A Drive Along California Highway 1 Big Sur – America the Beautiful

lifewithlinda (50)in #travel • 7 years ago

“The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination and brings eternal joy to the soul” - Wyland

While staying in Carmel, my husband and I decided to take a road trip along what is considered to be one of the most scenic drives in the country, Big Sur Highway, aka California Highway 1. It is the longest state route in California and covers over 655 miles. It was also designated as an All-American Road, recognized by the US Department of Transportation as one of the most unique scenic byways in America.

View from Highlands Inn, Carmel, California

We traveled from Carmel, through Big Sur, and finished our day at Hearst Castle. I have to say, the drive was one of the most breathtaking ones I have ever taken.

Big Sur Coastline

We enjoyed so many spectacular rocky coastal views like this one of McWay Rocks.

McWay Rocks along Big Sure Highway

A stunning sunset view of Bixby Bridge, one of the most photographed bridges in California, as well as one of the tallest single span concrete bridges in the world.

Bixby Bridge

As we ventured further south, where the road reaches sea level, we managed to actually find the entrance to Pfeiffer Beach. This beach is a hidden gem and definitely off the beaten path. The road to the beach is narrow, full of twists and turns, and runs about 2 miles long. When the beach came into view all I could think of was how different it was from our Florida beaches. Ours are mostly tranquil, this one was full of raw power. In the middle of the water was a natural arch called Keyhole Rock where the ocean waves would crash through the opening spraying those close enough with a cool mist. I think I could have sat there all day but we had to move on to get to our final destination of the day – Hearst Castle.