big sur carmel, monterey itinerary

It makes an excellent, However, if you wait until the summer rush is over and visit during either September or October, youll experience less crowds and actually better weather! It was nice to arrive at the hotel after a long day and just relax for a minute and eat some snacks! (Keep this in mind if you are headed off to the airport so that you give yourself plenty of time.). Still dreaming of heading back and doing this Monterey , Carmel and Big Sur itinerary again sometime soon! March 3, 2023. Tina Yen's travel guide for Big Sur with 47 favorite places to visit. The American Tin Cannery Suite 122 125 Ocean view Blvd Pacific Grove, CA 93950 831-747-1677 _____ 17 Mile Drive 2106 Sunset Drive Pacific Grove, CA 93950 831-717-4912 _____ Pedego Electric Bikes 143 Crossroads Blvd, Carmel, CA 831-293-7063. Happy planning! I have visited California many times through out my life. I wanna go for sunset next time! However, if you wait until the summer rush is over and visit during either September or October, youll experience less crowds and actually better weather! We were going to get lunch, but decided to wait until Carmel since we ate so many samples! Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Pick-up from centrally located hotels between 7:30am - 8:30am Duration: 11 hours Transportation: Comfortable Motorcoach Includes: Complimentary pickup/dropoff from centrally located hotels If you didnt have time to pack a snack or breakfast, plan a stop at Big Sur Bakery before u-turning into the Pfeiffer Beach turn-off. You could spend 1-2 hours here and then continue on to Big Sur. And just one reason its on every list of the most beautiful places in California. Day 4: Big Sur to Paso Robles or Cambria. I would advise sharing a sundae with your BFF as the portions are huge, but its delicious nonetheless. Read on for the most perfect Big Sur road trip itinerary! What is there to see between Monterey and Big Sur? When visiting, youll want to hike the Soberanes Canyon Trailas its restored and in great condition. The road is not paved. 15 Amazing Cheap Vacation Spots in California, Monterey + Big Sur Itinerary: The Perfect Road Trip, 2023 Her Wanderful World - WordPress Theme by Kadence WP. Carmel is a small, beautiful, and charming seaside town tucked between Big Sur and Monterey on the central coast of California. Definitely dont miss one of the most unforgettable stretches of majestic coastline in the world. The waves are unpredictable and pretty rough. There is so much to see, this is only the tip of it! This stop is a definite must on your Big Sur Itinerary. Day 3. . Hi Shafinah! How to get here: When youre heading southbound (recommended), take the 2nd right after you see the Big Sur Station. This waterfall cascades over the cliff and falls about 80 feet into the sandy cove below. Expect a daytime high around 64F in March, and nighttime lows around 47F. I repeat, the almond croissant is orgasmic. Miles of misty coastline. . Youll drive into places like San Simeon, Cambria, Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, Pismo, and more! After Fishermans Wharf, we decided to leave Monterey to explore Carmel-by-the-sea. Beautiful, post-card like views. Looking for sand dollars might result in a disappointment, but youll easily find muscles, crabs, sea anemone, and kelp beds while exploring the nearby rocks during low tide. Bring your binoculars for wildlife viewing! Its beautiful coastline views! Carmel Valley is full of vineyards and wineries. They check out all the major websites, and you can customize what you need as well! Im going next year to visit a friend and we plan on road tripping so Im hoping Ill finally get to go! We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. The official name of the Carmel Mission is Mission San Carlos Borromo del ro Carmelo. Since the trail has a turn out to Monterey State Beach, you can stake your spot and head out for a swim, a surf, or a picnic. It was moved to get away from the military garrison. My favorite part about it, however, was that it was literally right over the ocean. When researching where to eat, I had Forge in the Forest recommend several times. You can definitely take away as needed to fit your travel style. 4.. Can You Start from San Francisco to Big Sur on the Road Trip Itinerary? I personally love #doingallthethings at the beginning of my trips and then slowing down as I stay longer, but you can puzzle this Monterey and Big Sur itinerary out to best fit your weekend and travel style. The colors over the water were absolutely spectacular! In nearby Monterey, uncrowded beaches like Del Monte Beach . The ocean is a short walk away. 1. I love how comprehensive this is Monterery and Big Sur look like such BEAUTIFUL places ! If you are into golfing, the 17 mile drive also has the world famous Pebble Beach! Ventana Inn & Spa: Youll swoon the second you see this adults-only, rustically luxurious resort. Aubrie is a Utah based blogger/content creator. Free shipping for many products! . This is a popular street located in the heart of Monterey. Here are my picks and notes, either personally tested by me, or recommended by fellow travelers: Be prepared to spend some big money for dining out in Big Sur. For the photographers heart, the iconic Keyhole Arch makes for a stunning sunset spot in Central California during the golden hour! I teach 9-5 professionals how to maximize their limited time off with carefully planned out itineraries, long weekend inspiration, and general travel planning tips. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Wow this place looks so similar to Malibu I swear!! About this rental. And yes, theres so much history in this little area. Monterey and Big Sur are two beautiful coastal areas in California with offerings of nature, small-town feels, and cool weather. Since youre on the coast, keep in mind that there may be a cold breeze, so youll want to dress in layers and have a light jacket like this one or that one. Have dinner at Lallapalooza on Alvarado Street. Day 2: Santa Cruz to Carmel. I definitely need to add that this is one of the most dog friendly places I have ever been. A stay at Deetjen's is a step-back in time; you are immersing yourself in the unique historic . With binoculars you can see sea otters and sea lions. I would love to go back! Most people start this iconic road trip in L . Big Sur is one of my favorite places IN THE WORLD (hands down) and one of my favorite road trips from San Francisco. Specialties: World-famous Breakfast served Daily 8:00am-noon; Dinner Friday-Tuesday starting at 5:30pm. It is the foggiest park even when some of the other parks are clear, youll want to make sure to check the weather as you wont be able to see much with the fog. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. From SF, Big Sur is about 2.5 hours south. You can find her on Instagram @herwanderfulworld. Big Sur, located along Central California coast, is one of the best places to visit on the West Coast of USA. Where did you drive from? PCH Road Trip Planning Essentials. Start your drive down the coast with snacks from Carmel Highlands General Store. Grab Life by the Moments Itineraries Highlights Itinerary Outdoors Itinerary Family Itinerary Girlfriend Getaway Itinerary Golf Itinerary We would like to thank Big Sur Adventures for providing discounted tickets for us to experience their e-bike tour. We also really liked the friendly service and beautiful atrium. Not happening. Looks like you had a wonderful time too. Alternately, it's possible to just take Highway 1 all the way, though this takes a long time, about a 4 hours and 30 minutes drive to Cambria. And if theres still orchids and wildflowers out, youll think youre in Hawaii. Have you been? All these spots make it easy to photograph. Most the attractions mentioned in this article are closed due to covid19. Famous for its narrow cobblestone lanes, little cottages dressed in flowers and plants, and enchanting shops that sell tons of local goodies, Carmel is a . 7. Absolute paradise, albeit rather crowded at times. There will also be many spots to pull over and take some beautiful pictures on the drive. In the months of October-February, you will also be in time to see the Monarch butterflies clustering at Monarch Grove Butterly Sanctuary. ), all while taking in the magnificent views! As well as (chive and cheddar) scones and strudels and coffees and cream-filled donuts. This trail was amazing and we saw a cove with the most turquoise blue waters and baby sea lions down below. They were so colorful and unique! We then stopped atPerkins Park spontaneously because of the unique Cyprus trees, the rocky shoreline and the purple flowers everywhere! The only downside to visiting in the summertime is that July and August are the foggiest months. Dont go during the rain or after its just rained as the road is all dirt and can get quite muddy at times. When driving from Monterey to Big Sur, youll pass the small seaside town of Carmel-by-the Sea. Even if you decide to end here and make this a San Francisco to Monterey drive, you won't be missing out. We went on the Bird Island and China Cove trailhead first. Take some time for a walk along the beach as its known to have purple sand! Big Sur Itinerary Get away to Big Sur to decompress, lose your stress and soothe your soul. There is a $10 honor system daily charge, so bring some cash. Go hiking, walking, bird watching (pelicans frequent the area), scuba diving (yes, really! Riding bikes was definitely a blast and I highly recommend everyone ride bikes along this trail. Located at the mouth of the Big Sur River, the park has gorgeous panoramic views of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. It could take as little as 2 hours (if you dont stop at all), or 2 days if you make all the stops for the views, foods, and hikes. This scenic drive is so rewarding with views of cute homes overlooking the never-ending Pacific ocean. We loved visiting the Whalers Cabin in Whalers Cove and thought the scenery was the most spectacular around Bluefish Cove. My favorites in that area include: Carmel Beach, Lovers Point Park, Pavels Bakerei, the 17 mile drive, and whale watching! If youve been thinking about a weekend get-a-way to one of California's best destinations, then look no further than this 3-day itinerary celebrating the best that Carmel, Monterey, and Big Sur have to offer. Monterey is definitely one of my favorite places in CA! In every way, shape, and form. Within its 12 towns, there's so much to discover in . Best things to See: Iconic Bixby Bridge, Ragged Point, McWay Falls, Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach. Renting a Car:Note that youll undoubtedly need a car for this Big Sur road trip (it is a mini road trip after all!) 2022 text, 2021 Big Sur Drinking Fountain Image and Ghiradelli Cannery Row Image, 2020 Carmel . When you visit Point Lobos, youll be amazed by its natural beauty, but please make sure to stay on trails as erosion is currently harming plants and wildlife in the area. Continue driving south on Hwy 1 towards your next stop in this Big Sur itinerary: Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, which is not to be confused with Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. The grounds are incredibly beautiful and this place is definitely worth a stop for the gorgeous grounds and architecture. Day 1: Monterey. all my favorite stops on the Pacific Coast Highway. If youre looking to take a much longer trip down the PCH, check out all my favorite stops on the Pacific Coast Highway yes, all 75 of them! We chose the 17-mile ride and thoroughly enjoyed every minute of our 3-hour outing. The Big Sur River Inn is located about half way through the Big Sur viewpoints and a great spot to stop for lunch! If youre not in a rush on your Big Sur road trip, why not make the extra stop? Accommodation in Big Sur is pricey. Afternoon This part of the bike trail was a lot busier. Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail is an 18-mile trail that runs from Pacific Grove up north to Castroville and alongside the old Southern Pacific Railway. Definitely dont miss one of the most unforgettable stretches of majestic coastline in the world. Hi Chris, Many thanks for your inquiry! The Mcway Falls trail is located at the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. Big Sur Coast is known for its rocky beaches, spectacular sunsets, and sheer natural beauty. You will definitely get beautiful views here! These little beauties return to Big Sur in October, and migrate north in January. I hope your travel planning takes you here soon! Or Big Sur, Carmel, Monterey to San Francisco. On the opposite side of the road, there is a dirt road known as Old Coast Road. Visit inside the Basilica (where Serras remains are laid to rest). Book now from $9.99! Use caution while driving as the road is rather windy and narrow! Then you can eat something while enjoying the waves! Day 3: Carmel to Big Sur. The location was great and we were able to walk all over town. One weekend is the perfect amount of time to see the highlights of Carmel, Monterey, and Big Sur along Highway 1. Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The banana bread is great too, but now that weve had the almond croissant, I dont think well ever be getting anything else. My photographer heart would absolutely some of those vistas. Evening BIG SUR, CALIFORNIA: LOGISTICS. Just letting you know so there are no surprises! McWay Falls McWay Falls is likely the most iconic and most-photographed spot in Big Sur. I got my ticket for the aquarium here. In those early days, abalone harvesting became very popular when the Chinese realized the lucrative business of harvesting fish and started commercializing seafood. Let me know how your travels go! This can be easily done as a weekend trip out from the Bay Area or as part of a wider trip tracing California's coastline. Homewood Suites by Hilton in San Jose Four Points by Sheraton Hotels in San Jose Aloft Hotels in San Jose InterContinental (IHG) Hotels in San Jose Extended Stay America Hotels in San Jose Residence Inns in San Jose Choice Hotels in San Jose Best Western Hotels in San Jose Motel 6 Hotels in San Jose Fairfield Inns in San Jose Four Points by Sheraton Hotels The scenic pull-offs are along the coast, and driving north to south provides the easiest access to these. Big Sur Bakery is typically pretty crowded, but its worth the wait. While youre hiking, youll want to have closed-toe shoes with a good grip to keep yourself safe, literally speaking from experience. Arrive as early as possible on your first day so that you can maximize your time. Then head over to the American Tin Cannery Outlets and meet up with Big Sur Adventures for an e-bike tour of the coast. Head to Henry Miller Memorial Library, and youll be nothing less than impressed. Theres also some hiking in the state park, with sea lions and starfish in the tide pools nearby. It was the prime location for marine life spotting! Begin your day with a savory or sweet crepe at the highly rated Crepes of Brittany in Monterey. I'll be sharing a relaxed pace three-day itinerary, with overnight stops in both Monterey and Santa Barbara. You can easily follow along the road trip stops, doing every single one (my recommendation) or picking and choosing a few if you only have part of a day. Its important to note that many businesses have shorter opening hours during the off-peak season. Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail & State Beach, 7. Did you know? When you purchase something through our links, we earn a small fee (but you still pay the same)! Any Big Sur road trip aint complete without a stop at iconic Bixby Bridge, one of the most photographed spots in Big Sur (which Im sure youve seen alllll over instagram and pinterest). It is the perfect place to fill up on gas and get any last minute snacks. I guess we'll have to plan another trip." And its large enough to split, for sure. at stops along the way. This 11 mile road is what those back in the day had to use before the famed Highway One was complete! Perfect ending to your Big Sur Pacific Coast Highway day trip! Santa Cruz is a cute, funky surf town on the way to the San Jose airport. Visitors pressed for time often make the drive from. Whats your favorite local spot? Also, there are two different viewpoints- one of the front side of the bridge and one of the back. Morning The trail will take you less than an hour as its about 0.8 miles long and will bring you to the beautiful shorelines where you might even spot a sea otter! This mountain range, just inland from the not-so-hidden gem that is Big Sur, runs from below Monterey and Carmel down to about San Luis Obispo. Pafoua is the author and creator of Her Wanderful World. Thank you for such a great recounting of your trip. Swimming is not recommended at this beach because there are a lot of rock formations that could cause harm if a strong wave pulled a swimmer the wrong way (and there were a lot of waves crashing through the rock formations), but you could also stay near the sandy area and dip your feet in the Pacific Ocean. No matter what time of year youre visiting Big Sur, youll always want to be on the lookout for whales off the California coast. Its known for its pristine scenery, full of turquoise water, beautifully-designed bridges, rustic hiking trails, and more. I LOVE Big Sur and Monterey its just so beautiful. General tips. Depending on how hungry you are, appetizers are also available at the outside bar and inside the lounge. This whole road trip looks so picturesque! Just be careful to watch out for other vehicles coming and livestock roaming around!