McWay Falls

Iconic waterfalls straight into the sea! This is a super short walk from the parking area so a great quick stop. Parking off of 1 is very limited (but free), it’s $10 cash to park in the parking lot*.

Pfeiffer Beach

Great place for a picnic or a beach walk. Check before you go as it can be closed. Parking is $15 and it can fill up!

Bixby Creek Bridge

The quintessential Big Sur Bridge!

Garrapata State Park - 1.6 mile Loop

Great coastal hike with amazing views! Park alongside Highway 1.

Garrapata State Park - 0.5 mile out-back

Short walk out along the bluff! Park alongside Highway 1.

Andrew Molera State Park - 8 mile loop

This is such a great hike! It does have a good amount of elevation and is exposed but you’ll be treated to beautiful coastal views.

Andrew Molera State Park - 2.3 mile Out-Back to the Beach

Short hike to access Andrew Molera Beach.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park - 0.8 mile loop

Short nature trail along the river.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park - 1.8 mile out-back

A good amount of elevation, but great views of the valley!

Nepenthe & Cafe Kevah

These are both on the same property with the most amazing views! Cafe Kevah is a bit more casual than Nepenthe, but still has the same great views. It can get busy and they don’t take reservations so get there early.

Big Sur Smokehouse

Solid BBQ spot in Big Sur! We’d recommend the brisket.

Big Sur Bakery

Quintessential Big Sur spot! They offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Carmel Beach

Possibly the most beautiful beach in central California.

Point Lobos

Beautiful spot for hiking/walking. The parking lot fills up fast, but you can also park along Highway 1.

Wine Tasting

There are a ton of great wineries off of Carmel Valley Road.

Garland Ranch Regional Park - 5.4 mi Loop

A good amount of climbing and mix of sun and shade but great views of the valley.

Garland Ranch Regional Park - 1.4 mi Loop

Easy loop to stretch the legs.

Stationæry

Trendy spot known for their brunch, but they offer dinner too!

Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro

Great local beer and solid food! They also have a location in Monterey.

La Bicyclette Restaurant

European bistro!

Rise & Roam

A newer spot with coffee, pastries, pizza.

Carmel Valley Coffee Roasting Co

Good coffee.

Carmel Mission Inn Restaurant

Great spot for brunch. They also offer lunch, dinner, and drinks.

Captain + Stoker

Our favorite coffee shop in Monterey!

Ad Astra Break Co

Great bread, pastries, and sandwiches.

First Awakenings

Great breakfast/brunch spot. The pancakes are amazing.

17 mile drive

Our favourite cycling route in Monterey.

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Check out the aquarium then walk along Cannery Row and the coast.

Coastal trail

Rent bikes and ride down the beach!