Begin or end your journey at the Estero Inn of Morro Bay, the perfect base for an unforgettable coastal tour. This 123-mile drive along California’s iconic Highway 1 showcases the rugged beauty and rich history of the Central Coast. Whether you’re starting in Morro Bay and heading north or beginning in Monterey and winding your way south, each stop along the way offers a unique glimpse into the region’s natural splendor.
Begin your adventure in Monterey, a city steeped in history and culture. Once California’s capital under Spanish, Mexican, and American flags, Monterey is now known for its vibrant maritime heritage. Stroll along Fisherman’s Wharf, explore Cannery Row, and visit the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium. Don’t miss the chance to explore the city’s historic adobe buildings, such as the Royal Presidio Chapel and the Larkin House, which provide a glimpse into California’s rich past.
Just a short drive south on Highway 1, you’ll arrive in Carmel-by-the-Sea, a picturesque village known for its charming cottages, art galleries, and upscale boutiques. This artist’s haven is also home to Mission San Carlos Borroméo del Río Carmelo, founded by Padre Junípero Serra in 1770. After exploring the mission, take a leisurely walk along Carmel River State Beach, where you can enjoy the serene beauty of the coastline, fringed with Monterey pines.
Continue south to Point Lobos State Reserve, a natural paradise just a few miles from Carmel. This 550-acre park is renowned for its scenic trails, which wind through coves, headlands, and meadows. As you explore, you’ll encounter the rare Monterey cypress trees and might spot sea otters, sea lions, and migrating gray whales. The reserve also includes the nation’s first undersea ecological reserve, offering a fascinating glimpse into the marine life of the region.
As you leave Carmel Highlands behind, the landscape transforms into the rugged, untamed beauty of Big Sur. Stretching 90 miles along the coast, this iconic region is where the Santa Lucia Mountains meet the Pacific Ocean in a breathtaking display of natural grandeur. The road hugs the cliffs, offering unparalleled views of the ocean and the towering redwoods that define Big Sur’s landscape. This is a place where nature’s raw power and beauty are on full display.
One of the first stops in Big Sur is Garrapata State Park, located just south of Carmel Highlands. This park features one of the few easily accessible beaches along the coast, where you can watch sea otters playing in the surf. The park’s trails offer stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding cliffs, making it a perfect spot for a hike or a peaceful moment by the sea.
No journey along Highway 1 is complete without a stop at Bixby Bridge. This iconic single-span concrete arch bridge is one of the most photographed spots on the Central Coast. Take a moment to park at one of the turnouts and marvel at the views from this engineering marvel, which stands over 260 feet above the canyon floor. As you continue south, you’ll pass Hurricane Point, where the views are as wild as the winds that blow through this rugged landscape.
As you approach the heart of Big Sur, you’ll find Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, a haven of towering redwoods, sycamores, and ferns. The Big Sur River runs through this 964-acre park, creating a lush, green sanctuary that’s perfect for hiking and exploring. Don’t miss the chance to visit Pfeiffer Beach, where the surf crashes through the famous arched rocks, creating a scene of raw, natural beauty.
For a dining experience like no other, stop at Nepenthe, an iconic restaurant perched 800 feet above the sea. Enjoy a meal on the terrace as you take in the sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. This legendary spot is known not just for its food, but for the sense of peace and inspiration it provides to all who visit.
Just a few miles south of Nepenthe, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park offers another glimpse into Big Sur’s natural beauty. The park is home to McWay Falls, a spectacular 100-foot waterfall that cascades directly onto the beach below. A short trail along the seaside bluff offers stunning views of the falls and the surrounding coastline, making this a must-see stop on your journey.
As you continue south, the road becomes even more dramatic, clinging to the cliffs as it winds through the small settlements of Lucia, Plaskett, Gorda, and Ragged Point. These tiny communities offer a glimpse into the remote, rugged lifestyle of those who call Big Sur home. Take your time to explore this stretch of road, where every turn reveals a new, breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean.
After the wild beauty of Big Sur, the road leads you to San Simeon, home to the famous Hearst Castle. Built by media mogul William Randolph Hearst in the early 20th century, this opulent estate is a marvel of architecture and design. Take a guided tour to explore the 115-room main house, guesthouses, and extensive gardens, all filled with European antiques and art collected by Hearst. The views from the castle, perched high in the Santa Lucia Range, are as impressive as the estate itself.
Your journey concludes in the charming coastal town of Morro Bay, where the iconic Morro Rock—a 576-foot volcanic plug—rises majestically from the bay. Relax at the Estero Inn, where you’ll enjoy serene views of the water and the comfort of our luxurious accommodations. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the Morro Bay State Park Museum of Natural History, or simply unwind as you watch the sun set over the Pacific. Morro Bay’s tranquil beauty provides the perfect ending to your scenic coastal tour.
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Estero Inn
501 Embarcadero
Morro Bay, CA 93442