Big Sur Coast - Tourist Attractions / Parks

While a leisurely drive along the Big Sur Coast might be entertainment enough, there are several spots of interest along the way that merit a break in your journey. Point Lobos State Reserve (831-624-4909) is a spectacular mixture of surf, rocky bluffs, and forest which shelter dozens of birds and other animals, a great place to see some local wildlife. For man-made attractions, try the Point Sur Lighthouse (831-625-4419), a historic working lighthouse built on a dramatic outcrop of volcanic rock. Driving along California 1, you’ll pass over Bixby Bridge, a marvel of engineering well worth stopping at for a better view; not far from San Simeon, at the tail end of Big Sur, find Hearst Castle, the jaw-dropping former home of famed media mogul, William Randolph Hearst.

Other state parks and attractions in the Big Sur area are listed below. Click any name for more information.