Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Tours and Activities

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park which includes rocky coastline, landscape views and a river or creek
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Hike, camp or picnic among the redwood trees, waterfalls and dramatic coastal cliffs that have inspired artists, poets and writers for the past century. 

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a 1,000-acre (400-hectare) State Park on the California coast. The area takes its name from John Pfeiffer, whose family were European settlers in the 19th century. Perfect for hiking, camping and swimming, this park features stunning views across the Big Sur Valley, the Big Sur River Gorge and the Pacific Ocean. You’ll see a wide variety of large-tree species, including redwoods, oaks, sycamores and maples. Also, keep an eye out for the wildlife, including black-tailed deer, raccoons, skunks and varied birdlife.

The best way to experience the park is on foot so that you don’t miss anything. Explore the three-mile (five-kilometer) Valley View Trail, which takes in Pfeiffer Falls, the park’s 60-foot (18-meter) waterfall. The trail is a bit steep in parts, rising 200 feet (60 meters), offering stunning views over the falls and the park’s many creeks and redwoods. More experienced hikers can try the 4.5-mile (seven-kilometer) Ewoldsen Trail, at the nearby Julie Pfeiffer Burns Park, which is steeper and more strenuous in parts. Don’t miss McWay Falls, which tumble straight from the cliffside onto the beach. The beach itself is off-limits, but for spectacular year-round views, check out the overlook near the parking lot.

In summer, swim in the Big Sur River, which runs through the park and empties into the Pacific Ocean. Pitch your tent on the park’s campsites situated at picturesque spots along the riverbanks. The park offers an information center, kiosk, restrooms, showers and a laundry. The Big Sur Lodge offers motel-style accommodation and a restaurant. 

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park borders the Ventana Wilderness area, an additional 320 miles (515 kilometers) of hiking trails. The area is just inland from the California coast, 28 miles (42 kilometers) south of Carmel. Driving is the best way to get here, and there are also some coastal bus tours from travel agencies in Monterey. The park opens 30 minutes before sunrise and closes after sunset. Bring a picnic or snacks as food options are limited to a café and grocery store at the Big Sur Lodge.

Plan a trip to see Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Hyatt Carmel Highlands
Sanctuary Beach Resort
Carmel Bay View Inn
Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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Best Lodging Options Near Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Big Sur Lodge
Big Sur Lodge
3 out of 5
47225 Highway One, Big Sur, CA
Big Sur Lodge
Alila Ventana Big Sur, All Inclusive Adults Only
Alila Ventana Big Sur, All Inclusive Adults Only
4.5 out of 5
48123 Highway One, Big Sur, CA
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Carmel Mission Inn
Carmel Mission Inn
3.5 out of 5
3665 Rio Rd, Carmel, CA
Carmel Mission Inn
Carmel Valley Ranch, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
Carmel Valley Ranch, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
4 out of 5
One Old Ranch Road, Carmel, CA
Carmel Valley Ranch, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
4 out of 5
Two Portola Plaza, Monterey, CA
Portola Hotel & Spa at Monterey Bay
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
3.5 out of 5
700 Munras Ave, Monterey, CA
Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa
Hyatt Carmel Highlands
Hyatt Carmel Highlands
4 out of 5
120 Highland Dr, Carmel, CA
Hyatt Carmel Highlands
Carmel Bay View Inn
Carmel Bay View Inn
2.5 out of 5
Junipero Street Between 5th And 6th St, Carmel, CA
Carmel Bay View Inn
The Quail Lodge
The Quail Lodge
4 out of 5
8205 VALLEY GREENS DRIVE, Carmel, CA
The Quail Lodge
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.