The Best Big Sur Coast Beaches

Big Sur might be the most beautiful coastline in the entire country. When many people think of the California Coast they have visions of driving down the highway in the Big Sur Region of Monterey County with mountains on one side and a stunning rugged shoreline on the other. Picturesque high bridges such as the Bixby Bridge and Rocky Creek Bridge cross the deep valleys along this route. With such a steep coastline, there are many beaches that can be photographed from afar but are otherwise hard to access. Some of these Big Sur beaches are blocked by private land, are nearly impossible to find, or have steep difficult hikes from the bluff to the sand.

Below is a list of the best Big Sur beaches that you can actually visit and put your toes in the sand. They might require a short day-hike to reach or an entry fee to get into, but they are all worth the effort and the price of admission. This list includes a variety of beaches from small rocky coves to wide-open sandy strands. A few have day-use areas and picnic facilities while others offer campgrounds for tents or RVs. Reserve your camp space ahead if you are traveling in the summer. There are several hotel options along this shoreline too.

To access to the Big Sur Coast, drive south on Highway 1 from Carmel or head north from San Simeon in San Luis Obispo County. Highway 1 is 100 miles of blissful scenery and endless curves between these small cities.