Work off breakfast by taking a family-friendly hike on the Pfeiffer Falls and Valley View trails. Th

Big Sur is enigmatic. Perhaps one of the world s most attractive stretches of coastline, it s at once dramatic, stunning and awe-inspiring. Yet to many it s daunting, rugged and elusive. Many Californians experience Big Sur on scenic drives to/from Southern California, or from a posh retreat at one of the area s world-class super-spas. But for Southside San Francisco families seeking a weekend escape from big-city life, Big Sur is surprisingly accessible, easily navigable and enjoyable for all ages.
The area is divided into multiple state parks sprawling across travel northern colorado the Santa Lucia Mountains, vertically demarcated between Carmel travel northern colorado Valley and San Simeon. Highway One is the only way in, out and around Big Sur. Once past Carmel heading south, the terrain is dominated by winding roads and breathtaking oceanfront bluffs.
A three hour drive under the best of circumstances, try to get a jump on 101 traffic by leaving the City by early afternoon. The trip goes a lot smoother if commuters clustering around Silicon Valley are avoided. Arriving in Big Sur around sunset isn t a bad idea, allowing a family to settle into their accommodations and prepare for a great couple of days.
Start out with some treats from the Big Sur Bakery. Whether you eat-in or take-out, this place delivers with a local vibe. Celebrities can be seen mixing with local artists and weathered backpackers. Don t miss the citrus morning rolls or the nine-grain iron-skillet pancake. Pack a lunch for a picnic later.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park s McWay Falls is a dramatic natural wonder. travel northern colorado The exquisite combination travel northern colorado of picturesque beach, jagged cliffs and 80 foot waterfall diving straight into the ocean could burn out a camera s motor. It s a short hike from the parking lot to the scenic overlook, which doesn t have beach access.
Next, head back up the highway to the westward turnout about one-quarter mile from the Big Sur Station. This unmarked travel northern colorado road sports a sign at the first turn indicating it s a route to Pfeiffer Beach. Two miles in there s a parking lot for one of the West Coast s hidden gems. Cliffs circle the beach and form arches and caves in an island travel northern colorado that dominates and accentuates the view. Massive waves crash on the beach, but soften just enough for kids to frolic in the gentle travel northern colorado wash. A creek cuts across the entry for endless play activities just under a sand dune that s icing on this cake. Because the cliffs travel northern colorado protect the beach, it s a great place to go when the wind is kicking up everywhere else.
For dinner, Post Ranch Inn s Sierra Mar restaurant travel northern colorado and Ventana Inn s restaurant are upscale, stuffy and expensive, but offer dramatic travel northern colorado views and local, seasonal food. Nepenthe is another option, and is classic Big Sur, though the menu isn t terribly innovative.
Work off breakfast by taking a family-friendly hike on the Pfeiffer Falls and Valley View trails. travel northern colorado This two and a half mile out-and-back gains just 450 feet in elevation through giant redwoods to a 60 foot high waterfall: a perfect encapsulation of the local topography. Make sure to wear long pants and shirts, as poison oak is rampant in Big Sur.
Probably the best way for a family to experience Big Sur, private homes offer flexibility and amenities, including kitchens. VRBO.com has a bounty of amazing homes available for rents ranging from $125 to $2,000 a night. Airbnb.com is a great site for cottages and home stays.
Coastal camping in Big Sur is epic. Sites fill-up months in advance; the best locations are in high demand. Call the Big Sur Station to get a lay of the land. The rangers are incredibly helpful in identifying options. Check-out reserveamerica.com well in advance of a trip to book a spot.
Post Ranch Inn and Ventana Inn are the height of luxury, and priced accordingly. Glenn Oaks and Deetjen s are much more reasonable, and offer comfortable, rustic accommodations. There are a number of smaller travel northern colorado hotels, well-reviewed travel northern colorado at www.tripadvisor.com.