There are lots of things to do in Big Sur with your family. If you’re looking for activities with kids, you can always pack a picnic and head for the beach. The beach is a fun place to take your kids, and they’ll have a great time exploring the rocks, waves, and other natural features. You can also check out Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Esalen Institute, and Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State park is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. It has seven trails that lead to hidden coves and waterfalls, as well as miles of creeks and redwood forests. It is also one of the few areas in Big Sur where you can do scuba diving.
This park also features the largest and oldest tree in the area, the Colonial Tree. The Colonial Tree is believed to be over 1,100 years old. While you won’t find ocean access at this park, you can still swim in the Big Sur River Gorge. Its granite-walled gorge offers a unique swimming experience for visitors. Besides swimming, you can also experience rock scrambling and river crossings.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State park offers two hike-in environmental tent campsites with picnic areas and restrooms. Fires are prohibited but you can use propane stoves to cook. However, dogs are not allowed.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State park offers a natural beauty experience that will leave you awestruck. The park is also home to the southernmost grove of redwoods in the state. Partington Cove is less crowded than McWay Falls but is a great place to watch endangered California condors.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State park is one of the things to do in Big sur with family. This park offers hiking trails and beautiful coastal views. The park has over 20 miles of trails for hikers to enjoy. A popular hike is the Bluff Trail, which offers coastal views. A stop at Pfeiffer Falls trail is also a fun activity for kids.
Another fun activity for families in Big Sur is camping. This is a great option if you want to spend some time in the wilderness without having to deal with televisions and cell phones. The beach is also a nice place to spend the day at. There are also some great roadside attractions in Big Sur like the Esalen Institute and the Henry Miller Library.
There are a lot of beaches in the area, but Pfeiffer Beach is the best one for families. It has a wide stretch of sandy beach with arched rock formations. It also has dunes and a creek where you can go for endless wading. Just be aware that there are no trees to provide shade.
Esalen Institute
The Esalen Institute is a non-profit retreat center and intentional community in Big Sur, California, specializing in humanistic alternative education. It played a key role in the Human Potential Movement in the 1960s. Its philosophy is based on the idea of human potential.
Dick Price, who founded Esalen, was a Stanford psychology graduate. He had a deep interest in the human spirit and believed that people heal themselves best in a supportive environment. He and his fellow founders at Esalen always had each other’s back. He also believed that people are most receptive to change in a community that encourages self-expression and inquiry.
The Esalen Institute offers workshops on humanistic psychology, wellness, and community building. These workshops cover a wide range of topics, including Gestalt, somatics, and yoga. There are also workshops on integral philosophy, ecopsychology, and sustainable living. In addition to offering workshops in these fields, Esalen offers several scholarship opportunities for individuals to spend time at the institute.
There is a strong tradition of sponsoring the arts at Esalen. The singer Joan Baez was a close friend of Esalen. She led the first Big Sur Folk Festivals in 1964 and performed a concert at the Esalen Institute, which was later featured in the documentary “Celebration at Big Sur”. Other notable artists who have appeared at Esalen include Robert Bly, Lawrence Ferlinghetti, and Allen Ginsberg.
A visit to the Esalen Institute in Big Sur is a worthwhile experience for the entire family. Located just a few miles south of Monterey, it is easily accessible by car and on the 101 South freeway. It is accessible by shuttle from San Jose and San Francisco.
During your stay at the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, you can spend the day hiking and visiting local attractions. You can even visit Sykes Hot Springs and explore the area’s natural beauty. If you have the time, you can also visit Monterey and sample some seafood chowder. And for the adventurous, you can drive up the Big Sur highway. These are both popular destinations for tourists and Californians alike.
If you’re looking for a weekend of philosophy, the Esalen Institute in Big Sur is an excellent choice. The community is home to a wide range of workshops that focus on philosophical theories. The bath house at Esalen is one of the most popular attractions, though you’ll need to make reservations to stay there. While you’re there, you’ll have access to the grounds, the hot springs, and fresh food from the gardens. If you’re not able to afford the regular price, you can also apply for a scholarship at Esalen.
Carmel-by-the-Sea beach
If you’re planning a vacation to California, you should visit the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Se, situated on a gorgeous bay near Big Sur’s scenic coastline. This idyllic location is known for its beautiful beaches and storybook cottages. You’ll also find plenty of art galleries, boutiques, and tasting rooms.
If you’re looking for some local art, you can visit the Carmel Art Association, which hosts art shows throughout the year. Most stores are located on Ocean Avenue, which stretches from Highway 1 down to the ocean. However, you can find unique shops and boutiques off the main drag. You can also take advantage of the Friday night art walk, which is full of live music, wine tasting, and local fare.
If you’re looking for upscale shopping, you can check out the nearby Carmel Plaza. It boasts the highest concentration of stores and is located in a convenient location. The area is also home to the world-famous Pebble Beach Links golf course.
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Carmel-by-the-Seam, consider staying in one of the town’s historic hotels. The hotel was built in 1903 and underwent a major renovation in 1941. The buildings feature Victorian flair and are within walking distance of the town’s most popular attractions. You’ll also find several restaurants along the coast, including the popular Katy’s Place, which has been around since 1982.
Big Sur is a popular destination for couples and wellness retreats, but you’ll find plenty of places to explore with your family here. Big Sur is known for its natural beauty, and there are a variety of activities and places to check out for a perfect family vacation.
If you’re interested in hiking, check out the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve located three miles south of downtown. It’s home to some beautiful wildlife, including sea otters. And if you’re interested in seeing the sights, you’ll find trails through the reserve that offer panoramic views of the ocean.
The weather in Carmel is unusually temperate. Average summer temperatures range from 60-70degF (15-21degC) and lows of 45-55degF (7 13degC). The winter months are rainy and foggy.
Gamboa Point
Whether you’re looking for activities for kids in Big Sur or are looking for a way to spend some quality time with your family, there are plenty of things to do in this scenic locale. A short walk down to the beach is a great way to get some exercise, while the view of the Pacific Ocean will be spectacular. If you’re looking for something more active, you can try the Hidden Falls hike. This 0.3-mile hike is considered easy, but you can expect a bit of bouldering and scrambling. You’ll also need a good hiking backpack, so you can keep your hands free to navigate the path.
You can get an amazing view of the sea from the parking area south of the beach. You’ll find this spot just south of the Big Creek Bridge and 3.5 miles north of Lucia Lodge. It’s a good place to stop for a break and snap a few pictures. Just a few miles away, you can also enjoy a day trip to nearby Limekiln State Park. There’s a day-use parking lot at this park, and there are trails and a cool little beach for the kids to enjoy.
The state park offers many options for outdoor fun, including McWay Falls. The park has 24 campsites, which is a perfect place to take your family for a picnic. The park is also home to a spectacular 80-foot waterfall called McWay Falls. You can even hike through the redwoods and search for furnaces among the sequoias at this park. If you don’t feel like camping, there are accommodations at the park and a lodge for guests.
Big Sur is a unique area of the California coast, full of adventure and natural beauty. The area is largely undeveloped, making it the perfect destination for outdoor activities. It’s also an ideal spot for a road trip from San Francisco to San Diego.
Another popular stop for people who want to explore the coast is Gamboa Point. Located just down the road from the Big Creek Bridge Vista Point, this location offers incredible views of the bridge and the surrounding region.
Is the 17 mile drive worth it?
It’s a touristy thing but for people visiting Pacific Grove and want to know how it’s done then do this. We were pleased with our decision, but we think the price was right. Can I drive 17km in one day? You get $15 per day for driving. This route runs through an urban zone that they think will charge you. There’re maps showing the stops so you can decide when you just want to go your way. You may find out how much the prices are right now. Probably two things. In a couple of stops we took advantage of the beauty of the coastline before going back to view the Cyprus Tree.
Best way to travel here
Big Sur is a great campground! When we visited we were staying in an RV so you have access to state parks and it was much cheaper than hotels in the surrounding area. Note your trailer must have a minimum height of 27ft. For larger rigs visit Big Sur Camping. Are you without the tools? Find a place on Outdoorsy. The best site for renting RVs for people like AirBnB for RVs. It’s great to have many RVs available. See RV rental options at Big Sur. We also have a guide to renting RVs, as well as suggestions for arranging trips to RVs.
Pfeiffer Beach
It took us a few trips to get to the beach. We were told that there are times when the rangers stand in front of them and they turn away because there is no parking. Get in touch with visitors and see what time is going on at the beach. The bus service to the visitor centre is also available, but it is quite expensive. More information will be available at Pfeiffer Beach’s blog. This is where you want the sign you want, it will come when you are traveling south. There are signs on beaches only. The “Secrets of the People”.
Andrew Molera State Park
We then visited Andrew Molera State Park where we heard about some of the trails we could take. I was very confused as the trail head was behind the parking lot near someone’s house. But there are some trailblazing. The creamery trails on the trail. We took off and travelled into another river we crossed where your shoes have to either be removed or the water gets wet. It nearly reached my shorts as I crossed the road! The website says it has a seasonal footbridge. The walk back to the sea went smooth.
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
State park is just a half-mile from the Sur Visitors Center. Our campsite is set among beautiful redwood forests. There are trails in state parks that are accessible either by walking into the entrance or by parking at the Trailhead parking garage. We did a Buzzard Roost hike which is explained below, the river is great! No national parks are in Big Sur, but Pféiffer Big Sur Statepark provides many junior ranger activities during the summer months. More hiking in Pfeiffer BigSur can be found here.
Bixby Bridge
We were nervous driving a trailer in Big Sur but it didn’t get too bad. You’re sure you get to Big Sur by walking along Bixbys iconic bridge. Since our trailer arrived, we stopped by the parking garage to see some photos. And these are the types I would love to follow with drones to get some awesome shots from our vehicles 🙂 The landscape was lovely – it looked as though we were in the Scottish mountains. The colors in the sea water are incredible. We loved the view over the sea while we drove!
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park – Waterfall Overlook Trail
Mcway Falls are rushing down the shore in Julia PFEIFFER Big Sur State Park. Oh how I wish I were here for an easy walk under the waterfall! It’s an easy walk from the parking area into a tunnel. It was pretty epic. Great big cliffs are everywhere. Keep in mind that most times there are lots of visitors there, but the viewing areas are relatively small. . There appears to be another very good trail but it all shut because of the erosion. Check the opening hours ahead of your journey.
BIG SUR FAMILY ACTIVITIES FOR EVERYONE
You will be greeted with the finest beauty on the entire state of Florida. Big Sur is technically a small town, but the name Big Sur typically reflects a 90 km coastline between Carmel and San Simeon. All the listed sites and activities can be found at that distance. They are shown on the postmap. The best activities in the list below are categorized in North and South directions.
Big Sur Bakery
We decided to go get breakfast in the bakery the next morning. It’s extremely expensive. It cost me about eight dollars. This goes on for several minutes and the kids are obviously hungry after eating a single snack. We then stopped in a convenience shop for a few more items. Its cute layout is nice if you’re worried about the pricing then it’s the best location for breakfast.
Is Big Sur worth visiting?
Okay! It’s not an issue. The Los Padres National Forests, Coasts and Rock Formations are stunning and remind me of Scotland. California is very busy. If you’re heading to Big Sur it feels as though you entered another world. The area is calmer and is surrounded by natural wonders and an incredible place for exploration.
Point Lobos Natural Reserve
We were told Point Lobos is California’s most beautiful State Park. It’s quite a feat, but it actually delivers! The park has two options: you can park outside or walk inside. The parking fee is billed for parking in the park on the trail. It’s advisable. You may be a bit long before you reach the trailhead.
Guided Big Sur trip
If driving around Big Sur seems like an alternative then be sure to check out our Half Day Guided tour to Big Sur. If you want a driving experience try these tours. If you want to travel to California, check out Carmel Monterey / Big Sur Private Full Day Tours.
The Best Things to Do In Big Sur
The best way to get the best possible experience in Big Sur is by taking a car journey. The tours are informative, and this tour highlights the finest places in Big Sur.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Ideally you will enjoy beautiful views over the ocean from Point Lobos hikers. In addition to walking, you can explore the tide bath, enjoy the sandy beach, take gorgeous photographs and observe the animals that live nearby. Point Lobos highlights include Cypress Grove Trail and Old Veteran Cypress, as well as observation of sea lions and sea otters at Sea Lion Point. China Cove is one of the top locations for photographs. It looks pretty. Visit Point Lobos can be done in Big Sur near the Padre National Forest with family and friends. Parking at the point is extremely low. Currently the park has 75 spots.
Henry Miller Memorial Library
The Henry Miller Library is a museum for art honoring the writer Henry Miller. The Library is the world’s second largest collection. The building was very attractive to visit. Other interesting places are the Molera Ranch House Museum. Ranch House offers tour opportunities Saturday from 11:30 p.m. until 3 p.m. The ranchhouse museum provides an authentic insight into life in Big Sur. The Henry Miller Memorial Library is both community theater and a bookstore. The place offers an excellent chance to see local art. Henry Miller has lived in Big Sur for 18 years.
Partington Cove
If you’re interested in a bit of hiking in Julia Pfeiffer State Park, there are trails at Parting Cove. It’s a 1 km walk. Partington Cove is an isolated cove beneath Partington Point in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. The cove has little sand, making it not the perfect place to spend a few days of beach time in this area. The trail is divided into two main paths. The other one takes off into the cliff in front of it. The other route leads you toward another cove. It is possible to enter two tunnels of a cool 60ft. long.
Big Sur Station/Visitor Center
The Tourist Info Center is a perfect place where people can find some of the best places to visit. Rangers will answer questions between 8am and 4pm Monday through Saturday. This section offers info about walking, where to camp and places to go. Besides being the only area in the area that covers cell phones, maps have been published in this area. The map we received at the ranger stations was extremely useful. Please download the map of this city beforehand for fewer cell phone charges.
Visit Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea was originally a European city and was regularly regarded as the 10 best places to visit. A short trip out of Big Sur close to San Pedro National Forest makes a trip to the charming downtown a great daytime activity. It’s also possible combine the two trips on 17 mile road. Spend an hour walking the downtown area, visiting charming shops and trying the delicious dessert at Cottage of Sweets. Their products include British chocolates
Sand Dollar Beach
Surfing at the beach is popular for those looking for beach dollars. Sand dollars aren’t very popular at the sea, but they are easily available in the area. It is the largest stretch of sand from Big Sur. Keep watching the sea to see the whale migration. There are a few short trails at Sanddollar Point to enjoy a better view. Sand Dollar Beach opens from 10 am to 6 pm. Parking costs $10.
Ewoldsen Trail
The Ewoldsen Trail takes you to five miles of beautiful redwood forest. A quick quarter mile stroll leads into another huge waterfall. There’s no straightforward trail to follow. There are steep slopes but the trails are good. Note: There are several poisonous oaks along this path. Parking costs $10, but parking outside of the parks is free.
Pfeiffer Falls
It’s an excellent trail that takes you into Big Sur Redwood forest. This hike is one of the best hiking routes at the Pfeiffer Big Sur park. This trail runs close to the lodge. This trail offers excellent opportunities for learning and a wonderful spot for picnicking.
Enjoy the Highway 101 Drive
A nice trip to Big Sur to enjoy the scenic road. Highway 101 offers stunning coastlines, stunning sights and curvy roads. Many places have been opened to get a good view. Please take your time and enjoy your surroundings.
Question
Is Big Sur good for family vacation?
Is Big Sur worth visiting?
The Big Surf beaches are beautiful, but there are a handful of islands on the land that are worth your visit. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is an excellent example of an attractive destination for travelers who like exploring the mountainside side of the highway.
What is the best time to visit Big Sur?
Big Sur’s favorite season to visit is April through November. The sea cover covers the coast in mornings for the rest of the high season. Business hours are less extended during the offseason.
It’s the perfect place to go outdoors. The hike through redwood forests and waves crash into the purple beaches in a matter of minutes. Big Sur has become one of the favorite places for romantic getaways and wellness vacations, and is also the perfect place for family to unwind and connect.
Where to Stay in Big Sur With Kids
When visiting Big Sur, there are several options for accommodations. You can camp at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park or stay in a Big Sur hotel. There are plenty of roadside viewpoints to enjoy as well. There are also several great restaurants and activities for kids.
Big Sur Camping
Camping in Big Sur is a great way to spend quality time with your family. There are many great campsites available, from glamping to rustic hike-ins. No special preparation is needed, and the weather is temperate, ranging from 50s to 60s. Most of the rain falls during the winter months, while summer is dry and warm.
One of the best campgrounds is right next to McWay Falls, which is arguably the most famous spot in Big Sur. From the campground, you can walk to the falls, which is a short five-minute hike. This campground is a great option for families with young children, as the waterfall is a popular attraction for the whole family.
To prepare for a camping trip in Big Sur, you should have all the necessary gear. Pack a high-quality backpack for your trip. Make sure you can easily carry everything in it. Bring a headlamp for nighttime travel. If possible, invest in a camping flashlight that doubles as a lantern.
Kirk Creek Campground
If you want to spend some time in Big Sur with your kids, Kirk Creek Campground is a great option. It offers a variety of activities, including whale watching. If you’re going to bring the kids along, make sure to pack a variety of clothes. It’s best to bring layers and a hat. The campground is not located right next to potable water, so bring plenty of water with you. If you’re traveling with young children, you should consider bringing a water-proof camera. A waterproof camera like a Nikon Trailblazer is a great choice.
Kirk Creek Campground offers oceanside views and is located a few miles south of Big Sur’s main drag. Nearby attractions include Limekiln State Park and Sand Dollar Beach. Sand Dollar Beach is narrow and can be covered by waves during high tide, so you may want to bring some protection. Kirk Creek offers 32 campsites, some with water and others without. It also has a Hike & Bike campsite for campers who want to explore the area on foot.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State park is one of the best places to stay in Big Sur with kids. This park features a spectacular waterfall, McWay Falls. Visitors can park on Highway 1 and take a short dirt trail to the waterfall. During the sunny season, McWay Cove looks almost otherworldly. This pristine cove is only accessible by boat.
The state park offers 24 campsites, each with a spectacular view of the ocean. The park features hiking trails through redwood groves and sequoia forests. Kids can also spend the day searching for furnaces hidden amongst the sequoias. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is located about 37 miles south of Carmel and 48 miles north of Ragged Point.
The park’s trails have easy-to-follow maps that make navigation easy. For example, the McWay Falls trail leads to a pristine swimming hole, but it’s also accessible through paved trails. Another popular trail is the Partington Cove trail, which leads to the cove below Partington Point.
Big Sur Hotels
There are a variety of places to stay in Big Sur, including historic motels, cabins, and RV parks. The region also has many great state parks and campgrounds. The Big Sur River Inn is a great choice for families. It offers heated pools, as well as fireplaces and fridges in the rooms. Many of these accommodations offer complimentary shuttle service. The town is also a great place for families on a budget, as there are inexpensive motels available.
The Bixby Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Big Sur. It is a great photo spot with sharp drop-offs on either side of the bridge. You can also sit at an observation bench and take in the breathtaking views. However, be prepared for oncoming traffic. Some places in Big Sur don’t allow children under 18 years old, so make sure to check out their age restrictions before booking.
Carmel-By-The-Sea: There are a variety of great hotels in Big Sur. From rustic bliss to luxurious properties, you’ll find a place to suit your needs.
Big Sur Lodge
There are several options for lodging in Big Sur with kids. Some accommodations have pools and others offer complimentary activities for the kids. The Big Sur River Inn has heated pools, fireplaces, and spacious rooms with kitchens. Kids will also enjoy exploring the nearby Big Sur River. Several accommodations also have easy-to-use internet access.
If you’re a hiker, you’ll love Big Sur. The hike to McWay Falls is just 5 minutes long and takes you to a stunning view. You’ll also want to check out Point Lobos, which has a large variety of easy family hikes and plenty of wildlife. Kids’ appetites can be ferocious, but you’ll find plenty of kid-friendly eateries throughout the area.
Big Sur is comprised of many smaller towns, and finding a place to stay can be a challenge. There are plenty of options for Big Sur accommodations, but choosing the right place can make or break your trip. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of our favorite places to stay, broken down by interest.
Ripplewood Resort
Guests who visit Ripplewood Resort in Big Sur with children will find a variety of activities and amenities. For instance, the resort’s cafe features free WIFI access. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the café serves authentic Mexican and American food. The resort also offers basic camping supplies and other over-the-counter necessities. The resort is also home to a Chevron gas station and the Big Sur branch of the Monterey County Free Library.
The Ripplewood Resort offers rustic cabins that are perfect for families. Each cabin has its own fire pit and patio, and all have beautiful views of the Big Sur River. The resort also has a pool and a meadow with blooming flowers. Most cabins also have full kitchens and fireplaces. Some of the best cabins also have decks overlooking the river.
The Ripplewood Resort offers a spa for children, as well as a restaurant. There are also two pools for families to enjoy. Kids will have fun splashing in the water, playing in the sand, and exploring the nature surrounding them. The resort also has a treehouse nest, a perfect place to watch a sunset. It is a great way to enjoy the beauty of the Big Sur coastline without breaking the bank.
Big Sur Vacation Rentals
If you’re traveling with kids, consider staying in a Big Sur vacation rental. These homes offer easy access to outdoor activities, including hiking trails and tide pools. Many of these vacation rentals are also located near the Big Sur River. Many of these properties also have fireplaces and refrigerators, which are great for keeping your family cozy in the evenings.
Some of the more affordable options are located in Big Sur’s King City, a small town situated inland from the rugged coast. With only about 12,000 residents, King City offers plenty of history and a relaxed atmosphere. There are plenty of family-friendly options in the area, including restaurants, coffee shops, and gas stations.
Kids of all ages will enjoy hiking in Big Sur. Little hikers can take advantage of the McWay Falls, a five-minute hike that leads to a spectacular view. In addition, Point Lobos offers easy hikes and a wide variety of wildlife. While exploring the area, parents will need to keep in mind that their kids’ appetites are likely to be ferocious, but there are plenty of family-friendly restaurants in Big Sur.
Peaceful Retreat with Amazing Views
If you’re looking for a vacation rental home with incredible views, you can’t go wrong with the Peaceful Retreat. Located in Waterfront Greens, this luxury condo features breathtaking views of both the golf course and water. Modern upgrades and amenities make this property a great choice for your next vacation. Peaceful Retreat is the perfect place to get away from it all.
- This 8-acre retreat is near Plaskett Creek Campground and Sand Dollar Beach. It is accessible via Highway 1 and a graded dirt road. The property has an outdoor deck with spectacular views of the Ventana Wilderness and Cone Peak. The property also has hiking trails for those who enjoy exploring the area.
- Kirk Creek Campground It’s just one of those places to visit and hang out Family and Kids Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, among several Monterey Pines, is the Kirk Creek Campground. This park has 34 camping grounds, each one of them offering a stunning view of the ocean along with the magnificent Big Sur coast. There are a few trails that will even take you to the beach. A popular destination for surfing and ocean fishing, Kirk Creek beach can be reached on foot from this park.
- parks in the area are known for their coastal views, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park rests further inland on the slopes of the St. Lucia Mountains, offering hike through vast meadows, to redwood groves, and along the Big Sur River. After a day of hiking, the whole family is sure to enjoy a dip in the Gorge Swimming Hole.
