Pfeiffer Beach: Big Sur's Coastal Jewel
Discover Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur: Iconic Keyhole Arch, unique purple sands, and breathtaking coastal scenery await on this easily accessible yet secluded natural haven.
Pfeiffer Beach, nestled in the heart of Big Sur, is a captivating coastal haven renowned for its dramatic rock formations, including the iconic Keyhole Arch, and unique purple sands. This easily accessible beach, a short detour off Highway 1, offers breathtaking views, tide pools teeming with marine life, and a sense of secluded tranquility. Despite its popularity, Pfeiffer Beach maintains a sense of unspoiled beauty, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers and photographers alike. Be sure to arrive prepared for potentially limited parking and the possibility of chilly winds, but the reward is an unforgettable experience of California's rugged coastline.
A brief summary to Pfeiffer Beach
- California, US
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as the parking lot is small and fills up quickly. Limited parking controls the number of people on the beach.
- Bring layers of clothing, as the weather in Big Sur can be unpredictable, with fog and chilly winds common even in summer.
- Check the tide charts before your visit to explore the tide pools at low tide. You can almost walk out to Keyhole Arch.
- Look for the unmarked Sycamore Canyon Road turnoff from Highway 1. It's located between the Big Sur Post Office and Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, marked only by a yellow 'Narrow Road' sign.
- Bring cash for the parking fee, although credit cards are accepted when the kiosk is open. An additional fee may be added for credit card use.
Getting There
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Driving
From Highway 1 in Big Sur, look for the unmarked Sycamore Canyon Road, located between the Big Sur Post Office and Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. The only sign is a yellow 'Narrow Road' warning. Turn onto Sycamore Canyon Road and drive approximately 2 miles down the narrow, winding road to the Pfeiffer Beach Day Use Area. Parking is $15 per vehicle. Be prepared for limited parking, especially during peak season. There are self-registration stations if the kiosk is closed.
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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 for $5 per person. The shuttle runs Thursday to Sunday, with departures every 20 minutes. Be aware that the shuttle may return before sunset.
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
Explore California's maritime past at Point Sur Lighthouse in Big Sur: Guided tours, stunning views, and rich history await on this iconic coastal landmark.
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
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Kasler Point
21.3 km
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D L James “Seaward” House
31.4 km
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Butterfly House
35.3 km
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Clinton Walker House - Frank Lloyd Wright
35.6 km
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Mission Trail Park
35.7 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach
0.1 km
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Redwood Deck
3.1 km
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Big Sur Station
3.3 km
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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
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Henry Miller Memorial Library
5.9 km
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Andrew Molera State Park
6.1 km
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Grimes Point
7.9 km
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Seal Beach Overlook
8.9 km
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Point Sur State Historic Park
10.5 km
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The California Sea Otter State Game Refuge
12.3 km
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Partington Cove
12.9 km
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Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park Vista Point
14.0 km
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Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
15.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Homestead
3.1 km
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Sushi Jawn
3.2 km
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Big Sur Roadhouse
3.2 km
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Cottages Grocery Restaurant
3.2 km
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Fernwood Tavern
3.3 km
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The Village, Big Sur
3.6 km
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Restaurant at Big Sur River Inn
3.7 km
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Big Sur River Inn
3.8 km
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Sierra Mar
4.1 km
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Big Sur Bakery
4.2 km
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Big Sur Smokehouse
4.7 km
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The Sur House
5.2 km
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Nepenthe
5.4 km
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Cafe Kevah
5.4 km
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Deetjen's Restaurant
6.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Big Sur inspirations
3.2 km
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David's Coastal Collections
3.3 km
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Big Sur Goods
3.3 km
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Fernwood General Store
3.3 km
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Studio One - Big Sur
3.6 km
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Big Sur River Inn General Store
3.7 km
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Big Sur Deli
4.1 km
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Mother Botanical & Shop
4.2 km
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Post Ranch Mercantile
4.3 km
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Phoenix Shop
5.4 km
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kiyote of big sur
20.1 km
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The Crossroads Carmel
34.3 km
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The Hearth Shop
34.3 km
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Givingtree Benefit Shop at Community Church of the Monterey Peninsula
34.5 km
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The Barnyard Shopping Village
34.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Big Sur Taphouse
4.1 km
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Sunset Lounge
31.3 km
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O'CALLAGHAN'S IRISH PUB
34.6 km
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Bud's at La Playa
36.3 km
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Wrath Wines- Carmel Tasting Room
36.4 km
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Bar Napoli
36.4 km
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Barmel
36.4 km
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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
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Sade's Cocktails
36.5 km
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Del Monte Bar & Grill
39.7 km
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Trident Room
40.2 km
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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
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Britannia Arms
40.7 km
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