Big Sur Initiation Itinerary

This itinerary covered a brief weekend trip to the Big Sur Coast.

For Julie and I, this was our very first time exploring this part of the California Central Coast together, and since we were in the budding stages of our waterfalling passion at the time, we pursued some of the famous waterfalls in the area.

As far as the scenery, we found this coastline to be so beautiful that we are seriously considering getting married here.

To get a sense of why, have a look at the highlights and logistics…

Trip Map

Pebble Beach and the 17-mile Drive – Although this scenic part of Carmel was known for the PGA golf course right by the California coastline, we used this drive as an opportunity to enjoy the rugged scenery, which culminated in the Lone Cypress, which sat paradoxically on a shore battered by the salty air and the ocean’s mist.

Big Sur Coast – This rugged stretch of coastline was the main draw, and it was why we bothered to come here in the first place. In addition, we also checked out some waterfalls like Salmon Creek Falls, McWay Falls, and Pfeiffer Falls.

Hearst Castle – This was kind of like the California version of a visit to concentrated wealth featuring fine art, a gaudy building, and some rare pieces of furniture. We wondered if this would be a pre-cursor to what visiting aristocratic estates, palaces, or castles might be like. But this was certainly wealth beyond anything we can imagine…

Day 1: Drive from Los Angeles to Big Sur

Overnight: Ragged Point Inn (Big Sur, California, USA)

This was a driving day where our early start allowed us to visit Moro Rock at Moro Bay as well as Hearst Castle. Then, we checked into Ragged Point.

Day 2: Big Sur Coast

Overnight: Ragged Point Inn (Big Sur, California, USA)

On this day, we started with a visit to Salmon Creek Falls. Then, we continued up the coast and visited McWay Falls. Next, we hiked to Pfeiffer Falls, then drove the 17-mile Drive at Pebble Beach. Finally, we dined at Nepenthe before making it back to Ragged Point at night.

Day 3: Drive Home

On this day, we drove home.