Big Sur Private Tour from San Francisco — Bixby Bridge, 17-Mile Drive & Coastal Stops
Difficulty
easy
Duration
10 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required — mostly seated with short walks at pullouts and beaches.
Overview
Skip the parking headaches and let a driver-guide handle the coast. This private Big Sur tour from San Francisco delivers flexible stops at Bixby Bridge, the Lone Cypress on 17‑Mile Drive, Garrapata, and other coastal highlights in a single ten‑hour day.
Big Sur Private Tour from San Francisco — Bixby Bridge, 17-Mile Drive & Coastal Stops
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The engine hums, you fold a map that no longer matters, and the Pacific slides into view like a promise. On a private Big Sur charter from San Francisco, the road becomes the day's main attraction: hairpin turns and cliff-edge viewpoints, redwoods that press close to the highway, and ocean mesas where waves keep time against the rocks.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring layers
Coastal weather shifts quickly—windproof jacket and a warm midlayer keep you comfortable at exposed overlooks.
Time your photos
Aim for late afternoon light at Bixby Bridge and 17‑Mile Drive; morning fog often burns off by mid to late day.
Hydrate and bring snacks
Restroom stops are limited; carry water and energy snacks to stay fueled during long stretches between towns.
Prepare for motion sensitivity
The drive includes winding sections—bring anti-nausea medication if you’re prone to motion sickness.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- California sea otter
- Brown pelican
History
Highway 1 was built in stages in the early 20th century to connect remote coastal communities and opened public access to previously rugged stretches of coast.
Conservation
The Big Sur coast is ecologically sensitive; visitors should avoid trampling vegetation, pack out trash, and respect signage to reduce erosion and protect marine life.
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Adventure Hotspots in San Francisco
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Windproof jacket
Blocks chill on exposed cliffs and keeps you comfortable during photo stops.
Sturdy walking shoes
Useful for short hikes on uneven coastal trails and rocky overlooks.
Camera with wide-angle lens
Captures sweeping coastal vistas and architectural subjects like Bixby Bridge.
Sunscreen & sunglasses
Protects skin and eyes from reflected sunlight on bright days.
summer specific