It probably won’t surprise you to learn that Big Sur [1] is not a hotbed of cutting-edge clubs and bars. Most folks who come here spend their days outside, hiking [2] or doing some other vigorous activity. They drop into bed early, exhausted and needing the rest to get back out into the wilderness again the next day.
But if you just can’t bear to hit the sack before 10 p.m., you can find some fun at the Fernwood Tavern (Hwy. 1, 831/667-2422, Sun.–Thurs. noon–midnight, Fri.–Sat. noon–1 a.m.). Live music acts entertain locals and visitors alike, and you might hear country, folk, or even indie rock from the small stage. Most live music happens on weekends, especially Saturday nights, starting at 9 p.m.
Even without the music, the tavern can get lively in the evenings (it’s good to be the only game in town), with locals drinking from the full bar, eating, and holding parties in the meandering dim rooms.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/california/central-coast/big-sur
[2] http://www.moon.com/destinations/california/central-coast/big-sur/hiking