Big Sur is an area on the coast of California, roughly in between San Simeon to the south and the little town of Big Sur to the north. It is not clearly defined and many people refer to different places when talking about Big Sur. Some talk about the Point Sur light house while some talk about the Julia Pfeiffer Burns park. Regardless of the proper definition of Big Sur, this area of the California Coast boasts some breathtaking views of the Pacific coast.
Main tourist attractions in Big Sur, California
- See more pictures from Big Sur
- Visit Heart Castle in San Simeon.
- Visit Point Sur Lighthouse
- Just stop along the Pacific Coast Highway and enjoy the scenery. And take lots of pictures.
- Stop by the Piedras Blancas beach. Stop there anytime and you can see at least 100 elephant seals lying on the beach and making loud noises. If you go in December or January you will see even more seals as that is their mating period.
San Simeon is a great place to start exploring Big Sur
We started our Big Sur exploration at San Simeon where the famous Hearst Castle is. Yes, we did visit the castle the day before and that particular day of December we just wanted to take a drive up the coast (on Pacific Coast Highway) and see what we can see in one day and return to our motel in Cambria. We read about Big Sur but we weren’t sure what to expect. Little did we know that we will end up stopping every few miles or so, sometimes after each turn. My wife and I kept saying: “Wow, look at this…we have to pull over !”.
Big Sur, California – Rugged and rocky California coastline.
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A little hiking can reveal great natural beauty
We made a short stop at Julia Pfeiffer Burns Park to see probably the most photographed piece of California coast. The park is right by Highway 1 and you can get to see this beautiful view of McCoy Falls after a short hike from the parking lot. It’s well worth your time.
Big Sur, California – McCoy Falls is a small secluded beach with a waterfall in Julia Pfeiffer Burns Park. It is arguably the most photographed spot in Big Sur, California
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Is it worth visiting Big Sur, California?
We just loved Big Sur and the San Simeon areas. If you like nature and are not looking for exciting night life, this area will be a great destination for you. I don’t think you would find many other spots on earth where just driving around is so much fun!
Tourist resources for planning your trip to Big Sur, California
- Search my list of hotels in the Central California area.
- Book a beautiful tour of the California Coast from San Francisco to Los Angeles
San Simeon, California – Hearst Castle is a beautiful castle with an ocean view
Dramatic views of the rugged California coast at Shell Beach
A day at the beach at Point Mugu
Pismo Beach, California – Astonishing views and fun activities
I’m not familiar with what these people have done but the results are amazing. There is very little commercial development along the California Coast and it is a great delight to just be able to admire the beautiful landscapes.
Big Sur remains the finest example of untouched California coastline left. Thanks to a handful of forward thinking ranchers and state parks service.