Big Sur and the Towns of the Monterey Bay Peninsula

The Monterey Bay Peninsula on the Central Coast of California includes the cities of Monterey, Pacific Grove and Carmel and also the Carmel Valley. Just south of the peninsula is the spectacular Big Sur coastline, which has been called “the greatest meeting of land, sea and sky” in the world. 

Easily one of the most romantic vacation destinations in the world, anyone visiting the Monterey Peninsula should take a drive down Highway 1 (the Pacific Coast Highway) to the area  known as Big Sur. The views will leave you breathless (and so will the drive.) A word of caution to those not accustomed to driving the PCH – take it nice and slow. The road twists and turns as it hugs the side of forested mountains on one side and rocky cliffs plunge into the deep blue Pacific Ocean on the other side. The views are awe-inspiring and there are several places along the way to pull over and take photographs (including the world famous Bixby Creek Bridge.) You can do nothing in Big Sur but indulge your senses in the breathtaking scenery, and this alone will be an adventure. For those looking for a little more activity, there are several state parks along Big Sur that offer camping, hiking, biking, fishing, beachcombing and more.