This roughly 90-mile expanse of redwood and fog-trimmed waterfront lets you experience the Pacific coastline with its rugged cliffs and turquoise water. Follow Route 1 as it twists along the coastline. Look up to see California condors or down to see swells of migrating whales or sea otters floating among dense beds of kelp. One favorite photo op is in Julia Pfeffer Burns State Park at McWay Falls with its cascade falling some 70 feet from the cliffs to the sandy, remote beach. Wildflowers abound on this route as well. You will see pristine landscapes as well as urban areas. Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and the entire Big Sur area offers a variety of food and lodging opportunities including luxury rooms, or cabins, camping, and glamping options.
Big Sur Coast Highway – Route 1
Local Visitor Information
Discover more ways to experience this byway — photos and local partners.
Explore Resources
Find maps, guides, weather, and seasonal information for this byway.
Byway Overview
California Coastal Scenic Byway: Pacific Ocean Views & Rugged Beauty
Drive the iconic California Coastal Scenic Byway and experience breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. This stunning route hugs the coastline, offering dramatic cliffs, windswept cypress trees, and rolling fog that creates a magical atmosphere.
Marvel at rugged canyons, towering redwood forests, and the crashing surf below. Keep your eyes peeled for sea lions, whales, and other marine life along the way.
From scenic overlooks to charming coastal towns, this legendary drive delivers some of California’s most unforgettable ocean scenery and natural wonders.
A must-do road trip for anyone seeking dramatic coastal beauty along Highway 1.
Quick Facts
- Designation
- All-American Road (1996)
- Intrinsic Qualities
- Historic, Scenic
- Location
- CA
- Total Length
- 90 miles
Visitor Information & Byway Partners
Contact Details
For personalized travel assistance and local recommendations, please reach out to our regional visitor center.
Local Byway Partners
The byway follows Route 1 (Cabrillo Highway) along the California Pacific coast from Monterey southward to San Louis Obispo, where the route continues under a different name.
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Andrew Molera State Park
Great place to hike and for beachcombing
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Hurricane Point
Great view of the Pacific coastline
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Julia Piffer Burns State Park
McWay Waterfall descends to the sandy beach with turquoise water, rock outcroppings. Great place for a picnic.
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Kirk Creek Campground
Great views of the Pacific coastline.
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Sand Dollar Picnic Area and Beach
Wild flowers line the stairs leading to the beach.
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Limekiln State Park
Contains the 100-foot split-stream Limekiln Falls
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Carmel-by-the-Sea
Home to over 100 art galleries, cultural foods, and wine-tasting rooms. Scuba entry point at the Carmel River State Beach
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Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Sea animals and whaling museum.
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Pacific Coastline, Redwoods, Waterfalls, Beaches, and More
Start at the San Louis Obispo County Line, north of Ragged Point Vista, on Highway 1 (also known as the Cabrillo Highway). Pack a breakfast and lunch and take it with you to stop at any of the state parks along the way. The drive will hug the Pacific coastline. First stop is the Sand Dollar Picnic Area for your breakfast on the beach. Up the road, stop in the Kirk Creek Campground for breathtaking views of the Pacific coastline and at Limekin State Park to see the 100-foot Limekin Falls. A stop at the Julia Piffer Burns State Park is a great place for a mid-morning snack while you enjoy the waterfall, beach, and picnic area.
Drive through the towering redwoods to the Andrew Molera State Park. Stretch your legs on the hiking trail or go beachcombing. Stop at Hurricane Point to see more Pacific Coast views. Just south of Carmel-by-the-Sea is Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, home to a whaling museum. Continue to Carmel-by-the-Sea where the Byway officially ends at Ocean Avenue. Take Ocean Avenue going west to walk and enjoy the white sand beach. Scuba diving and surfing are also popular here.
Carmel-by-the Sea is known for its art galleries, food, and wine, so enjoy your evening in this iconic beach town.