As I start my journey along the Pacific Coast Highway, I find myself in Pebble Beach, a place where history and nature seamlessly blend. The air is misty and crisp, carrying the scent of salt and pine, as I make my way to the iconic Pebble Beach Lighthouse. Standing tall against the backdrop of the vast Pacific Ocean, the lighthouse has guided mariners for over a century, its weathered stone a testament to the forces of nature and time. Nearby, the famous golf course offers a breathtaking view of the ocean, where the legendary 18th hole, framed by a windswept California Monterey native cypress tree, has become a symbol of both the sport and the rugged beauty of this coastline.
Leaving Pebble Beach, I head north on the Pacific Coast Highway, with all its tight twists and turns. My next stop is Point Lobos State Park, a place so alive with color and sound that it feels like stepping into another world. The walking trails here wind through cypress groves and open onto cliffs that plunge dramatically into the ocean below. The sand is pure white, the water a striking turquoise, as if someone has painted the scene with the most vibrant colors in their palette. Sea lions bask on the rocky shores, their barking calls mixing with the sound of waves. Otters play in the kelp forests. Shorebirds flit about, adding to this symphony of nature.
I leave Point Lobos and continue along the highway, the road climbing higher as I approach the famous Bixby Bridge. Built in 1932, this architectural marvel spans a deep canyon, its graceful arches a familiar sight from countless movies and commercials. Driving across it, you feel a sense of awe, knowing that this bridge, with its spectacular views of the ocean and cliffs, has connected travelers to the beauty of Big Sur for nearly a century.
My final stop on this awesome journey is Molera State Park. The beach here is nothing short of spectacular, a wide stretch of sand dotted with driftwood that has been sculpted by the waves. Beachgoers have created tepee huts from the driftwood, perfect for relaxing in the shade and taking in the serene surroundings.
The Big Sur coastline, with its lush rainforests and steep cliffs diving into the Pacific, is one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet. Walking through these ancient forests and along the wild beaches, you feel a deep connection to nature, a sense of being part of something far larger than yourself.
