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Big Sur Coastal Drive

Kick off your Highway 1 adventure with the most famous bridge in California and some massive trees.

3days
9stops
117km
DAY01

Point Lobos State Natural Res… → Pfeiffer Big Sur

40 km · 35m driving · Overnight in Pfeiffer Big Sur
  1. 09:00
    Point Lobos State Natural Reserve· start
  2. 18 km · 15m
  3. 13:00
    Bixby Creek Bridge
  4. 22 km · 20m
  5. 15:30
    Pfeiffer Big Sur· overnight
Local Eats
  • Big Sur Bakery · Killer pastries and wood-fired pizzas in a cozy garden setting.
  • Nepenthe · Famous for the 'Ambrosia Burger' and views that will blow your mind.
Today's Budget
Park Entry
$10
Gas
$25
DAY02

Pfeiffer Beach → Limekiln

23 km · 35m driving · Overnight in Limekiln
  1. 10:00
    Pfeiffer Beach· start
  2. 3.8 km · 9m
  3. 14:00
    McWay Falls
  4. 20 km · 26m
  5. 16:30
    Limekiln· overnight
Don't Miss These
  • Coast Big Sur · Art gallery meets cafe. Try the soft serve and enjoy the rooftop.
  • Deetjen's Big Sur Inn · Super romantic, rustic vibes. The breakfast is legendary.
What to Budget
Pfeiffer Beach Parking
$15
Snacks
$20
DAY03

Sand Dollar Beach → Hearst Castle

54 km · 53m driving
  1. 09:30
    Sand Dollar Beach· start
  2. 12 km · 13m
  3. 12:30
    Elephant Seal Vista Point
  4. 42 km · 40m
  5. 14:30
    Hearst Castle
Coastal Bites
  • Sebastian's General Store · Great deli sandwiches and wine tasting right near the castle.
  • Moonstone Beach Bar & Grill · Fresh seafood with a view of the boardwalk in Cambria.
Today's Budget
Hearst Castle Tour
$30
Lunch
$25
Booking timeline
Book these before you go
  1. Days 1–2Stay in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park / Limekiln State Park · Nights 1-2
Heads Up
  • Gas is expensive in Big Sur—fill up in Monterey
  • Check for road closures on Highway 1 before you go
  • Bring layers; the coast gets chilly even in summer