You may be thinking: Why do I need day trips from Big Sur? Why would I ever want to leave this most beautiful and breathtaking portion of the California coastline?
Everyone needs a Sunday drive now and then.
Even when you live in, work in, or visit in places as extraordinary as
Big Sur! And there are wonderful places nearby to discover - many of
which you may not know about.
Let us help you find new places to explore and you can figure out what you want to do when you're looking for a change of scenery.
Do you have a favorite
NorCal story?
From a family visit from years ago to something
you discovered last weekend,
Share it with
the rest of us - we'd love to learn about it!
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Sea Otter; © Kevin Connors
Big Sur is spectacular, no doubt about it! The beaches, the awe-inspiring views, the tranquility and natural beauty - not to mention the quirk - make Big Sur one of Northern California's most popular destinations! But - whether you're visiting or you live in Big Sur - you'll find that these fun-tastic side trips are well worth the drive! So let's start exploring. Where will you go on your next Big Sur side trip? Big Sur is spectacular, no doubt about it! The beaches, the awe-inspiring views, the tranquility and natural beauty - not to mention the quirk - make Big Sur one of Northern California's most popular destinations! But - whether you're visiting or you live in Big Sur - you'll find that these fun-tastic side trips are well worth the drive! So let's start exploring. Where will you go on your next Big Sur side trip? Mention Salinas to most Californians and they'll either say, Huh? or, Lettuce. |
Mention Salinas to most Californians and they'll either say, Huh? or, Lettuce.
Even though it's the county seat and largest city of Monterey County, Salinas just hasn't received much respect.
But, as you'll see from this trip, Salinas is worthy of another look!
Travel north of Big Sur, along the coastline and you'll discover many of my own personal favorites! Point Lobos, Carmel-by-the-Sea, the 17 Mile Drive and Pebble Beach, Pacific Grove, and Monterey.
How about a Big Sur Wine Country trip? No - so far, they're not growing wine grapes along the Big Sur coastline (never say never, though!), but there are some wonderful wineries within an hour or two of Big Sur!
While it's not the day trip for your average family of four, Fort Hunter Liggett Military Reservation can offer a unique experience if you're a hunter or a fisher! Hunting for deer, tule elk, pig, coyote, bobcat, jackrabbit, cottontail, tree squirrel, dove, quail, pigeon, wild turkey (archery), duck, and goose; fishing for bass, sunfish, and catfish - take your pick!
Even though it's the county seat and largest city of Monterey County, Salinas just hasn't received much respect.
But, as you'll see from this trip, Salinas is worthy of another look!
Travel north of Big Sur, along the coastline and you'll discover many of my own personal favorites! Point Lobos, Carmel-by-the-Sea, the 17 Mile Drive and Pebble Beach, Pacific Grove, and Monterey.
How about a Big Sur Wine Country trip? No - so far, they're not growing wine grapes along the Big Sur coastline (never say never, though!), but there are some wonderful wineries within an hour or two of Big Sur!
While it's not the day trip for your average family of four, Fort Hunter Liggett Military Reservation can offer a unique experience if you're a hunter or a fisher! Hunting for deer, tule elk, pig, coyote, bobcat, jackrabbit, cottontail, tree squirrel, dove, quail, pigeon, wild turkey (archery), duck, and goose; fishing for bass, sunfish, and catfish - take your pick!
Check back often, as I'll be adding more side trips for you to explore from Big Sur! And if you have a special trip you'd like to share, please do so here!
Please continue your exploration of what Northern California has to offer by using the Nav Bars in the left and right columns or by using the links at the bottom of the page.
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