, and experience the rugged hiking and horseback riding that makes Carmel Valley a favorite destination for the outdoors enthusiast. Many tasting rooms are clustered in Carmel Valley Village, only a short stroll from several inns and lodges. If you prefer to stay at the winery, the prestigious Bernardus Lodge is located among the vineyards of Bernardus Winery. Hit the links and spend time at a highly rated, award-winning golf resort that are themselves a destination at Carmel Valley Ranch, which features an apiary, goat farm, horseback riding, hiking trails, a vineyard, tennis courts, outdoor heated pools and hot tubs, a rec center, and much more for your family (and dog) to enjoy.
Monterey
Monterey is a city on California’s rugged central coast. Its Cannery Row, one-time center of the sardine-packing industry, was immortalized by novelist John Steinbeck. Today, it's a popular strip of gift shops, seafood restaurants and bars in converted factories. Also famous is Monterey Bay Aquarium, with thousands of marine animals and plants on display in underwater and interactive exhibits.
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Located at the ocean's edge on historic Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is your window to marine life. Frolicking sea otters, fast-swimming sharks, pulsating jellies and waddling penguins — world-class exhibits and breathtaking scenery instill a love of the ocean in visitors. With over 200 exhibits and 80,000 plants and animals, the Aquarium is a window to the wonders of the ocean.
Cannery Row
With its picturesque charm and colorful history, Cannery Row captivates visitors from all over the world. The unique appeal of this fabled street is what makes Cannery Row the most popular vacation destination on California’s Central Coast. With luxurious waterfront hotels, enticing restaurants and captivating boutiques, Cannery Row is the ideal place to soak up the culture and beauty of Monterey Bay.
17 Mile Drive
Follow 17-Mile Drive’s red-dotted line to arrive at an enchanting world full of dramatic coastal cliffs, snow-white beaches, mystical forests and iconic golf courses. Discover one of the most scenic drives in the world as you meet the inspiring Lone Cypress, ponder the giant trees at Crocker Grove, digest the untouched beauty at Fanshell Beach, behold the power of the Restless Sea at Point Joe, stroll the boardwalk above the beach at Spanish Bay, and much, much more. Admission to 17-Mile Drive is $10.75 per vehicle. The gate fee is reimbursed with a purchase of $35 or more at all Pebble Beach Resorts restaurants, excluding Pebble Beach Market. Admission for tour buses is $5.25 per passenger. Admission is complimentary for overnight guests of The Lodge at Pebble Beach, The Inn at Spanish Bay and Casa Palmero. The 17-Mile Drive gates are open to the public from sunrise to sunset. Motorcycles are prohibited.
Limekiln State Park
The park features breathtaking views of Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and the rugged Big Sur coastline, in addition to redwood forests and the cultural history of limekilns.
Salmon Creek Falls
Salmon Creek Trail is located on a large horseshoe bend in Highway One, 3.7 mi north of Ragged Point (or 26 miles north of Cambria). From the North, drive 33.6 miles south from Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park or 41.6 miles from Nepenthe in Big Sur. The trail to Salmon Creek Falls is located right on the bend in the road, south of Salmon Creek Ranger Station/Buckeye Trail. Park and look for the mileage sign on the east side of the highway, and start hiking up the trail south of the creek. After 300 feet, break from the trail through a garden of boulders toward the creek. Cross a couple of grottos and approach the falls. A boulder blocks access to the base of the falls, but a quick rope-assisted climb takes you to the unobstructed view on the other side. If you aren’t up for a bit of climbing, the waterfall is still quite impressive from the rocks downstream. No fee or permit required.
Ragged Point Inn and Black Swift Falls Trail
Originally an outpost of the Hearst Ranch, the Ragged Point Inn is ideal for a day stop or extended stay. Enjoy amenities that include lodging, dining, a gift shop, and gas station. The garden and grounds of this historic property are expertly manicured to augment the surrounding natural beauty, and host outdoor concerts during the summer. Ragged Point Inn boasts some of the finest coastal views along Highway 1, with outlook points facing both north and south. The Black Swift Falls Trail is the perfect hike on Highway 1. The payoff for those who tackle this trail is big: a black sand beach and the base of the 300-foot Black Swift Falls seasonal waterfall! At a distance of just 0.8 miles, this moderately strenuous trail is best for experienced hikers with good shoes. Dogs are allowed on the trail on-leash. The trail is easily accessible from Ragged Point Inn, just off Highway 1, and offers unparalleled glimpses of this area’s coastal mountains and wildlife.
Piedras Blancas Light Station
Piedras Blancas Light Station provides a glimpse into our nation's past when lighthouses served a vital role in maritime navigation. Today it is managed as a historic park and wildlife sanctuary. The light station is part of the federally designated Piedras Blancas Light Station Outstanding Natural Area and the California Coastal National Monument. The tower and some support buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Reservations required. You must purchase advance tickets online or call toll-free 877-444-6777. Space is very limited.
Elephant Seal Viewing Point
The Piedras Blancas Rookery is the only elephant seal rookery in the world that is easily accessible, free, and open to the public every day of the year. No reservations are needed. The rookery is located seven miles north of San Simeon on Highway 1. The Elephant Seal viewing area has plenty of parking. The dirt lot can accommodate vehicles of all sizes, including RV's and trucks. Elephant Seals haul out on beaches near San Simeon year round, as they go through different phases in their life cycle. In peak times, there are up to 17,000 animals on the San simeon shores. June is the time of year you can expect to see male elephant seals return to shore to molt.
San Simeon
Situated on one of the most beautiful stretches of Highway 1, San Simeon is a secluded retreat filled with natural splendor, endless outdoor adventure, scenic wonders, and treasured historic landmarks. Watch the elephant seals at the Piedras Blancas rookery. Tour the world-famous Hearst Castle. Walk along the white sand beaches. Hike the Pacific coastline that has been naturally carved by the sea. Whatever your choosing, San Simeon is a rare, secluded California gem.
Hearst Castle
William Randolph Hearst started to build a fabulous estate on his ranchland overlooking the village of San Simeon in 1919. He called the estate "La Cuesta Encantada" - Spanish for The Enchanted Hill. By 1947, the hilltop complex included a twin-towered main building, three sumptuous guesthouses, and 127 acres of terraced gardens, fountains, and pools. Admission starts at $25 per adult, $12 per child.
Cambria
From natural wonders and historical landmarks to one-of-a-kind boutiques and art galleries, Cambria has a blend of unique and captivating attractions that will appeal to every personality. This remote Central Coast retreat is full of enchanting beaches, historic attractions, delicious dining options, and wide open spaces—without the crowds.
San Carpoforo Creek Beach
Just 1.5 miles south of Ragged Point and the official entrance to Big Sur, San Carpoforo Creek Beach is so hidden, most people drive right by it. Located on land managed by the Los Padres National Forest that meets the northern end of Hearst San Simeon State Park, you'll find a nondescript pullout on Highway 1 about 8 miles north of the Piedras Blancas Light Station and across the highway from a house with the address 18550 Cabrillo Hwy, San Simeon, CA. Once you've parked, you access the beach via a flat, easy trail that passes by a peaceful lagoon which is often a refuge for herons, egrets and other birds. Unlike most Big Sur beaches, the swath of sand at the foot of San Carpoforo Creek is flat and wide, with plenty of room to walk. At the north end, the beach turns rocky and sea caves open out from the looming cliffs. NOTE: A portion of San Carpoforo Beach is protected as a snowy plover nesting site; obey signs to stay away from any restricted areas.