Route 1 – Big Sur Coast Highway (original) (raw)
Route 1 – Big Sur Coast HighwayBy Ways2021-10-26T20:00:56-04:00
Route 1 – Big Sur Coast Highway
State: California
Length: 72 miles / 115.2 km
Time to Allow: Allow 3 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
Tour the coast of California on the Big Sur Coast Highway on Route 1. It’s a 72-mile byway with views of the ocean all the way from San Simeon up to Carmel By the Sea, sweeping up the coast of central California. If you live in Monterey, this is a great day trip. If you own an Apple computer, then your desktop may have a picture of this byway! Take an hour or two or a few days and trail the coast with ease.
Begin your journey in Caramel by the Sea at the north end of the byway. Not only is the beach famous for surfing, but for incredible views worthy of tons of photos. Take the Scenic Bluff Path for a well-maintained gravel pathway for running or walking. The park allows for dogs off-leash, so your fur-ball can enjoy the water with you.
Try a variety of different foods from fancy to taverns like Brophy’s Tavern for a British meal of fish and chips with a pint. Artists love this town as the town offers an annual art festival and multiple art galleries too. Take an art tour and get hands-on. After, try out shopping at a variety of unique shops unlike any elsewhere, like the Elizabeth W apothecary with home goods and personalized perfume. All of the shops add beauty and sophistication to the coast with timeless beauty.
Moving down the coast, stop at Calla Lily in the spring to see the beautiful flowers line the path of the Garrapata State Beach. The beach also offers hiking trails around the rocky water entrance and views of vistas too. Keep in mind, the area often closes due to fires and other natural issues, so check before visiting.
The most infamous Bixby Creek Bridge, where the golden arches line you up for incredible night Skys and views of the milky way. Several lighthouses dot the volcanic rock like the Point Sur Lighthouse, open since 1889 to prevent shipwrecks with breathtaking views of the water and mountains. Stay nearby at the Big Sur River Inn with a rustic cabin feel and a restaurant nestled in with redwood trees.
In the Los Padres National Forest sits a perfect slice of heaven, Pfeiffer Beach with purple sands, arching rocks, and spectacular sunsets. Not far away, stop at McWay Falls to see a tidefall right out of the ocean, ready to make you ready to see mermaids pop out of the water. Continue south to Limekiln State Park for towering redwoods, waterfalls, rugged shores, and trails filled with beauty.
For a unique adventure, stop at Ventana Big Sur Resort, where safari-type tents and Japanese baths make for a perfect oasis with beautiful views. Even the bathrooms are glammed up for a different camping experience, including pools, fitness equipment, and more. State at the resort for a more relaxed experience. You can even charter a private plan for travel possibilities. End your trip at Hearst Castle in San Simeon. Check for dates as the castle does have regular closures.
More California Byways
You can check out additional Byways in California by clicking on the list of byways below, or by going to the California Byways home section. To find even more of scenic byways in the United States, visit our scenic byways map.