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California Destinations - Central Coast - Big Sur

The Big Sur coastline is one of California's highlights that makes the front cover of international guidebooks. Jagged cliffs jut out of the Pacific as the land rises to soaring heights.

Big Sur is a place where you can escape civilization and immerse yourself in solitude, or simply drive through, pausing ocassionally to breathe in its stunning natural beauty and gentle Pacific breezes.

The area is equally popular with adventure-seeking hikers and scuba divers as it is with those who relish in glass of fine wine, sipped in a 5-star restaurant.

 
WHAT'S TO SEE ?
 Highlights
 
 
Classic California Scenery
California poppies, costal chapperal, oak groves and the Pacific Ocean unite to form a classically Californian tapestry. Highlighting the scenes are dramatic rocky coastline and the imposing Santa Lucia Mountains, which rise out of the Pacific to heights of nearly 6000 feet.
  Whales
Imagine having breakfast high above the ocean while watching Earth's largest creatures passing by hundreds of feet below. It happens in Big Sur.
 
Creekside Redwood Groves
Big Sur marks the southern boundary for Coastal Redwood habitat. Receiving less moisture than their more northerly counterparts, Big Sur redwoods cluster around streams for their water.
  Rare Birds of Prey
Big Sur wild has a range of wildlife, including some rarities like the Golden Eagle and the California Condor.
 
Picturesque Early 20th Century Bridges
One of the most photographed features on the West Coast, the Bixby Creek bridge is one of about a dozen such bridges that made travel through the region feasible in the 1930's.
  Secluded Beaches
Some accessible by car; others requiring some tricky hiking, Big Sur's beaches make for excellent escapes.
 Other Cool Things to See
 •  Art Galleries
A handful of art galleries in and around Big Sur Village can add a touch of class to a visit to Big Sur.
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WHAT'S TO DO?
 Highlights
 
Go hiking.
Big Sur is a hiker's mecca, with trails ranging from a casual stroll to strenuous and adventurous.
Go Horseback Riding:
An assortment of rides are available along the coast, through the redwoods or both.
       
Go SCUBA Diving
The Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary extends down the entire Big Sur Coast, providing secluded access to unspoiled diving.
Have Lunch or Dinner with a View
Perched high above the ocean in the heart of Big Sur, several world-class restaurants offer commanding views of the Pacific and the rocky coastline below.
       
Climb a mountain
For those looking for a bit of a challenge and a big payoff, the Santa Lucia Mountains feature chances for a unique summit with a Pacific flavor.
Simply enjoy the drive.
The 90 mile section of Pacific Coast Highway that runs through Big Sur has been called the most scenic in America. Plenty of turnouts allow for
       
Bicycle
Highway 1 is a popular venue for biking enthusiasts. With our service. Try it for yourselves, and we'll meet you on the other end.
Have a picnic
There are few better ways to enjoy Big Sur's serenity. Enjoy a bottle of wine with your picnic, and don't worry about having to drive afterwards.
       
 
 Other Cool Things to Do
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Nearby Destinations

Monterey Peninsula
The Monterery Peninsula is located at the northern end of Big Sur.

San Simeon and Cambria
San Simeon and Cambria can be found at Big Sur's southern edge.

 
Images
 
     
     
     
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