Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Just south of Nepenthe, this nonprofit alternative space hosts a bohemian carnival of live-
music concerts, author readings, open-mic nights and indie film screenings outdoors, espe-
cially during summer.
DRIVING HWY 1 IN BIG SUR
Driving this narrow two-lane highway through Big Sur and beyond is very slow going. Al-
low about three hours to cover the distance between the Monterey Peninsula and San
Luis Obispo, much more if you want to explore the coast. Traveling after dark can be risky
and more to the point, it's futile, because you'll miss out on the seascapes. Watch out for
cyclists and make use of signposted roadside pullouts to let faster-moving traffic pass.
Information
Visitors often wander into businesses along Hwy 1 and ask, 'How much further to Big
Sur?' In fact, there is no town of Big Sur as such, though you may see the name on maps.
Commercial activity is concentrated along the stretch north of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.
Sometimes called 'the Village,' this is where you'll find most of the lodging, restaurants
and shops, some of which offer free wi-fi. Cellphone reception is spotty to non-existent.
Big Sur Chamber of Commerce
TOURIST INFORMATION
( 831-667-2100;
www.bigsurcalifornia.org
;
9am-1pm Mon, Wed & Fri)
Pick up the free
Big Sur Guide
newspaper at local businesses; it's also available online as a
free PDF download.
Big Sur Station
TOURIST INFORMATION
831-667-2315;
www.fs.usda.gov/lpnf
;
47555 Hwy 1;
8am-4pm, closed Mon &
Tue Nov-Mar)
About 1.5 miles south of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, this multiagency ranger station has
information and maps for state parks, the Los Padres National Forest and Ventana Wilder-
ness.