Big Sur: 8 Things to do on a Highway 1 Road Trip

[@jmh1189]

BE CAREFUL. There is little to no cell coverage for the majority of the coast even on the highway let alone the trails. if you get lost or stranded. have a sat phone and let someone know where you went. Unfortunately, we have a lot of people here who fight against cell towers. Also, be a safe driver. DO NOT tailgate. It's a dangerous road, don't pressure drivers ahead of you even if the signs request slower vehicles pull over to let people pass, it's not a good excuse to endanger them and yourself. I've lived in the monterey area almost my entire life and ill never get tired of big sur.

[@h8GW]

So stupid. They can make cell towers look like a redwood.

[@maqshiz]

I saved offline map on google map and it helped

[@rocier]

Lady, you're outta your mind if you think theres anywhere in big sur you can go and not be surrounded by a thousand other tourists

[@jltrack]

Lol chill dude. Don’t pass your anxieties out into the world

[@peeyushthombare]

Thank you Buck, glad to see people with positive vibes trying to give good advice to others. I am definitely downloading KZbin videos for kids and maps for me to get through this drive.

[@Patriot93933]

Hearst Castle to Monterey via Hwy 1 is a great road trip.

[@airvilleleenmae]

I’ve heard. Unfortunately they’re closed this time. 😞

[@isabellezablocki7447]

@@airvilleleenmae yes, and they are still closed right now.

[@airvilleleenmae]

@@isabellezablocki7447 Such a bummer. I want to visit that place.

[@fach4422]

@@airvilleleenmae 😢

[@jeffcriswellforu.s.senateg6687]

nuttin' better in the US.

[@xoxofromviri2856]

Because of your channel I did the highway 1 roadtrip from Huntington Beach to San Francisco for my birthday last year. We spent 3 days exploring Big Sur and Monterrey and I absolutely fell in love with this place. Unfortunately it was cloudy and cold but nonetheless still breathtaking! Because of you it is that I got the idea that is why I say you were responsible for me having the BEST birthday ever! Ily guys!

[@jakelehtinen3806]

That stinks that the weather was bad, but I'm glad you still had fun.👍

[@jmart5302]

its cloudy and cold basically half way up your route no matter the year lol

[@____luisaaa333]

Omg please share your itinerary with me if you can! I’m going on a road trip from Santa Monica to SF in two weeks with my boyfriend, I’m here looking for places to stop at, any recommendations are appreciated❤️❤️

[@xoxofromviri2856]

@@____luisaaa333 1) Morro Rock Beach 2) Canyon Falls 3) McWay Falls 😍 4) Nepenthe 5) Pfeiffer Beach 6) Bixby Creek Bridge 7) 17 Mile Dr 8) Lone Cypress 9) Asilomar Beach 10) John Denver Memorial 11) El Carmelo Cementery 12) Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary 13) Lovers Point Beach 14) Monterey Aquarium 15) San Carlos Cathedral 16) Old Fisherman's Wharf 17) Monterey Tides Hotel 👍👍👍 18) Sea Goddess Whale Watching 19)Golden Gate Park 20) SF Botanical Garden 21) Twin Peaks (San Francisco) 22) Painted Ladies 23) Kung Food 😍 24) Lombard Street 25) Ghirardelli Chocolate Marketplace 26) Fisherman's Wharf 27) Pier 39 28) Palace of Fine Arts 29) Golden Gate Bridge 30) Fort Baker 31) Shakers Hill You will love it

[@jordanskene3243]

XOXO From Viri Should come to Australia 🇦🇺come along national route 1 it’s a highway that circumnavigates the mainland states of Australia

[@SuperSonofsatan]

I've live here all my life but can never get enough of big sur...I find myself out here every chance I get...

[@AstralHiGH]

Any lowkey places you can recommend ? I'm doin a solo trip

[@herbertpetrillo485]

I'm from my and I cannot get enough of it...cant wait to go back

[@jmei8295]

i live in San Jose and studied in Santa Barbara, worked in LA for a while, I drove through the highway 1 for 10 times during 6 years, and still be amazed each time I drove there

[@JeroTravelero]

beautiful way.

[@tacosy2k]

It took me 4 hours to do the 70 miles just because I kept stopping to take in the views of the coast.

[@daviddevonshire7213]

I went here in summer 2018, and it was awesome driving down the California coast .

[@oceans9158]

Hi, my husband who loved to drive, we drove a route from Monterey, Ca to Paso Robles Ca. This is a must drive

[@Kradle]

Stumbled upon Pfeiffer beach with my girlfriend exploring Big Sur. What a hidden gem.

[@vijaypogaku7879]

I had a great time crossing Bixby bridge and stopover at a motel in Big Sur with my brother who surprised me to go on road trip from SFO to LA via Route 101 driving on the greatest scenic views in the world! 🤗

[@leannecolman5368]

hello...Do you care for a chat and get to know each other more better? text me [e-mail]

[@sidehustles2812]

3:43 purple sand!!! 💜 that’s one of the things that draws me in.

[@WingChunBoyz]

Absolutely love this video! One of the most chill and beautiful places in CA. People are so friendly. Looking forward to going back and taking that drive down Highway 1.

[@mariaangeleshernandez5075]

Love ❤️ love, Big Sur! beautiful scenery beaches,from Orange County to San Francisco!🎵California dreamer 🎶😍

[@timothyfoleyjr2796]

I lived and worked at Nepenthe from 1984 to 1987. I was recovering from a motorcycle accident in Palm Springs and some old friends helped me get well Physically and Mentally. Anyone that goes into this area should and could spend at the very least two weeks here. Get a good tent, stock up on food and beverages and cots and sleeping bags and “car camp” up and down the coast. If your into motorcycles I would get a small group together and take turns exploring in and around a main base camps. Two days here three days there ? Start in the south and make plans using this video as a guide. Have a wonderful time.

[@portnuefflyer]

All kinds of signs up now :NO OVERNIGHT PARKING! I lived there in the early '70's, just toured it for the first time since last year. Still beautiful of course, still getting loved to death.

[@scotchgod8478]

I really hope i can go there once and see it myself. It's a dream!

[@bmetoxen]

I’ve been on that beautiful highway a few times and it is all spectacular. Nice video! Thank you! 👏🏼

[@josebanales9514]

I have been in Big Sur twice. It's so beautiful. Definitely need a few days to enjoy and explore it. The drive is breathtaking all the way. Thanks for sharing such a awesome video and well done.

[@alihuey9786]

Possibly the best past time heading to La to visit family from school at ucsc

[@judybennett2724]

I lived in Carmel/Big Sur for 6 years and miss it dearly. But living 2 hours away in San Jose, I get to visit often. I try to make it to Nepenthe every year for my birthday and always have a great time.

[@marciac7026]

I visited Big Sur during the spring and it is beautiful. Lots of beautiful flowers on the way to the shore, and they are indigenous to the area. Big Sur and Lake Tahoe are my favorite places in California so far. I love your videos.

[@violetbf3773]

Thank you for the recommendations Josh. Road trips are my favorite thing to do. Awesome video as always.

[@californiathroughmylens]

Thanks for the comment, always appreciate your feedback! I agree, road trips are one of my favorite things to do!

[@missupercool]

I recommend stopping at cape San martin near the middle of big sur to get a nice view, you can walk out onto the cape.

[@ricardomartins1783]

Very beautiful and useful vídeo. Big Sur reminds my own country in europe's west edge; there is something about sun sets over the ocean, it is magical.

[@leannecolman5368]

hello...Do you care for a chat and get to know each other more better? text me [e-mail]

[@MaseTravels]

The beautiful scenery is incredible 😀❤️💕

[@BA760]

Wow! Absolutely breath taking 😍

[@ethelgarcia6057]

It’s so inspiring to watch your site. You have a relaxing voice with great content and tons of knowledge to share.

[@timcantrell9673]

Gorge running was popular back in 1985, start at the waterfall and run the canyon until you get to where the trail crosses the creek. Also their was a restaurant along the road and creek that had great bands back then play there. They also had cement chairs in the river. Back then just about everywhere below the road was clothing optional to include the Gorge. Then there was the hot springs the one you pay for and the ones hidden, I wont say more. Lastly the hidden shower along the side of the road, just below. There was a spring here when the road was built so they just ran the spring out a culvert under the road. Someone made a trail down just below the culvert and decorated it with a bench, flowers, and a small precipice to stand and shower naked looking out at the Pacific back in 1985.

[@cyndipalmer45]

Yes! The River Inn w/ Country Joe & The Catfish & the like (albeit they were quiet a bit earlier than 1985), chairs in the river, (complete with cocktail servers if u were so inclined)-reading a good book while sitting in the River…the mysterious rock stacks ! Bodacious breakfast at The River Inn! Oh I had forgotten about the hot tubs overloooking the coast! No idea if they still exist even in a private capacity…

[@sonicmagnus5312]

i’m Long Island,NY all day but i love this 70 miles coastal stretch

[@santosjr2840]

Just now found out about this. Excited to see Big Sur.

[@eddiecopperbeard]

Planning another trip to Big Sur already! I went with low expectations and couldn’t believe how beautiful it was. Looking forward to seeing it again !

[@jsnagra1able]

I highly recommend Garapatta beach for its beauty and elephant seal beach for wildlife viewing.

[@laurashook85]

Nice video. I live in Pacific Grove, went to these places many times. Breath taking!

[@sophiangocle]

The best video I found for Big Sur exploration. Thank you

[@PedroMidwest]

Thank you! This video was instrumental in building my families trip on the 1. Your recommendations were a big hit!

[@ImprobableTodd]

If it wasn’t taken out by the last fire, there’s no more stunning a place to camp than Kirk Creek Campground. With steep ridges jutting up a couple of thousand feet looking south and a spectacular arcing view of the coastline looking north, it’s hard to conceive of a more beautiful and inspiring place. And at night you can see the lights from the tiny hotel along the cliffs at Lucia. Back in the ‘80s Esalen would open up their hot tubs to anyone between 1 and 5 AM. The mineral water makes you more buoyant. I remember resting my neck on the stone edge, anchored by it as I floated, with my body rising and sinking with every breath as I viewed the stars above and dipped in and out of conversation with my friends.

[@thomasdestry5188]

This was informative, fun, packed with incredible exploratory adventures to be had, great cinematography, and you touched the foodie in me. 🎉Thank you so much‼️

[@BobHamiltonnewradio]

The River Inn s must stop for me...having lunch with your feet dangling in the Big Sur River

[@charleneschannel2570]

I can't wait to see my California King. 🤴🏾🕊❤

[@debralynnbailey6527]

Heading there in June first day of summer

[@zantigar]

Excellent tour! I've already been along this coast several times, but your video has rekindled my desire to go there again and visit some of the spots you recommended.

[@jeanpaulgravier8889]

C'est magnifique, merci pour ces superbes vidéos.

[@stephenjones6030]

Thanks, brother. My little brother told me about your site a year or so ago...I'm really enjoying it. Even before this video popped up on my recommendation list, I've been planning to take my wife up to this area, but really didn't know much about it. I'm going to try to hit most, if not all, of these spots. THANKS!

[@jo-anncaballeroganza5015]

Its so inspring watch and to.see your site.nice view

[@MalindaDeRouen]

Big Sur needs your help. The recent increase in the number of visitors is challenging the safety and wellbeing of residents, visitors and the fragile natural environment. All of us can make a positive difference to protect and nurture Big Sur. Help us by taking and activating the Big Sur Pledge. The Pledge #1 Share our coastal roads in a safe manner. #2 Be mindful of the impact of my actions. #3 Protect and respect Big Sur’s natural resources, public and private property, residents, employees, and visitors. #4 Leave no trace and not damage or take what is not mine. #5 Camp only where allowed. #6 Be vigilant and fire safe. #7 Be a steward of this precious resource for the enjoyment of all. #8 Honor the spirit of Big Sur as it honors me.

[@ethannielson942]

Malinda DeRouen My mother Francoise lived in the Camoldolese Monastery in Lucia for eight years and I greatly admire you for posting The Big Sur Pledge!

[@SDsailor7]

Yes. I saw the long line of cars parked by the side of the road and the sign that some residents hung on the bridge on the news. It seems to me all due to that show on hbo. I want to go up to Monterey and travel tru Big Sur but I would hate all that traffic. But it does not look like I will be able to make the trip. I did travel thru there many, many years ago. Beautiful coastline!Cheers

[@foodjam9193]

Yes and yes

[@ashleygora7197]

This needs to be heavily upvoted!

[@MalindaDeRouen]

DanTheRamFan Good for you. Most Big Sur residents aren’t rich. They are low income, working poor, especially after fires cut them off from everything. Everyone should be able to visit Big Sur, that’s the point of this pledge, preserving the environment for everyone, visitors and residents.

[@ashtonsquires3102]

You forgot ragged point. A quaint hotel with a fantastic restaurant. Their rooms overlook the ocean and the food is delicious. I live here and we love going in the off season and having a glass of wine on the lawn.

[@slifer867]

Kirkwood campground. Lucia lodge. Both great.

[@USARoadtrip364]

Big Sur is a good place to visit in the Pacific coast... Like driving PCH1..thanks for your recommendations.

[@billharris7235]

FYI, the road is closed on the south end until late 2021 due to a landslide. You can drive from the north for a nice drive, but you'll have to turn around where the road is closed.

[@mathildaandmike]

Thank you for sharing! Your presentation of the different recommendations is pieced together incredibly well. We are looking to make a trip down there in the near future and are sure to enjoy some of these stops as well.

[@californiathroughmylens]

Glad it was helpful!

[@mathildaandmike]

@@californiathroughmylens With it being fall, I would love to see some great color change. Do you have any recommendations for state parks in the SF Bay area to witness the transformation in the landscape?

[@cyndipalmer45]

@@mathildaandmike - Muir Woods, The Presidio, and the Sausalito house boats would be a few worth considering imho. Taking the drive south on Hwy 1 to Half moon Bay ( Ano Nuevo state park & many great stops on the way to Santa Cruz -or north of San Fran on Hwy 1- Best oysters ever in Oyster Bay- don’t know if that’s still the case tho’. But a drive on Hwy 1 in either direction was always enjoyable to me- “the Old coast Hwy” part too -is narrow & curvy drive- but used to be some great scenery and quaint pub stops & such - but check recent maps- it’s been some years since I traveled those areas & even then it seemed to be a protected secret drive & The old coast highway south of San Fran was something I was not introduced to early on- a Santa Cruz native eventually took me for a drive along the forested old road it’s the sort of place where u almost expect to see Argo Guthrie walk out ( if he was still alive of course ;)) different sort of views from the cliffs & ocean views of the current Hwy 1 drive. Arriving in Santa Cruz- the list is long of places to see & things to do Santa Cruz & Capitola & south to Moss Landing (good food & antique shops!) - home for MBARI- then further south to Monterey- u almost can’t go wrong- just don’t rush the journey, and enjoy! (You can get from San Fran to Monterey in about 2 hours if u want- but I could just as easily make a 3 -4 day trek out of the distance between the 2, & enjoy some of the sights & stops in between.) so that’s some ideas in a nutshell. I would say talk to locals of some age & research the hidden gems of the area.

[@mathildaandmike]

@@cyndipalmer45 Thank you Cyndi! This is very helpful and we will be sure to check some of these places out. We really appreciate you taking the time to reply in such detail.

[@JeroTravelero]

Beautiful Big Sur! Ill be back!

[@Club321Fun]

I, too, prefer driving PCH north-to-south thru Big Sur because it’s closer to the edge of the road. However, either direction is great as long as the sun is behind you; driving those winding roads with sun glare in your face, especially when your windshield is caked with salt spray, is not only fatiguing, but dangerous. To enjoy one of the best drives of your life, clean your windows; keep the sun at your back, and don’t drive it at night. Of course, if it’s not sunny, it doesn’t matter. Bon voyage!

[@jaimedeleon733]

Love the northern beaches, like Patricks Point, Redwood Nat. Park, Fern Canyon.

[@leannecolman5368]

hello...Do you care for a chat and get to know each other more better? text me [e-mail]

[@partypeoplesandiego]

This video was super clutch on a one day family trip to Big Sur. Love your content.

[@송래티나]

It has really stunning view and take me into Big sur trip in real

[@mercury1979]

Planning a road trip from San Fran to San Diego... can’t wait to see Big Sur

[@twentyseveneleven]

Thank you for your constantly good work. Your vids are the reason I'm coming from Germany all the way back to california for the 3rd time now (next month). Thank you for the amazing spots and the effort yu put in all your vids. first thing the bell rings i like the video than i watch.

[@Italionmex]

Great spot to cover. I agree that it is one of the most beautiful coastlines. I used to live in Monterey and would explore the northern part of highway 1. Now in SLO and frequent the southern part. The central coast is awesome! Great video.

[@rickyarvizu7535]

See you at Firestone Bar&Grill, Bro!

[@miguelfragoso7023]

Is northern or southern your favorite?

[@shirleya.protzman4404]

Came down that coastline in the front seat of a tour bus fantastic views stopped at a winery where they saved us a beautiful lunch in black styrofoam containers beautiful lunch in the out of doors! Relived this in my mind so many times! Shirley A. Protzman

[@dinkyvision]

Great video. Well edited, produced, succinct, informative... more ppl need to do video content like this. Well done. (long time editor & producer for tv & web content here).

[@reyesplace1096]

Love big sur

[@nokia9002]

Knew and seen most. But, that Greek restaurant is on my list next time around ( did not knew they had such a freaking spectacular view ) Thanks for sharing.

[@beagiver6864]

Very well done! Simply amazing place to BE - period.

[@joandc.gonzales9913]

I'll travel there for sure.. I'm a believer.. Thank you so much for sharing this video.

[@pipper70]

This was beautifully shot but you left out the most famous attraction. Hearst Castle is, by far, the most breathtaking man made attraction in the Big Sur drive. Sitting a top a hill 5 miles from the beautiful visitor center it is one of the most spectacular estates in the world. With its indoor and outdoor pools that compliment the 165 room mansion plus it's fabulous history, The Castle is a world class attraction.

[@cyndipalmer45]

Hearst is fab but really pretty south of Big Sur-sort of surprised he even mentioned San Simeon as a reference in this vid- ( I would have included Hearst more in a coverage of Morro Bay, Pismo Beach, & vicinity) but I def would have included a stop at the River Inn in Big Sur ( for eats & the unique river ambience) & Post Ranch Inn ( just an awesome hidden Gem & the best place to stay for many miles imho- ( many know Ventana- but across the street ( aka Hwy1) more tucked away and later developed is Post Ranch) IF you can get a reservation for overnite - oh La la! & it doesn’t come cheap- love the Tree house suites or Beach House ( even harder to find availability tho) - but appetizers on the patio of the Sierra Mar restaurant won’t break the bank- & u can (or could) hike their beautiful property- but u cannot drive on much of it- thankfully- maybe even a stop at The Coast Galleries on Hwy 1 - and closer in to Carmel a stop at Point Lobos state park….just my 2 cents. Carmel Down Hwy1 to Big Sur was definitely a fav Sunday drive for decades back in the day….

[@aznsrey1324]

So excited to finally visit Big Sur for my bday🥰🥰😁😁😁

[@Jokester1990-ri3jl]

When I get my motorcycle, I’ll take a road trip to Big Sur. It’s gonna be a fun trip

[@ponyrang]

Wow... !!! It's always great. Your video is excellent quality. We liked and enjoyed to the end. Thanks

[@PinkyBear]

Went here a few weeks ago and it is a beautiful place.

[@shepherdsknoll]

Can only add that while driving the coast you play the Beach Boy’s Holland album.

[@cyndipalmer45]

Oh yes!!! Definitely! Was homesick the other day & popped that in to listen to!

[@vochaalloy33]

WOW! Some beautiful recommendations on a coast drive. Well done.

[@LetsGoThereTayandZay]

Awesome video and footage! We traveled there a few weeks ago and it was so nice! The views are incredible!

[@RickyLaser]

I believe the Big Sur coast, from Hearst Castle to Carmel, is closer to 90 miles long. Even more time to drive through grand beauty.

[@herbertpetrillo485]

It's amazing, after every curve, another view more BEAUTIFUL than the last.:..and it goes on and on...its like a drug.....

[@AnhNguyen-gp8rg]

Me and my family goes to many places you made videos of. I watch them so I my family knows what we are doing there ( Your videos help me when it is the day before a vacation of mines)

[@AnhNguyen-gp8rg]

So go down to reply

[@AnhNguyen-gp8rg]

I went to redwood national park, Palm Springs, Big Sur, Sequoia National Park, Eureka, Trinidad, Yosemite.

[@Stalker2509]

Keep up the great work...I really enjoy it every time!

[@balanb312]

A joy to watch. You got the Knack. Alan. P.S. Since I was in the Coast Guard I would have loved to have done a tour at the Big Sur LIghthouse in the 19th century.

[@Fernaandhhhuuuu]

Visiting in January and I can’t wait!!

[@fullwisewords]

It's also worth stopping at Salmon Creek since you could experience being underneath a waterfall.

[@forexotic]

Big Sur is now added in Apple’s Boogie Place List

[@lauradonelson8794]

FINALLY! Now I know the name of that bridge and where it is! Thanks!

[@carjay7]

this is really beautiful at night

[@Whowhatwherewhy]

It’s actually much better and safer parking traveling north to south. The ocean views are always on the same side as parking.

[@Tennkings-rb3eb]

Be there in two weeks. Can't wait.

[@kristin9687]

Bixby Bridge. You left out the ( poet/ City Lights) Lawrence Ferlinghetti cabin "under the bridge" ( it is set back, I've been there) Kerouac lived in for a while and wrote the memoir, Big Sur. Literary history is why most outside of CA probably know of this location.

[@gabibreyer5254]

hej very amazing video your nice voice makes it wonderful thx

[@vicmiramontes4316]

Thank you..I can't wait to take this road trip 👍

[@OksanaPolishchuk]

Thank you !!!

[@oli0431]

Another brilliant video. You guys make amazing content.

[@JeroTravelero]

Yes, I think the same

[@katereitzel]

Love your videos. They are so beautiful and helpful. Thanks!

[@schnnagel]

Really cool spots - thanks for your recommendations!

[@WeWander2]

Thanks for the video. I've seen all I care to see. California has a lot to offer but big sir is only a the drive-thru.

[@michaelmagaw6870]

Beautiful... Thank You... love it..Thank You

[@jeff488]

Willow Creek and Sand Dollar Beach, good surf, nice beaches, more so on low tide now a-days as Sand Dollar has lost some of the sand

[@kitohammond]

You sold me on this place! Great vid.

[@judithschoner6433]

Just beautiful, thanks for sharing.

[@cesarmarx]

We crossed the route 1 in 2017 from San Francisco to Santa Monica but there were a landslide and Big Sur was closed, We missed all those points but have a excuse to go back there. Great Video BTW.

[@awalktowardsglory]

Awesome video! I will be checking those places out for sure.

[@Mixwell1983]

Camped at Pfeiffer state park in 2003. Went to that exact spot at mcway falls and went to that cove area on Pfeiffer Beach. Only saw pics back then as there were no youtube vids so i didnt know these were hot spots but it is very nice in Big Sur.. Gas was expensive though, I think like $4+ back in 2003...

[@SuperStreetWarrior]

I am planning my visit to United States next summer as the primary destination is California along with Nevada and Arizona, this video is good for a research.

[@janquilici594]

If you are going in summer do Nevada and Arizona, I hope you like it hot

[@richardharris6058]

@California through my lens CORRECTION At McWay Falls also known to US LocaLs as NOMcWay falls There is a way down to those falls it’s at the opposite end of that trail and there’s a little fence that you have to circumvent no big deal and you walk down this path by your little ranger station with some tents you get some really amazing pictures from the other side of that mountain on the left that you cannot see at all from your trip down that little path and eventually you can see how you could walk all the way down to the Falls.

[@dagobello]

I have done this trip and it was amazing. I would also recommend a trip on the blue ridge parkway in NC.

[@sox805x1524]

I was out in the east coast a few years ago, and decided to hit the Blue Ridge Parkway. Let me just say it's one of the highlights of my stay down there

[@jakoveskibel859]

Definitively I moved from Indian trail NC to Visalia CA I remember those places

[@jelevate8852]

Good looking out playas, I gotta checc it out