Things to do in Big Sur

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McWay Falls featuring rocky coastline, a beach and a bay or harbor
Bixby Bridge showing general coastal views, a bridge and rugged coastline
Big Sur showing rugged coastline, a sandy beach and general coastal views
Bixby Bridge which includes a bridge
McWay Falls which includes general coastal views, a sandy beach and rugged coastline

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What to do in Big Sur

 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Big Sur

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park which includes mountains, general coastal views and landscape views

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Hike, camp or picnic among the redwood trees, waterfalls and dramatic coastal cliffs that have inspired artists, poets and writers for the past century.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Pfeiffer Beach

Pfeiffer Beach

If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Pfeiffer Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Big Sur. Amble around this relaxing area's seaside, or seek out the hiking trails.

Pfeiffer Beach
McWay Falls featuring a sandy beach and a waterfall

McWay Falls

Walk to this pretty waterfall, stand at viewpoints with superb coastal views and spot varied wildlife in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.

McWay Falls
Partington Cove which includes forests, hiking or walking and general coastal views

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

You can take time to visit Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park during your travels to Big Sur. Amble around the area's seaside, or seek out its hiking trails.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
So you've just visited historic McWay Falls located in the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. Now what, you might ask. If you're ready for more adventure then get back on the Pacific Coast Highway, and continue South about 25 miles to Sand Dollar Beach. It's a climb in and out, the ground is a little unsteady, and there are a whole lot of stairs to climb, but it's worth it. Here you'll want to linger and explore. You'll find plenty of talkative sea lions catching some sun on the rocks, a few sea birds, and maybe some otters! If the weather is just right, this is a great place to swim and surf! Be sure to look closely at the rocks on the beach, as the tide brings in some amazing sea life for you to discover. #BeachBound

Sand Dollar Beach

If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Sand Dollar Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Big Sur. Amble around this romantic area's seaside, or seek out the hiking trails.

Sand Dollar Beach
Limekiln State Park is a great stop with lots of hiking trails, big trees, a waterfall and amazing ocean views off the PCH. You can see where the fresh water meets the ocean. It has a small but popular campground with 31 sites among the redwoods and 11 sites with an ocean view. Easy trails lead to the lime kilns or up Hare Creek Canyon. Another leads to Limekiln Falls on the east fork of Limekiln Creek #river #ocean #bigsur #park #califorina #BeachTips

Limekiln State Park

You can take time to visit Limekiln State Park during your travels to Big Sur. Stroll along the seaside in this relaxing area, or seek out the hiking trails.

Limekiln State Park
On our last day in Big Sur and in Cali, we wanted to *hit the beach*. This was one of the closer ones to our campsite and was well worth the little hike! It was covered in cool driftwood sculptures and this amazing view. #LifeAtExpedia

Andrew Molera State Park

You can take time to visit Andrew Molera State Park during your travels to Big Sur. Stroll along the seaside or seek out the hiking trails.

Andrew Molera State Park
Rock balancing ... Listening to waves crashing ... Making wishes ... Appreciating nature ... Loving Mother Earth ... Living off the grid ... Enjoying my life ... Big Sur camping ... retreat from everyday woes ... End of May 2015

Jade Cove

Explore the great outdoors at Jade Cove, a lovely green space in Big Sur. Stroll along this relaxing area's seaside, or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Jade Cove
About a mile north of McWay Falls. There's nothing quite like twisting along the cliffs of Big Sur as the fog rolls over Hwy 1 a thousand feet above the crashing waves. A truly majestic place.

McWay Cove

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at McWay Cove during your travels in Big Sur. Amble around this relaxing area's seaside, or seek out the hiking trails.

McWay Cove

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Big Sur

Carmel featuring a house and autumn leaves

Carmel

San Simeon which includes a sunset, religious elements and a church or cathedral

San Simeon

Carmel Valley

Carmel Valley

Greenfield

Greenfield

Photo by Jen Reece

Lucia

Frequently asked questions

Is Big Sur worth visiting?
Famous for its camping and hiking, discovering fun things to do in Big Sur is simple. Remember to add Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park to your trip itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Big Sur?
Once you've checked off top attractions like Pfeiffer Beach and California Sea Otter Game Refuge, spend some time exploring Big Sur's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Big Sur?
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is one of the top tourist attractions in Big Sur and should feature high on every itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Big Sur?
Three days in Big Sur is more than enough to visit the city's major attractions. Many travelers spend two days on average. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Pfeiffer Beach and Andrew Molera State Park are among the most popular sights. Want to see more? Hang around a bit longer to check off nearby hotspots like Monterey.
What are some activities to do in Big Sur with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes a big difference. Check out our recommendations for what to do in Big Sur with kids.
What to do in Big Sur for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or thrill seeker, there are plenty of things to do in Big Sur for adults including Big Sur Discovery Center.
Are there free things to do in Big Sur?
From checking out parks to strolling around vibrant neighborhoods, it's easy to discover free things to do in Big Sur. If you need new ideas, ask a local tour guide for some tips. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a must for anyone wanting to save on their sightseeing adventures.