HIGHWAY ONE ROAD TRIP - BIG SUR PHOTO DIARY AND TRAVEL TIPS

Big Sur! 

I was not sure what to expect.  The promise of incredible coastline views in big sur was one of the reasons we decided to do the highway one road trip and we were not disappointed. We started our drive on day two of our road trip, from Santa Barbara and drove along the winding turns of the highway towards Carmel.

Tip 1 - It is hard to give directions to big sur; we did not realize we were in it, we just were. The only indication we had was the breathtaking view of coastline and bixby bridge. Also, multiple viewing ledges on the left side of the road. In hindsight, we will have been better served driving from San Fransico as all the viewing ledges are on that side of the narrow highway.

Tip 2 - Make sure you have offline navigation or go old school and print them out. Phone reception is practically nonexistent.

Tip 3 - Top up on gas and food before hitting the narrow path of the highway one - once you are on the route, restaurants and gas stations are few and far between and if you do find one, be prepared to pay a hefty price.

Tip 4 - Take your time on the drive to savor the views but also for safety reasons as the roads are narrow and winding. Stop at as many viewing ledges as you can and take in the spectacular view.

Tip 5 - A few stops worth making include views of Bixby Creek Bridge; McWay Falls; Point Lobos and Pfeffer Big Sur Campground which has an incredible view.

Tip 6 - Have cash on hand. If you are going to view McWay falls, it is a short hike from the main road and parking on the side of the highway is scarce. There is parking at the camp grounds but they only take cash.