Big Sur Sightseeing Tour — Highway 1 Coastal Views, Bixby Bridge & Redwood Walk
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be able to walk short uneven sections and handle brief standing stops.
Overview
Drive one of America’s most cinematic coastlines on a 3+ hour tour that pairs classic Highway 1 viewpoints — including a 1932 concrete bridge and the highest vista on the route — with a short guided walk through old-growth redwood at Big Sur Lodge. Expect dramatic coastal panoramas, a quirky River Inn stop, and practical advice for a variable-weather shoreline.
Big Sur Sightseeing Tour — Highway 1 Coastal Views, Bixby Bridge & Redwood Walk
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The highway peels away from Monterey’s quiet streets and climbs into the spine of California’s coast: salt spray on one side, ancient redwood shadow on the other. A white van curves along Highway 1, pulling into a small turnout where a 1932 concrete bridge unfurls like an engineered eyebrow over crashing surf. Travelers step out and the coastline opens — a jagged sweep of cliffs, a sea arch framed by the bridge's arch, and gulls cataloguing the wind.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers
Coastal fog and ocean wind can make mornings chilly even in summer; bring a breathable insulating layer and a windproof shell.
Wear sturdy shoes
The lodge walk crosses river rocks and soft forest soil — closed-toe shoes with traction are recommended.
Bring a charged camera and binoculars
The Bixby-area viewpoints and highest Highway 1 lookout are prime for photography and wildlife watching.
Plan for limited facilities
Public restrooms are available at The River Inn and Big Sur Lodge but scarce elsewhere; carry water and small snacks.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Sea otters
- Black-tailed deer
History
This coastline is traditional territory of the Esselen and Ohlone peoples; the 1932 concrete bridge is part of the early Highway 1 construction that opened access to the isolated coast.
Conservation
Big Sur faces erosion and wildfire pressure; stay on established paths, pack out trash, and support local businesses that fund stewardship efforts.
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Adventure Hotspots in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Windproof jacket
Shields against ocean gusts and sudden fog chills on exposed coastal viewpoints.
Sturdy closed-toe shoes
Provides traction for river crossings and forest trails during the guided redwood walk.
Binoculars or telephoto lens
Helps spot sea otters, shorebirds and distant headlands from cliffside viewpoints.
Reusable water bottle
Hydration is important; water is available at inns but carrying your own avoids unnecessary stops.