Looking up on a clear, Big Sur night, it seems that someone imported extra stars and scattered them across the sky until Orion almost disappears, wrapped in a twinkling blanket. In the day, the ocean is the star of the show, with crashing waves and sweeping vistas that end only at the horizon.
You most likely saw news coverage of the Big Sur wildfires in 2008, but thanks to the efforts of the firefighters, the scenic areas along the coast were spared, and the most you will see during a drive along Hwy 1 is a few fire-blackened hillsides.
You can plan your Big Sur weekend getaway in a jiffy using the resources below.
Why Should You Go? Will You Like It?
- Take a look at our Big Sur Pictures.
- Big Sur is popular for relaxing and romantic getaways, and with those who love natural beauty.
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Best Time to Go
Big Sur weather is best spring to fall, but the coast may be shrouded in fog during mid-summer.5 Great Things to Do
- Take a drive on Highway One: It's great in both directions: south toward Hearst Castle or north toward Monterey. Just be careful you don't get so lost in the view that you have an accident.
- Point Sur Lighthouse: This beautifully-sited lighthouse just north of Big Sur has an interesting history.
- Pfeiffer Beach: It would be very easy to drive right past the road leading to this beach, but you'll be glad we told you about this unspoiled spot with its unique purple sand.
- Esalen Hot Springs: These relaxing, natural waters are open to the general public (reservation only, 831-667-3047) from 1 a.m. to 3 a.m.
- Lunch at Nepenthe: This charming spot is a great spot to linger over lunch and enjoy the view.
Annual Events You Should Know About
- Hidden Gardens Tour: In late June every year, you can see some of Big Sur's nicest gardens that aren't usually open to the public.
- Big Sur Marathon: You may not want to run 26 miles, but you do need to know that this race, held in late April, closes Highway One for almost half a day.
Tips for Visiting Big Sur
- If you are only driving one direction through Big Sur and you have flexibility to choose which one, try to do it from south to north. The skies will appear clearer and you'll be on the inside of the curves.
- If you or anyone in your vehicle is prone to motion sickness, bring your favorite remedies or let them drive.
- This is not a place to try to find a hotel room as you go. Reserve ahead or you end up like I did once, unable to find a place to stay.
Best Bites
A weekend getaway is a great time to enjoy a leisurely brunch. If you're headed north on your way home, try the Sunday brunch at Mission Ranch in Carmel. With live jazz music playing and pastoral views, this place could get you so relaxed that you won't be able to leave.Where to Stay
Getting There
Driving? Big Sur is 140 miles from San Francisco, 100 miles from San Jose, 218 miles from Sacramento, 310 miles from Los Angeles, 212 miles from Bakersfield. Find out how far Big Sur is from other California places.Flying? The nearest airport is in Monterey. For more frequent flights, try San Jose. Check airfares.
