California is a huge tourist destination! Millions of people travel to California annually. While many of the larger tourist spots are Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, and Palm Springs, I want to talk about Big Sur California.
Big Sur is located on the central coast line of California between Carmel and San Simeon. To the west is the Pacific Ocean and to the east is the Santa Lucia Mountains. This area is known for its winding seaside cliffs and foggy coastline. Some travelers even go so far to say they feel like they are in a different country when they visit Big Sur.
Camping, hiking, and being outdoors is what Big Sur is all about! You will mainly find campsites, but hotels and cabins can also be found. It is an awesome place to bring your RV if you have one, but make sure you check length restrictions!
There are so many things to see and do in Big Sur that it would be impossible to name them all here. But I have compiled a list of the top five things to see in Big Sur!
1. Point Lobos Natural Reserve
This natural reserve has amazing trails right along the coast line. You can hike right along the cliffs and get amazing views of the turquoise water. If you bring binoculars, you can see some wildlife in the water. There are also some trails that take you right up to the water and onto some beautiful beaches!
2. Scenic 17-Mile Drive
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If you guessed that this was a drive to see some pretty amazing scenery, you would be correct! On this drive you will get to see coastal cliffs, white beaches, forests, the Lone Cypress Tree, and has a stop at Pebble Beach where you can eat or golf. This drive does cost an entrance fee but if you eat or shop at the golf course, this can be refunded!
3. Bixby Bridge
To get into Big Sur, you must cross Bixby Bridge. The bridge was completed in 1932 and stand 260 feet above a steep canyon and Bixby Creek. This bridge is massive and is pretty incredible nested in the canyon the way it is. There really isn’t much to do but cross Bixby Bridge, but you should get out and take some photos!
4. Big Sur River
I would highly recommend taking an afternoon and hanging out at Big Sur River! At this spot, you can set up a little day camp, have a little picnic, and tube down the river. A lot of people like to set up hammocks among the trees! Make sure you have a plan to get back up river if you plan on tubing. This river is right by the Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground and can easily be accessed!
5. State Parks
Inside of Big Sur there are many state parks! Three that you need to check out are: Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, and Andrew Molera State Park. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park homes the Big Sur River and many hiking trials! Also, this is where you will find the Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park homes the McWay Waterfall Trail and this is something you are definitely going to want to see. It is an 80 foot waterfall that lands onto the beach. This is highly trafficked area so be prepared to wait your turn to get a photo! Andrew Molera State Park also has many hiking trials that will either take you along the cliffs, or onto the beach!
If you are traveling to Big Sur, I would recommend going to all these state parks! They all have beautiful views and will not disappoint!
If you are planning a trip to California, I highly recommend that you check out Big Sur! The views look absolutely amazing and I can’t wait to check it out myself!