California Coast Driving Tour: From Carmel and Point Lobos to Big Sur

This Carmel to Big Sur Driving tour is a collaboration by Lynn Momboisse and Carmel Cares founder Dale Byrne. Experience a spectacular driving tour that follows Highway 1 to Big Sur, often called “the greatest meeting of land and water in the world.” You’ll be greeted by views of the Santa Lucia Mountains rising abruptly from the Pacific Ocean, in contrast with the jagged rock cliffs and churning seas. This section of Highway 1, which opened in 1937, is considered one of the most scenic driving routes in the United States, if not the world. It’s filled with unblemished natural scenery and dotted with four state parks, hidden beaches, rocky coves and rolling hills. Our tour starts in Carmel-by-the-Sea, and continues south to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, the crown jewel of California’s State Park system, and Carmel Highlands, the location of several movies and television shows. Further on, at Garrapata State Park, you’ll find a long coast strewn with rocky coves and headland meadows. You’ll cross the iconic Bixby Bridge, pass by the prominent volcanic rock home of the Point Sur Light Station to the Big Sur River Inn and famous Nepenthe Restaurant before we stop at the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. Along the way you’ll have an opportunity to: • Witness waves crashing against rocky cliffs • Take in stunning views of the Big Sur Coastline • Hike through redwood forests and discover hidden coves • Hear about the history of this rocky coast and its people • Learn about the flora and fauna of Big Sur • Visit four California State Parks All stops, visits to state parks and subsequent hikes are optional and parking fees for state parks are not included in the price of this tour. For more detailed information about these stops please see “Places to stop along the way” in the tour description. This 35-mile driving tour can be completed in about two hours without any stops. On the other hand, this is your adventure. You may stop where you want, when you want and for as long as you want. It’s up to you! Happy Adventures! Please review “Places to stop along the way” and the “Precautions” section for important information on driving and hiking.

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