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Big Sur

Any California road trip would not be complete without driving the stretch of coast known as Big Sur. This Central California coastline is one of the country’s top scenic drives and stretches for around 90 miles between the Carmel River and San Carpoforo Creek.


As well as offering some breathtaking coastal scenery the wilderness of Big Sur extends for several miles inland though there’s a difference in opinion as to exactly how far this region actually extends! Whatever it is you’ll find plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation along this coast, encouraging visitors to do more than simply drive by.


Big Sur is best when driven from north to south as this means you’ll always be driving closest to the coast and have the easiest and best access to the numerous pullouts along the way. While it’s tempting to stop at every single one it’s going to take you a very long time to drive Big Sur if you do! Definitely do take your time though as this is an area of outstanding natural beauty that should be relished and enjoyed. Perhaps you could attempt one of the 80 different day hikes in the region; hikes that offer stunning vistas, remote beaches, riversides, and forests.


Keep a look out for some of Big Sur’s famous landmarks – there’s Bixby Bridge to the north of Big Sur Village. This bridge was built in 1933 and is said to be one of the most photographed in the world. Also to the north is Point Sur Lighthouse, a National Historic Landmark that is reputedly one of the most haunted places in the country! The lighthouse is open to the public, if you dare to enter! Meanwhile, 12 miles south of Big Sur Village are the beautiful McWay Falls which can be seen via a hike to the viewpoint.


There are numerous campgrounds for those family vacations in an RV, or make use of the many hotels, especially in the Big Sur Village area if you’re coming by car. We can make all your accommodation arrangements for you as well as organize a memorable horseback ride into the Redwood forests that line Big Sur.


Quick Facts:
--- The name Big Sur comes from the original Spanish language ‘el sur grande’ meaning ‘the big south’.
--- The northern end of Big Sur begins about 120 miles south of San Francisco, and the southern end is about 245 miles north of Los Angeles.

Trips matching your search

Big Sur

3 trips match your search criteria.
Big Sur Coastline, Sequoias and Yosemite National Park

Big Sur Coastline, Sequoias and Yosemite National Park

11 to 14 Nights  |  Starting from $4,425

From the Pacific Coast to giant sequoias and granite mountains, this trip hits the highlights of California's most spectacular scenery. From San Francisco down Pacific Highway 1, you'll travel along the scenic coast before heading inland to the Giant Forest where four of the world's five largest sequoias are found. Another scenic drive awaits you into Kings Canyon and then on to Yosemite with its impressive waterfalls, towering cliffs, rounded domes, and massive monoliths.

Down the Big Sur Coast

Down the Big Sur Coast

7 to 10 Nights  |  Starting from $3,275

Incredible scenery, good wildlife watching and famous Hearst Castle await you on this coastal route trip between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Start with a fun-filled day in San Francisco, riding cable cars and visiting Alcatraz, then head south on coastal Hwy 1. Take a wildlife cruise by boat or kayak, search for moonstone agates on the beach, tour William Randolph Hearst's mansion, and taste some wines near Santa Barbara, before ending your trip in the City of Angels. This trip can also be done in reverse order.
Monterey and Big Sur - Quick Getaway

Monterey and Big Sur - Quick Getaway

Under 7 Nights  |  Starting from $1,625

Head down the Big Sur Coast for 4 nights from San Francisco to walk the beaches, hike in the coastal redwoods and see the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Get out on the ocean on a wildlife Zodiac tour or sea kayaking trip, or take a horseback ride on the beach.

Trips matching your search