Originally inhabited by three different groups of aboriginal Americans and derived from the Spanish "el sur grande", Big Sur isn’t really a town per se. Rather, it is an area that surrounds and cradles California Highway 1 – the only road through the Big Sur Region – for a distance of about ninety miles, roughly from Carmel to San Simeon. Bounded on the west by the Pacific Ocean and on the east by the western slopes of the Santa Lucia Mountains, the Big Sur Region is one of spectacular beauty and colorful history.

Including "Best Restaurant in California," (per the Zagat Survey) and one of the "50 Places of a Lifetime”, courtesy of National Geographic Traveler, the “Best Of” list for Big Sur is extensive to say the least. Certainly there is always an abundance of magic in the area. Come for the annual migration of California Gray, Humpback and Blue whales, elephant seals, birds and Monarch butterflies. Try the excellent hiking and camping opportunities. Stay at luxury spas and hotels, or simply share in a romantic getaway along one of the most incredible coastlines in the world. Whatever reason you need, Big Sur has the natural wonders to make it worth the trip.