The west coast of California is completely lovely to go to! Stuffed with epic drives, seaside cities and parks that stretch for miles; it’s the sort of place that’s excellent to discover. That is very true when fascinated about driving and recognizing all the perfect locations on a Huge Sur Street Journey in California.
So to make issues simpler on your journey, I wished to share all the perfect locations on a Huge Sur Roadtrip in California that we beloved. With the likes of; the finest seashores in California, cities like Monterey or as a part of a wider California street journey; it’s the sort of place that’ll go away you spoilt for selection.
Belief me, the Huge Sur is a route that you simply received’t wanna miss as you drive the west coast United States.
Have a look, beneath, at the perfect locations on a Huge Sur Roadtrip in California to discover. You’ll have essentially the most unimaginable time exploring California.
1.) Carmel By The Sea
Nestled on the shoreline of the Monterey Peninsula, Carmel By The Sea is a beautiful little metropolis that’s effectively value visiting when beginning or ending your Huge Sur Roadtrip in California.
Not solely does have some unimaginable, fairy-tale-like homes within the centre of town, it additionally has a surprising seashore! Carmel Seashore is inside simple attain of Scenic Street and nice to go to on a lovely sunny Californian day. That being stated, if seashores aren’t your factor, take a while to discover the Carmel Mission Basilica Museum which dates again to the 1700s and is completely gorgeous.
If you happen to’re fancying a stroll, head on the, close by, Moss Cove path that results in the Granite Level path. From right here, you possibly can observe the Whaler’s Cove that’s not solely attractive however comparatively simple to ramble.
Afterwards, head to the completely cosy, Dametra Cafe for his or her yummy (freshly-made) pasta. It’s so good.
Learn extra: Finest issues to do in Monterey
2.) Garrapata State Park
Round 10-12 miles south of Carmel By The Sea, Garrapata State Park is definitely top-of-the-line locations on a Huge Sur Street Journey in California it’s a must to go to. It’s attractive right here.
As you drive down the Cabrillo Freeway, make sure to cease off at Soberanes Level for some unimaginable views over the Pacific. That being stated, for those who’re fancying heading inland then pop onto the Soberanes Canyon Path that’s completely peaceable. Simply think about that it might get just a little busier on the weekends.
That being stated, for those who’re one thing of a seashore bum, then head straight right down to Garrapata Seashore that’s just a little additional down the coast. There’s parking inside simple attain of Garrapata Creek Bridge; making it an easy cease for a number of hours of chill time.
Learn extra: Finest seashores in California
3.) Partington Cove
Simply missed when trying to find the perfect locations on a Huge Sur Street Journey, Partington Cove is a beautiful little spot that’s a stone’s throw from Julia Pfeiffer Burns Vista Level (a fantastic spot for views, by the best way.).
Park up and observe the actually quick stroll alongside the Partington Cove Path, heading by the pedestrian tunnel to the cove itself. After you’ve arrived, you’ll be greeted by some fairly epic views, that are completely gorgeous round sundown. The truth is, I’d say this is among the finest sundown spots for those who favor a quieter little bay.
Learn extra: Finest Nationwide Parks in California to go to
4.) Salmon Creek Falls
Fancy a comparatively accessible hike? Then the Salmon Creek Path is a superb and reasonably simple hike to affix. Not solely that, you’ll be handled to views of the unimaginable Salmon Creek Falls.
Now, there’s restricted parking close to the trailhead and may get busy in peak instances or through the weekend. That being stated, for those who can’t discover a spot, park up close to the Buckeye Trailhead as there’s typically just a little more room right here.
It’s top-of-the-line locations on a Huge Sur Street Journey in California that’s comparatively accessible and completely lovely.
Learn extra: Finest locations on the West Coast USA to go to
5.) San Carpoforo Creek Seashore
Round a 10-15 minute drive from Salmon Creek Falls, San Carpoforo Creek Seashore is one other little gem that’s picture-perfect and virtually forgotten by most exploring the perfect locations on a Huge Sur Street Journey in California.
Now, though you received’t spend too lengthy visiting the seashore; it’s nonetheless completely value a cease, even for a quick 30-minute stroll. Although once more, identical to Salmon Creek Falls; parking may be restricted and there’s not a lot you are able to do if the areas are already full.
Learn extra: Finest locations in California to go to
6.) Elephant Seal Vista Level
Not too removed from Piedras Blancas Gentle Station, Elephant Seal Vista Level has an statement deck that’s simply some of the well-known spots to see seals in all of California. It’s truly unimaginable to go to and so superb to see all of the seals of their pure habitat.
If you happen to’re fortunate, and also you arrive round birthing season (between December-March), you may even get to see a seal start on the seashore itself.
As all the time, be aware of the marine wildlife and be a accountable customer. In spite of everything, nobody needs to disturb the habitat of the elephant seals.
Learn extra: Finest locations to see on a California street journey
7.) Monterey


Simply shy of Carmel By The Sea, Monterey is a beautiful metropolis! Better of all, it’s top-of-the-line locations on a Huge Sur Street Journey in California to go to at first (or finish) of your street journey.
As soon as right here, make sure to take a look at the historic Cannery Row, discover Outdated Fisherman’s Wharf and go to the Monterey Museum of Artwork. For a comparatively small metropolis; it’s packed filled with issues to do.


Oh, and make sure to head into First Awakenings for his or her unimaginable, fluffy and buttery, pancakes. It’s the proper spot for brunch.
Learn extra: Finest issues to do in Monterey
8.) Level Lobos State Pure Protect
simply shy of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Level Lobos State Pure Protect can be one of many first (or final) spots you go to when driving the Huge Sur.
Not solely is the shoreline completely breathtaking, however you’ll additionally get to see the seals that decision this space dwelling. It’s a picture-perfect spot and effectively value meandering the shoreline across the protect.
If you wish to get nearer to nature, you wish to attempt scuba diving at Whaler’s Cove or take the 6-mile path by the Cypress groves.
One factor to notice is there’s a cost for parking, so concentrate on this earlier than getting into; particularly for those who’re not planning on staying very lengthy.
Learn extra: Finest locations in San Francisco to go to
9.) Bixby Creek Bridge
Though dwelling to a number of picturesque bridges and vistas, one among my favourites needs to be Bixby Creek Bridge. Recognise it? Properly, for those who noticed the TV collection, Huge Little Lies, you’ll definitely bear in mind it.
Although, that’s not its solely declare to fame; Bixby Creek Bridge might be one of many extra recognisable spots for views throughout the Pacific.
If you happen to’ve received time, take within the views from the north and south points of the bridge itself. Relying on the time of the day (and the sunshine), you’ll get some completely spectacular and fairly contrasting views.
Nonetheless, to today, one among my favorite views of the bridge is from Fort Rock Viewpoint. You’ll adore it.
Learn extra: Finest hikes in California
10.) Level Sur State Park and Lighthouse
Whether or not you’re up for only a transient cease or down for a complete afternoon, Level Sur State Park and Lighthouse is a spot it’s a must to cease at. It’s top-of-the-line locations on a Huge Sur Street Journey in California that’s simply north of Andrew Molera State Park.
Rested on historical volcanic rock, this historic lighthouse from the 1800s has seen shipwrecks and even stopped many from colliding with the rugged Californian shore.
Fancying a stroll? Hope again within the automotive (for a couple of minutes) and head to Andrew Molera Seashore. This large and expansive seashore is completely lovely and often actually quiet.
11.) Pfeiffer Seashore
Most likely one among my favorite spots to go to in California, Pfeiffer Seashore, is second-to-none!
Although, make sure to maintain your eyes peeled when discovering the seashore. If you happen to’re driving south, down Freeway 1, look out for Sycamore Canyon Rd, which can lead you to this lovely gem of a spot.
Now, though there may be nonetheless a 2-mile drive earlier than you attain the precise seashore and the parking space, the journey can be value it. Belief me!
As soon as right here, you’ll see the attractive rock formations (like Keyhole Arch) and the attractive seashore the place you possibly can chill and benefit from the shoreline. Simply make sure to take loads of snacks, drinks and SPF. There’s little or no by way of facilities right here.
If you happen to’ve received time, pop into the Henry Miller Memorial Library to take a look at the superb books and historical past of the place. It’s such a inventive little spot and effectively value taking a gander as you go.
After a day on the seashore and library, head over to Nepenthe to have some healthful American dishes paired with some scrumptious Californian wines (for the non-driver, in fact). Their diver scallops are so scrumptious.
12.) Garrapata State Park & Seashore
You’ll come throughout Garrapata State Park first in case you are going south from the north. With a dramatic view of the surroundings, that is the proper spot on your breathtaking photographs. After some image taking, go to Garrapate State Seashore which is simply 2.8 miles removed from this park.
The Garrapate State Seashore is accessible to folks, permitting vacationers and locals to stroll on its sandy seashore or sunbathe. One of many perks of visiting the Garrapate State Park & Seashore is that these places are free for all!
Oh, and don’t overlook to cease off at Soberanes Level for the unimaginable views over the shoreline. Additionally, for those who’re fancying a ramble, make sure to be part of the Soberanes Level Path and loops across the space and simply off State Route 1.
Learn extra: Finest seashores in California
13.) McWay Falls
McWay Falls might be top-of-the-line locations on a Huge Sur Street Journey in California to go to. The truth is, I’d go so far as saying it’s one among California’s most well-known spots to see.
Now, regardless that you received’t be allowed to go to the seashore or falls themselves, the superb view from above is completely unimaginable.
You’ll get some unimaginable views for those who ramble alongside the McWay Falls Path and is completely picturesque on a beautiful sunny day. Additionally, don’t overlook, you’ll discover some parking close by; proper right here.
Learn extra: Finest hikes in California
14.) Limekiln State Park
One other excellent stopping level is the beautiful huge, Limekiln State Park.
Right here, you’ll be capable of observe some unimaginable trails, just like the Mill Creek Path but in addition see Limekiln Falls that’s simply shy of Hare Canyon Creek.
One factor to notice, even on a sunny day, Limekiln State Park can get fairly chilly. That is very true for those who’re climbing among the trails within the space (as many are shaded by cover timber).
Learn extra: Finest locations in California to go to
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