Frequently Asked Questions

Big Sur Bixby Bridge
Bixby Bridge

Have a question about your trip to Big Sur? Before you go, check the answers on this list of frequently asked questions:

Where is Big Sur, California located?

Big Sur is a rugged and mountainous section of the Central Coast of California between Carmel Highlands to the North and and San Simeon to the South.

How far is Big Sur from San Francisco?

Big Sur is roughly 130 miles South of San Francisco International Airport (SFO).

How far is Big Sur from Los Angeles?

Big Sur is roughly 300 miles North of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

What are the average monthly temperatures in Big Sur?

For detailed information about weather in Big Sur visit US Climate Data.

Which airport is near Big Sur?

Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) is located in the city of Monterey, California about 30 miles North of Big Sur.

Can you surf in Big Sur?

Carmel beach and Sand Dollar beach are easily accessible from highway 1 and offer the best surfing in the area.

Can you fish the Big Sur River?

Fishing is allowed in the Big Sur River. The river is a stronghold for one of the most important wild steelhead trout populations on California’s Central Coast.

Can you stay in Big Sur?

There are a number of hotels and resorts located in Big Sur. We’ve compiled a list of places to stay in and around Big Sur.

Can you Backpack in Big Sur?

Big Sur offers many trails suited for day-hikes. No overnight backpacking is allowed near the town of Big Sur. There are two main backpacking areas south of Big Sur. Ventana Wilderness and Silver Peak Wilderness which offer fee-free trail access and don’t require permits. You will need a California Fire Permit to operate any kind of stove.

When is the Big Sur marathon?

The Big Sur International Marathon is a point-to-point course run on scenic CA Highway 1 from Big Sur to Carmel held on the last Sunday of April.

What highway is Big Sur on?

Big Sur is located along California Highway 1 also know as the Pacific Coast Highway or PCH. The section of Highway 1 running through Big Sur is widely considered one of the most scenic driving routes in the United States.

Where is Big Sur closed?

You can check current road conditions using the following resources.

Where was the Big Sur Landslide?

On May 20, 2017, the steep slopes at Mud Creek on California’s Big Sur coast, about 140 miles south of San Francisco, suffered a catastrophic collapse. The landslide closed Highway 1 between Nacimiento-Ferguson Road to the North and Rugged Point to the south. Highway 1 has since been reopened.

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