{"id":281447,"date":"2021-10-20T06:00:00","date_gmt":"2021-10-20T05:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.trafalgar.com\/real-word\/?p=281447"},"modified":"2025-08-20T23:31:35","modified_gmt":"2025-08-20T22:31:35","slug":"what-is-big-sur","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.trafalgar.com\/real-word\/what-is-big-sur\/","title":{"rendered":"Everything you need to know about California’s spectacular Big Sur"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

You\u2019ve probably heard of it, but what exactly is Big Sur? Read on to discover the magical place that is Big Sur in California, including the best time to go and all the most incredible Big Sur experiences along the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is Big Sur?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s not a city or town\u2026 so what is Big Sur? It\u2019s one of the most spectacular regions on the California coast, stretching around 90 miles between Carmel and San Simeon. On one side you\u2019ve got golden sandy beaches, rugged cliffs and the turquoise Pacific Ocean. On the other, you\u2019ll find the stunning Santa Lucia Mountains filled with coastal redwood trees, hiking trails and waterfalls. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Big Sur was named by the Spanish settlers<\/a> living on the Monterey Peninsula. They referred to the beautiful wilderness area as \u201cEl Sur Grande\u201d (\u201cThe Big South\u201d). In the 1950s and 60s, the area became a popular retreat for artists, poets and writers like Jack Kerouac, Lawrence Ferlinghetti and Henry Miller. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since then, the region has inspired countless books, movies and artworks, including Kerouac’s 1962 novel \u2018Big Sur\u2019 and the 2013 film adaptation of the same name. Big Sur is still wild and remote, dotted only with local restaurants, hotels and coastal communities\u2026 And it\u2019s the perfect place to slow down and escape into enchanting nature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RELATED CONTENT: 6 reasons why your next trip should be a visit to California<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is the best way to see Big Sur?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you want to see the best of Big Sur, take a drive up Highway 1, famed for its winding turns, state parks, and misty seaside views.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Going by car will allow you the freedom to stop off at key points and see the vast scenic views that many people dream of.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When is the best time to visit Big Sur<\/strong>?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Big Sur is an incredible destination all year round. The most popular time is between April and October when the weather is at its best, with long, warm days – although watch out for the famous fog that can hang around all morning. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The shoulder seasons of early spring and late fall see fewer crowds and great weather, plus they\u2019re gorgeous with spring blooms or golden fall foliage. The winter season still has pleasant weather and is the quietest time, but many businesses have shorter opening hours during this off-peak season. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

RELATED CONTENT: What to pack for a trip to the USA whatever the season<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Best things to do in Big Sur<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Check out Carmel and Monterey<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Carmel<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Kickstart your Big Sur adventure with a day in the gorgeous seaside cities of Carmel and Monterey. Soak up the sun at Carmel Beach, wander down Cannery Row, marvel at the marine life in Monterey Bay Aquarium, or tick off 17-Mile Drive famed for sights like Pebble Beach, the Lone Cypress, and the lavish mansions and golf courses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RELATED CONTENT: 9 epic things to do in Northern California<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit the grand Hearst Castle<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Grand<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re starting your Big Sur tour in San Simeon, don\u2019t miss Hearst Castle<\/a>. We\u2019ll take you there for a walking tour with a local expert who will show you around the magnificent castle featuring 121 rooms over 90,000 square feet. It was the vision of publishing tycoon William Randolph Hearst and today it\u2019s a National Historic Landmark.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stop at the iconic Bixby Bridge<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Bixby<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Once you hit the road on Highway 1, you\u2019ll want to stop and admire the incredible coastal views. One of the best places to do it is the iconic Bixby Bridge. It\u2019s one of the most photographed places in Big Sur – and for good reason. It\u2019s a spectacular spot, where the famous bridge stretches through the lush green mountains over the bright blue ocean. And it gets extra mesmerising at sunset!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RELATED CONTENT: On the road again: Classic American road trip movies to inspire your next adventure<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Marvel at the McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"McWay<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

On par with Bixby Bridge, the McWay Falls are the most iconic sight in Big Sur. Located just a 10-minute walk from the parking lot, these beautiful 80-foot falls are unmissable. You\u2019ll be mesmerised as the falls crash into the sparkling ocean below and is best seen in the early morning or the afternoon when the sun is shining onto the waterfall. If you go in spring, you might even see stunning wildflowers and orchids.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RELATED CONTENT: 7 unmissable experiences you can now enjoy in the USA with Trafalgar<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Explore the State Parks and Natural Reserves<\/strong> of Big Sur<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\"Foggy<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You can\u2019t miss exploring at least a few of the spectacular state parks in Big Sur – and there\u2019s plenty to choose from. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve<\/strong>.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Point Lobos is a paradise for photographers and nature lovers, with towering forests, blue ocean and plenty of trails. You can go walking, scuba diving, or even wildlife viewing with sea lions, harbour seals, whales and dolphins making appearances around the reserve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Famed as a mini Yosemite, this park is home to mystical giant redwood forests, waterfalls and hiking trails.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Point Sur State Park and Lighthouse<\/strong>.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Point Sur is great for nature lovers and history buffs as you can explore the historic lighthouse and also go hiking or spot sea lions at the tide pools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Garrapata State Park.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

One of the hidden gems of Big Sur, Garrapata has stunning walks along the coastal cliffs, inland hikes through the forest and even a waterfall to explore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andrew Molera State Park<\/strong>.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

This park is one of the quieter ones and you\u2019ll really get to reconnect with nature on the walking trails that pass by meadows, forests, oceans and the Big Sur River.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Limekiln State Park.<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re looking for a break on a hot day, head to the cool shady redwood forests of Limekiln. You\u2019ll also find waterfalls, golden beaches and a few short hiking trails.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RELATED CONTENT: 15 San Francisco facts you probably never knew<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep your eyes peeled for whales<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
\"Cloud-filled<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You can spot whales almost all year round off the California coast\u2026 So bring your binoculars and a dose of patience! From June to October, you can spot Blue whales, while from late April to early December you can see Humpback whales. Gray whales can also be seen from December to February (when they migrate south to Mexico) and February to April (when they return north and are closer to the shore). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

RELATED CONTENT: 21 bucket list experiences you can only have in the USA<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Visit the Henry Miller Memorial Library<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Close-up<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

If you love books and nature, we\u2019ve got the perfect place for you. The Henry Miller Memorial Library<\/a> is filled with interesting books and surrounded by giant redwoods. You can spend hours soaking up the atmosphere while indulging in a book. It\u2019s almost always cosy and peaceful\u2026 But you might also catch one of the concerts, film nights or cultural events that are sometimes hosted here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

RELATED CONTENT: Visit California and try a burger and fries at In-N-Out Burger, the first drive-thru burger stand<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Relax at the beaches of Big Sur<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Pfeiffer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It wouldn\u2019t be a Big Sur adventure without a trip to at least one beach. We love Pfeiffer Beach, famed for its purple sand and fascinating rock formations. There\u2019s also Sand Dollar Beach, where you can spot carbs, anemone and kelp beds in the rock pools at low tide\u2026 Or simply throw down a towel and relax in the gorgeous scenery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

FAQS: Here\u2019s what you need to know about Big Sur <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

What is Big Sur famous for?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This rugged stretch of California\u2019s coast is known for its beauty and for being part of the Pacific Coast Highway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Not only is it a major area for nature lovers who enjoy getting out and about sightseeing and hiking, but its dramatic scenery leads to tourists from all over vying to get a look.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Pacific Coast Highway drive is often dubbed as being one of the most scenic roads in the world. The Big Sur is also home to the iconic Bixby Bridge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How far is Big Sur from San Francisco?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If driving straight to the area from San Francisco, it\u2019s estimated this will take around three hours. The quickest route is reported to be via US 101 S to CA-156 W to CA-1 S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Are there bears in Big Sur?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Big Sur is a wilderness area, but black bears are uncommon although they have been spotted there in the past.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

California State Parks has a \u2018be aware\u2019 section on its website, where it asks people to be aware of poison oak, ticks, bobcats, mountain lions, skunks, and raccoons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Is Big Sur a national park?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Big Sur spans a wide strip of land, approximately 90 miles along the highway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While many would believe it to be a national park, it isn\u2019t classed as one but its boundary does contain protected areas and some state parks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Limekiln State Park, Garrapata State Park, and the Andrew Molera State Park are all in the area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What are your favourite Big Sur experiences? Let us know in the comments below\u2026 <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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Best Things to Do in California\u2019s Gem<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"What exactly is Big Sur? Discover this magical place in California, including the best time to visit and the incredible things to do.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.trafalgar.com\/real-word\/what-is-big-sur\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"What is Big Sur and how best to experience it?\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"What exactly is Big Sur? 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