Big Sur
United States · CaliforniaUS
Coastal region of California, United States
Big Sur is a rugged and mountainous section of the Central Coast of the U.S. state of California, between Carmel Highlands and San Simeon, where the Santa Lucia Mountains rise abruptly from the Pacific Ocean. It is frequently praised for its dramatic scenery. Big Sur has been called the "longest and most scenic stretch of undeveloped coastline in the contiguous United States", a sublime "national treasure that demands extraordinary procedures to protect it from development", and "one of the most beautiful coastlines anywhere in the world, an isolated stretch of road, mythic in reputation". The views, redwood forests, hiking, beaches, and other recreational opportunities have made Big Sur a popular destination for visitors from across the world. With 4.5 to 7 million visitors annually, it is among the top tourist destinations in the United States, comparable to Yosemite National Park, but with considerably fewer services, and less parking, roads, and related infrastructure.
Read more on Wikipedia →- Coordinates
- 36.270, -121.807
- Timezone
- America/Los_Angeles
- Elevation
- 44 m
Overview of Big Sur
Big Sur belongs to California, United States and has the feel of a destination. Plan around nature, adventure and culture and you will not run out of ideas. Season planning starts with its northern-hemisphere location.
Things to do in Big Sur
Nature in Big Sur
(3)Nature lovers get Natural Places, Nature and Scenic Roads. Everything listed here comes from what Big Sur is actually tagged with. A compact set that still fills a visit.
Adventure in Big Sur
(2)Looking for adventure? Big Sur has Adventure and Treasure Hunts. Each one is worth building half a day around. Nothing here is guesswork — it reflects the recorded activity data for Big Sur.
Culture in Big Sur
(2)Under culture, Big Sur is tagged with Bridges and Mines. Easy to slot into a wider itinerary. The list follows Big Sur's own activity tags.
Wellness in Big Sur
(2)Big Sur's wellness entries include Therms and Wellness. All of it is drawn from Big Sur's recorded activities. A compact set that still fills a visit.
Sports in Big Sur
(1)Big Sur records Hunting under sports. Everything listed here comes from what Big Sur is actually tagged with. A compact set that still fills a visit.
Best time to visit Big Sur
The shoulder months of April to June and September to October suit hiking and outdoor days.
Getting there & around
Small places like Big Sur are best explored by car or on two wheels after reaching California. Time zone: America/Los_Angeles.
Similar destinations
Places near Big Sur that share the same kinds of activities.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Big Sur known for?
- Big Sur, in California, United States, is best known for nature, adventure and culture. Those categories cover most of what visitors record here.
- What can you do in Big Sur?
- Recorded activities in Big Sur include Natural Places, Nature, Scenic Roads, Adventure and Treasure Hunts. Combine two or three of them and you have a full day without leaving the area.
- When is the best time to visit Big Sur?
- The shoulder months of April to June and September to October suit hiking and outdoor days.
- Where is Big Sur located?
- Big Sur is located in California, United States. Use the country and region pages to see what else lies nearby and to plan a route between stops.
Personal notes
Loading…