It’s very easy to be enamored with Big Sur. A blend of costal splendor, lush woodlands and awe-inducing vistas make it a popular destination for resident Californians and out-of-state visitors alike. After the setback of 2017’s storm damage, the town lost a main point of entry, the Pfeiffer Bridge, preventing access from the north. That gateway has now reopened, though part of Highway 1 remains closed due to a mudslide. With low traffic to the area, now might be the best time to visit and enjoy the relative peace and quiet. If you want to count yourself among those eager pilgrims, check out these essential points of interest, courtesy of 7×7:
Sykes Hot Springs
“Sykes Hot Springs is one of the most famous and popular hot springs in California. The 10-mile trail leading to the springs and seven official campsites is a great intro backpacking trip. A soak in the springs is a welcome reward after the trip. Unfortunately, overuse on the weekends and garbage have become an issue here, so remember to be respectful and always leave a place better than you found it. Try to plan your trip mid-week for smaller crowds, and, if you’re lucky, a chance to have the area to yourself.”
Sand Dollar Beach
“Sand Dollar Beach is Big Sur’s longest and widest continuous strand of beach, running nearly three-quarters of a mile. This is an ideal spot for beachcombing, lounging, tide pooling, and surfing. Pitch a tent in one of the 40 sites at Plaskett Creek Campground right across the highway from Sand Dollar Beach and be the first to hit the waves with the sunrise.”
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
“When you picture the Big Sur iconic coastline, it’s often images of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park that come to mind. Here the Santa Lucia mountains run into the Pacific Ocean, forested canyons fill gaps between exposed dry ridges, and near-shore kelp forests buffer the coves and shoreline. The park is best known for its main attraction, 80-foot McWay Falls, but there are plenty of other gems within Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park that most folks miss. A short walk up McWay Creek from the main parking area accesses a network of trails that include the Ewoldsen, Canyon Falls, and Tan Bark Trails. These trails explore redwood-lined canyons and traverse the Santa Lucia mountainsides, offering an elevated perspective on this magnificent landscape.”
Find more of Big Sur’s best here.
