Best Big Sur Day Trips & Things to Do

The Central California coastal region features spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Lucia Mountains that feature the highest coastal mountain peak in the continental United States with the 5,155-foot Cone Peak. Big Sur has been the inspiration for many books, articles, songs and movies including the 2013 film "Big Sur," 1965 film "The Sandpiper," 1957 memoir "Big Sur and the Oranges of Hieronymus Bosch" and the 1960 novel "Big Sur." The sparsely-populated area between San Simeon and Carmel-by-the-sea features Point Sur Lighthouse, McWay Falls, Bixby Creek Bridge and several state parks.