Big Sur

One of the most iconic spots in the U.S. is Big Sur! It is famous for its dramatic cliffside along Route 1 between Monterey and Morro Bay on the coast of central California. Similar to Ireland’s Cliffs of Moher, your jaw is bound to drop.

What to Do (food stop included)

I will write this post in a north-to-south fashion, which to me is the right way to do it as you will be driving closest to the cliff/beach views.

Castle Rock Viewpoint

The Bixby Bridge with the cliffs, beach, and ocean is THE picture to take in Big Sur. And everyone else wants to take it too! Get there before 8am during the prime summer months or this little parking lot on the side of the road will be full.

Andrew Molera State Park

There are many hikes at this state park that you can take, but this 2.3 mile short and easy walk to the beach is my favorite. Be prepared to walk about knee-deep through a small river, but it is well-worth the scenery at the end. Feel free to bring beach chairs with some snacks and water to relax on the beach, watch the waves, the surfers, and enjoy the cliffs from a different perspective. Tip: Instead of turning into the state park, park in a small unpaved parking lot on the east side of Route 1 (left side if you are driving north-south). This way you won’t have to pay for parking. Then, walk down the road towards the state park but turn left before you get to the ranger station. This will take you to the hike.

Nepenthe

Nepenthe is a popular restaurant known for seating famous people, and has exemplary food and California wine, with views for days! On the floor underneath it is the more affordable Cafe Kevah, which has very similar scenery and just as delicious food and drinks. On the floor below that is a cute gift shop, The Phoenix Shop.

Henry Miller Memorial Library

Less like a library and more like a memorial and a bookstore set in the middle of the forest. Feel free to unwind here, read a few books, and take a quick look at the very interesting sculptures/designs. Henry Miller was an author and his friend made this memorial for him.

McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

A waterfall onto a beach? Yes please! This short walk from the state park parking lot (you will need to pay a state park fee) will take you to a great view of the waterfall. If the season is right and the weather and sandstone allow, you can walk onto the beach as well. However due to falling rock, it took us to a point just enough so we could see the waterfall from up above. It was worth it!