My Photography & Travel Guide to Big Sur, California
Updated January 2025
Big Sur, California
““Nature has a way of healing the soul””
Visiting Big Sur had been on my travel photography bucket list for a long time. The entire drive down the California coastline from San Francisco is stunning.
Imagine a place where rugged cliffs meet the endless expanse of the Pacific Ocean, where the winding roads offer dramatic vistas at every turn, and where the golden hues of the California sun create a photographer’s dreamland. Welcome to Big Sur, California. This coastal gem is more than just a destination; it’s an experience. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a traveler seeking inspiration, Big Sur offers unparalleled beauty and serenity that will leave you mesmerized.
Big Sur is located about 2.5 hours south of San Francisco. The drive down Highway 1 along California Coastline is one of the most beautiful drives in the United States. We could not help stopping every few miles to take in the incredible views.
Between the incredible parks, restaurants, hiking trails, and photography you are in for a great adventure.
What is the best month to visit Big Sur?
The best times to visit are late Spring and early Fall. The weather is great, and the crowds have died down. I highly recommend staying at least two nights.
How To Get To Big Sur?
Normally, you can just drive into Big Sur. You would drive down to the coastline from San Francisco or North from Los Angeles.
However, our adventure began before we reached Big Sur. About two weeks before our visit, our hotel emailed us to say that the bridges on the north and south coasts had been washed out due to severe flooding. So, they proposed an incredible solution.
They had arranged for guests to park at Monterey Aiport and come to the hotel via Helicopter for just $100 per person. Yes, please sign me up!! It was my first time in a helicopter and to be able to fly down the California Coastline was just icing on the cake.
As we were walking out to the Helicopter I noticed that the Air Force had an F-22 on the tarmac. Being so close to one of these planes is something that does not happen every day.
I was even able to photograph one of these planes taking off.
Getting Around
Driving is the best way to explore Big Sur, as public transportation is limited. Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway, is the main artery. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft may not be consistently available, so renting a car is highly recommended.
Restaurants with Incredible views
Where to Eat: Dining in Big Sur
Nepenthe – Famous for its panoramic ocean views, try their Ambrosia Burger while soaking in the scenery.
Big Sur Bakery – A cozy spot offering wood-fired pizzas, fresh pastries, and locally sourced dishes.
Sierra Mar – Located at Post Ranch Inn, this fine-dining restaurant boasts an innovative menu and jaw-dropping views.
Ripplewood Cafe – A casual cafe serving hearty breakfasts and lunch options.
Cafe Kevah – Perfect for brunch with a view, offering fresh and seasonal fare.
Phoenix Shop & Cafe – A charming stop for coffee and unique local goods.
One of the reasons we visited Big Sur was to stay at the Post Ranch Inn. We had read so many articles about this hotel that we really wanted to experience it. This is truly a magical location. It is set above the Pacific Coastline with just outstanding views.
Best Area to Stay
The heart of Big Sur along Highway 1 is ideal, providing easy access to iconic landmarks and photography spots like Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls.
Where to Stay: Luxury and Comfort in Big Sur
Luxury Hotels
Post Ranch Inn – Nestled on the cliffs, this adults-only resort offers breathtaking ocean views, eco-luxury accommodations, and infinity pools that seem to blend with the horizon.
Ventana Big Sur – A luxurious resort featuring glamping options, spa treatments, and a serene atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of shooting.
Big Sur River Inn – A historic retreat surrounded by lush landscapes and offering charming accommodations.
Mid-Level Options
Big Sur Lodge – Located in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, this lodge offers rustic yet comfortable rooms with access to hiking trails.
Ripplewood Resort – Cozy cabins with a homey feel, set amidst the redwoods and near the Big Sur River.
Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn – A quaint and historic inn with individually decorated rooms and an enchanting ambiance.
As we approached the hotel via helicopter and were treated to such a unique experience that I will never forget it.
Since most people could not drive into the Big Sur area there were virtually no visitors. The hotel arranged for guests to be able to borrow one of the 8 cars they had on standby. So we would take drives down the coastline and see 1 car every 20 to 30 minutes. It was just so incredible that there were no words to describe it. Even if I was the richest person on earth I could never buy this experience.
How Long to Stay and Best Time to Visit
A 3- to 4-day trip is perfect for exploring Big Sur’s highlights and capturing its stunning landscapes. The best time to visit is during the spring (April to May) when wildflowers bloom or in the fall (September to November) when the weather is crisp and the summer crowds have thinned.
Photography Gear to Bring
Camera Body: A full-frame DSLR or mirrorless camera like the Canon EOS R5 or Sony A7R IV is ideal for capturing Big Sur’s dynamic range.
Lenses:
Wide-angle lens (16-35mm) for landscapes and seascapes.
Telephoto lens (100-500mm) for wildlife or distant coastal details.
Standard zoom (24-70mm) for versatile shots.
Accessories:
Sturdy tripod for long exposures and sunsets.
ND filters to capture smooth water effects.
Extra batteries and memory cards for long days of shooting.
Photography Locations
Enjoy the Highway 101 Drive
One of the best things to do in Big Sur is to enjoy the beautiful drive. Highway 101 is full of dramatic coastlines, beautiful views, and curvy roads. There are lots of places to pull over and enjoy the views. Take your time to enjoy the beauty around you.
2. Drive 17-Mile Drive
Since we were driving down from the north we stopped to drive along the famous 17-Mile Drive along Pebble Beach, a famous golfing community. It is AMAZING!! Do not miss it.
The Lone Cyprus Tree
There are beautiful views of the coast, mansions to marvel over, and nice golf courses. The entrance fee is $10.50 per vehicle.
3. Bixby Bridge
Bixby Creek Bridge – One of the most photographed bridges in the world, especially stunning during sunset.
From. our Helicopter
You can view the bridge from both the east and west sides of the road. I was able to photograph it from our helicopter.
4. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park McWay Falls
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is home to the famous McWay Falls, a beautiful waterfall that flows into the Pacific Ocean. There is a short ½-mile overlook trail to see the waterfall. The waterfall is about 80 feet tall and is surrounded by granite cliffs and a sandy cove. The beach is closed to the public.
If the only thing you want to see in the park is McWay Falls there is an overlook on the side of Highway 101 before going into the park. The view from this pullout is about as good as taking the hike and will save you the entrance fee.
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is one of my favorite State Parks to explore in Big Sur, and has often been called a “mini Yosemite.” There are redwoods and creeks to explore and plenty of places to park.
5. Andrew Molera State Park
Andrew Molera State Park is more “undeveloped” in the sense that there are only a few trails to do here. I really love the easy Bluffs Trail that follows the bluffs with ocean views. The Creamery Meadow Trail is a nice 2-mile roundtrip and crosses over the Big Sur River.
6. Garrapata State Park
Garrapata State Park has about two miles of beach along with a 50-foot climb to dramatic views of the coastline. There are also a bunch of different coastal hiking trails that meander through the park. Soberanes Point is another beautiful view.
7. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
If you are looking for beautiful views of the coast, a Point Lobos hike should be on your itinerary. Along with hiking, you can explore tide pools, spend time at the beach, take beautiful pictures, and look for wildlife.
Some of the highlights in Point Lobos are Cypress Grove Trail, the Old Veteran Cypress, and spotting sea lions and sea otters at Sea Lion Point. China Cove is a popular place for photography and is really pretty. Visiting Point Lobos is one of the best things to do in Big Sur near Los Padres National Forest with family.
8. Stop For The Coastal Views
You’ll find as you drive along Highway 1, there are multiple places to stop for views and photos. It’s part of the Big Sur experience. If you stop at iconic locations like Bixby Creek Bridge or pullover for the dozens of pullouts, you will want to be extra careful to be parked legally.
I hope you have found this Photography Guide on the Big Sur helpful. You can find my other Photography & Travel Guides by Clicking on this Link
