Ultimate One-Day Big Sur Relaxation and Culinary Adventure

Day 1: Relaxing Nature Escape

Big Sur, California, USA

8:00AM

Coastal Breakfast at Big Sur Bakery

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Big Sur Bakery, known for its freshly baked pastries and cozy atmosphere, while enjoying their outdoor seating surrounded by nature.
Located just off Highway 1, follow the signs to Big Sur Bakery, around 10 minutes south from the entrance of Big Sur.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

After breakfast, embark on a refreshing hike in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park where you can see magnificent redwoods and a stunning waterfall, providing a fantastic start to your day in nature.
Drive 5 minutes north from Big Sur Bakery to reach the park entrance.
USD10, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Nepenthe

Enjoy a scenic lunch at Nepenthe, which offers breathtaking ocean views and a selection of delicious California cuisine, perfect for refueling after your hike.
Continue north on Highway 1 for about 15 minutes to reach Nepenthe.
USD40, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit McWay Falls

Post-lunch, take a short drive to McWay Falls, where you can witness one of the most photographed waterfalls in the United States plunging directly into the ocean.
Head back south on Highway 1 for about 10 minutes to find the parking area.
Free, 1 hour

2:30PM

Stroll Along Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Spend some serene moments walking along the trails in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, where you can immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the coastal landscapes.
You can access the park directly from the McWay Falls area.
USD10, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Cultural Immersion at Henry Miller Memorial Library

Wrap up your day with a visit to the Henry Miller Memorial Library, where you can discover the local culture through art exhibitions and literature in a peaceful setting.
Return north on Highway 1 and it’s a short 5-minute drive.
USD5, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Sur House

Conclude your day with a splendid dinner at The Sur House, overlooking the ocean, and enjoy their farm-to-table menu highlighting local and seasonal ingredients.
Just 5 minutes south from the library, The Sur House is located at Post Ranch Inn.
USD85, 2 hours

7:30PM

Evening Walk at Garrapata State Park

End your relaxing nature-filled day with a gentle evening stroll at Garrapata State Park, where you can watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
Drive south on Highway 1 for around 15 minutes to the park entrance.
Free, 1 hour
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