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Alcatraz Cruise + Big Bus San Francisco Combo Tickets

Napa River History Tour + Big Bus Tours San Francisco

Skunk Train's Magical Christmas Train + Big Bus Tours San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito Bike Tour + Big Bus Tours San Francisco

Bay Cruise + Big Bus Tours San Francisco

Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Tour + Big Bus Tours San Francisco

Redwoods and Wine Country Tour + Big Bus Tours San Francisco

Muir Woods & Sausalito Half-Day Tour + Big Bus Tours San Francisco

SeaQuest Folsom + Big Bus Tours San Francisco

Alcatraz & City Sites Seaplane Tour + Big Bus Tours San Francisco

San Francisco hop on hop off tours are an ideal way to see the city’s best sights while exploring at your own pace. Journey across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge from the upper deck of an open-top, double-decker bus, and hop off at over 16 convenient stops like Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, and Haight Ashbury, to explore. Then hop back on at your leisure. up to 1 hrs 1 or more people

Good To Know

• Use your 1-day ticket on any date; 2-day tickets must be used on consecutive days.
• Hop off and on as often as you please. Your driver will announce hop-off stops as the bus arrives at each location.
• Download the Big Bus app for real-time bus stop locations and timing.
• Daytime Red Route has 17 stops in total and buses run every 30 minutes between 10am and 5pm.
• Nighttime tour lasts approximately 1 hour. The night tour is not a hop-on, hop-off tour.
• Ride across the Golden Gate Bridge, and experience amazing views from an open-top, double-decker bus.
• See all the city's top landmarks.
• Includes pre-recorded commentary.

Description

• Big Bus Tours' Fisherman's Wharf Visitor's Center
• North Beach / Chinatown
• Embarcadero Center
• Ferry Building
• Union Square South
• Redemption Center / HIlton Hotel
• Civic Center
• Alamo Square
• Haight Ashbury
• Golden Gate Park - outside California Academy of Sciences (Monday–Saturday only)
• North Vista Point / Golden Gate Bridge
• Palace of Fine Arts
• Marina / Cow Hollow
• Lombard Street
• Pier 35 Cruise Terminal
• Golden Gate Park - North-West corner of Lincoln Way & 9th Ave (Sundays and Public Holidays only)

Big Bus Tours San Francisco Reviews

Big Bus Tours San Francisco is located at Big Bus Tours San Francisco • 75 Hagiwara Tea Garden Dr • San Francisco , CA 94118

Nearby Things to Do

• California Academy of Sciences
• Golden Gate Park Electric Bike Rentals
• The Vibrant Castro and Mission District: Private Half-Day Tour
• Secret Food Tours San Francisco
• Wine Tasting in Napa Valley: Private Excursion

Nearby Hotels & Lodging

• Hotel Nikko San Francisco
• Handlery Union Square Hotel
• The Fairmont Heritage Place Ghirardelli Square
• Kimpton Alton Hotel, an IHG Hotel

Frequently Asked Questions about Big Bus Tours San Francisco

Where does the tour begin.

Stop #1 is located at the Big Bus Tours Visitor's Center, located at 99 Jefferson St, San Francisco, CA 94133 (corner of Jefferson and Mason Streets). You can join the tour at any Big Bus stop location.

How long does the tour take?

Day Tour (Red Route): a full circuit takes about 2 hours if you don't hop off the bus. You can hop on and hop off the tour as much as you like or choose to stay on board the entire circuit. Night Tour (Blue Route): a full circuit takes 1 hour. Please note that the Night Tour isn't a hop-on, hop-off tour.

What time do tours start and and how often do buses run?

Day Tour (Red Route): First Bus: 10:00am from Stop #1 (Pier 41). Last Bus: 5:00pm at Stop #1 (Pier 41) Bus Frequency: every 30 minutes. Night Tour (Blue Route): First Bus: 6:30pm only, from Stop #1 (Pier 41)

What can I see and visit during the tour?

During your Big Bus Tour, you'll pass through famous San Francisco neighborhoods like Fisherman's Wharf, Union Square, Haight Ashbury, Golden Gate Park and the Embarcadero. See landmarks like the Transamerica Pyramid, City Hall, and of course, feel the wind in your hair as you travel over the majestic Golden Gate Bridge. Simply hop on to discover and hop off at any stop to explore further. They stop at 17 convenient locations, each selected because it provides easy access to an attraction or place of interest. You can hop on and hop off the tour as much as you like or choose to stay on board for the entire circuit.

How will I know where to get off?

Your guide will communicate upcoming stops.

Are accommodations available for persons with disabilities?

Yes, Big Bus operate wheelchair accessible vehicles with lifts that can accommodate a weight up to 650lbs. Please be advised that their entire fleet in San Francisco is not wheelchair accessible. If you or your travelling partner(s) requires an ADA accessible vehicle, please call the number on your e-ticket 48 hours prior to your tour date.

Can I bring my pet?

No pets are allowed on board the bus. Only ADA service animals are permitted.

Can I bring food or drinks?

No food or alcohol is permitted on board the bus. Non-alcoholic drinks in screw-top bottles are permitted.

Is luggage allowed on board the bus?

No, luggage is not permitted on board the bus at this time.

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The Best Stops on San Francisco’s Big Bus Tour, From a Local

There’s so much to do in San Francisco, but many visitors come to the City by the Bay for only a few days. One great way to see as much as possible during your stay is to book a Big Bus tour.

When I first moved to SF over a decade ago, I went on a Big Bus tour to quickly get a sense for the city. The tours are hop on/hop off, so you can spend as long as you want at each stop, and then catch another bus to the next stop.

It’s an amazing way to see tons of sights without needing to rent a car. You can book a Big Bus tour here.

As a local, here are my picks for the best stops, and what to do at each one.

North Beach / Chinatown

Located at 329 Columbus Ave, this stop takes you to the heart of San Francisco’s cultural melting pot. Here, the Italian heritage of North Beach intertwines with the vibrant colors and flavors of Chinatown.

Head into North Beach for fantastic Italian cuisine, or pass through the ornate gates of Chinatown for Sim Sum that’s been legendary for over 100 years.

This stop is also the perfect place to visit Coit Tower, which has stunning murals and lovely aerial views of the city.

Attractions: Coit Tower Operating Hours: 10:07 – 17:07

Big Bus Tours Visitors’ Center

Okay, so a Visitor Center doesn’t sound amazing. But actually, they should call this the Fisherman’s Wharf stop, because it gives you access to some fantastic sites right in this popular area of San Francisco.

Check out iconic Fisherman’s Wharf attractions like Ghirardelli Square or the Hyde Street Pier, or just gave out at the Bay and the beautiful Bay Bridge. You can also use your bike rental option (if you got one) to grab a bike and bike over the Golden Gate bridge to Sausalito.

Book a tour now.

Attractions: Fisherman’s Wharf, Blazing Saddles, Cartoon Art Museum, Red and White – 1-Hour Bay Cruise, U.S.S. Pampanito Submarine, Ripley’s Believe it or Not!, Madame Tussauds & San Francisco Dungeon Operating Hours: 10:00 – 17:00

Embarcadero Center

Located on Clay St (between Battery & Front Streets), this stop gives you a great view of the Embarcadero waterfront area and the Exploratorium.

If you’re visiting with kids, you’ll definitely want to stop at the Exploratorium. It’s a bit pricey, but it’s one of the best science-oriented kids’ museums in the world. It’s also right on the water, with amazing views of the bay.

There’s a little cafe that I like. The food is also pricey but they have a fantastic hot dog that my kids love.

Attractions: Embarcadero, Exploratorium Operating Hours: 10:13 – 17:13

Ferry Building

Here at 1 Market Street, you can enjoy the historical Ferry Building , the bustling Ferry Plaza Farmers Market, and the Railway Museum.

The Ferry Building gathers together some of the best San Francisco food sellers all in one place. Make sure to check out the stand for Cowgirl Creamery (love their Mount Tam cheese). If you want to sit down for a fancier meal, Slanted Door is amazing.

You can also catch a ferry to Larkspur and take the shuttle up to Muir Woods. Just make sure to make a reservation in advance as they can fill up. The ferry ride is an attraction all in itself.

Book a tour now and check out this culinary icon.

Attractions: Railway Museum, Ferry Building , Ferry Plaza Farmers Market Operating Hours: 10:16 – 17:16

Union Square South

Found at 280 Geary St, this stop gives you a chance to explore Union Square and the renowned San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.

SFMoma was totally redone and has some of the best contemporary art in the world. You can also visit the iconic Macy’s at Union Square, or check out the skating rink around the holidays.

This is one of the best places to catch a cable car, too.

Attractions: Union Square, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art Operating Hours: 10:26 – 17:26

Golden Gate Park

One of the highlights of the tour, the Golden Gate Park stop has different locations for weekdays (55 Music Concourse Drive) and Sundays and public holidays (bus stop at North-West corner of Lincoln Way & 9th Ave). The park offers a plethora of attractions.

For families, California Academy of Sciences is amazing. I belong to the museum and visit about once per month. It has an indoor rain forest, a green roof, an aquarium, and lots of other attractions for both kids and adults.

Check out the earthquake simulator, too!

The Japanese Tea garden is a unique cultural experience, and the teahouse has amazing matcha (you can make great matcha at home too , BTW). The DeYoung is great for adult travelers who want a contemplative art museum to explore. The DeYoung also has a great tower you can use to see the whole city.

Book your tour now and head straight to these amazing museums.

Attractions (Weekdays): Japanese Tea Garden, Botanical Gardens, California Academy of Sciences, De Young Museum Attractions (Sundays and Public Holidays): Botanical Gardens Operating Hours: 11:07 – 18:07

Golden Gate Bridge / North Vista Point

The iconic Golden Gate Bridge stop, located at North Vista Point, provides one of the most panoramic views of the bay.

You can walk all the way across the bridge, if you want, or just take some selfies. Keep in mind that on windy days, it can get cold by the bridge. Pack layers.

Attractions: Golden Gate Bridge Operating Hours: 11:22 – 18:22

Ending your journey at The Embarcadero, bus stop outside the entrance to Pier 39, this location offers a fun-filled experience with its various attractions.

Aquarium of the Bay is a great attraction for kids, and the sea lions at Pier 39 are iconic and hilarious (if a bit smelly). Watch them nudge each other off the pier into the water as they jockey for the best spot.

Attractions: Players Arcade and Luau Lounge Secret Tiki Bar, Pier 39, Sea Lions, Aquarium of the Bay Operating Hours: 11:52 – 18:52

Note: The other stops on the tour include the Redemption Center / Hilton Hotel, Civic Center, Alamo Square, Haight Ashbury, Palace of Fine Arts, Marina / Cow Hollow, Lombard Street, Pier 35 / Cruise Terminal. Each has its unique charm and attractions worth exploring.

Enjoy your journey through the enchanting city of San Francisco!

Book your Big Bus tour here and get exploring!

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• Hop On Hop Off

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Big Bus San Francisco Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour & Sunset Cruise

Activity schedule, key highlights.

• Inclusions & Exclusions

Varies (Please check calendar)

Hop-On, Hop-Off Tour: 1-day, or 2-days (as per the option chosen)

Sunset cruise: 2 hours

Hop-On, Hop-Off Tour: 10am - 6pm, every 15 min Chinatown Walking Tour: 1 pm

Sunset Cruise:  5:30pm

Hop-On, Hop-Off Tour: Board the bus at any of the designated stops. The first stop is Big Bus Tours Fisherman's Wharf Visitors' Center.

Chinatown Walking Tour: Make your way to Stop 2(North Beach/Washington Sq.)

Sunset Cruise: The cruise starts from Pier 43½, Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco.

So there’s no last-minute rush please arrive at the start point 20-30 mins early.

Hop-On, Hop-Off Tour: Hop off the bus at any of the stops.

Sunset cruise: Same as the start point.

• The ultimate saver combo: Enjoy a San Francisco Hop-On, Hop-Off Tour with a scenic cruise around San Francisco Bay
• Hop on and off the bus at well-placed stops to visit attractions of your choice
• Enjoy audio commentary on the bus and see attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge, Little Italy and more
• Upgrade your hop-on, hop-off ticket to Essential and Explore to enjoy a Chinatown walking tour and bike rental
• Enjoy the beauty of San Francisco Bay at dusk on a leisurely sunset cruise
• Get great shots of Golden Gate Bridge against the sunset
• Both printed and smartphone vouchers accepted!

Save money and discover San Francisco on a Hop-On, Hop-Off Tour and visit enjoy a sunset cruise with spectacular views.

Big Bus San Francisco Hop-On, Hop-Off Tour:

Experience the best of San Francisco with the Big Bus Hop-On, Hop-Off Tour! Hop on and off as you wish and personalize your sightseeing experience by visiting the attractions of your choice over 1 day or 2 days. While you take in the sights, you can listen to a recorded commentary in multiple languages.

There are three ticket options you can choose from:

• Discover Ticket:  1-Day Hop-on, Hop-off Bus Tour
• Essential Ticket: 1-Day Hop-on, Hop-off Bus Tour + Chinatown Walking Tour + 1-hour Bike Rental
• Explore Ticket: 2-Day Hop-on, Hop-off Bus Tour + Chinatown Walking Tour + 1-hour Bike Rental OR USS Pampanito General Admission

SOME OF THE MAIN ATTRACTIONS COVERED:

• Golden Gate Bridge
• Treasure Island
• Fishermen's Chapel
• Palace of Fine Arts
• Union Square

Chinatown Walking Tour: Discover the biggest and oldest Asian Chinatowns in San Francisco with an expert guide.

Blazing Saddles bike rental: Hire a Deluxe or Hybrid bicycle and discover the city on a self-guided tour. Rent for 1 hour, get 1 hour free.

USS Pampanito or Blazing Saddles (Explore ticket): Choose either Blazing Saddles bike hire, or admission to the USS Pampanito. Learn about the historic World War II submarine or cycle across San Francisco's stunning waterfront, across the Golden Gate Bridge, and into Sausalito.

San Francisco Sunset Cruise:

Take to the waters at sunset for this delightful evening cruise around San Francisco Bay. Sail westward through the Californian twilight and see the great Golden Gate Bridge silhouetted against a flaming Pacific sunset. Your knowledgeable captain will provide an informative commentary and live guitar music on board will add to the enchantment.

Sail past the bleak island of Alcatraz, once a federal penitentiary. Further on, you will see Angel Island, the largest island in San Francisco Bay.

Your cruise continues along the Tiburon peninsula and past Sausalito, a place that was notorious as a center for bootlegging during the Prohibition era.

You will then pass under the famous Golden Gate Bridge and admire the magnificent feat of engineering.

• 1-day or 2-days Hop-on, Hop-off ticket (as per the option selected)
• Pre-recorded commentary on the bus in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian and Portuguese
• Bike Rental Offer (1-hour rental + 1 hour free) – (with Essential & Explore ticket)
• Chinatown Walking Tour – (with Essential & Explore ticket)
• USS Pampanito admission - (with Explore ticket)
• Sunset Cruise
• Live commentary in English by the Captain
• Admission to attractions, unless specified

Useful downloads

Please note.

Voucher information : You can show your voucher on your smartphone (But if you’d rather print a copy – that’s fine too!) Individual vouchers for each activity will be shared with customers within 24 hours of booking. The date you choose is for the attraction ticket. The hop-on, hop-off tour can be taken on any day within 14 days.

Hop-On, Hop-Off Tour: Wheelchair accessibility: Yes San Francisco is a functioning city and weather, traffic, and events may occasionally cause disruption. Timings and stops are subject to change. The updated map will be available once you board the bus. Pampanito or Blazing Saddles (Explore ticket): To make your choice, please speak to a Big Bus Tours staff member when you redeem your ticket on-street.

Sunset Cruise: Luggage Restrictions: Large bags, backpacks, suitcases not allowed. If you would like to be on the outer deck we suggest bringing some warm clothes.

Customer Reviews

Stella nojiri, margaret butler, great tour experience..

I liked the tours with live tour guides rather than the audio tour. Regardless, we had a good experience. Big Bus made good use of our time by running enough buses to minimize...

Pietro Orizio

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A Quick Trip to Beautiful Big Sur: What to See, Do, Eat, and Enjoy

last Updated: May 15, 2023 big sur california central coast pacific coast highway

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Heading to California and can’t wait to check off all the stops on this Big Sur road trip itinerary? Read on for my favorite Big Sur activities, where to stay, what to do in Big Sur, and (most importantly), what and where to eat! This Big Sur road trip will have you booking flights to California ASAP, promise!

Seaside cliffs. Winding turns. Miles of misty coastline. Purple sand (yup!). Just a few of the things Big Sur is well-known for. And just one reason it’s on every list of the most beautiful places in California .

Big Sur is one of my favorite places IN THE WORLD (hands down) and one of my favorite road trips from San Francisco . I mean, it’s absolutely GORGEOUS. I feel oh so lucky to only live a few hours north, which means we typically make it to Big Sur at least once a year! 

Whether you’re driving down the entirety of the California coast or just making the short drive from SF, you’re in luck. And I’m jealous of you already.  With more ocean views than you ever thought possible, eco-friendly and luxurious hotel stays, wooded hiking trails and nature for days, I can never get enough of this stretch of the coastline.

This rugged and mountainous section of the Central Coast of California is just begging to be explored. And trust me, there’s enough things to do in Big Sur to fill an entire weekend and then some. Read on for the most perfect Big Sur road trip itinerary!

If you’re looking to take a much longer trip down the PCH, check out all my favorite stops on the Pacific Coast Highway – yes, all 75 of them!

BUT FIRST, THE BASICS

• Nearest City: Carmel (to the north, ~45 min drive) and San Simeon (to the south ~1.5 hour drive)
• Closest International Airport: San Francisco (SFO), ~2.5 hour drive
• Most Well-Known for: McWay Falls and the Bixby Bridge
• When to Visit: April through October, although my favorite time of year is early Fall
• How to Get Around: You’ll need (and want) your own car, 110%

Since the road to Big Sur is finally open again (after months of closure due to horrific mudslides), now’s the time to visit! Definitely don’t miss one of the most unforgettable stretches of majestic coastline in the world. It makes an excellent weekend trip from San Francisco , that’s for sure!

READ NEXT: 25+ Best Road Trips from San Francisco

How to Get to Big Sur:

Thankfully, getting to Big Sur is pretty easy, as long as you have a car. If you’re from outta town, and by that not within driving distance, you’ll need to get yourself to SFO (San Francisco) first. From SF, Big Sur is about 2.5 hours south. You’ll most definitely wanna make a few stops along the way ( Half Moon Bay , Pescadero , Santa Cruz , and Carmel/Monterey are my favorites), so plan accordingly!

Renting a Car : Note that you’ll undoubtedly need a car for this Big Sur road trip (it is a mini road trip after all!) So if you’re visiting the area (or live in the city and don’t have access to a car), a car rental will be a necessity! I like to search  via this site  in order to compare rental companies to see who has the best price. They check out all the major websites, and you can customize what you need as well! You’ll most likely be coming from the airport if you’re visiting, so aim to pick up your car rental from SFO.

Search for the  cheapest car rentals over here !

When to Visit Big Sur:

Big Sur is most popular between April and October , when the weather is at it’s nicest. You’ll find plenty of sunny days over here! Of courseeee this is when it’s most crowded, so if you hoping to have McWay Falls all to yourself, think again. Not happening.

However, if you wait until the summer rush is over and visit during either September or October, you’ll experience less crowds and actually better weather! Not many out-of-towners know this, but coastal fog is another downside of a Big sur road trip during summertime ; it can hang around as late as midday! The fog is usually gone by early Fall, and you can even witness whales and butterflies this time of year (yes, really, if you know where to look!)

Visiting between the months of November to March? It’s important to note that many businesses have shorter opening hours during the off-peak season.

Read Next: 25+ Long Weekend Trips from San Francisco

Temps are mild year round, ranging from a cool 60 degrees to a balmy 75 degrees F. It’s always wise to bring along a jacket no matter what month you’ll be frolicking around Big Sur, as it never gets particularly hot hot hot, and temperatures are always cooler on the coast than in the mountains nearby.

Where is Big Sur Exactly?

Many people don’t actually realize this, but Big Sur is not an actual city/town for that matter. It’s more of a state of mind rather than a specific point on a map, encompassing about 90 sunny Californian miles down the Pacific Coast Highway .

This mesmerizing stretch of coastline is located between Carmel (about ~45 min drive north) and San Simeon (roughly 1.5 hours drive south). 

Most people are surprised at how little “civilization” is around here – no traffic lights, strip malls, or banks. It’s so nice to just be surrounded by nature and kinda forget about the rest of the world for a little while!

How Long to Stay in Big Sur:

With that being said, you can easily see oh so much in even as little as one day. If this is your first time to the area —  don’t rush it! I recommend anywhere from 1-3 days in Big Sur, kinda depending if you wanna go on a few hikes or just see the typical tourist Big Sur road trip stops.

EXTRA BIG SUR ROAD TRIP TIPS

• Plan ahead. As you saw above, there’s lots to do within the 90 mile drive encompassing Big Sur. Sure, you can be spontaneous, but you’ll probably miss some of the best spots. I highly suggest to map out your Big Sur road trip in advance to ensure you’re seeing the best of the best of the area.
• A full day drive through can be enough time, but I don’t recommend it. You can definitely see a great deal of what the area has to offer, but to truly understand it’s captivating magic, you’ll want to stay the night. The area too expensive for ya? Try camping or make the short drive back to Carmel for less expensive accommodation options.
• Note that mudslides happen quite frequently in Big Sur and nearby. Check this site for current highway conditions before your drive.
• Bring binoculars to see the wildlife, especially in Point Lobos!
• Things book up fast, especially in the summer and fall. It’s best to make hotel and restaurant recommendations in advance.
• There is absolutely no cell phone service in Big Sur. At all. Don’t expect to be connected and/or be able to use Google Maps to get you from place to place. Download the map to your phone beforehand when you still have wifi/service, and may be able to use it for GPS purposes. You’ll find wifi at most popular restaurants, bars, and hotels — but, don’t keep your nose in your phone all day!
• Grab a free map of the area. With that being said, Big Sur’s free tourist newspaper has a fantastic detailed map. Pick up a copy of the newspaper at almost any establishment in the area.
• Keep a sweater or two in the car. One minute it’ll be warm and sunny, the next the fog will roll in dropping the temperature 15 degrees. Always better to be prepared!  It’s also a good idea to keep some hiking and/or beach clothing accessible in the car as well. It may not be beach weather when you set out for the day, but later in day who knows!

A FEW COMMON QUESTIONS

Is driving to Big Sur dangerous? Yes and No. There are twists and turns along the cliff, with most parts of the highway being only one lane in either direction. The road is narrow, so be extra careful when pulling over for the views (my advice – only pull off in designated spots, there’s plenty of them). Just take the drive slow, stay alert, and you’ll be ok.

How long does it take to drive the Big Sur coastline? It could take as little as 2 hours (if you don’t stop at all), or 2 days if you make all the stops for the views, foods, and hikes. Pace yourself – it’s all beautiful. There’s typically some traffic, so if you’re just driving through, expect it to take at least 3 hours.

Where does the Big Sur drive start? There’s no real “starting point”. Since Big Sur is located between Carmel-by-the-Sea and San Simeon, it’s best to start from either of these (and finish in the other) if you wanna experience the entire coastline of Big Sur.

Why is Big Sur famous? Have you seen the photos?! It’s known for it’s pristine scenery, full of turquoise water, beautifully-designed bridges, rustic hiking trails, and more. 

Can you swim in Big Sur? Yes and No. Despite all ocean views and beaches, there’s not many safe spots for swimming. The waves are unpredictable and pretty rough. And plus, the water is chilly over here! Head to Carmel, Monterey, or further south (Cambria, Cayucos, Morro Bay) if you wanna swim.

What to See and Do on Your Big Sur Road Trip:

Woooo – it’s finally time to get this Big Sur road trip itinerary under way!

You can drive all of these Big Sur road trip stops from either north to south (starting in Carmel) or south to north (starting in San Simeon) of course, but I prefer driving from NORTH to SOUTH. The scenic pull-offs are along the coast, and driving north to south provides the easiest access to these. And plus, I’m from San Francisco so I’m typically driving down the coast, not up. 🙂

With that being said, I’m planning out this Big Sur road trip itinerary from north to south. You can easily follow along the road trip stops, doing every single one (my recommendation) or picking and choosing a few if you only have part of a day. 

From North to South:

First things first, if you’ve never been to Carmel or Monterey, I highly recommend spending at least a day discovering both. My favorites in that area include: Carmel Beach, Lover’s Point Park, Pavel’s Bakerei, the 17 mile drive, and whale watching! The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a popular favorite as well!

1. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

As you start your Big Sur road trip down from San Francisco (after exploring Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea prior), you’re first official stop should be Point Lobos! There are a ton of walks and trails to choose from, with all difficulty levels. And thankfully, everything is laid out quite well with proper signage, so there’s no risk of getting lost.

While the entire reserve is beautiful, don’t miss China Cove and Bird Island Lookout (on the southern part of the park). They’re my two favorite spots in Point Lobos, and you won’t find clearer waters.

If you’re visiting in winter, don’t miss the chance to go whale-watching, as this area is a haven for them! You’ll also be able to witness sea lions and harbor seals frolicking around on nearby rocks any time of year — listen and you’ll hear them no problem!

Go hiking, walking, bird watching (pelicans frequent the area), scuba diving (yes, really!), all while taking in the magnificent views! Bring your binoculars for wildlife viewing! You may even see an orca and/or dolphin off the coast!

Note that parking costs $10 to enter the park , but you can easily park on the side of the road (if you don’t mind walking a far distance to get in).

2. Garrapata State Park Bluff Trail

Okay, so we just discovered this spot off the side of the highway on our last visit to Big Sur, and I cannot believe I never noticed it before! It’s pretty secluded and kinda secret (aka not on all the typical “things to do in Big Sur” posts), so I hope you enjoy it as much as we did!

 A short 15 minute walk along the cliffs with beautiful views of the coast and even a waterfall! I wanna go for sunset next time!

Psst: If you’re visiting in early spring, don’t miss Calla Lily Valley right near Garrapata Beach (different location than the Bluff Trail).

BONUS STOP! CALLA LILY VALLEY!

If you happen to be visiting Big Sur between February and early April, you NEED to make a short pit stop at Calla Lily Valley ! It’s such a unique spot on the coastline, and it’s only a .25 mile hike to get there!

Read Next: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Calla Lily Valley in Big Sur!

3. Rocky Creek Bridge

THIS is the bridge that everyone thinks is the iconic Bixby, but it’s not! Although I can definitely see why – it’s just as beautiful and even the same style! If you’re not in a rush on your Big Sur road trip, why not make the extra stop? The water was soooo extra beautiful when we were there – we actually felt like we were in Hawaii for a hot second!

4. Bixby Bridge

Any Big Sur road trip ain’t complete without a stop at iconic Bixby Bridge, one of the most photographed spots in Big Sur (which I’m sure you’ve seen alllll over instagram and pinterest).

You won’t miss it, promise, as it’s just a short 15 miles south of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Bixby Bridge is the epitome of Big Sur and it’s everything you’d expect and more (but really, it’s the surrounding scenery that really steals the show).

Top tip: pull off at a turnout from the bridge’s south end at sunset. Absolutely spectacular and downright mesmerizing. The view from the entrance to Old Coast Road isn’t half bad either. 🙂

Be warned, traffic can slow along this stretch (especially south bound) during the summer, so it’s best to visit Bixby in the early AM!

5. Old Coast Road

This 11 mile road is what those back in the day had to use before the famed Highway One was complete! — and not many tourists know about it just yet! You’ll be driving on private land, so you can’t stop to take tooo many photos, but since it’s usually not crowded, feel free to stop in the middle of the road if you must for some shots. Just be careful to watch out for other vehicles coming and livestock roaming around! The entire road is comprised of redwood groves, babbling brooks, rolling hills, and lot’s of no trespassing signs. Basically, nature at it’s finest. 🙂

Tip: Driving it can be challenging, but well worth it. You’ll want an all-wheel drive for best mobility, but if all you’ve got is a regular sedan, go slow and you should be a-okay! The road is not paved. Don’t go during the rain or after it’s just rained as the road is all dirt and can get quite muddy at times.

6. Hurricane and Sea Otter Refuge Viewpoints

All the views all gorgeous on the coast, but these two have ample parking and suuuuuch great views of the coast all around!

7. Point Sur State Park and Lighthouse

Next up on this Big Sur road trip itinerary – the Point Sur Lighthouse! While the tours are quite long at three hours, the history and information is so interesting you won’t even notice the hours passing by. Be sure to check the website as tours are not offered every day. And get there early — the tours only accommodate 40 people! Take along some warmer clothes as it gets quite chilly up at the top of the lighthouse! Thankfully there’s hot chocolate, tea, and/or coffee waiting for you. Tours cost $15 per person.

There’s also some hiking in the state park, with sea lions and starfish in the tide pools nearby.

8. Big Sur River Inn

Hungry? This place is absolutely perfect for lunch! The menu’s pretty large, and you can even eat while dipping your toes in the river! They’ve got a manicured grassy lawn which is perfect for picnics, and a whole set-up on their outdoor patio with tables and umbrellas. 

Sure, the food is on the pricey side (like the rest of Big Sur), but it’s such a great place to stop and relax for a bit.

There’s a retro school bus selling ice cream right off the parking lot, which is perfect on a hot day. And plus, what’s cooler than a cone from a bus? :p

9. Pfeiffer Beach

Have you ever seen a beach with purple sand?! Yea, neither had I until I visited Preiffer Beach in Big Sur. After you finally find it (the road to get to Pfeiffer Beach is a bit hidden and narrow with no signs), you’ll be pleasantly surprised that the sand is actually truly purple in some spots on the beach. Note that the color of the sand realllly comes alive right after it rains.

You could easily spend a few hours admiring the keyhole and rock formations on the beach. You don’t really need your bathing suit here as the water is waaaay too cold. You can always put your feet in if you’d like!

How to get here: When you’re heading southbound (recommended), take the 2nd right after you see the Big Sur Station. You’ll see a big yellow sign that says “NARROW ROAD: NO RV’s OR TRAILERS.” Go down that road! It costs $10 once you make your way a bit, but it’s well worth it once you get to the beach. Use caution while driving as the road is rather windy and narrow!

10. Big Sur Bakery

Small and cozy and rustic and delicious. Big Sur Bakery is typically pretty crowded, but it’s worth the wait.

Our favorite thing to get: almond croissant. I repeat, the almond croissant is orgasmic. Sure, it’s the most expensive pastry I’ve ever bought (at a whopping $8.50), but my husband and I both felt it was worth the hefty price tag. And it’s large enough to split, for sure.

The banana bread is great too, but now that we’ve had the almond croissant, I don’t think we’ll ever be getting anything else. 

They’ve also got some wood-fired pizzas, burgers, and avocado toast if you’re still hungry after Big Sur River Inn. As well as (chive and cheddar) scones and strudels and coffees and cream-filled donuts.

Oh, and the bakery has public restrooms available, which is always good to know on a road trip without much service!

11. Nepenthe

Cocktails with a view? Yes please! We love to break up our Big Sur road trip with some cocktails and appetizers from Nepenthe.

I feel the need to say this since you’ll be getting back in the car to continue on the 1: if you’re the driver, please be responsible and limit yourself to one drink at most. 

• If the weather’s lousy (as in thick fog drastically impeding the views), I honestly wouldn’t bother with Nepenthe. While the food and drinks are good, you’re paying for the view.  

12. Henry Miller Memorial Library

Book lover? Head to Henry Miller Memorial Library, and you’ll be nothing less than impressed. From free coffee available and interesting and unusual titles for purchase, it’s worth spending a while here to soak up the Big Sur atmosphere.

Tranquil. Cozy. Quiet. Don’t miss it – it’s even surrounded by giant redwoods! They sometimes even host concerts, cultural events, and film nights as well.

13. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park – McWay Falls

After Bixby Bridge, this is on everyone’s must see list during any Big Sur road trip. And there’s a reason for it — the 80-foot waterfall is absolutely stunning. In every way, shape, and form.

A short 10 minute walk from the parking lot will get you to a beautiful waterfall crashing directly into the Pacific Ocean’s emerald water. Psst: When people say they’re “hiking” to McWay Falls, they’re really just casually strolling down a paved path.

And if there’s still orchids and wildflowers out, you’ll think you’re in Hawaii. Absolute paradise, albeit rather crowded at times.

• LOCAL TIP: Visit Julia Pfeiffer Burns in the afternoon when the sun is shining directly on the waterfall – it will be cast in shadows and difficult to see at other times of the day.

There is a $10 honor system daily charge, so bring some cash. You can easily park on the side of the road and forgo the paid parking, which is what most people do (I’m not saying it’s a-okay… just letting you know that’s an option if the parking lot is full). And thankfully, the parking lot has bathrooms! Yes!

Be aware that the trail is sometimes blocked off due to erosion, and you may not be able to get that picture perfect view. In addition, since California is still somewhat in a drought, the falls may be quite dry during the summer months.

Do note there is no beach or ocean access, and it’s actually forbidden to go down there. There are plenty of other beaches to hang around, so do your part and just stay where you’re supposed to be.

14. Limekiln State Park

Haven’t had enough of the great outdoors on your Big Sur road trip just yet? Limekiln State Park may be juuust what you’re looking for. The park offers a few short hikes, each offering their own thing, to waterfalls in redwood forests and access to the beach.

And thankfully, neither are too strenuous or long (perfect if you don’t have all day). Be sure to take along a sweater as the trails are shaded and can be very cool the entire time, which makes for a spectacular break on a super hot day!

Note that parking is rather limited and costs $10, with restrooms available.

15. Sand Dollar Beach

Being Big Sur’s largest beach, as long as the tide is low, you’ll find plenty of space to lay your towel down and relax. Do take note of the tide schedule though – high tide can essentially make the sandy beach disappear, making it difficult to find a place to sit.

Looking for sand dollars might result in a disappointment, but you’ll easily find muscles, crabs, sea anemone, and kelp beds while exploring the nearby rocks during low tide. Stay for sunset as the rock formations on the beach make for some epic scenery!

Note that you’ll have to walk/hike about 100 steps or so to access the beach. Which means you’ll ultimately need to climb back up! Just letting you know so there are no surprises! The parking lot is large and yes, you’ll need to pay $10 (a common theme to use the beaches/parks in/near Big Sur). Again, there’s a toilet here!

Animal Observations in Big Sur

DIY Whale Watching

No matter what time of year you’re visiting Big Sur, you’ll always want to be on the lookout for whales off the California coast. Patience is the only requirement, but binoculars are nice to have as well. Three types of whales frequent the Big Sur coastline:

• Gray Whales: December to February (migrating south to Mexico), and February to April (returning north; easier to spot as they are closer to the shore)
• Blue Whales: June to October
• Humpback Whales: late April to early December

Monarch Butterflies

If you’re visiting Big Sur in the winter months between October and December, you’re in for a real treat – tons of monarch butterflies! These little beauties return to Big Sur in October, and migrate north in January. Look out for them clustered in trees in the early morning, and flying around during the day. While you’ll see monarchs all around Big Sur, Andrew Molera State Park is the place to be to spot the most!

Where to Eat (and Drink!) on your Big Sur Road Trip

There are numerous places to eat and drink in Big Sur, although some are definitely better than others. I’ve already put my favorites up above throughout the Big Sur road trip itinerary, but here are some more! A girl’s gotta eat, am I right?

Here are my picks and notes, either personally tested by me, or recommended by fellow travelers:

• Nepenthe : drinks/appetizers right before sunset, stay for golden hour to get the best photos! An absolute must with the best ocean views!
• Big Sur Lodge Ice Cream : the perfect spot when it’s even a tad warm out!
• Big Sur Bakery: get an almond croissant and some banana walnut bread to share – it’s huge and heavenly. Pizza is great too if you want some “real” food!
• Cafe Kevah : serving brunch & light lunch in an outdoor setting. Located on a terrace just below Nepenthe with absolutely fantastic views
• Deetjens : cozy breakfast; delicious, homely food and great local wines. Be sure to make a reservation — the cozy dining room gets busy.
• Big Sur Roadhouse : stop here for a coffee and donut
• Sierra Mar Restaurant : Located in Post Ranch Inn serving a fine dining experience of inquisitive food creations. Pricey, but sounds worth it (I’ve never been).
• The Restaurant at Ventana : inventive coastal cuisine inspired by the sustainable ingredients of California’s Central Coast. The most beautiful views as well.

Be prepared to spend some big money for dining out in Big Sur. The entire area is pricey, so expect to pay big city prices (~$15ish for a cocktail, ~$20-30ish for an entree). Pick up snacks beforehand to have in the car during the drive so you don’t need to shell out an astronomical amount of cash at the Big Sur convenience stores every time you feel like noshing.

Where to Stay in Big Sur:

Accommodation in Big Sur is pricey. There’s really no way around it. If you can settle for not actually staying in Big Sur itself, consider heading up north to Carmel or Monterey for less-than-astronomical prices.

Recommended accommodation options in Monterey and Carmel that won’t break the bank:

• Briarwood Inn : Quaint B&B with bright rooms & suites, plus continental breakfast & free port/sherry receptions)
• Carmel Lodge : Cozy, casual rooms in a relaxed hotel offering free Wi-Fi & breakfast, plus parking)
• Hofsas House : Traditionally decorated rooms in a Bavarian-style hotel with ocean views, sundecks & a heated pool)

With that being said, the hotels in Big Sur really are quite special, and if you can splurge for one night on your California Coast road trip , these are the best places to do it:

Post Ranch Inn : Offering 3 pools, one being an infinity hot tub, you can spend the bulk of your time here overlooking the stunning California coastline. You betcha your night will be an unforgettable escape. Each room also boasts a private deck with those magicnicant coastline views, a wood-burning fireplace to get cozy during the chilly nights, and an indoor spa tub.

Ventana Inn & Spa : You’ll swoon the second you see this adults-only, rustically luxurious resort. Yes, it’s that impressive. And if the two resort pools with panoramic coastal views didn’t do it for you, I bet the spa treatments in outdoor cabanas overlooking the redwood forest will. 🙂 You can also opt to stay in a luxury glamping site with safari-style canvas tents under the redwoods if you feel so inclined.

Treebones Resort : Looking for something a bit different? Treebones Resort features seven ocean view tent campsites, along with 16 yurts with great views of the Pacific at Cape San Martin! Not as expensive as the other two, so check out Treebones if you’d like to give your wallet a bit of a break!

AirBnB : Due to the higher-than-normal cost of accommodation in Big Sur, you may want to check out AirBnB for a less expensive option, many even with those ocean views we’re all swooning over (without the super hefty price tag). Sign up for AirBnB with my link and get up to $40 off your first stay!

Are you planning a Big Sur road trip anytime soon? What are you most excited about?!

Loo king for more California content? Explore my other California guides here!

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September 22, 2018 at 6:39 am

Thanks for sharing. Big Sur looks truly incredible. I have only ever been to San Francisco but would love to see these amazing views and spend the night.

June 16, 2020 at 10:37 pm

Most the attractions mentioned in this article are closed due to covid19. Call before you go so you aren't driving hours for nothing. Don't be me.

June 16, 2020 at 10:58 pm

That just means you'll have to go back! Where did you drive from? I heard a few state parks in Big Sur are open now! And so is Nepenthe!

July 6, 2020 at 3:31 pm

Thanks for the info .

April 23, 2021 at 10:04 pm

Looks like such an awesome road trip. That waterfall on Julia Pfeiffer Burns is incredible!!! Makes me miss San Francisco!

May 25, 2023 at 10:09 am

Thank you! Planning a trip in July with our three boys and this was super helpful.

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Cicada map 2024: See where to find Brood XIX and XIII − and where they've already been spotted

For many Americans, the cicadas are here .

Trillions of periodical cicadas are already emerging in a rare, two brood event across multiple states , with more expected to come in the following weeks. Thanks to warm temperatures and good conditions, these 13- or 17-year cicadas are emerging from their underground habitats to eat, mate and die, making a whole lot of noise in the process.

Broods XIX and XIII have not emerged together since 1803, and after this year, won't emerge together again until 2245. While they are largely in different states, they are both emerging in parts of Illinois and Iowa.

So if you've seen one cicada or hundreds of cicadas, here's where you can expect to see more this year.

Are cicadas dangerous? Busting myths on the harmfulness of the noisy pests.

Are cicadas already out in 2024?

Adult periodical cicadas from Brood XIX have been spotted by users in multiple states across the Southeast and Midwest including in Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia and Illinois, according to  Cicada Safari , a cicada tracking app developed by Mount St. Joseph University in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Through Cicada Safari, users can confirm their sightings of cicadas with pictures, look at a map of other cicada sightings, join a leaderboard with other users and learn more information about cicadas.

2024 cicada map: Check out where Broods XIII, XIX are projected to emerge

The two cicada broods are projected to emerge in a combined 17 states across the South and Midwest. They emerge once the soil eight inches underground reaches 64 degrees, expected to begin in many states in May and lasting through late June.

The two broods  last emerged together in 1803 , when Thomas Jefferson was president.

What is a brood?

According to the  University of Connecticut , broods are classified as "all periodical cicadas of the same life cycle type that emerge in a given year."

A brood of cicadas is made up of different species of the insect that have separate evolutionary histories. These species may have joined the brood at different times or from different sources. These different species are lumped together under the brood because they are in the same region and emerge on a common schedule.

Why do cicadas make so much noise?

You'll have to thank the male cicadas for all that screeching. Male cicadas synchronize their calls and produce congregational songs, according to  Britannica , which establish territory and attract females. There is also a courting call that they make before mating.

Unluckily for us, the 13-year and 17-year brood cicadas  are the loudest , partially because of the sheer number of them that emerge at once.

Michael Smolens: MTS, NCTD focus on keys to increasing ridership: frequency of service and security

Transit advocates breathed a sigh of relief at Newsom plan to keep $5.1 billion in transit funding, but uncertainty remains on when it will be available

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San Diego transit agencies received some modest news recently: Gov. Gavin Newsom expressed a commitment to protect billions of dollars for rail and bus lines in the face of a gaping budget deficit.

There’s a caveat, though. Exactly when that money will be released and how it will be distributed remains to be determined.

Further delays and potential funding shifts are anticipated. But at least it seems the previously approved funds gained a reprieve from the potential chopping block after Newsom unveiled an outline of his revised budget on May 10.

The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System and North County Transit District are counting on tens of millions of dollars to upgrade service this year. Some of those plans are aimed at more frequent trolley runs and improved security, along with a new bus line from San Ysidro, and were scheduled to kick in next month.

Improving travel time, increasing frequency of trolleys and buses, and making passengers feel safe are widely seen as keys to growing transit ridership.

The local plans were put on hold last month when the governor froze $5.1 billion in transit funding. While the money hasn’t been cut, the local transit agencies will continue to delay the service changes until there’s more clarity about the funding.

“MTS will remain flexible. If the funds are released, we’re ready to advance the service enhancements as planned,” said MTS spokesperson Hector Zermeño.

Gordon Meyer, the agency’s manager of financial planning, told the MTS board on Thursday that the agency could face a “fiscal cliff” by July 1, 2025 if the funds remain frozen, according to KPBS.

Despite significant cuts in his $288 billion budget, the governor still faces a substantial shortfall. The California Transit Association, which advocates for public transportation, expressed relief that the governor remains committed to the transit funding, but argued against delays.

“In the face of a remaining $27.6 billion deficit in the current year, we’re supportive of Governor Newsom’s proposed maintenance of the $5.1 billion in critical funding for California transit agencies that was previously approved to maintain core services and keep major sustainable transportation and rail capital projects on track,” CTA Executive Director Michael Pimentel said in a statement.

But Pimentel expressed the organization’s “concerns that the $2.4 billion in transit funding for the FY 2023-24, a component of the $5.1 billion total investment, remains frozen by the Newsom Administration.”

The association urged the governor and Legislature to release the funding immediately, noting that it was supposed to flow to the agencies by April 30.

“Until it’s distributed, the spending freeze imposes significant uncertainty around billions of dollars in one-time federal funding, project delivery timelines, and operations planning,” Pimentel said.

Improving travel times and expanding routes are high priorities for transit officials.

But passenger-rail service is more than just where trains go and how quickly they get there, according to a February commentary on the High Speed Rail Alliance website .

“When service is frequent enough to be convenient and useful for customers all through the day, the value of passenger rail multiplies . . .,” according to the commentary. “As ridership grows, it becomes politically feasible to fund further improvements, which then motivates states and the federal government to keep building out the network.”

That may be. But the amount of money needed to get to that game-changing level can be substantial and most major transit systems currently face funding pressures. Persuading new riders to get on board can be a challenge, even in the best of times.

Growing transit ridership in the San Diego region and elsewhere has not been easy. MTS trolley ridership is just now returning to pre-pandemic levels after a sharp reduction, according to David Garrick of The San Diego Union-Tribune.

Safety is another important factor. NCTD, MTS and other transit agencies have boosted their security forces and surveillance in recent years. Public concern about assaults and harassment on transit vehicles and around stations led to recent statewide legislation.

A law signed by Newsom last fall requires California’s 10 largest transit agencies, including MTS, to survey riders about safety and verbal harassment.

The surveys are intended to identify “the leading causes of street harassment as part of a larger strategy to revive ridership levels and incentivize more Californians to ride public transit,” said state Sen. Dave Min, D-Irvine, who authored the law under Senate Bill 434.

“Millions of Californians refuse to ride public transit in this state because they do not feel safe,” Min said.

The bill has a particular focus on anti-Asian hate speech, along with verbal harassment of women, seniors, LGBTQ+ and “other vulnerable communities.”

NCTD plans to use the money from the state to boost security, add wayfinding signs and add double tracking for some express trains. The agency is expecting $54.4 million in the coming budget year.

MTS officials are hopeful they will still get the $136 million that was due April 30. Meanwhile, the agency plans to move ahead with security enhancements already included in its budget.

Under the MTS plans that involve the state money, trains on all trolley lines would arrive twice as often during evening hours and on weekends — every 15 minutes versus 30 minutes, according to Garrick. During weekday peak hours, service on part of the Blue Line connecting UC San Diego and the U.S.-Mexico border would double from once every 15 minutes to once every 7 1/2 minutes.

The border express bus from San Ysidro to downtown, which will be called the 910, would operate at night when the Blue Line must be out of service because of a conflict with freight operations.

The San Diego Association of Governments, the regional planning agency, has long-range plans for new transit routes that incorporate what NCTD and MTS are doing, while further calling for new routes, increased frequency and efficiencies achievable with emerging technologies. But that plan may be in flux. SANDAG just hired a new top executive and the agency is under fir e on various fronts.

The end game for transportation agencies is something of the holy grail of transit: to make travel time and convenience competitive with taking a car.

That’s a difficult quest.

What they said

Ann Killion ( @annkillion ), San Francisco Chronicle sports columnist.

“Who asks a . . . kicker to be their commencement speaker ?”

Scott Ostler ( @scottostler ), Chronicle sports columnist.

“The long snapper probably turned ‘em down.”

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History is on the side of student protest movements

Roderick A. Ferguson, the author of “We Demand: The University and Student Protests” and professor at Yale University and David Loy, legal director of the First Amendment Coalition and former legal director of the ACLU of San Diego and Imperial Counties, talk about the history and utility of student protest movements, and the First Amendment protections for free speech and assembly

Ham on Wry: Trading the San Diego sun for Montana snow

Trying to stay warm, positive and avoid frostbite during visit in May to daughter’s home in Montana