The 5 Best Big Sur Viewpoints to Add to Your Itinerary

The Best Big Sur Viewpoints 

These are the scenic vistas that you won’t want to miss while driving through Big Sur. To make it easier to plan your trip, this list starts on the north end of the region, and moves south as you drive down the PCH. I’ve also included a map at the end of this guide!

Note that some turnouts don’t have names (and aren’t specifically marked on Google Maps), so I’ve created names based on nearby points of reference. Each heading leads to a link to the exact coordinates so that you can easily find each point!

1. Castle Rock Viewpoint (AKA Bixby Bridge Vista Point)

Of course, a visit to Big Sur isn’t complete without seeing the towering Bixby Bridge, which was built in the 1930s. From Castle Rock Viewpoint, you get that iconic view of the concrete bridge, as well as amazing vistas of the coast in either direction.  

If you want a slightly different vantage point, you can also go right across the street to Coast Road. From here, you can view the bridge from the opposite side, looking out towards the ocean. 

2. Great Sur Vista Point

Whether you’re planning a day trip to Big Sur or a longer getaway, this viewpoint deserves a spot in your itinerary. It’s one of my personal favorites – I think it truly is one of the ultimate Big Sur scenic spots! 

The Great Sur Vista Point offers what I consider to be the most quintessential view of the region. It’s situated high above a beach, and you can see for miles down the gorgeous coastline (when it’s not foggy, of course). 

3. Little Sur River Beach Turnout

This turnout is located just south of Little Sur River Beach, and is much closer to sea level compared to Great Sur Vista Point. As you look north, you get stunning views of Little Sur River running through the sand and into the ocean. The mountains and coastal cliffs are also especially beautiful from this lower vantage point. 

4. Point Sur Lighthouse Turnout

One of the more unique things to do in Big Sur is going on a tour of the Point Sur Lighthouse, which dates back to 1889. Whether you choose to tour or not, it’s definitely worth stopping at this turnout to take in the scenery. You get the perfect view of the lighthouse, which sits right at the top of a huge coastal cliff. There’s also beautiful open space on either side of this cliff, and you get unobstructed views of the water. 

5. California Sea Otter State Game Refuge Turnout

Much like Great Sur Vista Point, you get classic Big Sur views from this scenic spot. It’s situated far above sea level, and you get incredible views of the coast as you look to the north. This turnout is a great spot to stop by as you make your way down to McWay Falls – it’s just a couple miles away!