Exploring Big Sur: A Complete Travel Guide

A few weeks back, I finally checked off a place from my 2018 travel wish list. I’d say 2018 is shaping up nicely! Hard to believe, but despite living in California for almost my whole life, I had only visited Big Sur once—when I was around 12. How did I miss this incredible spot right in my own backyard for so many years? It wasn’t until one of the biggest landslides in California’s history struck the area that this beautiful yet rugged stretch of the central coast grabbed my attention. Last winter’s heavy rains triggered devastating landslides and a collapsed bridge on Highway 1, cutting off access to the region for nearly eight months. Since then, Big Sur has recovered, with most of the iconic highway cleared and a new bridge built. Nature can be both a force and a gift, right? Anyway, I’m overjoyed to have finally taken the trip. Calling Big Sur spectacular doesn’t do it justice—its coastline ranks among the most stunning I’ve ever laid eyes on. If you haven’t been, I strongly encourage you to go. Don’t just drive through; spend a weekend and check out my tips on where to stay and what to see!

Check Out Bixby Bridge: If you’re heading south, Bixby Bridge is one of the first picture-perfect stops on Highway 1. It’s an ideal place to pause as you enter Big Sur. Built in 1932, this concrete span is an architectural feat, featuring a single-span concrete arch. After pulling over, you can capture the most photographed landmark on the West Coast from both the east and west sides.

Stay at Ventana Big Sur: As we arrived at Ventana’s secluded retreat, nestled among 160 forested acres along the Pacific coast, I felt immediately amazed and relaxed. Beyond the obvious dramatic setting, this adults-only resort is executed with flawless luxury. While Big Sur was closed to the public due to the landslides, the resort used the downtime for a rebranding and renovation. Fifty-nine updated suites blend humbly into their majestic surroundings—each surrounded by tall redwoods and ocean views, with outdoor hammocks and showers. Scenic paths led us across the property, letting us explore the Social House, the Japanese Hot Baths, the Redwood Cathedral, the pools, and The Sur House restaurant. Everything here is about laid-back vibes, and I cherished every moment.

See McWay Falls: McWay Falls is an 80-foot waterfall that tumbles directly into the ocean, surrounded by an untouched cove. It’s about nine miles (a 20-minute drive) from Ventana, and you’ll hike roughly a quarter of a mile to reach the perfect viewpoint. I suggest visiting McWay in the late afternoon, when sunlight hits the falls just right.

Where to Eat: Don’t skip breakfast at Big Sur Bakery and Deetjen’s. For a casual lunch with breathtaking views, head to Nepenthe. Grab a cocktail and watch the sunset at Post Ranch Inn or Ventana’s The Sur House. If you end up at The Sur House, stay for the evening and enjoy a locally sourced meal outdoors on their expansive deck overlooking the ocean. And if you’re in the mood for a nightcap, go to Big Sur Taphouse and have a drink with the locals.

Glamp at Ventana Big Sur: In addition to the 59 suites at Ventana, there are 15 safari-style canvas tents spread across 20 acres of Redwood forests on the property. You know, in case you want to “rough it.” I didn’t get to try the newly launched glamping experience, but I’m really excited to bring the kids back since it’s family-friendly! Each glampsite includes a wood-burning fire pit, a luxurious bed with heated blankets, an ice chest, a picnic table, and a turndown service that provides hot cocoa and a s’mores kit. Dreamy. And if you’re willing to pay an extra resort fee, you can access Ventana’s spa, Social House, pools, and fitness center. Done and done. I’m definitely coming back for this!

Visit Pfeiffer Beach at Sunset: Just three and a half miles from Ventana lies Pfeiffer Beach, the only place you want to be at sunset. And if you’re into photography, it’s even better in the middle of the night to capture the starry sky. The turn-off is easy to miss—it’s just north of the Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge—and you might think you’re on the wrong road, but keep driving and you’ll reach the parking lot for this picturesque beach, where photographers scramble to capture the sun setting behind one of many rock keyholes and archways. You might even notice purple sand, which comes from manganese garnet rocks in the cliffs!

(images by HonestlyWTF & HonestlyYUM)