Hiking in Big Sur, California

Big Sur is an artist community built on California’s iconic Highway 1, stretching 71-miles from Andrew Molera State Park to Bixby Bridge. Big Sur has famously attracted writers like Jack Kerouac, celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor and spiritual travelers to its steep bluffs and coastal vistas. It’s popular with tourists and foreign visitors, attracting 7 million people per year, so year-round camping reservations should be booked well in advance. Protected from development, this coastal community is home to seven state parks and two state preserves.

Big Sur is a popular year-round destination, so planning ahead is a must. Hiking in Big Sur can be difficult during the summer due to a dry climate and high temperatures, so shoulder seasons are usually your best bet.

Big Sur offers hiking options for all skill levels, including short hikes through its two state parks and along the beach looking for tidepools.

Most hikes don’t need a permit. Campfires are prohibited due to a high risk of forest fires. Your guide will obtain a permit for use of items such as jetboils or camp stoves, but if needed, they will notify you of permits needed ahead of your trip.

All ages are welcome on guided hikes in Big Sur. There are plenty of family friendly options for those hiking with small children. If you’re unsure about what to expect on a guided day hike with little ones, contact us and we will provide you with all the information you need to book your next family adventure.

Most guided hikes require a minimum of 2 people, but there are options for solo travellers. Pricing is per person, but costs can decrease as the group size grows, making it a perfect opportunity to adventure with friends and family.

Each guiding service sets its own cancellation policy. All policies regarding cancellation, rescheduling and trip insurance will be clearly laid out by your guide prior to booking your adventure. Contact us if you’d like more information on a specific adventure.

Inclement weather can always get in the way of outdoor adventuring. In most cases, if you’re prepared with the right gear, a little bad weather won’t stop the fun. But, if Mother Nature hits you with an unexpected curveball, your guide will know the best course of action to take, determining whether it’s safe to move forward with the trip, switch to a different local spot, or reschedule your adventure for a more favorable day. Prior to booking, your guiding service will provide you with all the details you need to know.

Getting to Big Sur does require driving along the scenic Highway 1 from either the north or south. From the north, San Jose International Airport (SJC) is 74 miles from Big Sur and Monterey, CA is 29 miles away. From the South, San Louis Opisbo is another charming town 107 miles down Highway 1. If you’re travelling without a car, pick up can be arranged in most cases.

Layers for warmth and wind are recommended for Big Sur’s coastal micro-climate. We recommend packing the following to be comfortable and warm.

• Supportive hiking boots or shoes
• Wind jacket
• Light jacket for warmth
• Layers for warmth since it can be chilly near the water and at night
• Hat and sunscreen year-round to avoid sunburns and overexposure
• Day Pack
• Sunglasses
• Refillable Water Bottle