Andrew Molera State Park in Big Sur, CA

Photo Gallery

About Andrew Molera State Park in Big Sur, California

Andrew Molera State Park Beach is a long sandy, rocky, and driftwood-covered beach along the base of the Big Sur headlands. This is the largest state park along the Big Sur coast. It has open meadows, high ridges, groves of sycamore and redwood trees, a river, many hiking trails, and one of the best beaches to explore in the area. However, it requires quite a walk to reach the beach.

The most direct beach access can be done as a loop hike. From the parking lot, the Beach Trail descends to the beach and visitors can return on the Creamery Meadow Trail (or visa versa). Each segment is about one mile to the beach, so it’s a little over two miles to do the loop. Seasonal footbridges are provided for crossing the Big Sur River typically June through October. During the rest of the year you will have to remove your shoes and socks to wade through the river. Surfers will make this trek when the conditions are ideal as the Big Sur Rivermouth is one of the rare surf spots in Big Sur.

The beach at Andrew Molera State Park is over two miles long, but it’s hard the walk the whole thing due to small rocky points that poke into the water, except at the lowest tides.

The Bluff Trail provides access to remote parts of the beach. Because of the remoteness you may find beachgoers without clothing in secluded spots even though it is not allowed.

In addition to the large drive-in campground here, there are 24 walk-in camp sites that can be reserved.

The Ventana Wildlife Society Big Sur Discovery Center is located at Andrew Molera State Park. The center is open 10am-4pm on weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Address: Andrew Molera Rd
Big Sur, CA 93920
Phone: 831-667-1112
Park Name: Andrew Molera State Park
Other Names: Molera Beach, Big Sur River Beach
Owner: State Park
Pet Details: No dogs allowed on trails or beaches
Fees: Fees for parking
Activities: Hiking, Backpacking, Camping, Mountain Biking, Beach Walking, Beachcombing, Equestrian Use, Wildlife Watching, Surfing
Amenities: Campground, Walk-in Campground, Educational Center, Picnic Tables, Trails, River
Links: Water Temps
Tide Chart
Weather Averages
Big Sur Rivermouth Surf Report