Big Sur is one of my favorite weekend trips from the Bay Area, and when you make your way through here with someone special, you’ll totally understand why. The rugged coastline and pristine turquoise waters make this region one of the most romantic places ever!
If you love sharing experiences in nature with that someone special, Big Sur is a great place to visit.
Enjoy tons of hidden beaches, unforgettable views at all the vista points along the iconic Highway 1 drive, and hikes through redwood forests and ancient trees.
There’s seriously so much you can see and do here such as enjoying Bixby Creek Bridge, McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, and Keyhole Arch Rock at Pfeiffer Beach (an unmissable sunset spot).
Planning a honeymoon? Anniversary trip? Or maybe you’re just looking for a weekend road trip through Big Sur with your honey. I’ve got you covered on the most romantic things to do in Big Sur.
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Table of Contents
Where Is Big Sur In California?
Big Sur cannot be boiled down or defined by a single town, state park, or national park. It’s an unincorporated area that makes up the coast, spanning roughly 70 miles along Highway 1.
Along this stretch of the 1, you’ll find numerous state parks, natural preserves, beaches, waterfalls, and hiking trails worth visiting.
The drive will consist of twists, turns, and winds along a two-lane road. You’ll find no streetlamps and (likely) no cellular service during most of the drive. But that’s half the fun–you’re completely immersed in a world of scenic forests and rugged coastline. Welcome to the majestic Big Sur.
After the early morning fog burns off, a world of redwoods, canyons, and oceanside cliffs will reveal itself, beckoning to be explored!
Need a rental car for your trip? To find cheap rental cars, I recommend using Rentalcars.com. Their search tool is one of the best I’ve found!
Big Sur Travel Logistics
Nearest Cities: Monterey and Carmel to the north (40-minute drive), San Simeon and Cambria to the south (1.5 hour drive)
Closest International Airports: San Jose International Airport (SJC) – 1.5 hour drive | Oakland International Airport (OAK) – 2 hour drive | San Francisco (SFO) – 2.5 hour drive
Best Time to Visit: April through October, early fall is best
How to Get Around: By car
Most Photographed Areas: McWay Falls, Bixby Bridge, Keyhole Rock at Pfeiffer Beach
👉 BEFORE YOUR TRIP: Always check for highway road closures before your trip. Due to its rugged coastal terrain, Big Sur has experienced multiple instances over the years where sections of the road have completely broken off and slid down the hillsides. Stay informed and avoid unexpected delays or detours by checking for the latest info!
18 Romantic Things To Do In Big Sur, California
Take a scenic drive on Highway 1 (duh)
One of the most romantic things you can do in Big Sur is to take a scenic drive on Highway 1. I’m telling you, you don’t even have to do anything else for this drive to be romantic! You and your partner won’t be able to get enough of the views.
This drive is considered one of the most scenic drives in the world, and for good reason.
As you drive along Highway 1, you’ll be treated to epic views of the coastline, including Bixby Bridge, which offers an easy-access parking lot to stop and take in the view.
In addition to Bixby Bridge, you’ll find many other pull-out and stopping points along the drive that offer incredible views of the ocean and rocky outcroppings. Take your time along the drive, stopping at any point along the way to enjoy the view, take a walk on the beach, or even have a picnic on the side of the road.
Taste your way through Carmel-By-The-Sea
Most people “officially” begin their Big Sur road trip in Carmel, CA.
Carmel is one of the cutest little towns I’ve laid eyes on–it’s a quaint and romantic seaside village with a great selection of shops, galleries, cafes, and restaurants. You will not be able to resist the charm that the town of Carmel carries, evident the minute you step out of your car.
Carmel is a great town to grab a bite to eat and go wine tasting. If you want to stay the night in Carmel, it’s certainly a cutesy place to unwind and relax, but do note that hotels are slightly pricier than in neighboring towns like Monterey, CA.
From here, you’ll begin to enter Big Sur territory, where the seaside views from the highway really get impressive.
And if you’re visiting in winter, don’t miss the chance to go whale-watching in the area. This part of California is THE place to do it!
Explore Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is the first, all-nature stop on your Big Sur road trip. In this reserve, you will find a few hiking trails, hidden beaches, and many viewpoints to keep you busy for 1-2 hours.
There are a ton of walks and trails to choose from, and most of them are relatively easy and can be done without breaking too much of a sweat!
While the entire reserve is beautiful and worth exploring, don’t miss China Cove and Bird Island Lookout (on the south end of the park). Here, you’ll find coves filled with some of the clearest waters in all of Big Sur.
If you’re looking for a short hike here, I’d recommend the South Plateau Trail to Bird Island hike. This hike is only 1.6 miles long.
All year round, you’ll be able to hear and see harbor seals and sea lions hanging out. If bird-watching is your thing, you’re in luck! Point Lobos is home to hundreds of seabirds in the spring and summer, and you’ll especially see them on the Bird Island Trail.
Splurge on a stay at Alila Ventana Big Sur
While Big Sur is iconically known for its breathtaking natural beauty, it’s also a great destination for couples looking to relax and rejuvenate. Nature and luxury are starting to go hand-in-hand these days, and Alila Ventana Big Sur delivers a truly restorative escape.
For your stay, we can’t recommend this property enough. This adults-only luxury resort is one of the most coveted and hard-to-book stays in all of California.
This adults-only, all-inclusive retreat is designed for deep relaxation, with every stay covering gourmet meals, curated wellness experiences, and access to serene Japanese hot baths.
The bi-level Big Sur Villa offers wood-burning fireplaces, private outdoor spaces, and a soaking tub perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. You can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, take part in hands-on artisan workshops like soap or knife making, and embark on guided hikes through ancient redwood forests.
Dining is a highlight, with every meal rivaling top city restaurants—think multi-course feasts that celebrate local ingredients.
Sounds great right? Hold on to your pants because a stay here will set you back thousands of dollars. Many people I know actually splurge on this dream getaway by redeeming their credit card points for a stay at Alila Ventana Big Sur.
👉 Wait, an all-inclusive resort? In California? YES! At Alila Ventana Big Sur, luxurious meals and amenities are included with every stay, and they even have their own wine cellar with thousands of wine bottles—including some of the region’s best.
Go wine tasting
Speaking of wine… Monterey County’s iconic natural landscapes have made it a standout in the world of winemaking despite its relatively young history.
Though wine grapes were introduced by monks centuries ago, commercial winemaking didn’t take off until the 1960s when the region was recognized alongside Napa and Burgundy.
Today, it’s known for exceptional Chardonnay, which makes up 40% of its vineyards, along with Pinot Noir, Riesling, and other varieties.
With its unique soil and climate, the region has earned global acclaim, becoming a top wine destination and a key draw for travelers these days.
Here are some wineries to get you started in the Big Sur area:
- Folktale Winery: Located in northern Carmel Valley. The tasting room is open daily and offers a charming rustic atmosphere, complete with a fireplace and outdoor seating.
- Bernardus Winery: This winery is located a bit inland from Big Sur in the Carmel Valley and offers a range of award-winning wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Wrath Wines: While the winery is located in the Santa Lucia Highlands, they also have a tasting room in Carmel.
- Scheid Vineyards: Located in further away in Greenfield, but there’s also a tasting room in Carmel, which is open daily.
Visit the Point Sur Lighthouse
Perched on a rocky outcropping overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the historic Point Sur Lighthouse is a must-visit destination for couples looking for a romantic and memorable experience.
The Point Sur Lighthouse was built in 1889 and has been guiding ships along the rugged California coast for over a century. Today, you can get a glimpse into what life was like for lighthouse keepers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The lighthouse is open for tours on weekends and holidays, and you can even climb to the top of the tower for tippy-top views of the surrounding coastline.
To make your visit even more cutesy, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the grounds of the lighthouse. There are several picnic tables located near the parking lot, and you can also bring a blanket and find a secluded spot to enjoy some quiet time with your date.
You can also plan your visit for sunset when the sky turns shades of pink and orange and the lighthouse takes on a magical glow.
See Bixby Bridge and Creek
Bixby Bridge is one of the most well-known landmarks in Big Sur. The bridge offers breathtaking views of the coastline, while the creek offers a peaceful and romantic setting.
Since it was completed in 1932, it has become an iconic symbol of the Big Sur coastline. There are two viewpoints on either side of the bridge, so if you’re looking for the perfect shot, I recommend stopping on the coastal side of the bridge first (heading south, this parking lot will be on your right).
To get views from inland, you can easily cross the street to get to the other side or continue driving south a bit to get to the other parking area.
The bridge is open to traffic, but there are several pullouts where you can park and take in the view.
Enjoy a meal at Nepenthe
Nestled along Highway 1, Nepenthe offers the prettiest panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Lucia Mountains, making it a favorite spot for artists, writers, creatives, locals, and visitors.
Since 1949, this family-owned restaurant has been known for its relaxed vibe and delicious dishes like the famous Ambrosia Burger and Lolly’s signature roast chicken with sage stuffing.
Enjoy the view from the patio or inside, where the design reflects the influence of Frank Lloyd Wright. The legacy of Big Sur’s Beat Generation still lingers here, with lively conversations at the bar and a gift shop offering unique handmade items.
Pro Tip: In addition to lunch/dinner, Nepenthe is also a great place to stop for a drink or a snack while exploring Big Sur. Stop by anytime!
Splurge on dinner at Post Ranch Inn’s Sierra Mar
Perched on a cliff with incredible views of the Pacific Ocean, Post Ranch Inn’s very own restaurant, Sierra Mar, offers an unforgettable setting for special occasions like honeymoons or anniversaries.
The large windows throughout the restaurant allow guests to take in the beauty of Big Sur’s coastline while enjoying a simple yet delicious menu, with dishes that highlight California’s seasonal flavors, such as fresh Monterey abalone and homemade pasta.
For dessert, indulge in sweet treats like peanut pavé with caramel and rich chocolate ganache—both visually appealing and delicious!
Be sure to make a reservation if you plan to have a meal here!
See McWay Falls
McWay Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in all of California. You’ve probably seen this iconic waterfall before–if not with your own eyes, at least in photos.
This 80-foot waterfall cascades right onto a secluded beach, flowing into the most turquoise blue water you’ll ever see.
You can’t walk down to the beach, but the emptiness below is what makes it so magical. To see it from above, it only takes about 5-10 minutes to get to the viewpoint from the parking lot. It’s really quite an effortless walk!
You will see plenty of signage for Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP and there will be a large parking lot. There is a self-pay station for parking at the entrance of the parking lot, but if you’ve already stopped at one of the previous state parks along Highway 1, there is no need to pay again.
Pro Tip: Visit Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting. If you go during the afternoon when the sun is shining directly on the waterfall (which we’ve totally done before), it will be cast in shadows and will be difficult to see, and you won’t get good photos. Trust us, we have many terrible photos as proof!
Hike to the secluded Partington Cove
Partington Cove is one of the most secluded coves in Big Sur, so shhhh! This hidden gem is tucked away in a rugged canyon and offers… you guessed it… simply gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean.
Partington Cove is located about a mile south of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and can be accessed by a short but steep hiking trail. It’s 1.1 miles round trip with ~300 feet of elevation and shouldn’t take you more than 40 minutes to do.
It takes you through a 60-foot tunnel to an immaculate cove with a single bench you can sit on at the end. Enjoy the views all to yourself from here! To make your hike even more romantic, pack a nice little picnic lunch/dinner to enjoy at the cove.
Need help finding the cove? You can pull up “Partington Cove” in Google Maps. When you reach the turnout, you will see a closed gate and a steep dirt road down to the water and forest below. This is the path you will take to the cove!
Go hiking at Andrew Molera State Park
Andrew Molera State Park is the largest state park on the Big Sur coastline, which makes it the best option for day hiking and exploring. Here, you’ll find miles and miles of hiking trails that will take you through a varied terrain of forested redwoods, coastal bluffs, creeks, and sandy beaches.
Two beaches, reached by easy walks of approximately 1 mile each, are the park’s most popular destinations. Getting to the secluded beach includes a river crossing, which is a ton of fun (but be prepared with water shoes or a lightweight towel to dry off your feet if you’re heading in with just hiking boots).
If you’re looking to get a formal hike into your Big Sur itinerary, my favorite hike in all of Big Sur is The Ridge, Panorama, and Bluffs Loop, which clocks in at 7.5 miles with 1300 feet of elevation gain. This hike will take you a few hours to complete and is quite a workout, but it’s simply too enjoyable to skip if you like to hike (I’ve done this hike twice!).
Pro Tip: If you want to add the 7.5-mile hike to your itinerary, you’re probably going to need to stay in the Big Sur area overnight to fit in all the other romantic sights you have yet to see! Here’s our 2-day Big Sur road trip guide to help you out.
Catch the sunset at Pfeiffer Beach
Pfeiffer Beach has got to be on my list of top 3 unmissable experiences along the Big Sur coastline. This beach is not only home to purple-ish sand but also to one of the best sunset viewpoints in all of California.
The Pfeiffer Keyhole Rock is the main star here and is often considered the most-photographed attraction in Big Sur… after Bixby Bridge. Hands down, the absolute best time to see the rock is at sunset when the sun shines brightly through the keyhole, creating an unforgettable photo op.
At low tide, you can also walk towards Pfeiffer Keyhole Rock to explore the surrounding tide pools! We love lingering here whenever we can to enjoy the golden hour lighting and the sounds of crashing waves…
👉 Pro Tip: It costs $15 to park, but get there early because if the lot is full, you’ll have to wait for cars to exit before you’re able to park and head over to the beach. If you have the time and can swing it, definitely stay for the golden hour and sunset. Absolutely gorgeous lighting will light up the keyhole section of Keyhole Rock! Don’t forget to bring a football/frisbee, beach chair, camera, and snacks!
Visit Calla Lily Valley
Calla Lily Valley is such a unique spot, and not a lot of people know it exists! How often do you get to see an entire valley of blooming lilies? This area is only in bloom in the spring, so if you’re heading to Big Sur from February to late April (and even early May sometimes), you’re in luck!
Be prepared to witness a sea of Calla Lilies just naturally growing in a tiny valley with its own little creek!
Here’s everything you need to know about how to get there.
Visit Sand Dollar Beach
Sand Dollar Beach is the largest unbroken stretch of sand in Big Sur and is located about half-way between Cambria and Big Sur Station. This crescent-shaped shoreline is considered to be one of the best surfing spots in Big Sur and is also a hot spot for fishing.
The most popular activity, however, is beachcombing! Despite the name, the beach is not littered with sand dollars most of the time. Your best bet is to go at low tide during the winter months when waves can push lightweight sand dollars ashore.
Spend a few minutes hunting for washed-up sand dollars, it’s a lot of fun finding sand dollars in perfect condition.
Take a tour of Hearst Castle
Conceived in 1919 by newspaper giant William Randolph Hearst (1863-1951) and designed by architect Julia Morgan (1872-1957), Hearst Castle began as a hilltop retreat, and over the years the estate became a museum.
It’s pretty random to think that there are castles in California, but Hearst Castle is just that! Today, Hearst Castle is now an accredited museum and a California State Park, displaying Hearst’s extensive art collection.
The easiest way for the average person to experience Hearst Castle? Opt for one of the tours during your visit to San Simeon, CA.
First-timers will thoroughly enjoy the Grand Rooms Tour. If you’re looking to go deeper, you can take a tour through the cottages, kitchen and upstairs suites. There are other special tours that highlight the art and architecture of the property as well.
Visit Morro Bay
Futher down south on Highway 1 sits Morro Bay, a small beachy town that offers so many cute activities. At a distance, you’ll surely spot Morro Rock, a humongous rock formation jutting from the water.
Explore the energetic Embarcadero and its gift shops and art galleries, or spend a few hours dining at an oceanfront restaurant. If you don’t know what to order, just get seafood. Morro Bay is a fishing town, and the seafood is as fresh as can be!
If you’ve got a bit more time to spare, I urge you to hike around Montaña de Oro State Park. You can’t miss the Bluff Trail At Montaña de Oro State Park!
Read More: San Francisco To San Luis Obispo: A Long Weekend Road Trip
Where To Stay In Big Sur, California
If you’re planning a romantic getaway to Big Sur, finding the perfect hotel is key. This area is teeming with luxurious resorts, cozy cabins, and romantic campgrounds. If you know where to look, you’ll be spoiled with great choices.
There are three areas I recommend for staying for a Big Sur road trip: Monterey, Carmel and Big Sur.
Carmel and Monterey
As the northern gateway to Big Sur, you’ll find lots of accommodation options to choose from including motels, chain hotels, romantic bed & breakfasts, etc. Monterey will be slightly more affordable than Carmel.
L’Auberge Carmel is the place to stay for special occasions, while Carmel Valley Ranch is an unbeatable choice if you’re really looking to get away from it all.
Big Sur
Luxury Options
Alila Ventana Big Sur ($$$$) – This hotel is the ultimate splurge in the Big Sur area. If you’ve never heard of it, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime kind of stay. All meals and amenities are included with your stay.
Treebones Resort ($$$) – Treebones has amazingly unique accommodation options on their property. From yurts to autonomous tents to camping in a ‘human nest’, these glamping accommodations offer guests peace and solitude on the beautiful southern end of the Big Sur Coast.
Mid-Tier Hotel Options
Fernwood Resort ($$) – For people who need a real bed, this resort offers cute and homey cottages to base yourself in. They also have camping options.
Big Sur River Inn ($$) – Adjacent to the Big Sur River, this California hotel features an on-site restaurant and bar. Pfeiffer Day Use Beach is a 10-minute drive away. Free Wi-Fi is provided in all rooms.
Big Sur Lodge ($$) – Featuring a restaurant, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool as well as a bar, Big Sur Lodge is located in the heart of Big Sur nestled within Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.
Budget-Friendly Stays
Camping ($) – The best spots for camping are Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park (campsites and cabins) or Fernwood Campground & Resort (campsites, adventure tents, forest cabins, tent cabins, motel rooms).
Tips For Visiting Big Sur, California
Plan ahead. I highly suggest mapping out your Big Sur road trip in advance to ensure you’re seeing things in order so you don’t have to double back and waste gas or time.
A full-day drive-through can be enough time, but you’ll likely have to sacrifice a few off-the-beaten-path spots or activities (like doing longer hikes, having picnics on the beach, grabbing drinks at an oceanfront restaurant, etc.).
Before you embark on your trip, make sure you have a full tank of gas. Get gas before you leave the Carmel / Monterey area. There is only one other gas station in the town of Big Sur, but other than that, you’ll find nothing else until way further south.
Accommodations in the Big Sur area book up fast, especially in the summer and fall. I recommend you make hotel reservations as soon as possible.
Driving from north to south is easiest. First off, driving on the coastal side means you’ll get the best views possible! Second, most viewpoint turnouts are on the coastal side (which would mean a simple right turn if you’re driving south). If you drive north, you will have to make lots of lefts along a winding highway when you enter and exit the turnout.
There will be no cell phone service for almost all of the Big Sur drive. Highly recommend you print out a map of the stops you want to take, screenshot them on your phone, or save all locations on your Google Maps.
Keep a swimsuit, sweater, and rain jacket in the car. Usually, morning skies are blanketed by fog, but as the daylight burns it off, it can get hot to the point where you won’t need a jacket. Some spots will be extremely windy, other areas will be super hot (perfect for lounging at the beach!). Best to be prepared for it all!
Don’t rush this road trip, and stop at any of the turnouts whenever you want. Some of the best viewpoints were unmarked and had no other cars there. Take your time exploring and soaking in all the glory that is Big Sur.
ARE YOU ROAD TRIP READY? YOUR QUICK CHECKLIST:
License and registration | This is a no-brainer, but always good to check you have all documents before it’s too late and you get too far away from home. Do NOT leave home without them. They are road trip essentials!
Spare Tire | In addition to carrying a spare tire with you, don’t forget to check your current tire conditions before you set off as well.
Jumper Cables / Car Jump Starter | A must-have for any road trip! If you’re looking to invest in something exponentially more powerful/convenient than simple jumper cables, get the NOCO Boost HD Car Battery Jump Starter Box. This tool was sent from heaven and serves as a car jump starter, portable power bank, LED flashlight, and 12-volt portable power–all in one!
iOttie car mount | This is my partner in crime on any road trip. It’s got an amazing grip and popping your phone in and out of the mount could not be easier. If you’re renting a rental car and you’re not sure if it has a navigation screen, bring a phone mount with you. The iOttie attaches by suction, so it’s easy to transport from car to car.
Roadside Emergency Kit | You never know what kind of car trouble you may encounter on the road. This convenient little kit contains 42 roadside emergency components, including jumper cables, an aluminum flashlight and batteries, 2-in-1 screwdriver, duct tape, poncho, cable ties, bandages, towelettes, and zipper-lock bags.
Trunk Organizer | With any road trip comes lots and lots of stuff to pack. Keep your road trip essentials organized with a trunk organizer. Not only will this make it so much easier to find what you need, but it will also lead to more space in your trunk for you to pack other necessities.
Portable Cooler | Coolers are a must for any road trip. Not only will you be able to keep beverages cold and refreshing, but you will also be able to keep perishables fresh. A portable hard cooler will allow you to pack picnic lunches, bring cheese and jams, and more.
READ MORE:
- 2 Days In Big Sur: 25 Best Things To Do For An Epic Road Trip
- 20+ Best Towns Between San Francisco to Los Angeles: California Coast Road Trip
- San Francisco To San Luis Obispo Road Trip (In A Campervan!)
- The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip: San Francisco to Redwood National Park
- 10 Romantic West Coast Trips Perfect For Valentine’s Day
- Restful Getaways Near SF: 7 Towns For Wellness, Relaxation, and Glamping
