Big Sur, California

Big Sur, California is one of California's top spots for outdoor adventurers and explorers. It offers top activities and attractions that are must-visits for anyone looking for an outdoor adventure. From the iconic Bixby Bridge to the stunning McWay Falls, this area offers plenty of awe-inspiring sights. There are also plenty of trails to explore within the area, such as the Ventana Double Cone Trail, the Limekiln Trail, and the Andrew Molera Trail. For those looking for a more leisurely experience, there are also plenty of picturesque beaches to relax at, such as Sand Dollar Beach and Pfeiffer Beach. Big Sur is a great destination for anyone looking for an outdoor adventure, attractions, and stunning views.

Top Spots in and near Big Sur

  • Santa Cruz, California

    A Beach Bonfire in Santa Cruz at Twin Lakes SB

    This one-mile stretch of beach is the perfect option for those looking for a peaceful Santa Cruz experience, but without the crowds. The beach features soft sand, playful surf, an awesome view of Walton Lighthouse, and a handful of fire pits to choose from. It's a great spot to spend the entire d...
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  • Santa Cruz, California

    Surf Cowell's Cove

    4.8
    Cowell's Cove is located just south of Santa Cruz’s iconic Steamer Lane. The break is a slow pealing right, and is a very user-friendly wave for beginners. It can get crowded on weekends, especially when it's sunny, but no need to worry, there are a lot people out on foam boards and most are begi...
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  • Santa Cruz, California

    Bonfire at Seabright State Beach

    5.0
    This is a wide, beautiful beach that's an amazing spot to spend the day and enjoy a bonfire at night. Seabright is probably the most popular spot in Santa Cruz for a bonfire, due to its convenient proximity to the Beach Boardwalk. But luckily, this beach is tucked in between the San Lorenzo River...
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  • Santa Cruz, California

    Natural Bridges State Beach

    4.3
    Natural Bridges State Beach is a wonderful place to photograph located in Santa Cruz off of West Cliff Drive. This is a great place to practice long exposure photography to capture awesome water movement as it passes through the "Natural Bridge" formation. The best time to shoot this spot is at ...
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  • Santa Cruz, California

    Surf at Natural Bridges State Beach

    4.5
    Natural Bridges is off of West Cliff Drive to the north of popular Santa Cruz break, Steamer Lane. The break is a right point break, which breaks on a rocky shelf and reef. The break is best during sizable swells (NW, SW, and West) and a low tide. Be sure to check the wind, this break gets blown ...
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  • Santa Cruz, California

    Photograph Monarch Butterflies at Natural Bridges' Monarch Grove

    4.3
    The park's Monarch Grove provides a temporary home for thousands of Monarchs. From late fall into winter they make this their home and if you time it perfectly you can see them in clusters in the trees.  When you reached the Natural Bridges State Park, on the right of the Visitors Center you'll f...
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  • Capitola, California

    New Brighton Beach Trail

    0.85 mi / 112 ft gain
    New Brighton Beach Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes you past scenic surroundings located near Aptos, California.
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  • Capitola, California

    Camp at New Brighton Campground

    / 0 ft gain
    This Capitola camping spot is the place to be if you're looking to do a variety of activities in a variety of landscapes. You can swim, fish, or explore the nearby forest of Monterey Pine and coastal Oak. In the evening, walk into Capitola for live music and great fish tacos.  The S.S. Palo Alto,...
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