Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
CA-1, Big Sur, CA
On the banks of the Big Sur River in Central California's dramatic Big Sur Coast region, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a wildly scenic and popular spot for outdoor recreation. The park is the starting point for plenty of trails, from short paved paths that take you on a quick loop through the woods to longer, more strenuous options that wind deep into the woods.
The basics
Park features include a riverfront campground with a camp store and showers, and a lodge with accommodations and a conference center. While plenty of people come to spend the night, the park is an equally popular spot for day visitors. Stop by on a self-guided driving tour of the Big Sur coastline or leave the driving to someone else on a guided day trip from San Francisco.
Things to know before you go
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a must-visit for hikers and outdoors lovers.
Campsites at this park book out well in advance, so reserve early if you hope to stay the night.
Note that there is no beach or ocean access from the park.
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park has accessible campsites and restrooms, and two of the trails at the park are wheelchair-accessible.
How to get there
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is on the Big Sur Coast, about an hour's drive south of Monterey on Highway 1 or around 3.5 hours from San Francisco (depending on traffic). Most people drive themselves, as a car is essential for exploring this region. Private tours are a great alternative if you want the freedom to tailor your itinerary.
When to get there
The best and busiest time to visit Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is during the summer months; July and August draw in plenty of crowds. For a still warm but slightly less crowded visit, consider coming in September after Labor Day, when many of the kids in the area have gone back to school for the year.
What to see at the Esalen Institute
If you're interested in alternative philosophies or just want to soak in some magical hot springs, consider a visit to the Esalen Institute, about a 25-minute drive from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Founded in 1962, the institute was inspired by the works of thinkers such as Aldous Huxley and Alan Watts (who was the first person to lecture at Esalen). These days, it holds regular multi-day workshops on subjects ranging from yoga to creative writing.
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