Big Sur begins with Carmel By The Sea, one of California’s most enchanting destinations. Fairy-tale homes evokes a storybook ambiance that gives this town a romantic seaside vibe.
It’s the coastal environment that best defines this stretch of California, and that means venturing out. Navigate 17-Mile Drive by car or bike, stopping to contemplate the Lone Cypress that’s clung to a patch of rock for centuries. Play a round at Pebble Beach, the No. 1 public golf course in the country, book a surf lesson, or make for Point Lobos State Reserve, where scuba divers and kayakers share the water with harbor seals and sea otters.

From Ferraris to Fords and blessings to beverages, there’s something for everyone at the Carmel Mission Classic. Enjoy wine tasting by some of Monterey County’s finest vineyards, gourmet buffet, and live music in the background as you stroll the grounds of the crown jewel of Carmel, the Historic Carmel Mission. All net proceeds go to the charities of the Knights of Columbus and Carmel Mission.
While on the open road, stop by Baja Cantina Restaurant.

Every Thursday, May through October is a Classic Car Gathering, barbecue on the lawn, and excellent live music 6pm – 9pm.

Information on the Carmel Arts Festival

Armin Hansen: The Artful Voyage, by Scott A. Shields can be purchased here.

For excellent early California art, visit Josh Hardy Galleries, 6th Ave, between Dolores & Lincoln, Carmel, CA 93921 (831) 625-4353

Check the Monterey Art Museum for any upcoming exhibitions.

With no fast food restaurants in the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea, the city’s charming eateries and tasting rooms offer a full range of cuisine and wine tasting all within walking distance from the over 40 hotels and inns. From Wine Spectator award-winning restaurants to casual eateries and pubs, great dining is abundant, but don’t plan for your typical Starbucks venti frappuccino instead plan a stop at one of the many family owned coffee shops for specialty drinks and your morning cup of joe.

If you head south down the highway, check in with the State Parks service as changing fire and rainy seasons, mudslides can change access to many
areas along Highway One Big Sur.

Camping in and near Big Sur is very regulated as the environment is very sensitive to human impacts. Please stop and park only at designated parking lots to admire the views. Use toilet facilities in state parks. You must plan ahead for camping permits. Start here.

We recommend Riverside Campground

Every new bend is an amazing view, but two particular spots not to miss:
Pfeiffer Beach State Park

McWay Waterfall Trail, part of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, 0.64 mile roundtrip, easy. A quick walk to an overlook facing McWay Falls, an incredible 80-foot waterfall that drops directly onto the sandy beach.

To hire guides or join a tour of Big Sur, please call (831) 594-1742 or visit