Stradling California’s North Pacific Coast, Highway 1 provides one of the most scenic drives in the United States. The Big Sur portion of this route offers you over 70 miles of rugged coastlines and stunning ocean views. But there’s so much more for you to discover.
From iconic bridges and wildlife-laden state parks to gushing waterfalls and basking seals, these Big Sur viewpoints make for a perfect Highway 1 road trip in the state of California. If you’d like to explore the best of Highway 1 in Big Sur, stick around.
Best Stops Along Big Sur Highway 1
It’s worth noting that Highway 1 is the longest route in California, about 656 miles, to be exact. So it won’t be easy to explore it all in one day.
For the purpose of this guide, you’ll be starting your journey along Carmel Bay and wrapping it up at Morro Bay.
Now, without further ado, let’s dive into the 13 best stops and viewpoints on Big Sur Highway 1.
1. Carmel-by-the-Sea
Dotted with pretty beaches, historical landmarks, and fairytale cottages, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a quaint beach city that awaits your arrival.
The town’s inviting village mood offers artistic treats in its galleries, vintage shopping on Ocean Avenue, and strolls along the pristine white sands of Carmel Beach. Don’t miss out on great photo ops and a history lesson at the Carmel Mission.
2. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
If you’re a nature enthusiast, you’ll love the birdwatching, hiking, scuba diving, and marine life spotting opportunities at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. The park offers scenic coastal views of the Pacific Ocean, diverse ecosystems, and gorgeous tide pools in Whalers Cove.
3. Bixby Creek Bridge
Arguably one of the best stops in Big Sur, Bixby Creek Bridge is one of the most photographed bridges in California, thanks to its spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and aesthetic design.
Not only does the bridge offer Insta-worthy photo ops, its views of the craggy coastline and crashing waves below make it a must-see during your Big Sur day trip.
4. Big Sur
As you would expect, you can’t explore the Big Sur portion of Highway 1 without stopping at this charming town of the same name. This area is rich in rugged cliffs and wilderness, surrounded by many state parks like Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.
You’ll also find lots of hiking trails, campgrounds, and other accommodations, as well as galleries and restaurants where you can grab a bite.
5. Nepenthe
Speaking of bites, Nepenthe is a wonderful place to eat and a Big Sur viewpoint you can’t miss out on.
This cliffside restaurant offers panoramic views of the Pacific coastline while serving up delicious food, like their famous Ambrosia burger and steak frites. You can enjoy your meal on the terrace, looking out at unparalleled ocean views.
6. Henry Miller Memorial Library
Are you a book lover? Then the Henry Miller Memorial Library could very well be one of your favorite Big Sur stops. Dedicated to renowned novelist and writer, Henry Miller, the library offers an artistic atmosphere surrounded by a lush natural setting.
You can enjoy some of the cultural events, exhibitions, and concerts hosted regularly here, along with delving into the life of the famous literary expert.
7. Partington Cove
Tucked into a remote inlet, Partington Cove is characterized by a rugged beach you can reach via a dirt trail, a wooden bridge, and an eerie tunnel.
Trek the Partington Cove Trail for up-close views of the inlet and explore the historic tunnel, adding a sense of mystery to your adventure.
8. McWay Falls
Imagine this — a picture-perfect scene with a waterfall dropping into a sandy cove. That’s what you can look forward to at McWay Falls.
This 80-foot-tall waterfall set in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park offers a stunning Big Sur vista point after a short hike along McWay Waterfall Trail.
9. Big Sur Lookout
Arguably one of the best Big Sur views, the lookout is one of the most famous stops to make along Highway 1.
It’s especially popular among adventure photographers who can’t ignore a stunning sunrise or sunset. The viewpoint gives you panoramic sightings of the white-sand beach and raging waves crashing against the coastline.
10. Ragged Point
As the name suggests, Ragged Point is undeniably the craggiest portion of Big Sur Highway 1, comparable with the mesmerizing coastlines of Kauai, Hawaii.
You can enjoy incredible seaside views from the Ragged Point Inn as you stroll through its tranquil gardens and walking paths.
11. Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery
Located about eight miles south of Ragged Point, Piedras Blancas is a fantastic place to observe a large colony of elephant seals in their natural habitat. Boasting a boardwalk and several viewing areas for up-close views, the Seal Rookery also offers educational exhibits.
12. Cambria
This quaint coastal town has a relaxed atmosphere, with beautiful beaches, natural preserves, and unique shopping experiences around every corner.
Cambria boasts an artistic community, so eclectic boutiques, and art galleries are not hard to come by. Spend your time strolling along the pebbled Moonstone Beach’s scenic boardwalk and splashing in its tide pool.
13. Morro Bay
Characterized by a gigantic volcanic mound, Morro Rock, this coastal city is laden with opportunities for wildlife watching and outdoor recreation, like hiking, kayaking, and boating.
The Morro Bay Embarcadero is where you’ll find numerous seafood restaurants, coastal shops, and museums to explore. Take some time to visit Morro Bay State Park for a bit of bird watching.
Highway 1 Big Sur, Where to Stop Wrapped Up
California’s Highway 1 traversing along Big Sur is one of the most stunning drives in the world. From the fairytale-esque setting of Carmel-by-the-Sea and the craggy cliffs of Ragged Point to hidden gems like Partington Cove and McWay Falls, there’s so much for you to see.
This scenic route shows the best parts of the North Pacific Highway. Take in amazing scenes of thousands of elephant seals basking on a sandy beach and explore coastal towns like Cambria and Morro Bay.
After reading this, you should know that there are plenty of reasons to add the Big Sur Highway 1 to your next California coast road trip, so don’t miss out.
Next Read: California National Parks Ranked Best To Worst.
