Discover the most popular places to visit in Big Sur
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
9.4/10 (835 reviews)
Towering redwoods and oak woodlands frame the scenic Big Sur River Gorge in this 1,300-acre natural sanctuary. Hike tranquil trails through lush forests or stay overnight at the Big Sur Lodge for a peaceful retreat.
Pfeiffer Beach
9.4/10 (259 reviews)
Pfeiffer Beach captivates with its rare purple-hued sand and dramatic Keyhole Arch framing the sunset. Photographers flock here during winter months when the sun perfectly aligns through the natural stone window.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
9.4/10 (100 reviews)
Marvel at McWay Falls, an 80-foot cascade that plunges directly onto the beach or into the Pacific Ocean. Hike through diverse ecosystems from redwood forests to marine sanctuaries while spotting sea otters and seals.
McWay Falls
9.2/10 (96 reviews)
This rare 80-foot tidefall cascades directly onto a pristine beach cove along Big Sur's dramatic coastline. Capture its turquoise waters from the scenic overlook trail in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
Sand Dollar Beach
8.8/10 (91 reviews)
Sand Dollar Beach unfolds as the longest sandy stretch along the dramatic Big Sur coastline. Explore its crescent shores for rare jade specimens or simply savour the tranquil atmosphere beneath towering coastal cliffs.
Photo by Lisa Petrarca
Open Photo by Lisa Petrarca
Limekiln State Park
7.2/10 (13 reviews)
Where redwoods meet the sea, this Big Sur treasure showcases historic lime kilns and a 100-foot waterfall. Wander short trails through ancient forests or relax on the secluded beach where forest meets ocean.
Photo by Aaron Messick
Open Photo by Aaron Messick
Andrew Molera State Park
9.2/10 (10 reviews)
Hike through 20 miles of trails spanning meadows, bluffs, and beaches in this pristine Big Sur sanctuary. Watch for sea otters and migrating grey whales along the undeveloped coastline.
Photo by Linda A.
Open Photo by Linda A.
Henry Miller Memorial Library
8.6/10 (13 reviews)
Henry Miller Memorial Library is just one of the places to see in Big Sur, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Stroll along this relaxing area's seaside or simply enjoy its restaurants.
"Clean room. Staff was helpful. Room not ready on time. Limited choices for breakfast. We missed no a/c and no television in description. Would stay elsewhere if coming back."
"We had a wonderful stay at Ragged Point, with a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean and sunset\!
The room was the perfect size for my husband and me, and everything was very clean and comfortable\. It’s the little touches that made the difference—soft towels, a soft bed, and great shampoo, conditioner, and lotions\. We also appreciated having Keurig coffee and teas in the room\.
We also loved being so close to the on\-property restaurant, which we would definitely recommend\!
Overall, a great...
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
You can snap up a holiday package to this top destination on Expedia. But how much your holiday to Big Sur costs will depend on the season, hotel choice and length of stay.
What are the cheapest months to go to Big Sur?
You can usually find reduced prices and better availability in February, April and May. Check out our cheap Big Sur holiday packages and you could get some great off-season deals.
How many days is enough for Big Sur?
Generally, a handful of days is enough to visit the main attractions during your Big Sur holiday. However, if you'd like to have some time to relax or take day trips, consider extending your itinerary.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Big Sur?
Big Sur has all the ingredients you need for an amazing trip — hiking, nature and camping are just the start. Whether you want to check out attractions such as Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and Pfeiffer Beach, or take the road less traveled, you'll find plenty to experience on your Big Sur holiday.
How to find the best Big Sur package deals?
Finding a cheap Big Sur package deal is a breeze with Expedia. Once you've entered your trip dates and destination under our "Packages" tab, set your budget range, apply some filters and see what's available. You can tailor your search by "Amenities," "Property type," "Popular locations" and more. Order the results by "Price: low to high" to view the most wallet-friendly Big Sur package deals. Want a simple trick to score the biggest savings? Be flexible with your departure dates and consider going away on a weekday, when prices are usually lower.
Is it cheaper to book a Big Sur holiday as a package?
Expedia holiday packages are designed to give you more bang for your buck. Bundle your car rental, flight and hotel into one great-value price and you could save hundreds of dollars. You'll usually land a better deal than booking each component separately. And you'll still get the freedom to create a tailored Big Sur holiday by choosing your favourite type of stay, airline and car class.
When to book a holiday package to Big Sur?
If you've got your Big Sur travel dates confirmed, book as early as you can to grab some awesome deals. With Expedia, you can typically reserve some flights up to one year ahead of time. Prefer spur-of-the-moment adventures? Our last-minute deals are ideal for impromptu escapes.
How to plan a trip to Big Sur?
Pick your travel dates: The things you want to do in Big Sur and your preferred season will help you decide when to travel.
Plan your budget wisely: On top of the price of your stay, you'll need to factor in other expenses too. These include transportation, flights and food. Also, set aside some extra funds for unexpected expenses that may come up during your trip to Big Sur.
Work out your trip length: Think about how long you want to spend discovering Big Sur. Plan your days so you can get to all the attractions and activities you're interested in at a leisurely pace.
Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in order, you can combine your flights, hotels, car rental and more into a tailored Big Sur holiday package.
Big Sur offers an idyllic escape for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring stunning scenery and beautiful beaches. Visitors can embark on memorable road trips, enjoy weekend itineraries packed with adventure, and explore camping trips amidst nature. Outdoor activities abound, making it perfect for those seeking exhilarating experiences, while city tours provide a glimpse into the local culture. Don't miss the chance to explore its recreational areas and amusement parks for a well-rounded holiday.
Shopping
If you're up for a drive, Carmel Plaza, located 33.8km away, offers a delightful shopping experience with its mix of businesses and entertainment. The Barnyard, 32.2km from Big Sur, also provides a charming atmosphere for family-friendly shopping. Don't forget to explore Antique Clocks, 40.2km away, for unique treasures.
Recreation
At Quail Lodge Resort & Golf Club, enjoy a round of golf amidst stunning landscapes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For tranquility, Garland Ranch Regional Park offers serene nature trails ideal for relaxation and wellness. Lastly, the Sunset Center provides a charming atmosphere for cultural performances and family entertainment.
Adventure
At WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, experience the thrill of motor racing, only 37.0km from Big Sur, surrounded by adrenaline and excitement. For family fun, the Monterey Mirror Maze & Lazer Challenge, situated 40.2km away, offers an entertaining arcade adventure. Explore the scenic Salmon Creek Falls Trail right in Big Sur for a refreshing hike.
Nightlife
Big Sur's nightlife is tranquil yet enchanting, with intimate venues like the Big Sur River Inn offering live music and craft cocktails. Enjoy stargazing by the coastline or unwind at local campsites, where the sound of the ocean enhances the serene ambience of your evening adventures.
Find the best attractions in Big Sur
Big Sur, California, is a stunning destination ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. With its breathtaking coastline, numerous state parks, and enchanting waterfalls, it offers an abundance of scenic experiences. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the area, exploring major attractions and enjoying the quintessential Big Sur experience that perfectly blends adventure and tranquillity.
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park: Explore the stunning natural landscapes of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, where lush redwood forests meet rugged coastline. The park offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking to birdwatching, making it an adventure lover’s paradise.
Pfeiffer Beach: Known for its striking purple sand and unique rock formations, Pfeiffer Beach is a picturesque spot to relax and soak in the sun. The beach's dramatic scenery provides a perfect backdrop for photography and beachcombing.
McWay Falls: A breathtaking sight, McWay Falls cascades directly onto the beach, creating a romantic atmosphere. This stunning waterfall is accessible via a short hike, making it a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Best time to go to Big Sur
The best time to visit Big Sur is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Big Sur
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Big Sur.
Consider traveling to Big Sur during the low season (March and December to January) for more affordable options.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.