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Destination: Big Sur Destination: Big Sur RSS

By Citysearch Staff, Bay Area

Photo: Steve Jenkins
Photo: Steve Jenkins
Follow your bliss to the spectacular vistas and stunning beaches of the Big Sur California coastline, just a few hours south of San Francisco.
On This Page: What to Do, Where to Eat, Where to Stay

What to Do

What to Do
Free your mind and body through a hike in the wilderness, a visit to a spa or a literary pilgrimage.

  1. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

    Hwy 1, Big Sur, CA
    This coastal retreat combines underwater and land-based recreation along the dramatic Central California coast.

  2. Esalen Institute

    55000 Hwy 1, Big Sur, CA
    Follow your bliss to this legendary center of relaxation, human-potential research and otherworldly massage.

  3. Henry Miller Library

    Hwy 1, Big Sur, CA
    A shrine to the renegade author of "Tropic of Capricorn" and other bawdy classics, stuffed with lit, wit and spirit.

  4. Andrew Molera State Park

    Hwy 1, Big Sur, CA
    A trekker's paradise, with 16 miles of hiking trails stretching from the sea up to an impressive 3,500 feet.

  5. Partington Cove

    Hwy 1, Big Sur, CA
    Gorgeous aqua pools, crashing waves, rocks for climbing and rumored sunken treasures make this secret spot an urban pirate's bounty.

Where to Eat

Where to Eat
Spectacular views will whet your appetite for comfort food and seared seafood at these casual to fancy restaurants.

  1. Rocky Point Restaurant

    Hwy 1, Carmel, CA
    Watch the sunset from the outdoor patio while savoring a fresh fish dinner and mesmerizing view.

  2. Lucia Lodge Restaurant

    Hwy 1, Big Sur, CA
    On a clear day, you can see forever: an ideal spot for lunch midway through an afternoon of sightseeing.

  3. Nepenthe

    Hwy 1, Big Sur, CA
    A Big Sur mainstay since 1949, still justly famous for its Ambrosiaburger and sweeping views.

  4. Deetjen's Big Sur Inn Restaurant

    Hwy 1, Big Sur, CA
    Bask in the warmth of wood fires and friendly service while enjoying robust wine and new twists on comfort food favorites.

  5. Sierra Mar

    Hwy 1, Big Sur, CA
    The Post Ranch Inn houses Big Sur's finest restaurant, with elegant design, classy service and delectable New American cuisine.

Where to Stay

Where to Stay
Indulge your inner child at a high-end resort or rough it (relatively speaking) in a wooden cabin.

  1. Post Ranch Inn

    Hwy 1, Big Sur, CA
    Ellen DeGeneres and Leonardo DiCaprio stay here, but you don't have to be famous to enjoy this spectacular oasis.

  2. Treebones Resort

    71895 Highway 1, Big Sur, CA
    Hillside yurt resort combines the nature-enjoyment of camping and the comforts of a hotel--all with a stunning ocean backdrop.

  3. Deetjen's Big Sur Inn

    48865 Hwy 1, Big Sur, CA
    Wonderfully informal and rustic, this historic wooden lodge offers quirky charm instead of luxury.

  4. Tassajara Zen Mountain Center

    39171 Tassajara Rd, Carmel Valley, CA
    A hot-springs resort for meditation, rejuvenation and solace.

  5. Ventana Inn & Spa

    | Website

    Hwy 1, Big Sur, CA
    See how the other half lives at this luxurious hotel that caters to the mind, body and well-stuffed wallet.

  6. Lucia Lodge

    62400 Hwy 1, Big Sur, CA
    An old-school lodge overlooking the Pacific, perfect for honeymooners or vacationing families.

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