TRAVEL INFORMATION
As one of the last truly untouched stretches of wild coast in California, Big Sur is like a dream: tranquil, beautiful... and remote. That also means fewer of the usual conveniences.
Keep the following information about the area in mind as you enjoy the weekend.
FLIGHTS
Big Sur is a remote destination that does not have its own direct airport. The closest airport to Big Sur is in Monterey (Monterey Regional Airport / MRY), which is approximately 45 minutes from Big Sur proper.
If you are coming from afar, the best way to fly in is via San Francisco - preferably through SFO or San Jose International Airport, as they are closer to the coast. Depending on traffic, it is an approximate 2-2.5 hour drive to Big Sur from the Bay Area.
DRIVING
Whether you are approaching Big Sur from the North or the South, Highway 1 is one of the most stunning drives in the world. Plan on pulling out at vista points to take in the views, and to take incredible photos! Also plan on gas being relatively pricier inside of Big Sur than at entry points in Carmel and Cambria. Put the windows down, breathe in the beautiful Big Sur air, turn the music up, and enjoy California at its finest!
From Los Angeles:
101 North to Highway 1 > This route takes roughly 6 hours without traffic. It is decidedly more beautiful than the other route which takes you on the 5 to the 101, and into Big Sur via Monterey (this way takes 5.5 hours). It is a long but rewarding drive. Recommended breakfast and lunch stops include The Shop in Santa Barbara, Los Agaves in Santa Barbara, and the Walsh family favorite, Robin's, in Cambria. Order the fish tacos and a rosé flight!
From San Francisco Airport:
101 South to 85 South to 17 South to Highway 1 > This route takes approximately 2.5 hours without traffic.*
From San Jose Airport:
880 South to 17 South to Highway 1 > This route takes approximately 2 hours without traffic.*
*Both of these routes take you through the Santa Cruz Mountains (passing by the Ridge Montebello mecca), and then through a beautiful valley filled with famed California produce, before you ascend into the rocky, stunning slopes of Highway 1 toward Big Sur. If you'd like recommendations for stops on the way, contact Cara or Dylan.
CELL SERVICE
Big Sur is a remote location and as such much of the territory does not have cell service. Make sure you are aware of this when trying to make plans or communicate with friends and family over the course of the weekend. There are a few spots in Big Sur proper where you can get a signal - specifically at the Big Sur Bakery and the Loma Vista gas stop / Post Office area in the center of Big Sur. Beyond this area, you will likely not get service between there and Carmel or Cambria.
STORES + GOODS
Big Sur hosts several small convenience stores, mostly peppered throughout the hotels and in Big Sur proper. Basic sundries, beer and wine are all available in these stores. A much wider selection of large markets, liquor stores and banks can be found in Carmel, 45 minutes north of Big Sur. Big Sur also has some fantastic restaurants, from cafes to upscale dining.
WEATHER
The weather in the Big Sur area can vary wildly within the space of a matter of hours. While it is common for the area to experience warm-to-mild Octobers, the coast is still a wild, foggy, misty place that can get chilly (in a beautiful way that makes campfires and wine all the more appropriate). Our advice would be to bring a gamut of clothing for both the wedding festivities and the time that you have to explore Big Sur. During the day it can get warm, especially if you are hiking or inland, but by night you will definitely want to have some warm layers. On the day and night of the wedding, we advise the ladies to bring a shawl or jacket for the evening.