If you’ve ever started a Highway 1 road trip thinking, “We’ll just stop when we feel like it…” and then suddenly you’re stressed because you don’t know where the good stops are, where bathrooms exist, or why everyone is randomly parked on the side of the road
Same. 😅
So here’s my simple, no-overthinking list of the best Big Sur stops in the order you’ll hit them driving south from San Francisco. Think of this as your “pull over here” cheat sheet.
And if you want the full detailed guide (best timing, kid-friendly hikes, bathrooms, snacks, photo spots, and what’s actually worth it), I’m emailing it out soon — subscribe to get it first.
Big Sur Stops in Order (Southbound)
1) Monterey
The “let’s start this right” stop. Aquarium, Cannery Row, quick ocean walk, snacks before the wild part begins.
2) Pacific Grove (optional but SO worth it)
Monarch butterflies (seasonal), coastal trail views, Point Pinos lighthouse… and it’s the kind of stop that feels peaceful, not chaotic.
3) Carmel Beach
The “this feels like a movie” beach. Let the kids run, breathe a little, and pretend you’re not checking your phone for drive times.
4) 17-Mile Drive (optional splurge)
If you want iconic coastal views without hiking. Lone Cypress, seals at Bird Rock, and so many “wow” pullouts.
5) Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
This is the place that makes you say, “Wait… THIS is California?”
Short trails, turquoise coves, sea lions, otters… it’s basically a nature documentary you can walk through.
6) Garrapata State Park
Underrated and wild. No big entrance, just pullouts — cliffs, beaches, and that “we discovered this ourselves” feeling.
7) Rocky Point Viewpoint
Quick stop, huge payoff. Hop out, take the photo, stare at the ocean like you’re in a car commercial.
8) Bixby Creek Bridge
The Big Sur photo. The one you have to do.
(And yes — parking can be a zoo, so timing matters… I’ll cover that in the email guide.)
9) Hurricane Point
If Big Sur had a “look at this view and reset your brain” spot, it’s this.
10) Point Sur Lighthouse (tour stop)
If you like history and don’t mind a longer stop, this one is super cool — but it’s tour-based, so it takes planning.
11) Andrew Molera State Park
Great for families because you can do an easy meadow walk, beach views, or a longer hike depending on everyone’s mood.
12) Big Sur River Inn
This is the parent win. Kids play in the river, you sit in a chair, and for 20 minutes you feel like a genius.
13) Fernwood (food + vibe stop)
Rustic redwoods, chill energy, and an easy “feed everyone” stop without needing a whole production.
14) Pfeiffer Beach
Purple sand + Keyhole Rock. Feels like a hidden beach level unlocked in a video game.
(Also: the turnoff is sneaky — full guide explains it clearly.)
15) Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park / Big Sur Lodge area
Redwoods, river trails, classic campground vibes. Great reset stop if you want “forest Big Sur,” not just cliff Big Sur.
16) Nepenthe (+ Café Kevah)
Iconic views. Famous burger. The kind of place where everyone stops talking because the ocean is doing the talking.
17) Henry Miller Memorial Library
A weird little magical pause. Books, art, redwoods, and Big Sur creativity in one spot.
18) McWay Falls (Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP)
The waterfall into the ocean. Easy walk, huge reward, and it’s one of the most “wow” stops for first-timers.
19) Limekiln State Park
Redwoods + waterfalls + history. If your family likes “let’s do one more hike,” this is a good one.
20) Sand Dollar Beach
Biggest sandy beach in Big Sur. More space, fewer crowds, and kids can actually run without you feeling like you’re in everyone’s way.
21) Plaskett Creek Campground (if you’re staying overnight)
Family-friendly campground vibes, super close to Sand Dollar Beach.
22) Jade Cove (for adventurous families)
Rocky, dramatic, and famous for jade hunting. Not a chill beach day — more like “coastal adventure mode.”
23) Willow Creek (quick picnic + stretch stop)
One of those simple stops that ends up being your favorite because it’s quiet and easy.
24) Treebones Resort (if you want the “wow stay”)
Yurts + ocean views + glamping energy. This is a core memory place.
25) Gorda Springs + Whale Watcher Café
One of the only real “services” stops deeper down — food, gas, bathrooms. Very clutch.
26) Ragged Point (southern gateway vibe)
Big views, easy walk paths, good break spot before you hit San Simeon/Cambria.
27) Piedras Blancas Light Station (tour)
Historic lighthouse tours + ocean views (requires planning).
28) Elephant Seal Rookery
This one is always a hit. Free, easy, kid-friendly, and genuinely unforgettable.
29) Hearst Castle (if you’re going all the way to San Simeon)
If your crew has the attention span for a tour — it’s epic.
Want the full Big Sur guide?
This post is the cheat sheet.
My detailed guide is coming next (drive times, best stops by age, bathrooms, where to eat, what to skip, photo timing, and “don’t make this mistake” tips).
Subscribe to my email list and I’ll send it to you the minute it’s ready. ✅
