Big Sur

The longest undeveloped segment of US coastline in the lower 48 states is in southern California, where the Pacific Ocean and Santa Lucia Mountains meet. Big Sur is famous for its stunning views, isolated beaches and redwood forests along the coast, as well as hiking, camping and other outdoor recreational opportunities along the coast and in the back country.

The name Big Sur has Spanish origins and refers to “big country”. The protected area is roughly bordered by Monterey Bay on the north, San Simeon on the south, and Interstate 101 on the East. The Carmel–San Simeon Highway (State Route 1). Rt 1 is as iconic as Rt 66. It follows the coast and seemingly hangs on the cliffs in many places, making it a thrill to drive. The views from highway pull-offs are very picturesque. The highway was originally built in the late 1930s and though improved over the years, it is regularly the scene of land slides.

We have visited Big Sur twice to hike the redwood forest and enjoy the beach in the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. The first time was in 1989 when we drove in from the north. We returned in 2000 when we drove in from the south. These photos of the coastline are from the second trip. They are scans of photos taken with a Cannon AE-1. Still, they provide a sense of the great beauty of the Big Sur coast.