California Highway 1 & Big Sur Attractions

Explore Highway 1 of Monterey Bay
Monterey California Big Sur
Things to Do along Highway 1
Los Padres in Monterey Bay

Highway 1 from Monterey to Big Sur is one of the most scenic drives in the United States. The two-lane highway, also known as Pacific Coast Highway, winds along rugged cliffs offering spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Lucia Mountains. In addition to jaw-dropping scenery, visitors will find myriad things to do.

Explore Highway 1 -

Located just off Highway 1 in Monterey, California, Comfort Inn Monterey by the Sea is conveniently located for visiting Highway 1 attractions. The shops and restaurants of Carmel are a few minutes away, or enjoy a leisurely drive to Big Sur, stopping along the way for photos, a picnic or a stroll through Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Find the best rates online for hotel rooms and suites at Comfort Inn Monterey
by the Sea.

Big Sur -

Just south of Monterey on Highway 1, Big Sur leaves a remarkable impression. The town of Big Sur offers little more than a gas station, café and roadside market. It's the natural wonders of Big Sur that bring visitors back time and again. Hiking is plentiful along the Big Sur coastline. One of the most famous hikes is to the 60-foot tall Pfeiffer Falls. The hike is an easy stroll of 1.4 miles round-trip that winds past redwood groves, ending at the stunning waterfall. Among the most spectacular viewpoints in Big Sur is Nepenthe restaurant. Outside seating provides ample opportunity for spotting whales in the distance.

Things to Do along Highway 1 -

In addition to the scenic drive to Big Sur, Highway 1 offers other interesting things to do. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is located just beyond downtown Carmel, offering miles of easy walking trails, picnic areas, wildlife viewing and historical sites from the early days of whaling. The Henry Miller Memorial Library in Big Sur offers an interesting glimpse into the life and works of author Henry Miller. Special events and workshops in the arts are offered here throughout the year.

Los Padres National Forest -

The Los Padres National Forest, accessible in Big Sur, offers myriad opportunities for outdoor recreation on the Central Coast. The region spans roughly 220 miles from Big Sur south to Los Angeles County. Los Padres National Forest offers an incredible diversity of hiking, biking and horseback riding opportunities across elevation gains from sea level up to 9,000 feet. Dozens of trail heads are accessible in Big Sur and offer fantastic outdoor experiences along beaches, in redwood groves and atop mountain peaks.