Stunning Big Sur Places To Visit In One Day

The California coastline on the west is absolutely stunning to explore! With its scenic drives, charming seaside towns, and expansive parks, it offers endless opportunities for exploration.

This is especially true when thinking about driving and spotting all the best places on a Big Sur Road Trip in California.

WHERE TO STOP ON A CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY 1 ROAD TRIP TO BIG SUR

Get ready for an unforgettable journey as we guide you along the awe-inspiring Big Sur coastline! Our adventure kicked off in San Francisco, where we embarked on a southward drive. Cruising along the outer lane, you’ll be treated to uninterrupted views of the magnificent coast.

So to make things easier for your trip, we wanted to share all the best places on a Big Sur trip in California that we loved.

Believe me, the Big Sur drive is an experience you won’t want to overlook while traveling the West Coast of the United States.

Pro tip: Keep in mind that there’s little to no internet access throughout Big Sur. To avoid missing out on any must-visit spots, make sure to download the offline version of your navigation app beforehand.

BEST TIME FOR VISITING CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY 1 AND BIG SUR

Spring (April and May) and Fall (September and October) offer ideal weather conditions with mild temperatures and clear skies.

Winter (December to February) offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists and the chance to spot migrating whales. The best time to visit Big Sur depends on personal preferences, whether it’s chasing sunshine, enjoying wildflowers, or seeking solitude along the coast.

Take a look, below, best stops for your Big Sur road trip on California Highway 1 below. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure as you discover California’s breathtaking scenery.

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Point Lobos State Reserve

Located just a short distance from Carmel-by-the-Sea, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve stands as an essential stop on your Big Sur journey.

Not only does it offer breathtaking coastal views, but it’s also home to a vibrant community of seals. The picturesque scenery makes it ideal for leisurely strolls along the coastline.

For those seeking a closer encounter with nature, consider diving at Whaler’s Cove or embarking on the six-mile trail through the Cypress groves.

Pro tip: Keep in mind that there’s a parking fee, so it’s wise to plan accordingly, especially if you’re not planning an extended stay.

Garrapata State Park

Garrapata State Beach stands as a hidden gem along California’s stunning Big Sur coastline, offering visitors a serene escape amidst rugged cliffs and pristine sandy shores.

Here, you can stroll along the shoreline, breathe in the salty sea air, and marvel at the crashing waves against towering rock formations.

As you embark on your Big Sur road trip, be sure to include this picturesque destination on your itinerary.

Calla Lily Valley

The Calla Lily Valley, located within Garrapata State Park along California’s Big Sur coast, is a natural wonder that captivates visitors with its stunning displays of wildflowers.

Each spring, typically from April to June, the valley bursts into bloom with thousands of white calla lilies, creating a scene of unmatched beauty.

To reach the Calla Lily Valley, you can embark on the 2-mile round-trip Garrapata Bluff Trail, which begins at the main parking area off Highway 1.

The trail winds through coastal scrub and offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean before descending into the valley where the calla lilies thrive.

Bixby Bridge

Bixby Creek Bridge stands as an iconic landmark along California’s picturesque Big Sur coastline, captivating travelers with its breathtaking beauty and architectural grandeur.

Renowned for its stunning vistas and dramatic backdrop, Bixby Creek Bridge has been featured in numerous movies, television shows, and commercials.

Television aficionados may recognize Bixby Creek Bridge from popular series “Big Little Lies”.

Whether you’re driving along the iconic Highway 1, seeking Instagram-worthy photo opportunities, or simply taking in the stunning coastal scenery, Bixby Creek Bridge is a must-see destination.

Nepenthe in Big Sur

Stop for lunch at this iconic restaurant perched high above the cliffs of Big Sur, offering delicious cuisine and breathtaking ocean views.

Some of our favorites food and drinks from Nepenthe is Pink lemonade and their scrumptious Fries with Garlic sauce.

Beyond its breathtaking views and sumptuous cuisine, Nepenthe embodies the essence of Big Sur’s laid-back charm and bohemian spirit.

A visit here promises not just a meal, but a soulful communion with Big Sur’s natural splendor, making it an essential stop on any itinerary.

Visiting the Cows near Point Sur Lighthouse

Transport yourself to a scene reminiscent of Switzerland as you gaze upon lush green cliffs juxtaposed against the backdrop of the vast ocean

It’s a captivating sight that offers a delightful escape into the serene beauty of this coastal paradise.

Hurricane Point View

Driving down Highway 1 in Big Sur, you’ll be blown away by the numerous turnouts offering spectacular views. It’s tempting to stop at every turnout and gaze at the stunning beauty of Big Sur, but with so many similar-looking stops, it can be tricky to optimize your limited time.

That’s why we made sure to visit the most unique stops that would give us the ultimate visual experience of Big Sur, all while fitting within our schedule.

As we drove down Highway 1, we crossed the iconic Bixby Bridge. Shortly after crossing, we stumbled upon Hurricane Point View. The view was simply breathtaking, with turquoise and blue waters glistening against the rocky coastline.

McWay Falls

Marvel at the stunning beauty of McWay Falls in Big Sur! For adventurers, a scenic hike leads to a viewpoint offering an unforgettable vista of the falls cascading into a secluded cove. Not into hiking? No worries! You can still enjoy the majestic sight from the side of the road.

Just park at the designated pullout along Highway 1 and soak in the breathtaking view. Whether you hike or drive, McWay Falls promises an awe-inspiring experience amidst California’s coastal paradise.

Henry Miller Memorial Library

Immerse yourself in the artistic ambiance of the Henry Miller Memorial Library, nestled amidst the redwoods of Big Sur. This cultural haven celebrates the legacy of author Henry Miller and serves as a tranquil retreat for book lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

A visit to this unique library promises to be a memorable blend of literary appreciation and natural beauty.

Pfeiffer Beach

Discover the hidden gem of Pfeiffer Beach, nestled along the rugged coastline of Big Sur. Known for its iconic purple sand, towering sea stacks, and dramatic sunsets.

This secluded beach offers a picture-perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Pro tip: Keep in mind that there’s a parking fee of $12, parking area is very small and gets filled quickly on holidays and weekends.

But trust me, the breathtaking views and serene atmosphere make it all worth it. Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic of Pfeiffer Beach on your Big Sur adventure!

Tips for driving the California Coast:

• 1. When driving from North to South along the California coast, fuel up in Monterey or Carmel as gas stations are sparse in Big Sur and Lucia, and they often charge higher prices.
• 2.Due to poor cell phone coverage, preload and start your GPS navigation before entering areas with spotty reception to avoid getting lost.
• 3.Bring along a packed lunch as dining options are limited along the route, with only a handful of places available to grab a bite.
• 4.Expect your drive to take double the estimated time due to frequent stops for admiring scenic viewpoints along the way.
• 5.If possible, include a hike in Pfeiffer State Park in your itinerary for an immersive experience amidst the coastal wilderness.
• 6.Check road conditions and closures beforehand, especially during winter months when sections of Highway 1 may be affected by landslides or other natural events.
• 7.Dress in layers as weather conditions along the coast can change rapidly, from sunny and warm to foggy and cool.
• 8.Keep a reusable water bottle handy to stay hydrated throughout your journey, as there may be limited access to potable water along the route.
• 9.Leave it better than you found it. Help combat extreme tourism by leaving beautiful places better than you found them. See trash? Pick it up. Brought it in? Take it out. You get the idea.

Helpful Links For A Quick Trip To Big Sur, California

While I can share our trip experiences, it always helps to do your own planning. Here are some resources I found to be helpful while planning our trip to Big Sur, California. 

Big Sur Kate: (visit site) Tons of websites recommended this site for up-to-date weather and road conditions and a ton of other helpful information. 

Big Sur Visitors Guide: (visit site) A great site with lots of resources to help you plan your trip.

Garrapata State Park (visit page)

Point Sur State Historic Park (visit page)

Andrew Molera State Park (visit page)

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park (visit page)

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park (visit page) 

Have you been to Big Sur? Tell me all about it below! I can’t wait to visit again!