Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach, Big Sur Travel Guide

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Discover the magic of Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur: iconic Keyhole Arch, unique purple sands, and breathtaking coastal scenery.

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Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach

Pfeiffer Beach, nestled along the rugged Big Sur coastline, is renowned for its Keyhole Arch, purple sands, and dramatic rock formations. A favorite among photographers and nature enthusiasts, this easily accessible beach offers breathtaking views and a unique coastal experience.

A brief summary to Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach

Sycamore Canyon Rd, Big Sur, California, 93920, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach.

Arrive early, especially on weekends and during the summer, as the parking lot is small and fills up quickly.
Bring cash for the entrance fee, as credit card acceptance may be limited.
Check the tide levels before visiting, as high tide can limit access to certain areas of the beach and affect the Keyhole Arch light show.
Visit during the winter solstice (December and January) for a chance to see the sun setting through Keyhole Arch.
Download offline maps, as cell service can be unreliable in the Big Sur area.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

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Partington Cove

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

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Getting There

Driving

Pfeiffer Beach is located off Highway 1 in Big Sur. From Highway 1, turn onto Sycamore Canyon Road, located between the Big Sur Ranger Station and the post office. The turn is easy to miss, so look for the yellow 'Narrow Road' sign. Sycamore Canyon Road is a narrow, winding road approximately 2 miles long. Drive carefully and yield to oncoming traffic. There is a $15 entrance fee per vehicle to access the beach. The parking lot is small and fills quickly, especially during peak season. If the lot is full, you may have to wait for a spot to open up or return at another time.
Public Transport

During the summer (Memorial Day to Labor Day), a shuttle service operates from the Big Sur Station to Pfeiffer Beach. Park at the Big Sur Station for $10, and take the shuttle to the beach for $5 per person. The shuttle runs every 20 minutes. Be aware that the shuttle may not return before sunset.

Discover more about Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach

Pfeiffer Beach, a captivating destination along California's Big Sur coast, is famous for its unique geological features and stunning scenery. The beach's most iconic feature is the Keyhole Arch, a natural opening carved by ocean waves in a massive sea stack. During winter sunsets, the sun aligns with the arch, creating a breathtaking "light show" as the sunlight illuminates the water passing through.The beach is also known for its purple sands, a result of manganese garnet deposits eroding from the surrounding hills. These vibrant streaks of purple mix with the golden sand, creating a visually stunning and unique landscape, especially after heavy rainfall. The rugged cliffs surrounding the beach are composed of granitic and metamorphic rocks, remnants of ancient tectonic activity.Pfeiffer Beach is named after the Pfeiffer family, who were early settlers in the Big Sur area. In the winter of 1869, Micheal and Barbara Laquet Pfeiffer were traveling south when they were forced to stop in Sycamore Canyon. They loved the area and decided to stay, later establishing the Pfeiffer Ranch Resort in 1910.Today, Pfeiffer Beach is part of the Los Padres National Forest, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Visitors can enjoy the beach's natural beauty, explore its unique geological formations, and capture stunning photographs. However, swimming can be hazardous due to cold water, rocks, and strong currents.