Planning a trip to Monterey, Carmel, and Big Sur? This 5-day itinerary covers some of the best places to visit along California’s Central Coast, including coastal viewpoints, beaches, redwood forests, charming towns, and popular attractions.
You’ll explore Monterey Bay Aquarium, drive along the famous 17-Mile Drive, walk through Carmel-by-the-Sea, visit Point Lobos, and see some of Big Sur’s most recognizable landmarks.
I’ve organized this itinerary by location so you can spend more time exploring and less time driving back and forth. Each day includes the main attractions, suggested activities, and practical tips for planning your visit.
Before You Go: Important Planning Tips
Before starting your trip, here are a few things to know:
- Transportation: Having a car is the easiest way to follow this itinerary, especially for 17-Mile Drive, Point Lobos, and Big Sur.
- Where to stay: We recommend staying in either Monterey or Carmel-by-the-Sea. Monterey is best for it’s access to major attractions, while Carmel is ideal if you prefer staying in a walkable village.
- Weather: Coastal temperatures can change throughout the day. Bring layers, a wind-resistant jacket, and comfortable walking shoes, even during summer.
- Reservations: Book popular attractions such as Monterey Bay Aquarium and whale-watching tours in advance when possible.
- Start early: Parking at popular places like Point Lobos and Pfeiffer Beach can fill up, particularly on weekends and holidays.
- Highway 1: Check road conditions before driving to Big Sur. Closures caused by landslides, wildfires, storms, or construction can affect access to attractions.
- Cell service: Reception can be unreliable in parts of Big Sur. Download offline maps before leaving Monterey or Carmel.
Important: Attraction hours, admission fees, reservation requirements, park and trail closures, and road access can change. Check Caltrans QuickMap, California State Parks, and official attraction websites shortly before your trip.
Day 1: Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, Whale Watching & Monterey State Beach
Spend your first day exploring Monterey’s waterfront attractions, including the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, Old Fisherman’s Wharf, and Monterey State Beach.
Most of today’s activities are located relatively close together, making this a convenient introduction to Monterey.
1. Visit Monterey Bay Aquarium
Start your morning at Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of Monterey’s most popular attractions. Located along Cannery Row, the aquarium features marine life from Monterey Bay and oceans around the world.
Some of the exhibits worth visiting include:
- Kelp Forest: Watch fish and other marine animals swimming through a giant underwater kelp forest.
- Sea Otters: See the aquarium’s resident sea otters and learn about their behavior and conservation.
- Open Sea: Explore exhibits featuring animals that live in the open ocean.
- Jellyfish: See several species of jellyfish in beautifully illuminated exhibits.
Plan to spend approximately 3–4 hours exploring the aquarium, especially if this is your first visit. Check the daily schedule for animal feedings and presentations.
The aquarium doesn’t have its own visitor parking lot, but there are many public parking garages and paid lots around Cannery Row.
Planning tip: Reserve your tickets through the Monterey Bay Aquarium website before your visit. Arriving near opening time can also help you explore some of the popular exhibits before the busiest part of the day.
2. Explore Cannery Row & Have Lunch
After visiting the aquarium, spend some time exploring Cannery Row, Monterey’s historic waterfront district.
Once the center of Monterey’s sardine-canning industry, Cannery Row is now lined with shops, restaurants, art galleries, and oceanfront viewpoints. Many of the original cannery buildings have been preserved or repurposed, giving the area a mix of historic architecture and modern attractions.
Walk along Cannery Row and browse specialty shops such as Carmel Honey Company, which sells local honey and bee-themed gifts, or Monterey’s Tasty Olive Bar, where you can sample flavored olive oils and balsamic vinegars.
You can also visit Steinbeck Plaza for views of Monterey Bay and access to the nearby waterfront. Keep an eye out for sea otters, harbor seals, and seabirds along the shoreline.
For lunch, consider these restaurants on or near Cannery Row:
- Sea Harvest Restaurant & Fish Market: Seafood restaurant and fish market serving fresh fish, fish and chips, clam chowder, and seafood sandwiches. Recommend for a quick lunch.
- Hula’s Island Grill: Hawaiian-inspired restaurant with a tropical atmosphere, serving fish tacos, chicken dishes, burgers, and vegetarian options. Located a short walk from Cannery Row.
- Schooners Monterey: Located at Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa, this oceanfront restaurant serves fresh seafood, salads, and contemporary American dishes, with views overlooking Monterey Bay.
- Fish Hopper: Popular waterfront seafood restaurant serving clam chowder, fresh fish, pasta, and steaks. Its dining area offers panoramic views of Monterey Bay.
For something sweet afterward, stop by Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop in Steinbeck Plaza for hot fudge sundaes, ice cream, or chocolates.
Planning tip: Allow approximately 1–2 hours to explore Cannery Row and have lunch. If you’re taking an afternoon whale-watching tour, Sea Harvest or Hula’s Island Grill may be good options for a casual meal, while Schooners and Fish Hopper are worth considering if you’d prefer a waterfront dining experience. Check restaurant hours and allow enough time to reach Old Fisherman’s Wharf before your tour.
3. Take a Whale Watching Tour
Monterey Bay is one of California’s most popular destinations for whale watching, with opportunities to spot marine wildlife throughout the year.
Most tours depart from Old Fisherman’s Wharf and travel into Monterey Bay or farther offshore, depending on wildlife activity and ocean conditions.
Depending on the season, you may see:
- Humpback whales
- Gray whales
- Blue whales
- Killer whales
- Dolphins
- Sea lions and other marine wildlife
Most whale-watching tours last approximately 2.5–4 hours, so allow plenty of time for this activity.
Whale sightings are never guaranteed, but Monterey Bay’s rich marine ecosystem makes it an excellent place to look for wildlife.
Planning tip: Book your tour ahead of time, especially during weekends and peak whale-watching seasons. Bring a warm jacket, even on sunny days, because temperatures can feel much cooler on the water. Visiting the aquarium and taking a whale-watching cruise on the same day can be busy. If you’d prefer more time at the aquarium, move whale watching to another morning or skip it.
If you’re prone to motion sickness, prepare before boarding. Ocean conditions outside the protected portions of Monterey Bay can sometimes be rough.
4. Walk Around Old Fisherman’s Wharf
Before or after your whale-watching tour, spend some time exploring Old Fisherman’s Wharf, one of Monterey’s historic waterfront attractions. Once a working fishing wharf, the area is now lined with seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, candy stores, and waterfront viewpoints. Walk along the wooden pier for views of Monterey Harbor, fishing boats, and the surrounding coastline.
Keep an eye out for sea lions, harbor seals, and seabirds around the docks. You may also hear sea lions barking before you spot them.
If you’re hungry, the wharf is a great place to try Monterey’s famous clam chowder, often served in a sourdough bread bowl.
For snacks or dinner, consider these restaurants on or near Old Fisherman’s Wharf:
- Old Fisherman’s Grotto: A longtime waterfront seafood restaurant known for its clam chowder, calamari, fresh seafood, and harbor views. A good option for a quick bowl of chowder or a sit-down dinner.
- Cafe Fina: A family-owned Italian seafood restaurant located on the wharf, serving pasta, fresh fish, pizza, and seasonal dishes.
- Sandbar & Grill: Located at nearby Municipal Wharf #2, this casual waterfront restaurant serves fresh seafood, clam chowder, calamari, and other dishes with views of Monterey Harbor.
- Rosine’s Restaurant: A family-owned restaurant in downtown Monterey, a short walk from the wharf. Known for its generous portions, American and Italian comfort food, and homemade cakes. A good option if you’d prefer something other than seafood or want dessert.
If you’re not planning to eat here, allow approximately 30–60 minutes to explore the wharf, browse the shops, and enjoy the harbor views. Paid parking is available in nearby downtown and waterfront lots, including the lot near 201 Washington Street.
5. Visit Window on the Bay & Monterey State Beach
Finish your first day with a relaxing walk along the Monterey waterfront.
Window on the Bay is a scenic coastal park with grassy lawns, walking and biking paths, and unobstructed views of Monterey Bay. Located alongside Monterey State Beach, it’s a quieter place to enjoy the coastline after exploring Cannery Row and Old Fisherman’s Wharf.
Walk along the sandy shoreline, watch for seabirds and marine wildlife, or relax on the grassy areas overlooking the ocean. On a clear evening, you can enjoy views of the coastline stretching around Monterey Bay.
Planning tip: Check the sunset time before visiting, as daylight hours vary throughout the year. Arrive a little early to explore the beach and waterfront paths, and bring a jacket since coastal winds can make the evening feel chilly.
Day 2: Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary & 17-Mile Drive
On your second day, explore Pacific Grove before spending the afternoon driving through Pebble Beach.
This day includes one seasonal wildlife attraction and one of the most scenic coastal drives in California.
1. Visit Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary (Seasonal)
If you’re visiting between mid-October and February, start your morning at the Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary in Pacific Grove. Every year, western monarch butterflies migrate to sheltered coastal locations along California, including Pacific Grove, where they spend the winter.
The sanctuary is home to eucalyptus, pine, and cypress trees that provide protected areas for the butterflies to cluster. Peak viewing is generally between November and January, although the number of monarchs varies from year to year.
On cool mornings, you may see butterflies resting together in clusters on tree branches. As temperatures warm, some may begin flying around the grove.
Admission is free, and parking is available nearby, although spaces can be limited. Pets are not allowed inside the sanctuary.
Planning tip: Bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens. Monarchs may be resting high in the trees and can be difficult to spot without magnification.
If you’re visiting outside monarch season, spend the morning exploring Pacific Grove’s waterfront, including its coastal walking paths and ocean viewpoints.
2. Have Lunch in Pacific Grove
Before entering 17-Mile Drive, stop for lunch in downtown Pacific Grove, a charming coastal town with historic buildings, local cafés, and restaurants along Lighthouse Avenue.
For lunch, consider these restaurants:
- Red House Cafe: Cozy cafe inside a historic red Victorian house, serving American-style breakfast and lunch dishes, including sandwiches, salads, and seasonal specials.
- Wild Fish Restaurant: Seafood-focused restaurant featuring locally sourced ingredients, fresh fish, and seasonal dishes in a relaxed setting.
- Rudolfo’s: Casual Italian restaurant known for sourdough pizzas, fresh pasta, and flavorful Italian-inspired dishes.
- Petra Restaurant: Family-run Mediterranean restaurant serving gyros, falafel, kebabs, and other Greek and Middle Eastern dishes.
Planning tip: Allow approximately 45–60 minutes for lunch before entering 17-Mile Drive through the nearby Pacific Grove Gate.
3. Drive Along 17-Mile Drive
Spend the afternoon exploring 17-Mile Drive, one of the most famous scenic drives on California’s coast. This privately managed road passes through Pebble Beach, connecting coastal overlooks, beaches, cypress forests, golf courses, and residential neighborhoods.
Although you can complete the drive in a couple of hours, I recommend allowing at least half a day if you want to stop at several viewpoints and explore without rushing.
Some of the best stops along 17-Mile Drive include:
- Spanish Bay: A scenic stretch of coastline with a sandy beach, coastal dunes, and walking paths with views of the Pacific.
- Point Joe: Rocky coastal viewpoint known for its dramatic waves and offshore rocks with views toward the Pebble Beach golf courses.
- Fanshell Beach: Coastal stop with beautiful ocean views. Harbor seals may be visible in the area during certain times of the year. Seasonal wildlife protections can affect beach access.
- The Lone Cypress: One of the most recognizable landmarks along 17-Mile Drive, this Monterey cypress stands on a rocky outcrop overlooking the ocean.
- Cypress Point Lookout: Scenic overlook with views of the rugged coastline and Pacific Ocean.
17-Mile Drive visitor information:
- Entrance fee: $12.50 per vehicle
- Public access: Generally sunrise to sunset.
- Parking: Available at designated scenic stops. As you drive, follow the marked route and stop only in designated parking areas.
- Entrance fee reimbursement: A qualifying purchase of $35 or more at participating Pebble Beach Resorts restaurants can reimburse the entrance fee. Pebble Beach Market is excluded.
- Motorcycles are not permitted.
If you’d prefer to explore the coastline without driving, consider a guided electric bike tour of 17-Mile Drive. The three-hour tour follows scenic coastal routes and includes stops at several viewpoints.
4. Watch Sunset at Cypress Point Lookout at 17-Mile Drive
If weather conditions are favorable, finish your day at Cypress Point Lookout. This viewpoint has wide-open views of the Pacific, making it a good location for watching the late-afternoon light and sunset.
Its southwesterly exposure can provide beautiful views toward the setting sun, depending on the time of year. Try to arrive before sunset so you have enough time to park, walk to the viewpoint, and enjoy the scenery.
Keep in mind that public access to 17-Mile Drive generally ends at sunset, so plan to leave promptly and follow any posted restrictions.
Day 3: Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel Mission & Carmel Beach
Day 3 focuses on Carmel-by-the-Sea, one of California’s most charming coastal towns. You’ll spend the morning exploring its walkable village, visit the historic Carmel Mission, and finish the day at Carmel Beach.
1. Explore Carmel-by-the-Sea
Start your morning in downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea. Known for its storybook cottages, charming courtyards, art galleries, and distinctive architecture, Carmel is best explored on foot. Begin around Ocean Avenue, the main street running through the village toward Carmel Beach.
From here, wander along the surrounding streets to discover storybook-style cottages & historic buildings, hidden passageways & courtyards, local art galleries, boutiques & specialty shops, restaurants, bakeries, and cafes.
One of the best ways to explore Carmel is to park your car and walk around without following a strict route. Many of the town’s interesting architectural details are tucked away along smaller side streets and passageways. Parking is available along downtown streets, but time limits and restrictions vary. Read the posted signs carefully before leaving your car.
After exploring the village, stop for lunch at one of Carmel’s restaurants. You’ll find everything from cozy European-style bistros to Mediterranean cafés, many tucked into charming buildings and courtyards around Ocean Avenue.
For lunch, consider these restaurants:
- Dametra Cafe: Lively Mediterranean restaurant serving Greek and Italian dishes, including kebabs, pasta, seafood, and fresh salads. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and occasional live music.
- La Bicyclette: Cozy European-style bistro with rustic interiors, serving wood-fired pizzas, seasonal dishes, and French- and Italian-inspired cuisine.
- Treehouse Cafe: Charming restaurant with elevated outdoor terrace seating, offering Mediterranean, Italian, and other internationally inspired dishes.
- Pangaea on Ocean Ave: Casual restaurant serving Asian-fusion and American dishes, including seafood, steaks, salads, and vegetarian options.
Planning tip: Allow approximately 2–3 hours to explore the village, depending on how many shops and galleries you want to visit. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Carmel has some uneven sidewalks and hilly streets, particularly as you head toward the beach.
2. Visit Carmel Mission Basilica
After lunch, drive a short distance south of downtown Carmel to Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Río Carmelo, commonly known as Carmel Mission.
Founded in the 18th century, the Mission is one of California’s most historically significant Spanish missions and remains an active Catholic parish.
You can explore the historic basilica, courtyards, gardens, and museum exhibits to learn about the Mission’s history, religious significance, and role in California’s colonial period. The site also offers opportunities to learn about the experiences and history of the region’s Indigenous communities.
Visitor information:
Plan approximately 60–90 minutes for a self-guided visit. If your third day falls on a Monday or Tuesday, consider swapping it with another day in the itinerary.
- Location: 3080 Rio Road, Carmel
- General admission: $15 per adult
- Closed to visitors on Mondays and Tuesdays and opening hours vary by day.
- Basilica access may be restricted during religious services, weddings, or other events.
3. Watch Sunset at Carmel Beach
Finish the day at Carmel Beach, located at the western end of Ocean Avenue. This wide, white-sand beach offers views of the Pacific Ocean, the surrounding coastline, and Pebble Beach.
If you’d prefer not to walk on the sand, the nearby Scenic Road area offers viewpoints overlooking the beach. Parking is available in a small lot near the beach and along surrounding streets, but spaces can fill quickly during busy weekends.
Planning tip: Carmel Beach is popular around sunset so arrive before sunset to give yourself time to park and find a good viewing spot. Bring a jacket because the beach can become windy and chilly in the evening.
Day 4: Point Lobos, Bixby Creek Bridge & Northern Big Sur
On Day 4, begin exploring the rugged coastline south of Carmel which includes Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Bixby Creek Bridge, Hurricane Point, Point Sur, and Monastery Beach. These stops are organized from north to south before returning toward Carmel.
1. Explore Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Start early at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, located approximately three miles south of Carmel-by-the-Sea along Highway 1. Point Lobos is known for its rocky coves, coastal cliffs, Monterey cypress forests, and abundant marine wildlife. It’s one of the best places along the Monterey Peninsula for coastal hiking and nature photography.
Depending on the season, you may see:
- Sea otters
- Harbor seals
- Sea lions
- Seabirds
- Migrating whales
Several trails lead to scenic viewpoints and protected coves.
Some popular trails to consider include:
- Cypress Grove Trail: Short loop through Monterey cypress trees with views of rocky coves and the Pacific Ocean. Experience the reserve without a long hike.
- Sea Lion Point & Sand Hill Trails: These trails offer coastal views and opportunities to watch for sea lions, harbor seals, and seabirds.
- Bird Island Trail: Popular trail with views of China Cove, rocky cliffs, and offshore areas where seabirds gather.
- North Shore Trail: Longer, more rugged coastal trail with ocean views. Choose this trail if you have extra time and want a more involved hike.
- Granite Point Trail: Located near Whalers Cove, this trail passes through coastal scenery and offers additional views of the reserve.
You don’t need to hike every trail. Choose two or three based on your interests, available time, and current trail conditions.
Visitor information:
- Opening time: Generally 8 a.m.
- Vehicle day-use fee: $10
- Parking: Limited spaces inside the reserve.
- Dogs: Not permitted, including inside parked vehicles.
- Stay on designated trails and observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Planning tip: Plan around 2–3 hours for your visit, or longer if you want to explore multiple trails. Arrive close to opening time. Parking inside Point Lobos is limited and can fill quickly, especially during weekends and holidays.
2. Have Lunch Near Point Lobos
After exploring Point Lobos, stop for lunch before continuing south toward Big Sur.
Option 1: Bring a Picnic Lunch: Pack sandwiches or takeout and enjoy lunch at one of Point Lobos’ designated picnic areas, including Whalers Cove, Piney Woods, or Bird Island.
Option 2: Pacific’s Edge at Hyatt Carmel Highlands: Located just south of Point Lobos, Pacific’s Edge offers panoramic ocean views from its clifftop setting. The restaurant serves seasonal California-inspired dishes, including seafood and locally sourced ingredients. Scenic choice for a relaxed sit-down lunch before continuing along Highway 1. Reservations are recommended.
Option 3: Return to Carmel-by-the-Sea: For more dining choices, drive ~10 minutes north to downtown Carmel, where you’ll find more options around Ocean Avenue. This adds a short detour but gives you more flexibility if you’re traveling with different food preferences.
3. Stop at Bixby Creek Bridge
Continue south along Highway 1 until you reach Bixby Creek Bridge, one of Big Sur’s most recognizable landmarks. The concrete arch bridge spans Bixby Creek Canyon and is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and coastal scenery.
The bridge is popular with photographers because of its location high above the Pacific Ocean. You can appreciate the bridge from designated viewpoints along Highway 1, when open and safe to access. Parking in this area is limited, and roadside congestion can become a problem.
Planning tip: Never stop in a traffic lane or an unsafe highway shoulder to take photographs. Follow posted parking restrictions and skip the stop if there is no safe, legal place to park.
4. Enjoy the Views at Hurricane Point
Continue south from Bixby Creek Bridge toward Hurricane Point. This elevated coastal viewpoint offers expansive views of the Pacific Ocean, Highway 1, and Big Sur’s rugged coastline.
The area can be extremely windy, so be careful when getting out of your vehicle and stay within safe viewing areas. If parking or stopping is restricted, continue to the next designated overlook.
5. See Point Sur from Highway 1
Continue south toward Point Sur, a distinctive volcanic rock formation rising above the coastline.
At the top sits the historic Point Sur Lightstation, which has guided ships along this section of the California coast for generations.
You can admire Point Sur from the highway area where safe public viewpoints are available.
If you’re interested in visiting the lighthouse itself, tours are generally offered separately and must be planned around scheduled tour times and access restrictions. A typical guided tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it difficult to include alongside all the other stops on this day. For this itinerary, I recommend enjoying the exterior views and continuing your drive.
6. Watch Sunset at Monastery Beach
On your return drive toward Carmel, stop at Monastery Beach near Point Lobos. This beach sits directly along Highway 1 and offers sweeping views of Carmel Bay and the Pacific Ocean.
Important safety tip: Monastery Beach is known for powerful shore breaks, steep underwater drop-offs, and dangerous waves. It’s not a safe place for swimming or wading. Stay well away from the water’s edge, especially during high surf.
After sunset, return to your hotel in Carmel or Monterey.
Day 5: Big Sur Redwoods, Pfeiffer Beach & McWay Falls
Spend your final day exploring more of Big Sur, including its redwood forests, dramatic beaches, coastal viewpoints, and McWay Falls.
Unlike Day 4, which focuses on northern Big Sur, today’s itinerary takes you farther south along Highway 1. Start early, bring water and snacks, and check road and park access before leaving your hotel.
1. Walk Through Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Begin at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, located in the Big Sur River Valley. While Big Sur is best known for its dramatic coastal cliffs, this park offers a completely different landscape, with redwood trees, wooded trails, and the Big Sur River.
Depending on current trail openings, you may be able to explore the Redwood Grove Boardwalk, River Path, Nature Trail, or other available walking routes. If you enjoy hiking, you can spend longer exploring open trails.
Planning tip: Plan approximately 1.5–2 hours for a relatively short forest visit. Check the official website before visiting. Wildfire damage, storms, and trail repairs can cause temporary or extended closures. Confirm which trails are accessible when planning your visit. Also, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park does not provide access to Pfeiffer Beach. These are two separate destinations with different entrances.
2. Have Lunch in the Big Sur Village Area
After exploring the redwoods, stop for lunch around Big Sur village along Highway 1. You’ll find a handful of restaurants surrounded by redwood forests, rivers, and coastal scenery.
For lunch, consider these options:
- Big Sur River Inn Restaurant: Rustic restaurant surrounded by redwoods along the Big Sur River, serving American comfort food, sandwiches, burgers, and homemade desserts.
- Big Sur Roadhouse: Casual restaurant at Glen Oaks Big Sur, serving California-inspired dishes, sandwiches, and seasonal meals. Offers indoor seating and an outdoor patio overlooking a wooded creek.
- Big Sur Taphouse: Laid-back restaurant serving hearty sandwiches, burgers, and other casual dishes, with indoor and outdoor seating.
- Nepenthe: Well-known clifftop sit-down restaurant offering panoramic Pacific Ocean views from its outdoor terrace. Serves California-inspired dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and seafood.
Planning tip: Allow approximately 45–60 minutes for lunch, or longer at Nepenthe, where waits can be significant. Check restaurant hours before visiting, as dining options are limited along Highway 1. Fill up on gas before heading farther south, since gas stations are few and prices can be higher than in Monterey or Carmel.
3. Explore Pfeiffer Beach
Next, visit Pfeiffer Beach, one of Big Sur’s most distinctive coastal destinations. The beach is known for its large offshore rock formations, purple-toned patches of sand, and Keyhole Arch.
One of its most recognizable features is the large opening in the rock formation offshore, which creates an interesting view of the ocean through the arch. The beach is especially popular with photographers, but it’s also worth visiting simply to enjoy the scenery.
Pfeiffer Beach is accessed via Sycamore Canyon Road, a narrow, winding road branching off Highway 1. The entrance can be easy to miss, so download your directions in advance and follow official signs. Parking is limited, and the access road is not suitable for many oversized vehicles. An entrance or parking fee may apply.
Planning tip: Plan approximately 1–2 hours to explore. Be prepared for wind, cold water, and strong surf. Pfeiffer Beach is best enjoyed as a sightseeing and walking destination rather than a swimming beach.
4. Stop at Big Sur’s Coastal Viewpoints
After Pfeiffer Beach, return to Highway 1 and continue south. This section of the drive offers some of Big Sur’s most dramatic coastal scenery, with steep cliffs, ocean views, and the highway winding above the Pacific.
Rather than stopping at every viewpoint, choose a few safe, designated pullouts along the way. This gives you enough time to enjoy the scenery without making the drive unnecessarily long. Some viewpoints offer wide views of the coastline, while others overlook beaches, cliffs, and rock formations.
Stay alert while driving. Highway 1 is narrow and winding in many sections, and parking availability can change depending on roadwork, closures, and traffic conditions.
5. Visit Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park & McWay Falls
Continue south toward Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, home to McWay Falls. McWay Falls is one of Big Sur’s most famous landmarks, with an approximately 80-foot waterfall dropping toward a secluded coastal cove.
Surrounded by cliffs and turquoise-colored water on clear days, it’s one of the most recognizable views along Highway 1. The waterfall is visible only from permitted viewing locations when access is open. The beach below McWay Falls is protected and cannot be accessed by visitors.
Important: The Waterfall Overlook Trail has been closed for retaining-wall work, and other park areas have also experienced closures related to fire damage and repairs. Before planning this stop, check Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park’s trail updates.
If the overlook remains closed, do not enter restricted areas or assume you can reach the usual waterfall viewpoint. You may need to adjust your plans or skip this stop.
6. Return to Carmel or Monterey Before Dark
After visiting the southernmost accessible stops on your itinerary, begin the drive back toward Carmel or Monterey. Whenever possible, I recommend starting the return drive while there is still daylight.
Highway 1 through Big Sur has narrow lanes, sharp curves, limited lighting, and sections with steep drop-offs. Driving during daylight also makes it easier to enjoy the coastal scenery and spot changing road conditions. Allow extra time for traffic, road construction, or unexpected delays.
If you’d rather leave the driving to someone else, consider a private sightseeing tour covering Monterey, 17-Mile Drive, and Big Sur. This is an alternative to the self-guided itinerary, so check which stops are included before booking.
Where to Stay in Monterey, Carmel & Big Sur
For this 5-day itinerary, I recommend staying in either Monterey or Carmel-by-the-Sea. Both locations provide convenient access to the main attractions, and staying in one hotel for the entire trip means you won’t need to pack and move between accommodations.
Monterey is best for the aquarium, Cannery Row, whale watching, and Pacific Grove while Carmel-by-the-Sea is a good choice if you want to stay in a charming, walkable village and be closer to Point Lobos and Big Sur.
Here are two hotels to consider:
Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row
Holiday Inn Express Monterey-Cannery Row is a convenient option for travelers who want to stay near Monterey’s main waterfront attractions. The hotel is within walking distance of Cannery Row, restaurants, shops, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
It’s a practical choice if you prefer leaving your car parked while exploring Monterey on the first day. The property generally offers complimentary breakfast and on-site parking, although you should verify current amenities, rates, and any parking charges before booking. Its location also makes it easy to drive to Pacific Grove, Carmel, and Highway 1 on the following days.
Coachman’s Inn, A Four Sisters Inn
Coachman’s Inn is a charming property in Carmel-by-the-Sea, within walking distance of the village’s restaurants, galleries, shops, and Ocean Avenue. Good option if you want to spend your evenings walking around Carmel instead of driving to restaurants.
The inn generally offers breakfast, afternoon wine and hors d’oeuvres, and on-site parking. Check current offerings when booking. It’s closer to the attractions on the 2nd half of the itinerary including Point Lobos and Big Sur.
Best Time to Visit Monterey, Carmel & Big Sur
Monterey, Carmel, and Big Sur can be visited throughout the year, although the experience varies by season.
Spring (March–May): Spring brings green hillsides, wildflowers in some areas, and generally mild coastal weather. Rain and occasional road closures are still possible, especially earlier in the season.
Summer (June–August): Summer is a popular time to visit, especially for families. However, the Monterey Peninsula can experience cool temperatures, coastal fog, and busy weekends. Book hotels and major attractions early.
Fall (September–November): Fall can be an excellent time to visit, with periods of sunny weather and clear coastal views. Early fall can be particularly pleasant, although weather and wildfire conditions vary.
Winter (December–February): Winter is a good time for a quieter coastal getaway, with opportunities for gray whale watching and seasonal monarch butterfly viewing. Winter storms can affect beach conditions, hiking trails, and Highway 1 access. Keep your itinerary flexible and check weather and road conditions frequently.
Tips for Planning Your Monterey, Carmel & Big Sur Road Trip
Here are a few additional tips to make your trip easier.
1. Follow the itinerary geographically
This itinerary is designed to minimize unnecessary driving. The first 3 days focus on Monterey, Pacific Grove, and Carmel. The final 2 days explore Big Sur in separate sections. This makes it easier to spend time at each destination instead of repeatedly driving the same stretches of highway.
2. Book your most important activities first
Monterey Bay Aquarium and whale-watching tours are two activities worth planning in advance. Once you’ve chosen your dates and booked these experiences, you can organize the rest of the itinerary around them. Other stops, such as beaches and coastal viewpoints, are generally more flexible, subject to access restrictions.
3. Leave extra time for Big Sur
Driving distances can look short on a map, but Highway 1 has winding roads, limited passing opportunities, and many scenic places where you’ll want to stop. Avoid scheduling too many activities on your Big Sur days.
4. Download offline maps
Cell reception can be unreliable in parts of Big Sur. Download offline Google Maps before leaving Monterey or Carmel, especially if you’re visiting Pfeiffer Beach or continuing south toward McWay Falls.
5. Pack layers and comfortable shoes
Even on sunny days, coastal winds can make temperatures feel much cooler. Bring a warm jacket, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, water, and any supplies you’ll need for longer sightseeing days.
6. Check road and park closures
This is especially important for Days 4 and 5. Highway 1, Big Sur state parks, and individual trails can close with little notice due to storms, landslides, wildfires, or maintenance. Always confirm current conditions rather than relying entirely on an itinerary planned weeks or months in advance.
Final Thoughts
5 days gives you enough time to explore many of Monterey County’s most popular coastal attractions without trying to fit everything into one or two days. You’ll have time to visit Monterey Bay Aquarium, explore the charming streets of Carmel, drive along 17-Mile Drive, walk through Point Lobos, and experience the dramatic scenery of Big Sur.
If you have fewer than 5 days, you can shorten this itinerary by choosing the destinations that interest you most. Monterey and Carmel are good options for a shorter getaway, while Big Sur is worth setting aside extra time for if you enjoy scenic drives and outdoor activities.
For more places to explore in the area, check out my guide to the 27 Best Things to Do in Monterey County.
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