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big sur 5d
This 5-day loop hits the absolute best of the California coast, from the rugged cliffs of Big Sur to the quirky charm of Cambria and the wine hills of Paso Robles.
5days
18stops
DAY01
Monterey Bay Aquarium → Carmel-by-the-Sea
Overnight in Carmel-by-the-Sea
- 10:00Monterey Bay Aquarium· start
- 13:00Cannery Row
- 15:0017-Mile Drive
- 18:00Carmel-by-the-Sea· overnight
Food
- Old Fisherman's Grotto · The clam chowder here is a game-changer. Get the bread bowl.
- Dametra Cafe · Greek food in Carmel with a crazy fun atmosphere. They might even sing.
Costs
- Aquarium Tickets
- $60
- 17-Mile Drive Fee
- $11
DAY02
Point Lobos → Pfeiffer Beach
Overnight in Pfeiffer Beach
- 09:00Point Lobos· start
- 11:30Bixby Creek Bridge
- 14:00Pfeiffer Big Sur
- 16:30Pfeiffer Beach· overnight
Food
- Big Sur Bakery · The ginger scones are legendary. Perfect for a road trip snack.
- Nepenthe · The view is better than the food, but the Ambrosia burger is solid.
Costs
- State Park Entry
- $10
DAY03
McWay Falls → San Simeon
Overnight in San Simeon
- 10:00McWay Falls· start
- 13:00Sand Dollar Beach
- 15:30Elephant Seal Vista Point
- 17:30San Simeon· overnight
Food
- Lucia Lodge · Eat fish and chips on a deck hanging over a 300ft cliff.
- Ragged Point Inn · The 'Million Dollar View' sandwich is a classic stop.
Costs
- Gas (Big Sur Premium)
- $80
DAY04
Hearst Castle → Cambria Village
Overnight in Cambria Village
- 09:30Hearst Castle· start
- 13:30Moonstone Beach
- 15:30Cambria Village· overnight
Food
- Linn's Restaurant · You MUST try the Olallieberry pie. It's a local obsession.
- Robin's Restaurant · Eclectic garden seating with amazing salmon bisque.
Costs
- Hearst Castle Tour
- $30
DAY05
Paso Robles Wine Country → Return to Monterey
- 10:00Paso Robles Wine Country· start
- 13:30Pinnacles National Park
- 17:30Return to Monterey
Food
- Firestone Grill · The Tri-tip sandwich is legendary in this part of CA.
- Negranti Creamery · Sheep's milk ice cream. Sounds weird, tastes incredible.
Costs
- Pinnacles Entry
- $30