Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Monterey Bay Aquarium

The Monterey Bay Aquarium on California's Central Coast is one of the world's premier ocean conservation institutions, located in a converted sardine cannery on historic Cannery Row. Its exhibits showcase the extraordinary marine biodiversity of Monterey Bay, from luminous jellyfish and sea otters to towering three-story kelp forest tanks. The aquarium's research programs have led to global advances in ocean conservation.

Bixby Bridge

Bixby Bridge is one of California's most iconic landmarks, a graceful concrete arch bridge spanning the Bixby Creek Canyon on the Big Sur coast of Highway 1. Completed in 1932, it rises 79 meters above the Pacific with dramatic coastal cliffs as its backdrop. The bridge has appeared in countless films and travel features. Sunrise and sunset light transforms it into an extraordinary photographic subject against the fog-draped rugged coast.

Point Sur State Historic Park

Treat this as a focused stop on the drive; independently verify visit conditions before relying on park access.

Big Sur

A rugged Pacific coastline and one of the signature stops on Highway 1.

Big Sur Coastline