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.
