Although Big Sur has made for many enjoyable road trips in the past, it skyrocketed in popularity after making a cameo appearance during the opening montage of the HBO hit series Little Big Lies. While there are long stretches of road without any bathroom stops and cellular reception, the route still has tons to offer in terms of exquisite natural beauty and interesting places to stop at. Here are just a few of the many stops to include on your itinerary when planning your next Big Sur road trip.
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a Great Starting Point
One of the best places to start your Big Sur road trip is in the quaint little town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Although it measures only one square mile, there is plenty to see and do here. Thousands of people flock to the historic Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo, which was constructed by Spanish immigrants back in 1797. It is currently considered to be the most authentically restored mission of its type in the entire state. Then there is the multitude of charming boutiques filled with eclectic items, bespoke galleries, and an interesting selection of eateries to explore. Other activities to consider I include a visit to a local theatre, attending a wine tasting, or spending time on the pristine Carmel beach.
Frolic on Pfeiffer Beach
No Big Sur road trip will be complete without a visit to Pfeiffer Beach. Best known for its purple sand, Pfeiffer Beach provides a lovely beach-side break for the whole family. Although swimming may not be a good idea due to the strong and unpredictable currents, sunbathing and playing on the beach are definitely encouraged.
The tide pools are also worth exploring, while camping at one of the nearby camping grounds is bound to be a memorable experience. You don’t have to worry about bad roads when driving to Pfeiffer, but if you are planning to tow a fifth-wheel camper or carrying a heavy camping load, a sturdy dually truck – also known as a dual-rear-wheel truck may be a good choice of road trip vehicle.
Enjoy a View from Above at Bishop Peak
If you aren’t afraid of heights, a visit to Bishop Peak should definitely be on your itinerary. At 1,546 feet high, it is the tallest of the volcanic plugs that form a link between Morro Bay and San Luis Obispo. While it is possible to admire the volcanic views from a distance, adventure seekers will definitely want to explore a bit more.
Bishop Peak is ideal for hiking and is home to the popular 1.7-mile-long Bishop Peak Trail. The peak also offers ample rock-climbing opportunities for climbers of all skill levels. Beginners will have a blast at Garden Wall, while more experienced climbers can put their abilities to the test at P-Wall or Cracked.
Bixby Creek Bridge Can’t be Missed
You will undoubtedly cross many bridges (and see a good couple dozen more) while on your road. One of the most memorable stops along Big Sur, however, is Bixby Creek Bridge. It does not take too long to realize why it is the most photographed bridge in the entire state.
Originally built in 1932, the bridge that connects two impressive rocky cliffsides sports beautiful arches that can only be hailed as an architectural marvel. You can take in a lot of the bridge and the surrounding natural beauty while driving, although it would be absurd not to stop and take a few photos. There are two good spots to safely park and take as many photos as your heart desires.
Don’t Underestimate Sand Dollar Beach
While Pfeiffer Beach undoubtedly made a good impression, there are a number of other beaches along Big Sur that also deserve a place on your road trip itinerary. One of these beaches is Sand Dollar Beach – the biggest beach along Big Sur. Although there is always something to see and do, the best time to visit the beach is definitely during low tide. There is plenty of sand to laze around on and for the kids to play on before the tide comes in. In addition, the water is crystal-clear and perfect for swimming. If you prefer to stay on dry land, consider taking a stroll along the beach to admire the shoreline or to become better acquainted with the large variety of marine life on the sand and in the water.
Garrapata State Park Beckons Outdoor Enthusiasts
If you love spending time in nature, a visit to the Garrapata State Park is an absolute must! Situated approximately 15 minutes south of Carmel at Big Sur’s northern end, the park is known for its beautiful sandy beaches and redwood groves. Unfortunately, there are no amenities at the park, but there is still plenty to see and do. There is ample opportunity to see seals, otters, and sea lions while walking along the beach, and if you visit during whale season, you are definitely in for a treat. Other things to do include spending time at the Little Sur River Beach Overlook, exploring the Notley’s Landing Viewpoint, and simply taking in the sheer beauty of the Soberanes Point headland. If you are keen on a memorable U.S. road trip, Big Sur should definitely be near the top of your list. Apart from the natural beauty of the region, there are also plenty of fun and exhilarating activities to enjoy along the way.
By Amey MyersAmey, an intrepid traveler and avid blogger, roams the world, absorbing diverse cultures, flavors, and experiences. Her writing captures the essence of her adventures, inspiring others to explore. Amey's infectious passion for travel and storytelling epitomizes a life filled with exploration and adventure.
