3 Stunning Hikes Around Big Sur, California

Big Sur hikes
Big Sur, California. Photo by Ganapathy Kumar on Unsplash

The Big Sur coast has been crowned the longest and most scenic stretch of coastline in the United States. Driving the coastal highway is definitely a highlight for any West Coast road trip, but the views are even better on foot. Here are three incredible hiking spots around Big Sur.

Garrapata State Park

In Garrapata State Park you can enjoy nearly 3,000 acres of pristine hillside meadow and a secluded stretch of shoreline. The Soberanes Tails follows Soberanes Creek through beautiful vegetation, and the short loop around Soberanes Point and Whale Peak is a top choice for sporting gray and humpback whales during winter and springtime.

Andrew Molera State Park

The best option for a looping hike that ends and the most gorgeous protected beach is to go out via the Beach Trail and return via the Creamery Meadow Trail.

Pfeiffer Falls and Valley View

The Pfeiffer Falls Trail reopened in summer 2021 after being closed for repairs for over a decade. There are stairs and railings making the climb to the base of this pretty waterfall easier and safer for kids and older hikers.