The Big Sur Adventure Guide
Updated by Aventura Apr 12, 2023
If you're reading this, chances are that the idea of venturing into the wilderness to explore for adventure is something that intrigues you. You're in luck. The Big Sur wilderness is filled with beautiful coastlines, raging rivers, and rugged mountains.
Before getting into this article, let us just say that Big Sur is one of the most beautiful places in California. There are pretty much endless scenic and fun activities you can do in Big Sur, and this blog post is going to share some of our favorites with you.
In this post, we share tips and information on how to plan your perfect adventure in Big Sur, a popular camping destination where people usually enjoy activities such as hiking, backpacking, camping and kayaking.
Looking for Adventure in Big Sur?
The Big Sur coast is one of the most beautiful and dramatic landscapes in the world. A rugged strip of land between the ocean and the mountains, it’s a place where you can hike through redwoods, gaze out over the Pacific Ocean, watch whales migrate, and catch glimpses of California condors flying overhead.
The Big Sur coastline stretches for roughly 90 miles between Carmel-by-the-Sea and San Simeon. It features breathtaking vistas, secluded inns, and luxurious resorts. You can find plenty of ways to explore this rugged landscape on foot or by car.
With so many things to do in Big Sur, it can be hard to know where to start. Here’s a complete guide to having an adventure in Big Sur.
McWay Falls is a short walk from Highway 1 and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. This beach is surreal, and it just so happens to come with a gorgeous waterfall. That's right, you didn't misread the headline — this is an awesome hike with a waterfall right there on the beach, in California. A flowing waterfall, eighty feet in height, right next to the shore.
The trail to McWay Falls is one of the most popular day hikes in Big Sur — and it's easy enough that just about anyone can do it! You'll hike along a wooded path until you reach the edge of the canyon, where you'll find an incredible view down over McWay Creek Falls.
Similar to the aforementioned waterfalls, Partington Cove can be found in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and is regarded as one of Big Sur's top attractions. There are several trailheads to explore in this area. The primary path, known as Partington Cove Trail, connects two distinct areas.
If you stick to the creeks and rivers, you'll eventually reach Partington Point. The Cove may be reached by continuing down the route in the other direction. Take this alternative route to reach a long-lost tunnel and the water's edge. While it formerly served as a harbor, today's visitors can enjoy peaceful strolls and a breathtaking view of the ocean.
You may use this time to explore the various hiking routes in the region. While there is parking close to the trailheads, overnight visitors should make reservations at a nearby campsite.
3. Bike through the Redwoods
The redwood forest is home to some of America's tallest trees and most pristine habitats. Biking through this ancient forest is an amazing way to experience nature at its finest. Biking is one of the best ways to see Big Sur’s natural beauty up close, and it’s also one of the easiest ways to get an adrenaline rush while still enjoying some peace along the way. There are several companies near Carmel-by-the-Sea that offer guided tours through these forests on electric bikes or even Segways! For those looking for an independent adventure, it's possible to rent bikes right outside of Big Sur Station and explore on your schedule!
4. Visit Garrapata State Park
The breathtaking Garrapata State Park in Big Sur stretches for 2.1 miles along both sides of Highway 1 in this area. Walk out to scenic coastal vistas on the Bluff Trail in picturesque Garrapata State Park. On the other hand, you may walk into the redwood grove that's on the other side of the road.
Pfeiffer Beach is a long stretch of purple sand that runs along 1.5 miles south of Pfieffer State Park in Big Sur. It's known as one of the prettiest beaches in California, and it's a great place to stop when driving along Highway 1 or hiking the coast trail. This beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike because it offers great views of Bixby Creek Bridge and other natural features along the beachfront. You can also find lots of tide pools here if you want to explore them! If you're looking for things to do in Big Sur with kids then this is one we recommend checking out with your family!
6. Stroll or ride along Carmel's scenic drive
If you are staying in Carmel, you should make your way down to the beach to take a scenic driving tour around Carmel's famed coastline. There is parking available at Carmel River State Beach. This path is just about a mile long, but it is most enjoyable when taken at a leisurely pace, either on foot or on a bicycle.
When you reach the end of Ocean Avenue, you can pick up the scenic road and head south to take in the breathtaking vistas of Point Lobos. Take the 15th Street exit to see Clint Eastwood's Mission Ranch hotel and restaurant. It's surrounded by a never-ending supply of stunning seaside scenery and quaint fairytale homes.
7. Dinner and drinks at Nepenthe Restaurant
Big Sur has a reputation for being one of the more laid-back destinations on the west coast, but if you want to unwind after a long day of exploring, head to Nepenthe Restaurant for dinner and drinks. The restaurant sits on top of a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, so you can enjoy incredible views while you dine.
Where to Stay
Big Sur is home to some of the most public beautiful campsites in the country – so it’s definitely worth considering a night under the stars. Check out another post of ours which covers our favorite campsites in the Big Sur area for more info.
If the camping thing isn’t quite for you, there are a handful of hotels and airbnb’s within a short drive to Big Sur. These are going to be pretty pricey if you don’t plan ahead, due to the limited supply of lodging in the area. Here are a few:
Takeaway
Big Sur's beauty attracts many visitors to the area to enjoy its natural beauty and solitude. Big Sur offers everything from sandy beaches to steep mountainsides covered in redwoods. If you're looking for an exciting way to spend your vacation this summer, then consider exploring Big Sur.
Due to its huge popularity, however, be sure to plan well ahead. If you’re wanting to spend more than just the day at Big Sur, this is not one of those places you can show up and wing it. Book your campsite and/or lodging as early as possible, things fill up quick. Enjoy!
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