Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
PART ONE
State & Federal Lands of the Big
Sur Coast
T
HIS SECTION COVERS
the 90-mile stretch of coast from Carmel River State Beach
south to San Simeon State Beach. All lands are accessible from Highway 1, which
winds past golden hillsides, redwood-lined ravines, ancient oak forests, and sheer
granite cliffs. Lying primarily west of the highway, the region comprises six state
parks (Garrapata, Andrew Molera, Pfeiffer Big Sur, Julia Pfeiffer Burns, Limekiln, and
San Simeon), seven beaches (Carmel River, Pfeiffer, San Simeon, Hearst Memorial,
Piedras Blancas, Jade Cove, and Sand Dollar), one reserve (Point Lobos), and one his-
toric park (Point Sur). These public spaces are relatively small, thus trails are short and
for day use only.
Due to its proximity to the ocean, the region is fertile in both terrestrial and marine
life. Northern and southern biogeographical regions converge here in a kind of suture
zone that supports a wide range of vegetation. Fog shrouds the coast in summer, nurtur-
ing moisture-loving plants in deep ravines, while the sheer, exposed slopes host such
drought-tolerant species as yuccas. Cold-water upwellings from deep marine canyons
bring nutrient-rich waters to the surface, luring fish, seals, birds, whales, and sharks
close to shore.
Recreational opportunities are equally diverse. Visitors can dive the waters off
Point Lobos or Jade Cove, summit granite peaks, marvel at 5,000-pound male elephant
seals, plunge into swimming holes along the Big Sur River, explore Hearst Castle, surf
the rollers at Andrew Molera, learn about maritime history at Point Sur Lighthouse, or
simply take a barefoot stroll on the beach. Whatever you choose, you're bound to re-
turn.
