Today, visitors to Big Sur can glide through roughly 85 miles of stunning scenery in a couple of hours, but the region remains an overwhelming and somewhat unknowable place to many. It's crowded, for starters -- Big Sur after all, is right up there with New York's Times Square on the list of must-sees for many visitors to the United States, let alone us Americans.
How crowded is Big Sur in summer?
During most summer weekends and on all major holidays, Big Sur is overwhelmingly crowded.
How did Big Sur get its reputation?
Big Sur acquired a bohemian reputation with these newcomers. Kerouac followed Miller to Big Sur and included the rugged coast in large parts of two of his novels. He spent a few days in early 1960 at fellow poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti 's cabin in Bixby Canyon and based his novel Big Sur on his time there.
How many times has Big Sur been closed?
Big Sur. Along with the ocean views, this winding, narrow road, often cut into the face of towering seaside cliffs, dominates the visitor's experience of Big Sur. The highway has been closed more than 55 times by landslides, and in May 2017, a 2,000,000-cubic-foot (57,000 m 3) slide blocked the highway at Mud Creek,...
What are the downsides of a Big Sur road trip?
Not many out-of-towners know this, but coastal fog is another downside of a Big sur road trip during summertime; it can hang around as late as midday! The fog is usually gone by early Fall, and you can even witness whales and butterflies this time of year (yes, really, if you know where to look!)
What is the best time to visit Big Sur?
The most popular time to visit Big Sur is between April to October, when the weather is nicest. (Though one should be warned that the marine layer coats much of the coast in the mornings during parts of the high season.) Businesses are not open as long during the off-peak season.
Is Big Sur touristy?
The views, redwood forests, hiking, beaches, and other recreational opportunities have made Big Sur a popular destination for about 7 million people who live within a day's drive and visitors from across the world.
How long should you spend in Big Sur?
2-3 daysIf you are staying in the area, we recommend spending at least 2-3 days in the area. There are so many beautiful hikes, beaches, and nearby towns that will make it easy to fill those three days. One of the best parts about visiting Big Sur is not being rushed and taking the time to enjoy the area at a relaxing pace.
Is Big Sur worth the drive?
Big Sur is a 90-mile scenic drive, so you'll definitely want to rent a car. If you have the time and the means, I highly recommend making your trip to Big Sur part of a larger West Coast road trip! Consider visiting Yosemite National Park and Redwood National Park while you're on the west coast.
Is the drive to Big Sur scary?
California Highway 1 in the Big Sur region is one of the state's most dangerous highways, even in good weather. It is narrow (almost entirely one lane in each direction), and travelers who are driving slowly or have stopped entirely, directly on the highway, to admire the view can pose hazards to other drivers.
What do I need to know before going to Big Sur?
Only budgeting a few hours. ... Not saving all of the must-sees to a Google map. ... Not bringing a car charger for your phone. ... Only stopping at the famous spots. ... Not going to all of the state parks in the same day. ... Driving North through the Big Sur. ... Not filling up your gas tank before starting the Big Sur Itinerary.More items...•
What is so special about Big Sur?
But along with its rugged natural beauty, Big Sur is a region with a long artistic history, as well as creative restaurants and unique resorts that let you immerse yourself in this world of fogs, redwood forests, and incomparable coastal views.
Can you drive through Big Sur a day?
If you're going to drive all of the Big Sur coastline in a day, coming from the Bay Area, you'll want to be prepared for at least 5 hours of driving each way, a total of 10 hours on the road. For this, it's pretty essential to have a second driver unless you are perfectly comfortable driving that much in a single day.
How long does it take to drive thru Big Sur?
2 hoursHow long does it take to drive the Big Sur coastline? It could take as little as 2 hours (if you don't stop at all), or 2 days if you make all the stops for the views, foods, and hikes. Pace yourself – it's all beautiful.
Are there giant redwoods in Big Sur?
Named for the pioneer family that conveyed to the state of California a key piece of land here, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is home to some of the region's most impressive redwoods.
What is the prettiest part of Pacific Coast Highway?
The Golden Gate Bridge Perhaps one of the most iconic views along the whole highway – San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge is as visually stunning as the views one gets from the bridge itself. Before you head across, come off the highway to get some of the best views and see the best San Francisco sights of the area.
How do I spend my day at Big Sur?
How to Spend 1 Day in Big Sur, CaliforniaBixby Creek Bridge. ... Stroll around Andrew Molera State Park. ... Hang Out at the Big Sur Village. ... Purple Sand at Pfeiffer State Beach. ... Drive the Pacific Coast Highway. ... Partington Cove Trail. ... Gaze Upon McWay Falls. ... Accommodations in Big Sur.
IS Big Sur walkable?
The long sandy beach is fringed with rocks and the cliffs of Big Sur, making for a lovely setting. Access to the beach is via steep stairs. You can take a walk along the long sandy beach, or walk the bluff trail above if you don't want to negotiate the stairs.
What is great about Big Sur?
But along with its rugged natural beauty, Big Sur is a region with a long artistic history, as well as creative restaurants and unique resorts that let you immerse yourself in this world of fogs, redwood forests, and incomparable coastal views.
Can you go swimming in Big Sur?
Though Big Sur has a lot of ocean and many beaches, some of which have sand surfaces, safe ocean swimming locations and times are rare. The Big Sur coast has strong tides and currents, heavy waves, and cold water. Many have drowned while in the water or while climbing on shoreline rocks.
Which is better Macos Big Sur or Monterey?
If you're looking for the best Mac OS for your device, Big Sur may be the better choice. Nonetheless, Monterey is faster in general and Big Sur may be the best option for some devices. While Big Sur's UI overhaul was largely unchanged, Monterey has added some refinements and settings that make it more functional.
What is the weather like in Big Sur?
Temperatures are moderate, with the highs ranging from the high 70s to mid-60s, and the lows hanging in the low 50s to mid-40s. Aside from the pleasant temps, fall also offers exciting wildlife activity. Blue whales, humpback whales and orcas are known to frequent the area in September. And during October, hundreds of monarch butterflies can be seen at Andrew Molera State Park migrating to their winter homes. Until Labor Day, visitors can still take advantage of the various summer activities and programs offered by Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, including nature walks, campfires and educational youth programs.
When is the best time to visit Big Sur?
Big Sur. The best time to visit Big Sur is from September to November. With more than 300 days of sunshine per year, Big Sur's peak season runs long, from April to October. However, once August passes, crowds start to disperse and high temperatures inland start to drop, leaving more room for visitors to wander on the coast and the mountains.
What are the activities at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park?
Until Labor Day, visitors can still take advantage of the various summer activities and programs offered by Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, including nature walks, campfires and educational youth programs. If you're looking to have Big Sur to all to yourself, visit during winter.
What flowers bloom in Big Sur?
Aside from fewer rain showers and a slight rise in temperature, spring is favored for its flowers. Big Sur is filled with spectacular flora with wild iris blooming in the forest, willows and calla lilies showing up near creeks, and emerald green hills sprouting Lupine and California poppies.
When is Big Sur peak season?
September-November. Although September and October are still considered part of Big Sur's peak season, the crowds are more manageable compared to the summer months. That number dwindles even more come November when the rainy season starts to kick in. Temperatures are moderate, with the highs ranging from the high 70s to mid-60s, ...
Is Big Sur closed for pedestrians?
In April, the Big Sur International Marathon draws crowds in the thousands, as it is the only time the highway is closed for pedestrians. Summer is peak season for tourism in Big Sur, meaning you'll run into high prices for accommodations, as well as lots of other travelers on the trails.
Is Big Sur cooler than the mountains?
It's important to note that temperatures in Big Sur vary by geography. Temps on the coast tend to be cooler than the mountains, especially during the summer. With this in mind, it's best to pack a jacket any time of year. Protect Your Trip: Search, compare and buy the best travel insurance for the lowest price.
