Map of Big Sur, United States

🌲 What to do in Big Sur 🌞

Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Big Sur with a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and scenic drives. From hiking trails to art galleries, there's something for every traveler to enjoy in this enchanting coastal enclave.

• Best Budget Activity in Big Sur:

  Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park: Explore Redwood groves, hike scenic trails, and picnic beside the Big Sur River in this iconic state park.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Big Sur:

  Bixby Creek Bridge: Drive along the iconic Highway 1 and marvel at the architectural beauty of Bixby Creek Bridge while enjoying panoramic coastal views.

• Best Luxury Activity in Big Sur:

  Esalen Hot Springs: Indulge in a rejuvenating soak in natural hot springs overlooking the Pacific Ocean at the tranquil Esalen Institute.

🍽️ Where to eat in Big Sur 🌊

Indulge in the diverse culinary scene of Big Sur, known for its fresh seafood, farm-fresh produce, and local wines. Don't miss out on the iconic seafood chowder, artichoke dishes, and succulent abalone when dining in this coastal gem.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Big Sur:

  Big Sur River Inn Restaurant•$:

  American comfort food with a riverside view.

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Big Sur:

  Nepenthe•$$:

  California cuisine with panoramic ocean views.

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Big Sur:

  Sierra Mar at Post Ranch Inn•$$$$:

  Fine dining with organic, locally sourced ingredients.

• Best Budget Bar in Big Sur:

  Fernwood Resort Tavern•$:

  Local craft beers and signature cocktails.

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Big Sur:

  Rocky Point Restaurant & Bar•$$:

  Wine by the glass with stunning coastal views.

• Best Luxury Bar in Big Sur:

  Nepenthe Bar•$$$:

  Handcrafted cocktails with a view of the Pacific Ocean.

📸 What to see in Big Sur 🌊

Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Big Sur by visiting its iconic landmarks that showcase nature's grandeur and artistic inspiration. From rugged cliffs to majestic waterfalls, these must-see sights will leave you spellbound.

• Bixby Creek Bridge

  Marvel at the architectural masterpiece of Bixby Creek Bridge, an iconic structure that spans the rugged cliffs of Big Sur and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

• McWay Falls

  Witness the enchanting beauty of McWay Falls, a stunning 80-foot waterfall that cascades onto a pristine beach, creating a picture-perfect scene framed by emerald cliffs.

• Pfeiffer Beach

  Explore the unique purple sands of Pfeiffer Beach, known for its rock formations, sea caves, and vibrant sunsets that paint the sky in hues of orange and pink.

• Point Sur Lighthouse

  Step back in time at Point Sur Lighthouse, a historic beacon perched atop a volcanic rock outcrop, offering panoramic views of the coastline and insight into maritime history.

• Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

  Wander through the ancient redwood groves and coastal bluffs of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, home to the famous McWay Falls and diverse ecosystems teeming with wildlife.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Big Sur 🌿

Explore the eclectic shopping scene of Big Sur, offering a mix of artisanal crafts, locally-made products, and unique souvenirs that capture the essence of this coastal paradise. Whether you're seeking handcrafted jewelry or organic skincare, these shopping places will delight your senses.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Big Sur:

  The Phoenix Shop: Browse an array of affordable gifts, handmade items, and local artwork at The Phoenix Shop, a charming boutique supporting independent artists and creators.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Big Sur:

  Coastlands: Discover a curated selection of sustainable fashion, home decor, and accessories at Coastlands, a boutique focused on eco-conscious products inspired by the beauty of Big Sur.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Big Sur:

  Hawthorne Gallery: Indulge in high-end art, fine jewelry, and exquisite collectibles at Hawthorne Gallery, showcasing the works of renowned artists and designers in a sophisticated setting.

🚌 Getting Around Big Sur

• Public Transport

  In Big Sur, public transportation options are limited due to the rugged terrain and remote location. The primary mode of public transport are buses operated by Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST). The MST Route 22 serves the Big Sur area, running between Monterey and Big Sur Station, with stops at popular attractions along the way. The fare for a one-way trip is around $10-$15, with discounts available for seniors and youth. Buses usually operate on a set schedule, so it's advisable to check the timetable in advance.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  The closest transportation hubs to Big Sur are Monterey Regional Airport and the Amtrak station in Salinas. Monterey Airport is the most convenient option for air travel, located about an hour's drive from Big Sur. From there, you can either rent a car or take a taxi to reach your destination. The Salinas Amtrak station provides train services connecting to major cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, with shuttle services available to Big Sur.

• 🚗 Rental Services

  - Car Rentals: Several car rental companies operate in the Big Sur area, including Hertz, Enterprise, and Budget. Prices for car rentals start at around $50 per day, depending on the type of vehicle and rental duration. - 🚲 Bicycle Rentals: Explore Big Sur's scenic beauty on two wheels by renting a bicycle from local shops like Big Sur Adventures or Mad Dogs & Englishmen. Rates for bicycle rentals typically range from $20-$40 per day, with options for guided tours and equipment included.