Driving down from the Monterey Peninsula to the Central Coast is a little bit like a walk into Narnia. There’s a definite resemblance to the world from which you’ve come: crashing waves, endless ocean and a cold breeze. But as Highway One winds its way up the cliffs that overlook the Pacific, you realize you’ve reached a completely different place that is almost surreal. This is Big Sur, California: a wonderland of preserves, parks, views and hikes, and one beautiful car ride through them all.
The iconic Highway One wends its way along the ocean.
We climbed down to this empty rock beach while it was still chilly!
Elephant seals napping in the sun– la vie est belle!
In this long stretch of coast, the outdoor activities are endless. But it’s hard to visit the area without going on a couple of hikes! Walking trails wind down the cliffs to quiet beaches, and up the hills to high peaks. Sometimes the coastal fog lifts; other times, it hangs around. Trees stand tall in this ever-changing environment, and you’re never far from little forest creeks and wild animal tracks.
Surviving a long hike!
Have you ever heard of a yurt? It’s basically a fancy tent in which people go “glamping” (glam + camping). Glamping usually also involves nicer facilities, limited running water within the yurt, and perhaps a restaurant or two nearby. Our yurt had hardwood floors, furniture, and a gas heater. But the best part? No internet! I unplugged for almost 3 days.
Our Treebones yurt!
Our Big Sur yurt was located in Treebones Resort, which is in my opinion the best place to recline. This eco-chic property overlooking the ocean has sixteen yurts and additional campgrounds, as well as a treehouse and a human nest (that’s right– pretty cool!). From cozy lounge chairs to an organic garden to an impressive sushi chef, Treebones made an amazing temporary “home” on the coast!
The view through our yurt doors
Treebones’ garden is full of delicious veggies and fruits!
If you find yourself making a trip to the California Central Coast (do it!!), here are a few tips:
Map it first! This area is HUGE and it can take several hours just to drive down the coast. To get your bearings, check out this map.
Lodging is few and far between, and generally expensive. If you can swing it, Ventana Inn and Spa or Post Ranch Inn are gorgeous hotels; but personally I would recommend Treebones for a more affordable, unusual experience! Most popular in Big Sur are the campgrounds, and there are some excellent car camping options, as well as some campground cabins.
Dining is also a bit sparse, especially if you’d like a restaurant meal. We’ve enjoyed lunch at Ventana Inn, but generally prefer to pack some food with us. And especially if you’re camping– which most people are– there’s always the campfire! Dining at Treebones was also wonderful, especially if you are staying in that area.
Hiking is a must. Here are some of the hikes we enjoy:
- Andrew Molera State Park
- Sand Dollar Beach Trail
- Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park (to view the famous McWay Falls)
- Jade Cove trail
Would you do a great-outdoors trip like this? Where would you go?
While Big Sur is gorgeous, it’s increasingly crowded and over visited. There are so few bathrooms people are literally pooping in the bushes. Illegal camping led to the devastating Soberanes Fire in 2016. Time your visit during the off season. If you go during peak summer vacation or holiday weekends, expect long lines of slow traffic.
Thanks friend!! Please do go there, it’s one of my favorite places on earth!!
Your photography here is off the charts! I’ve had a hard time finding time to go to Big Sur, but I hope to make it super soon!!
Thanks girl!! And yes you definitely should go back 😉 It’s a great summer destination.
So gorgeous! I love that part of California, it’s so beautiful! I haven’t been to NorCal in a long time, looks like it’s time to go back!
Ah! This is amazing!! I am falling in love with yurts. I am so glad to have found you too! Thank you for sharing. Love this.
Thank you Charity!
You stayed in a YURT!! I’m so jealous!! (In a totally good way of course) YES! This counts as a summer sport, haha! I’m so glad you linked to this post on my page! LOVE your photos…there is just nothing like the coast.
Thanks Dean! It’s totally doable and you should go:)
Your pictures are beautiful and makes me want to bring my family there right now. And its so cool you got to stay in a yurt. Makes me jealous!
Thank you so much! You should definitely go– it’s a great time of year to be on the coast!:)
This post is awesome. I’m trying to get down to Big Sur from SF before the weather gets too cold and this post is perfect! Thanks you :))
xx, Tiffany | http://www.sunshinedaydreamphotography.com