The majestic seaside cliffs and forests of Big Sur attract several million visitors a year. Many come to watch the annual migration of the Monarch butterfly in October; or they come to catch a glimpse of the humpback and blue whales and playful sea otters. Several airports service the Big Sur area, although none are actually located there.
The closest airport to Big Sur is 22 miles away in Monterey. Monterey Regional Airport is a smaller municipal airport that has served the travel needs of such dignitaries as Pope John Paul II, John F. Kennedy over the years. Alaska Airlines, American Eagle, Allegiant Air and United Express serve the airport.
The San Jose International Airport, 75 miles away, is the closest major airport to the Big Sur area. The airport is approximately two miles from downtown San Jose. The airlines that service the San Jose airport include Alaska Airlines, American, Delta, Frontier, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue, Mexicana Airlines, Southwest and United.
The San Luis Obispo Regional Airport is 92 miles from Big Sur. The airport is south of the city of San Luis Obispo and serves areas between Monterey County and Santa Barbara County. The airport is known for the convenient access it provides to travelers trying to reach the central coast of California, including Big Sur. United provides service to the airport.
