Droughts are common in California in the summertime causing the landscape to become withered and dry. The best months to explore Big Sur are November through May when plant life tends to be more lush and green. An inversion layer of dense fog tends to blanket the coastline more frequently during summer months so you will usually experience more clear views during winter months.
The climate is generally mild and cool on the Central Coast even in the summertime. Temperatures rarely rise above the 70s (Fahrenheit). Big Sur reports more than 300 days of sunshine each year, but sporadic seasonal showers can occur so dress in layers or be prepared with a light windbreaker.
Traveling south on Scenic Highway 1 is the best way to see the Big Sur Coastline. From the region's high mountainous areas you will get a birds-eye view of the aquamarine ocean waters below. Begin your tour at the Carmel River State Beach just south of Carmel. The park features the Carmel River Lagoon and Wetlands Natural Reserve where you will see an abundance of birds such as egrets and herons.
Next, hike the trails that wind around stunning coves and marine life havens such as Sea Lion Point and Bird Island at Point Lobos State Reserve, located three miles south of Carmel. About half of the 1,250-acre state park is underwater so you will need to scuba dive to explore this area that is described as one of the richest marine habitats in California, according to California State Parks. Point Lobos is open all year from 8 a.m. until a half hour past sunset. Admission per car, as of July 2009, is $10.
Make your next stop at Andrew Molera State Park, located 20 miles south of Point Lobos, to comb a two-mile stretch of beach and enjoy a breathtaking 50-foot climb to a scenic overlook of the Pacific. The path that leads to the beach runs parallel to Big Sur River winding through a wildflower meadow and sycamore grove. Camping is available here at 24 sites on a first-come, first-served basis.
While you may make frequent stops at roadside vistas as you travel south on Highway 1, allow plenty of time for one of the most scenic locations on the Big Sur Coastline. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is located 37 miles south of Carmel. The park is a serene and peaceful place to enjoy a picnic lunch amid towering redwoods and chaparrals. From Overlook Trail, you can view the amazing 80-foot waterfall that flows from granite cliffs into the ocean. During the months of December, January, March and April it is possible to see migrating whales from this point.
As you continue down the coastline, stop for refreshment at Ragged Point. This privately owned enterprise with full services such as an outdoor cafe, gift shop, hotel and gas station, is beautifully landscaped and features a steep half-mile-long trail that descends 400 feet to the beach. If you have children or are impaired in any way, don't attempt this trail. Sit back, relax and enjoy the vistas from the top of the cliff. Before you leave, take a stroll through the gift shop, which features sculptures, jewelry, paintings and photographs by various local artists.
The Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery is located at the south end of the Big Sur Coastline, just seven miles north of San Simeon. If you enjoy seeing wildlife, this stop is a must. Hundreds of elephant seals breed here beginning in late November and continuing through mid-February. Don't forget your camera--the pups born here are adorable. There are many photo opportunities here.
