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Big Sur Coastal Escape

Welcome to the edge of the world! We're starting in Carmel and heading south into the heart of the rugged coast.

3days
9stops
DAY01

Point Lobos State Natural Res… → Pfeiffer Big Sur

Overnight in Pfeiffer Big Sur
  1. 09:00
    Point Lobos State Natural Reserve· start
  3. 13:30
    Bixby Creek Bridge
  5. 15:30
    Pfeiffer Big Sur· overnight
Fuel for the Road
  • Stationæry · Killer brunch in Carmel. Get the potato pancake, it's a game-changer.
  • Big Sur Taphouse · Chill vibes and local beers. Perfect for a post-hike wind down.
Daily Damage
Park Entry
$10
Boutique Lodge
$350
DAY02

Pfeiffer Beach → McWay Falls

Overnight in McWay Falls
  1. 10:00
    Pfeiffer Beach· start
  3. 13:00
    Nepenthe
  5. 15:30
    McWay Falls· overnight
Eats with a View
  • Nepenthe · Pricey, but the view is unbeatable. Grab an Ambrosia Burger on the terrace.
  • Big Sur Bakery · Hidden gem behind a gas station. Their wood-fired pizzas are legendary.
Budget Check
Pfeiffer Beach Fee
$15
Dinner at Nepenthe
$60
DAY03

Sand Dollar Beach → Hearst Castle

  1. 10:00
    Sand Dollar Beach· start
  3. 13:00
    Elephant Seal Vista Point
  5. 15:00
    Hearst Castle
Local Favorites
  • Sebastian's General Store · Great deli sandwiches near Hearst Castle. Perfect for a quick bite.
  • Linn's Restaurant · You're in Cambria, you MUST get the Olallieberry pie. Trust me.
Final Day Costs
Hearst Castle Tour
$30
Gas
$50
Heads Up
  • Check Caltrans for road closures
  • Cell service is non-existent
  • Download offline maps