Pfeiffer Beach: A Hidden Gem Along the California Coast
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Pfeiffer Beach, a hidden coastal treasure in California's Big Sur region, known for its unique purple sand and stunning landscapes.
Pfeiffer Beach offers breathtaking views, unique purple sand, and picturesque landscapes, making it a must-visit destination for tourists in California. Nestled within the stunning Big Sur region, it is perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean or an adventurous exploration of dramatic coastal scenery.
A brief summary to Pfeiffer Beach
- California, US
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the beach in peace.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning rock formations and sunsets.
- Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to explore the nearby hiking trails.
- Check tide schedules as high tides can limit access to some areas of the beach.
- Don't forget to bring snacks and water, as amenities are limited at the beach.
Getting There
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Walking
Start at the Carmel Plaza, located at 4th Ave and Mission St. Head south on Mission St until you reach Ocean Ave. Turn left onto Ocean Ave and continue walking until it intersects with Scenic Rd. Turn right onto Scenic Rd and follow it as it curves along the coast. Continue until you reach the intersection with Carmel River State Beach. From here, follow the signs to Pfeiffer Beach. It’s about a 2.5-mile walk, so wear comfortable shoes and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
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Biking
Rent a bike from one of the local rental shops in Carmel-by-the-Sea, such as 'Carmel Bike Tours'. Begin your ride from the rental location and head towards Ocean Ave. Turn left onto Ocean Ave and bike toward Scenic Rd. Follow Scenic Rd as it leads you toward Pfeiffer Beach. The bike ride is approximately 3 miles and offers beautiful coastal views. Make sure to stay safe and follow biking rules along the route.
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Public Transport
From Carmel-by-the-Sea, take the Monterey-Salinas Transit bus line 22 heading towards Big Sur. You can catch the bus at the nearest stop on Ocean Ave. After about a 30-minute ride, get off at the Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge stop. From there, it’s a short walk to Pfeiffer Beach. Check the bus schedule for the latest times and plan accordingly.
Discover more about Pfeiffer Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fernwood Campground and Resort
3.3 km
Discover the beauty of Big Sur at Fernwood Campground and Resort, where nature meets comfort and adventure awaits around every corner.
Sign | Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
3.4 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich history of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, a must-visit destination on California's stunning coastline.
Post Ranch Inn
4.1 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at Post Ranch Inn, the ultimate retreat in Big Sur, California.
COAST Big Sur
9.1 km
Experience the unique blend of art, dining, and boutique shopping at COAST Big Sur, where creativity meets the stunning California coastline.
Point Sur Naval Facility
9.8 km
Discover the historical significance and breathtaking beauty of Point Sur Naval Facility along California's iconic Big Sur coastline.
Point Sur Lighthouse
10.8 km
Discover the historic Point Sur Lighthouse, offering breathtaking ocean views and a glimpse into California's maritime heritage along the stunning Big Sur coastline.
Hurricane Point
15.4 km
Explore the stunning cliffs and breathtaking vistas at Hurricane Point, a must-visit coastal gem in California's seaside paradise.
52801 CA-1
15.6 km
Explore the stunning coastline of Big Sur, California, where majestic cliffs meet the Pacific Ocean and nature unfolds in breathtaking beauty.
Bixby Creek Bridge
16.7 km
Discover Bixby Creek Bridge, an architectural masterpiece that offers stunning coastal views and a glimpse into California's scenic beauty.
Hot Springs Creek Bridge
20.3 km
Explore the scenic beauty and historical significance of Hot Springs Creek Bridge in Big Sur, a perfect blend of nature and heritage.
Kasler Point
21.3 km
Explore Kasler Point, a historical landmark in Monterey, CA, with breathtaking ocean views and a rich tapestry of maritime history.
D L James “Seaward” House
31.4 km
Discover the D L James 'Seaward' House, a historic landmark in Carmel-By-The-Sea, showcasing stunning views and rich architectural heritage.
Butterfly House
35.3 km
Explore the Butterfly House in Carmel-By-The-Sea: a historical landmark showcasing stunning architecture and nature's beauty in California.
Clinton Walker House - Frank Lloyd Wright
35.6 km
Explore the Clinton Walker House, an architectural masterpiece by Frank Lloyd Wright, nestled on a bluff with stunning ocean views in Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Mission Trail Park
35.7 km
Explore the natural beauty of Mission Trail Park in Carmel-By-The-Sea, a serene retreat for hikers and nature lovers alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach
0.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach, a stunning natural wonder in Big Sur, California, where ocean meets artistry.
Redwood Deck
3.1 km
Discover the serenity of Redwood Deck in Big Sur, where towering redwoods and stunning views create an unforgettable hiking experience.
Big Sur Station
3.3 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty of Big Sur from Big Sur Station, your essential visitor center for local insights and unforgettable adventures.
Big Sur River
3.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Big Sur River in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, a natural paradise offering adventure and serenity in California.
Pfeiffer Falls
3.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Pfeiffer Falls in Big Sur, a natural wonder surrounded by lush redwoods and vibrant wildlife.
Big Sur River Gorge
4.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and serene trails of Big Sur River Gorge, a must-see destination on California's stunning coastline.
Henry Miller Memorial Library
5.9 km
Discover the artistic spirit of Big Sur at the Henry Miller Memorial Library, a unique cultural haven dedicated to literature and creativity.
Andrew Molera State Park
6.1 km
Experience the breathtaking coastal beauty and diverse ecosystems of Andrew Molera State Park in Big Sur, California, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Grimes Point
7.9 km
Discover the stunning rock formations and ancient petroglyphs of Grimes Point, a natural wonder in California's beautiful peninsula region.
Seal Beach Overlook
8.9 km
Discover the breathtaking vistas at Seal Beach Overlook, a scenic spot in Big Sur where the cliffs meet the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean.
Point Sur State Historic Park
10.5 km
Experience the stunning coastal views and rich history at Point Sur State Historic Park, a must-visit destination in Monterey, California.
The California Sea Otter State Game Refuge
12.3 km
Explore the California Sea Otter State Game Refuge, a breathtaking sanctuary for sea otters and a haven for nature lovers on the stunning Big Sur coast.
Partington Cove
12.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Partington Cove in Big Sur, California—where stunning vistas meet the tranquility of nature along the Pacific coastline.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park Vista Point
14.0 km
Experience the stunning coastal beauty and iconic McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park Vista Point, a must-see destination in Big Sur, California.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
15.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, featuring iconic waterfalls, towering redwoods, and stunning coastal views.
Essential places to dine
Homestead
3.1 km
Experience comfort food at Homestead in Big Sur—where delicious American cuisine meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Sushi Jawn
3.2 km
Discover the taste of freshness at Sushi Jawn—a mobile sushi haven in Big Sur where quality meets convenience.
Big Sur Roadhouse
3.2 km
Experience the best of Californian cuisine at Big Sur Roadhouse, where local flavors meet stunning coastal views in an inviting atmosphere.
Cottages Grocery Restaurant
3.2 km
Experience exquisite coastal dining at Cottages Grocery Restaurant in Big Sur with fresh ingredients and breathtaking views.
Fernwood Tavern
3.3 km
Experience delectable grilled dishes at Fernwood Tavern in Big Sur while surrounded by California's stunning natural beauty.
The Village, Big Sur
3.6 km
Experience wellness and tranquility at The Village in Big Sur - where healthy dining meets serene surroundings.
Restaurant at Big Sur River Inn
3.7 km
Experience authentic American cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at the Restaurant at Big Sur River Inn.
Big Sur River Inn
3.8 km
Discover tranquility at Big Sur River Inn - where rustic charm meets breathtaking nature along California's iconic coast.
Sierra Mar
4.1 km
Experience fine dining at Sierra Mar in Big Sur—where exquisite seafood meets breathtaking ocean views for an unforgettable culinary adventure.
Big Sur Bakery
4.2 km
Discover delicious American cuisine at Big Sur Bakery—your perfect pitstop along California's scenic coast.
Big Sur Smokehouse
4.7 km
Discover delicious barbecue at Big Sur Smokehouse – where smoky flavors meet stunning coastal views in beautiful Big Sur.
The Sur House
5.2 km
Experience breathtaking ocean views and organic cuisine at The Sur House in Big Sur - a perfect blend of nature and fine dining.
Nepenthe
5.4 km
Experience breathtaking views and exquisite American cuisine at Nepenthe in Big Sur - a true culinary gem overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Cafe Kevah
5.4 km
Experience breathtaking views and fresh local flavors at Cafe Kevah in Big Sur – an unforgettable culinary gem along California's coastline.
Deetjen's Restaurant
6.3 km
Discover Deetjen's Restaurant in Big Sur for a unique American dining experience amidst breathtaking coastal views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Big Sur inspirations
3.2 km
Explore Big Sur Inspirations for unique gifts and local artistry that capture the essence of California's stunning coastline.
David's Coastal Collections
3.3 km
Explore the charm of Big Sur at David's Coastal Collections, where local artistry meets coastal beauty in a delightful shopping experience.
Big Sur Goods
3.3 km
Explore the artistic treasures of Big Sur Goods, a haven for photography and local art in the stunning landscape of Big Sur, California.
Fernwood General Store
3.3 km
Discover the charm of Big Sur at Fernwood General Store, your one-stop shop for local goods, fresh produce, and unforgettable souvenirs.
Studio One - Big Sur
3.6 km
Discover the enchanting Studio One - Big Sur, an art gallery that beautifully reflects the local culture and stunning landscapes of California's coastline.
Big Sur River Inn General Store
3.7 km
Discover the essence of Big Sur at the Big Sur River Inn General Store, your one-stop shop for essentials and local treasures amidst stunning natural beauty.
Big Sur Deli
4.1 km
Discover the flavors of Big Sur at Big Sur Deli, where delicious deli bites meet the captivating beauty of California's coastline.
Mother Botanical & Shop
4.2 km
Explore Mother Botanical & Shop in Big Sur, a hidden gem offering unique gifts, beautiful plants, and a warm local atmosphere.
Post Ranch Mercantile
4.3 km
Discover the charm of Big Sur at Post Ranch Mercantile, where local artistry meets stunning coastal views in a delightful gift shop experience.
Phoenix Shop
5.4 km
Explore the enchanting Phoenix Shop in Big Sur - your destination for unique gifts, local art, and memorable souvenirs.
kiyote of big sur
20.1 km
Discover unique clothing and gifts inspired by the breathtaking landscapes of Big Sur at Kiyote, a hidden gem along the Pacific Coast Highway.
The Crossroads Carmel
34.3 km
Explore The Crossroads Carmel, a unique shopping mall in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where boutiques, art galleries, and local flavor meet in a stunning coastal setting.
The Hearth Shop
34.3 km
Explore The Hearth Shop in Carmel-By-The-Sea for exquisite fireplaces and enchanting Christmas decor - a unique shopping experience awaits!
Givingtree Benefit Shop at Community Church of the Monterey Peninsula
34.5 km
Discover unique treasures at the Givingtree Benefit Shop, where every purchase supports local charities in Carmel-By-The-Sea.
The Barnyard Shopping Village
34.6 km
Explore the charm of The Barnyard Shopping Village in Carmel-by-the-Sea, where boutique shopping meets delightful dining in a serene outdoor setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Big Sur Taphouse
4.1 km
Experience the best of California's craft beer culture at Big Sur Taphouse, your gateway to stunning views and local flavors.
Sunset Lounge
31.3 km
Experience the elegance of Sunset Lounge in Carmel-By-The-Sea, where breathtaking views meet exquisite cuisine in a luxurious setting.
O'CALLAGHAN'S IRISH PUB
34.6 km
Discover the heart of Ireland at O'Callaghan's Irish Pub - where traditional flavors meet vibrant community spirit in Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Bud's at La Playa
36.3 km
Experience the charm of Carmel-By-The-Sea at Bud's at La Playa, where exquisite cocktails and fine dining meet coastal elegance.
Wrath Wines- Carmel Tasting Room
36.4 km
Explore Wrath Wines in Carmel-By-The-Sea for a memorable wine tasting experience surrounded by breathtaking coastal views.
Bar Napoli
36.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Italy at Bar Napoli, a charming bar and wine destination in the heart of Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Barmel
36.4 km
Experience the cozy charm and handcrafted cocktails at Barmel, the perfect bar for relaxation in beautiful Carmel-By-The-Sea.
Mulligan Public House
36.5 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Mulligan Public House, Carmel-By-The-Sea's premier bar for craft beers and traditional pub fare.
Galante Vineyards Tasting Room
36.5 km
Discover the exquisite wines and beautiful landscapes at Galante Vineyards in Carmel-By-The-Sea, a true treasure of California's wine country.
Sade's Cocktails
36.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Carmel-By-The-Sea at Sade's Cocktails, where exceptional mixology meets a cozy coastal ambiance.
Del Monte Bar & Grill
39.7 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Del Monte Bar & Grill, nestled in the scenic beauty of Monterey, California.
Trident Room
40.2 km
Discover the Trident Room in Monterey, offering a cozy atmosphere, exceptional drinks, and a perfect spot to unwind after your daily adventures.
Alfredo's Cantina
40.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Alfredo's Cantina, Monterey's favorite cocktail bar with a lively atmosphere and exquisite drinks.
LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill at Hotel 1110
40.6 km
Discover the enchanting LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill, where mouthwatering cuisine meets stunning views in the heart of Monterey.
Britannia Arms
40.7 km
Discover Britannia Arms, a lively pub in Monterey offering a delightful mix of traditional dishes and local flavors in a cozy atmosphere.
