1-Day Coastal Road Trip: Big Sur Adventure

Day 1: Nature and Relaxation

Big Sur, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Big Sur River Inn

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the Big Sur River Inn, where you can enjoy a delicious scramble with local ingredients while listening to the river flows.
Located just a short drive from the main road, this inn is a perfect starting point.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hiking at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

After breakfast, hit the trails at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, where you can immerse yourself in towering redwoods and enjoy stunning views of the rugged coastline.
Drive 10 minutes north on Highway 1 to reach the park entrance.
USD 10, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Nepenthe

Head to Nepenthe for lunch with a view—offering a unique, open-air dining experience overlooking the Pacific Ocean, where you can savor their famous Ambrosia Burger.
Continue driving north on Highway 1 for about 5 minutes.
USD 25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit McWay Falls

Take a short drive to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to witness the iconic McWay Falls, an 80-foot waterfall that cascades directly onto the beach; the picturesque view is a must-see.
Just a 10-minute drive south of Nepenthe.
USD 0 (but parking can cost USD 10), 1 hour

2:30PM

Scenic Drive on Highway 1

Spend a leisurely afternoon driving down the scenic Highway 1, stopping at Vista Points to capture the breathtaking beauty of the rugged cliffs and the relentless ocean waves.
Continue south along Highway 1.
USD 0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Photo Opportunity at Bixby Creek Bridge

Make a stop at the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, a stunning arch bridge that offers one of the most photographed vistas on the California coast.
Drive about 15 minutes south along Highway 1.
USD 0, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at The Post Ranch Inn

Conclude your day with dinner at The Post Ranch Inn, where you can indulge in exquisite dining that emphasizes seasonal Californian cuisine—reservations are recommended to enjoy the stunning sunset views.
Drive back north for about 20 minutes.
USD 100, 2 hours

7:00PM

Watch the Sunset

Cap off your day by watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean from the comfort of your dinner table, an experience you'll remember forever.
Stay seated and enjoy the ambiance.
Free with dinner cost, Ends your day
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