Road Trippin’ California: What To Do In Big Sur

Greetings friends! Prepare to be whisked away to a magical wonderland known as Big Sur, California! It’s one of those rare places that simply takes your breath away with its rugged charm and natural beauty. Nestled right along the Pacific Coast Highway, this wonderland is filled to the brim with delights for nature lovers and adventurers alike. You’ll be spellbound by the stunning coastal views and enchanted by the towering redwood forests. If you’ve been ferociously searching for what to do in Big Sur National Park, you’ve come to the right place.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a fantastical journey, let’s take a look at some of the absolute best things to do and see in Big Sur! Trust me, it’s going to be worth it! 

What To Do In Big Sur 

Pfeiffer Beach 

When thinking of what to do in Big Sur, we made sure to add Pfeiffer Beach to our list. Trust me, this place is a must-visit! You’ll find stunning crystal-clear waters, towering sea stacks, and unique purple sand, you’ll feel like you’re in a dream. Seriously though, the sand is so cool, it’s created by manganese garnet deposits in the rocks. It’s like nothing you’ve ever seen before. 

When you’re cruising along Highway 1 near Big Sur Station, keep an eye out for an unmarked road called Sycamore Canyon. It’s a bit hidden, but totally worth the detour. The road is only two miles long, but it’s twisty and narrow, so don’t bring your RV or trailer. You’ll see a yellow sign that says “Narrow Road” at the turnoff. Trust me, it’s better to leave those wheels behind and enjoy the ride down to the shore without any stress or hassle. We fared fine in our Jucy Rental, which I fully recommend renting from for a California road trip. 

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

If you’re looking for things to do in Big Sur, look no further than Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. It is THE quintessential Big Sur experience. Named after a badass pioneer woman who lived in Big Sur over a century ago, this state park has some serious history to it. But that’s not all it offers. You’ll be blown away by the 80-foot waterfall that plunges right into the ocean – McWay Falls. It’s truly a sight to behold. And if you’re up for a bit of adventure, you can hit up the hiking trails that wind through the park and take in some of the most breathtaking views of the coastline. Don’t forget your camera for this one!

This gem is located on the rugged coastline, accessible via the winding Highway One which offers panoramic views of the ocean. The park is divided into two parts – to the south, you’ll find the main parking lot that leads to the 5-mile-long Ewoldsen Trail, an undeveloped campground, and the park’s most popular attraction, McWay Falls, which is just a short walk away. To the north, there’s the 5-mile-long Tan Oak Trail and the Partington Cove short trail, both hidden at an unmarked bend in the road. Unlike the heavily developed Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park offers minimal facilities, making it the perfect place to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.

Take A Scenic Drive

Ah, the Pacific Coast Highway – a road that’s not just a means to an end, but a destination in and of itself.

As the road winds its way through Big Sur, you’ll be treated to some of the most stunning views of the California coastline. Make sure to take your time and stop at some of the many lookout points along the way, like the iconic Bixby Bridge, to soak in the scenery and snap some photos. And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, why not venture off the beaten path and explore some of the lesser-known routes that offer equally breathtaking views? Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or just looking for a scenic Sunday drive, the Pacific Coast Highway through Big Sur is not to be missed.

Los Padres National Forest 

If you’re looking for another outdoor adventure in Big Sur, Los Padres National Forest is a must-visit. It’s nestled in the heart of Big Sur National Park, and this lush forest offers miles of crazy hiking trails that wind through towering redwood trees (seriously, they’re huge!) and along rugged mountain peaks. You’ll find yourself drooling over breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and west coast. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely walk, the trails in the national forest have something for everyone (check out All Trails for hikes for all intensities). If you’re really lucky, you might even spot some of the forest’s diverse wildlife, such as mountain lions, black bears, and California condors.

We stumbled across this lake nestled in the heart of the forest, so don’t forget to pack your camera and enjoy the unexpected beauty. 

Go Whale Watching

One of the most exhilarating experiences you can have in Big Sur is going whale watching. The rugged coastline and open waters make it one of the best places in California to witness these majestic creatures. Trust us, we saw a pod of Orcas just out to sea on one of our pit stops (for those who know me, they know Orcas are literally my fave!) 

Depending on the time of year, you might be able to spot grey whales, humpback whales, or even blue whales on their migration. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and there are several tour companies in the area that offer whale-watching excursions. The guides will take you out to sea  and provide fascinating insights into the behavior of these gentle giants. Don’t forget to bring a camera, as you’ll want to capture the incredible moment when these magnificent creatures breach the surface of the ocean. 

Bixby Bridge 

Welcome to Big Sur’s version of the Golden Gate! I’m so excited to share this must-see road trip spot with you, which is probably the most Instagrammed feature along the Highway One coastline. And let me tell you, it’s worth every bit of hype! 

When you pull over at the numerous turnouts, you’ll be treated to some of the most breathtaking views ever, especially at sunset. The reason Bixby Bridge lands on my list of what to do in Big Sur is due to the history behind it. Did you know that the concrete bridge was completed in 1932 for just over $200,000? It’s one of the highest bridges of its kind in the world and soars 260 feet above the bottom of a steep canyon carved by Bixby Creek. A massive wooden framework had to be built, and materials had to be brought by truck on what was then a narrow, one-way road with hairpin turns. The builders had to haul up a staggering 45,000 individual sacks of cement, all before advanced heavy machinery could help do the lifting. Fair play!

Today, the bridge is still a favorite attraction for photographers, from professionals to those in search of the ultimate depth-of-field selfie. But whether you’re snapping away or not, make sure to take advantage of the multiple viewpoints. Trust me; they’re key for reveling in 360-degree views instead of just the direction you’re going. Definitely a must-see in Big Sur. 

These are just a few of the wonderful things you can do in Big Sur National Park. This wonderland offers natural beauty and adventure for all. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply looking to relax by the beach, Big Sur has something to offer for everyone, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking to escape into nature, Big Sur is the perfect destination for a truly unforgettable experience. 🏔

Planning a California road trip? Or just looking for more than what to do in Big Sur… check out my whole California category for guides, journals, and inspiration. ✨