Three-Day Itinerary: Big Sur Road Trip
Looking to escape to the gorgeous California coast? Here’s how to spend a long weekend on a Big Sur road trip, from the top hikes to the best places to grab breakfast.
Friday
Drive 45 minutes south of Carmel on Highway 1 to arrive in the Big Sur Valley, where the majority of businesses are located along the Big Sur coast. If camping, pitch a tent at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, the largest campground in the area.
For a roof over your head, opt for the rustic but charming accommodations at Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn, where reading your room’s guestbook is a surprisingly gratifying way to spend the evening.
Drive to the Big Sur Deli to purchase wine or beer and a picnic dinner for watching the sun set at nearby Pfeiffer Beach.
Saturday
Get fueled up for a morning of hiking with a breakfast and coffee at Deetjen’s. They are known for their eggs Benedicts.
Then spend the morning in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Start by walking the 0.7-mi (1.1-km) Nature Trail to get the lay of the land, then hike the 2-mi (3-km) Valley View Trail to the overlook for some striking views. Head back to the valley for lunch and maybe a craft beer at the Big Sur Taphouse.
Next, head south to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park for a short 1-mi (1.6-km) round-trip hike to Partington Cove, or a longer 4.5-mi (7.2-km) round-trip hike through redwoods to coastal views on the Ewoldsen Trail.
Consider heading to the Big Sur River Inn for a late-afternoon cocktail. Ask for it in a plastic cup so you can bring it to the wooden chairs situated right in the river behind the restaurant and bar. Stay for dinner at the River Inn or walk a few feet to Solstice for some accessible fine dining.
Find out if there’s a film screening or concert at the Henry Miller Memorial Library, half a mile south of Nepenthe on Highway 1. Otherwise head to Fernwood Tavern, where there is always a band playing on a Saturday night.
Sunday
Start making your way back north to Ripplewood Café for a hearty breakfast—don’t skip the grilled potato gratin. Head to Andrew Molera State Park for one last hike. If you are sore from hiking the day before, do the easy 2-mi (3-km) Creamery Meadow Trail to the beach. While there, relax as you watch the Big Sur River spill into the sea.
Want something more substantial? Do the Ridge Trail and Panorama Trail Loop—also known as the Eight-Mile Loop—for views of the coastline, including nearby Point Sur Light Station rising from the shore like a seaside castle.
Head home with fond memories and sore legs.
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