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 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 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.
Jade Cove
8.6/10 (24 reviews)
This rugged Big Sur cove is a rockhound's paradise, where nephrite jade treasures await along the shoreline. Visit during low tide after winter storms for your best chance at discovering these coveted green gemstones.
What to do in Big Sur
Big Sur McWay Falls opt 4 or 5 Hour Private Tour up to 12 ppl
"The hiking trails within the property are well maintained. New improvements along the trails are evident, as my family & I have lodged here in the past. The evening hangout @ the fire pit was fun. We had a restful & relaxing slumber. I did not give the lodge a 5 star review; in my opinion the cabins my family & I stayed in were very rustic & outdated for the fee the lodge is collecting for the night/day rate/fees."
"Cool cabins on the cliff edge. Clean and rustic. Nice gas fire in the room. Sounds of crashing waves. Enjoyed sitting out on the Adirondack chairs watching the sea. Shame there isn’t any food or places to walk but that didn’t spoil the stay."
"This is one of the most pet-friendly hotels I've ever experienced! The staff was so kind to both us and our pets! They even gave our doggies treats when we checked in. They had dog bags and trash cans scattered throughout the property, all conveniently located. We stayed in the main building of the hotel, but the entire property was so lovely and well-maintained. The room we stayed in was so comfortable! They also had individual cottages and cabins that looked adorable. We will definitely be...
"The check-in experience was disappointing and frustrating. We were given incorrect information by the front desk, and later learned from other guests that what we had been told was simply not true. Unfortunately, I also mentioned this during check-out and received no acknowledgment or apology. A much more professional and customer-focused approach would have made a big difference."
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, with its stunning landscapes and outdoor charm, is perfect for those seeking adventure and relaxation. Visitors can indulge in outdoor activities, enjoy scenic drives along the coast, and embark on breathtaking hikes. Additionally, there are recreational areas and a golf course for leisure pursuits. Although it lacks traditional amusement parks, the natural beauty of Big Sur offers a unique experience for all who visit.
Shopping
For a delightful shopping experience in Big Sur, visit The Barnyard, a charming shopping centre located 32.2km away. If you're up for a drive, head to Carmel Plaza, 33.8km from Big Sur, offering a mix of boutiques and entertainment. Antique Clocks, a unique store, is 40.2km away.
Recreation
Experience the enchanting Sunset Center, a theatre that offers a blend of romance and culture just 33.8km from Big Sur. For outdoor enthusiasts, Quail Lodge Resort & Golf Club, located 30.6km away, provides a delightful golfing experience amidst stunning scenery. Unwind at Garland Ranch Regional Park, 27.4km from Big Sur, embracing wellness and relaxation in nature.
Adventure
Embark on the Salmon Creek Falls Trail for a breathtaking hike amidst stunning scenery in Big Sur, perfect for adventure enthusiasts. For motorsport fans, the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, located 37.0km away, offers thrilling races. Alternatively, enjoy the great outdoors at the Waterfront, also 37.0km from Big Sur.
Nightlife
Big Sur's nightlife is tranquil yet enchanting, with stunning ocean views. Enjoy a cocktail at the Post Ranch Inn’s Sierra Mar Lounge, or unwind by the campfire at Big Sur River Inn. For a unique experience, visit the local art galleries, often hosting evening events and live music.
Find the best attractions in Big Sur
Big Sur, California, is a breathtaking destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking scenic beauty. Visitors can explore stunning national parks, picturesque beaches, and enchanting waterfalls. Ideal for adventure seekers, the area offers activities such as day trips along the Big Sur River and scenic drives along the coast. Whether you’re hiking or simply soaking in the views, Big Sur promises an unforgettable experience immersed in nature.
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park: This stunning national park offers breathtaking scenery with its towering redwoods and scenic river views. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, it features numerous hiking trails that cater to all skill levels, providing a perfect backdrop for adventure seekers seeking solitude in nature.
McWay Cove: A romantic gem, McWay Cove boasts an enchanting waterfall cascading onto the sandy beach, creating a picturesque setting. This scenic spot is ideal for photography and peaceful moments, where you can soak in the beauty of the rugged coastline and tranquil waters.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park: Another captivating national park, it features striking coastal views and lush landscapes. The park is perfect for hiking and exploring, offering trails that lead to stunning vistas and the iconic McWay Falls, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.
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
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
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.