Where is Big Sur Coastline,Big Sur, California?

Written by | Updated On: December 03, 2025, 14:30 ET

The Big Sur Coastline is located in California, USA. It lies between Monterey and San Simeon and is situated along the central Pacific coast of the state. The coastline is famous for its steep cliffs, rugged shores, scenic highways, and breathtaking ocean views.

Big Sur Coastline Location Map,Big Sur, California

Top Attractions Inside Big Sur Coastline

  • Bixby Creek Bridge – Iconic bridge with breathtaking ocean and cliffside views.
  • McWay Falls – Scenic waterfall cascading onto the beach at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
  • Pfeiffer Beach – Famous beach with purple sand, sea arches, and dramatic rock formations.
  • Point Sur Lighthouse – Historic lighthouse on a volcanic bluff offering tours and panoramic views.
  • Garrapata State Park – Coastal trails, cliffs, and beaches perfect for hiking and photography.
  • Big Sur River Gorge – Natural swimming holes and picnic areas along the river.
  • Andrew Molera State Park – Scenic coastal and river trails with wildlife viewing opportunities.

Big Sur Coastline Facts

Official NameBig Sur Coastline
LocationBig Sur, California, USA
Latitude & Longitude36.3615° N, 121.8563° W (approx. midpoint)
Total Area~90 miles (145 km) stretch of coastline along Highway 1
EstablishedRecognized as a scenic region since the early 1900s
Managed ByCalifornia Department of Transportation (Highway Access) - California State Parks - U.S. Forest Service (Los Padres National Forest)
RegionCentral Coast of California
AddressHighway 1, Big Sur, CA 93920, USA
Zip Code93920
Area Code831
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD, $)
Time ZonePacific Time (PT) - UTC−8 Standard / UTC−7 Daylight Saving
Theme / ConceptScenic coastal cliffs, rugged wilderness, Pacific Ocean views, nature & outdoor recreation
Main SectionsBixby Creek Bridge - McWay Falls (Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP) - Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park - Andrew Molera State Park - Garrapata State Park - Point Sur Lighthouse
Famous AttractionsBixby Bridge - McWay Falls - Pfeiffer Beach - Point Sur Lightstation - Redwood Forests - Coastal Overlooks
Annual VisitorsApprox. 4–6 million (entire region combined)
Entry Fee TypeFree scenic drive; State Parks along the route require paid entry
Entry Fee RangeState Parks: ~$10–$15 per vehicle
ActivitiesScenic driving - hiking - photography - camping - whale watching - beach visits
Best Time to VisitApril–October (Clearer weather, accessible hiking; winter may have road closures)
Nearby AirportMonterey Regional Airport (MRY) – ~30 miles (48 km)
TransportationHighway 1 (car access) - Limited bus service - Scenic turnouts - Parking lots at parks
Official Websitehttps://www.bigsurcalifornia.org

Distances from Big Sur Coastline to Nearby Landmarks

  • Bixby Creek Bridge – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • McWay Falls – 12 km (7.5 mi)
  • Point Sur Lighthouse – 20 km (12.4 mi)
  • Pfeiffer Beach – 8 km (5 mi)
  • Big Sur River Gorge – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park – 12 km (7.5 mi)
  • Garrapata State Park – 35 km (22 mi)
  • Carmel-by-the-Sea – 30 km (18.6 mi)
  • Monterey, CA – 40 km (25 mi)
  • Ventana Wilderness – 15 km (9.3 mi)
  • Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) – 0 km (0 mi)
  • Hwy 17-Mile Drive Entrance – 50 km (31 mi)
  • Point Lobos State Natural Reserve – 45 km (28 mi)
  • Andrew Molera State Park – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • Big Sur Village – 0 km (0 mi)
  • Los Padres National Forest – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Sand Dollar Beach – 15 km (9.3 mi)
  • Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • Ragged Point – 35 km (22 mi)
  • Plaskett Creek Campground – 15 km (9.3 mi)