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

Big Sur is one of the most amazing places in California and one of the most spectacular coastlines in the United States. I always love getting the chance to explore it and with summer right around the corner, I figured people would be planning their own Big Sur road trip and so I wanted to share a few of my favorite spots.
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[@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

[@Hihopeyouhaveawonderfulday]

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.

[@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.

[@tacosy2k]

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

[@Kradle]

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

[@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.

[@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

[@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

[@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.

[@oceans9158]

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

[@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.

[@shadowdanzer4878]

Been to Carmel by the sea, and Delmonte beach in Monterey. Absolutely gorgeous beaches. Can't wait to visit again!!!

[@sidehustles2812]

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

[@BA760]

Wow! Absolutely breath taking 😍

[@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.

[@TravelSmallLiveBig]

Perfection! As always... you showcased this gorgeous area in a super fun, awesome (as always) way! And yeah, now we want to go on a road trip...

[@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.

[@PedroMidwest]

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

[@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!

[@scotchgod8478]

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

[@mariaangeleshernandez5075]

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

[@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 !

[@laurashook85]

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

[@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]

[@gr8pony727]

Some additional things to see, Old Country road going South to North comes out at Bixby Bridge. It’s a 12 mile dirt road that’s a bit rough in places. It’s breathtakingly beautiful in spots. The Big Sur Campgrounds & Cabins , and the camping area Riverside next door are simply sublime. Both have an abundance of Massive trees, the river, foliage everywhere, & cute cabins and campsites. It’s a true haven of tranquility among the massive trees. Rocky Creek is an excellent restaurant as well with fabulous views. Point Lobos on North end of Big Sur has Otters and whales that travel through. It also has tide pools and beautiful scenery. I’ve seen deer there right next to the ocean.

[@daviddevonshire7213]

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

[@kellyjohnson3617]

Thanks for this video. I’ve been to Big Sur many times and still have t been to lime kiln and partington cove. Now I’ve been inspired. My fav view for sunset is sand dollar beach at low tide, which is why I plan my trips to Big Sur when low tide is around sunset. Most stunning views and photos I’ve ever gotten of a beach sunset

[@herbertpetrillo485]

Awesome.my favorite is sunset from the hermitage...incredible....

[@joandc.gonzales9913]

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

[@Stalker2509]

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

[@Sethsm1]

Stoked to do this in a couple weeks. Thanks for the great video.

[@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‼️

[@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!

[@Fernyg323]

This is awesome! Thank you for sharing. I’m ready to hit the road!

[@jeanpaulgravier8889]

C'est magnifique, merci pour ces superbes vidéos.

[@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.

[@sophiangocle]

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

[@giorassiccuriosity1796]

I love this! Well detailed, straight to point, great photography. Thumbs way up!

[@LetsGoThereTayandZay]

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

[@vicmiramontes4316]

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

[@santosjr2840]

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

[@MaseTravels]

The beautiful scenery is incredible 😀❤️💕

[@7775Kevin]

Very good video. Such a beautiful area. Thanks for doing this!

[@ethelgarcia6057]

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

[@mercury1979]

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

[@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]

[@Fernaandhhhuuuu]

Visiting in January and I can’t wait!!

[@partypeoplesandiego]

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

[@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.

[@markreynolds3850]

Thanks for sharing this video,great places to see.

[@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.

[@awalktowardsglory]

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

[@charleneschannel2570]

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

[@Stardustfallout]

I know I have said it before but your videos make me so happy.

[@alihuey9786]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@ponyrang]

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

[@arizonatimelesstourist846]

Thanks for the info. I vacation in CA twice a year, and look forward to checking out these stops. Thanks.

[@oddnumbr9340]

Perfect timing! I'm planning a Big Sur road trip! 😊

[@californiathroughmylens]

Awesome! It's such an amazing spot

[@hungpham]

Thank you! Will have to check out these spots.

[@schnnagel]

Really cool spots - thanks for your recommendations!

[@oli0431]

Another brilliant video. You guys make amazing content.

[@JeroTravelero]

Yes, I think the same

[@Hamza063]

awesome as usual Josh ✌❤

[@loutta2000]

Salmon creek trail A MUST with it’s stunning water falls

[@user-kf1fe9rs4r]

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

[@kitohammond]

You sold me on this place! Great vid.

[@MustDoTravelsOfficial]

This is a beautiful place to visit. Great video.

[@rjcflorida]

Such a great trip 👍. I always love to stop at the beautiful, amazing, wonderful, Nepenthe restaurant when I drive through Big Sur ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💯💕❤️💟💜☮️.

[@TomSpurlock]

Nice suggestions, thanks for sharing your gems. Keep up the good work!

[@ThePoppysmick]

That is so helpful, thank you so much for that video! Can't wait for our drive :D

[@PinkyBear]

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

[@sonicmagnus5312]

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

[@IMEMINE.]

Nicely put together

[@beagiver6864]

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

[@lauradonelson8794]

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

[@mamcbroomz]

This is great information, thank you so much!

[@heidicoz8369]

Wowww amazing looking forward to go this coming holyday

[@jo-anncaballeroganza5015]

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

[@michaelmagaw6870]

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

[@vochaalloy33]

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

[@Tennkings-rb3eb]

Be there in two weeks. Can't wait.

[@jorel4477]

Awesome vid. Thanks

[@katereitzel]

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

[@AllThingsFilm1]

I love your channel. I'm planning some road trips in California, but its hard to find places to go. Thanks for making it easier for me. Cheers.

[@Rocketwinger]

Just went and this was a great guide

[@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.

[@frawldog]

Amazing California

[@JeroTravelero]

Beautiful Big Sur! Ill be back!

[@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).

[@oceans9158]

That bridge is amazing,👍😍

[@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

[@socialmoth4974]

We are planning a 2 week road trip through CA next summer, so your channel will come in handy!

[@nhiaalbering3786]

Watched them film " The Sand Piper" back in the "60's & ate at Nepenthe's & camped nearby with our kids 🎶♥️😘😍☮️

[@ethannielson942]

For those of you interested, the films THE SANDPIPER (1965) with Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton and ZANDY’S BRIDE (1974) with Liv Ullmann and Gene Hackman shot virtually all exterior shots in the Big Sur area. A bit further down the coast at Los Osos, Walt Disney Productions shot PETE’S DRAGON with Helen Reddy and Mickey Rooney. Unfortunately that magnificent lighthouse set was torn down when the film was completed. It was a practical set and not a front, so it could have been left standing. But it was removed for environmental reasons when the film completed in 1976.

[@lesliecarnes8775]

Nice video! Thanks so much!

[@archerius2]

Awesome video dood!

[@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…

[@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?

[@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.