Discovering Big Sur’s brilliant, scattered outlooks
Big Sur can be an unforgettable adventure for all travelers. From hiking enthusiasts to leisure addicts, the incredible views on California’s Central Coast charm everyone. The stunning scenery is a product of the Santa Lucia mountains rising from the Pacific Ocean. Depending on who you ask, Big Sur runs 90 miles from Carmel River to San Carpoforo Creek or the coast of California Route 1 from San Simeon to Carmel.
Neither definition matters much since the spots you will love the most will be the ones you find. To discover the scattered outlooks – wear comfortable clothes, sturdy shoes and bring a light coat before choosing a member of your group that enjoys driving and doesn’t mind stopping, then hit the road with water and snacks.
Choose easy to navigate outlooks where other travelers haven’t paused, park the car and start climbing toward the water. Your goal, at this point, is to explore the land on your terms. Don’t give yourself a time limit, just inspect the area and see what grabs your attention naturally. Almost every stop is a photographer’s dream. Make sure to charge your camera’s battery before the day trip.
Big Sur is known for an impressive array of wildlife and the almost always blooming wildflowers, so, there will be plenty to take in while wandering the coast. Depending on when you go, you could see gray whales, monarch butterflies, California condors, red-tailed hawks, elephant seals, sea otters, humpback whales and blue whales. Click here to find the best times to spot specific creatures.
Once you have successfully traversed the uncommon points, make your way to the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. Burns was a rancher, pioneer, and Big Sur resident until her death in 1928. The park offers a plethora of options for additional hiking and exploring, but the must-see spot is McWay Falls, pictured above. The 80-foot waterfall drops from granite cliffs into the ocean.
Have you been to Big Sur? What was your favorite spot? Did you stay at any of the beaches or just delve into the gorgeous coast during a day trip? Tell us in the comments below!
Being Abroad 
5 Responses to “Discovering Big Sur’s brilliant, scattered outlooks”
Another great article, great job Being Abroad! I have never been to Big Sur, but reading your descriptions, I can almost hear the waves crashing against the rocks and the ocean breeze in my face. I will certainly visit those gorgeous spots when traveling to California.
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Thanks, Lille!
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Only in my dreams, though I came close 🙂 The one time I made it to California was during June gloom. La Jolla was almost sunny. These things colour your memory. But I’d give it a second chance 🙂
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Oh no! We had one of those days during our visit, too. Thankfully it didn’t last long. Hope you make it back again! 🙂
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[…] exploring Monterey and hiking through Big Sur, rest your sleepy bones at one of the charming cottages in Carmel by the Sea, also known as […]
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