Bixby Creek Bridge

bixby bridge is a must stop if you are visiting carmel/big sur or just driving through on highway 1 located in monterey county, its one of the most known sights here in CA this stop is def a touristy one, but the VIEWSSSSS you get to see the beautiful coast please be very careful when trying to find a space to park per visit california's webpage: ".. As of September 2024, parking is no longer allowed along Coast Road in order to improve traffic safety, but visitors are allowed to stop in designated areas along Highway 1. " https://www.visitcalifornia.com/experience/bixby-bridge/ we we were trying to find a safe spot, we were actually traveling south along CA - 1, but did not see any spots so it was when were turn back north bound, we were able to pull off safely, to walk across the rd and snap photos!

CA-1 has so many highlights but this one is my favorite. Spanning 714 feet across Bixby Creek Canyon, it's one of the tallest and most striking bridges in the United States. The bridge's architecture is impressive and the views from it are spectacular. The vantage points from the bridge are perfect for photos. Plan to be at this place in the evening for a perfect sunlight which illuminates the coastline. There are designated pullouts on both sides of the bridge where you can safely park and take in the breathtaking scenery. Parking can be limited but the brief walk to the bridge is well worth it.

As always it's stunning! We parked off to the side of the road and took so many photos at sunset!

Cool little historic bridge in Big Sur. Worth pulling over to grab a quick picture then drive over the bridge to continue the journey. Cliffs are a bit slippery so definitely be careful getting too close.

Bucket list item....check!! On 7/27/24, the big blue sky and radiant sunshine set the stage for the iconic BIXBY BRIDGE in Big Sur, CA. Physically standing before the bridge was awe inspiring! Bravo to the hands that built this marvel in 1932!! The dramatic coastline and scenic mountainscape easily make this a dream for all levels of photographers. I only had my iPhone, but wished I came better prepared. Be safe on the cliff and wear shoes with good tread. It can be quite dangerous, especially with the number of people who show up and start lines to get that money shot. I did not have have cell service for at least 20 miles on this route. Monitor road closures on Hwy-1. Enjoy the peacefulness and have a safe road trip!!

Absolutely beautiful location by Big Sur. If you are making your way up to Big Sur from Carmel, do yourself a favor and stop by and snap a picture by the bridge. Limited parking, but otherwise beautiful location

The Golden Gate of Big Sur! We had to stop just to take in its glory. It's completely free, you just park on the side of the road and walk to the overlook. Get out, snap a few pics, and you're on your way.

17Aug2024: Though it was a long drive and traffic was heavy, the weather was perfect and the bridge and the view was amazing! It was a such a joy ride. Just be cautious and drive safely as there are a lot of pedestrians crossing, taking a lot of photo opportunities as much as anyone can. Parking is a little bit challenging but just be patient!

Really stunning views here of the Bixby Bridge! An architectural marvel that is amazing and truly worth the drive. Make sure to stop along the way to add some great hikes and more ocean views. Parking is a pain though -- expect lots of traffic, and walk across the road carefully to get to the viewpoint! It can get very crowded. Especially as the dirt parking lot fills up and people begin parking on the side of the road. Dress for all weather here as weather can change quickly and unexpectedly.

Welcome to Big Sur's version of the Golden Gate--a must-see road trip spot for many and probably the most Instagrammed feature along the Highway One coastline....the Bixby Bridge. Hundreds of people pull over (only at legal turnouts) to get amazing views, particularly from the bridge's south end at sunset. Completed in 1932 for just over $200,000, the concrete span, one of the highest bridges of its kind in the world, soars 260 feet above the bottom of a steep canyon carved by Bixby Creek. Just one sight that tells you that are in Big Sur.

Completed in 1932, this architectural marvel is the tallest single-span arch bridge in the world; coming in at 260ft tall. It is easily one of the most photographed bridges in California, and a definite must-visit if you're in the area. It was sadly pea-soup foggy when we arrived, which prevented us from getting any good pics. But we're told the fog usually dissipates in the afternoon on most days. Parking is available on pull outs on both the north and west side of Hwy 1. We parked on the other side of the road. So crossing over the freeway on foot as well as pulling back out to merge in with traffic when leaving can be a bit harrowing, as there are no crosswalks or stop signs/lights. There's a bit of a slope with a mini-path heading towards the lower part of the bridge, which affords some great shots of the length of the bridge on clear days. Be careful going down though for kids and those mobility-challenged, as the path is not paved and there are no railings to prevent you from falling off the edge.

Bixby bridge Wow. Such a beautiful site. This bridge is a site to see. Marvelous design and spectacular engineering. Not as big as the Golden Gate bridge but just as beautiful. It gets very crowded here. Expect parking issues and possibly rude people. Completed in 1932 for just over $200,000, the concrete span, one of the highest bridges of its kind in the world. Highly recommended

If you are near Monterey, CA. You must make a stop to see the iconic Bixby Bridge located in the Big Sur area. Built in 1932, this bridge soars 260 feet above the bottom of a steep canyon carved by Bixby Creek. It is a photographer's dream spot.

Worth checking out if you're in the area for a quick photo. Nice views but overly packed with people. Limited parking on side of the highway.

This was a nice little stop on our drive. A friend from the area told us this is a must-see spot. There's dirt parking on either side of the road as you get to the bridge from the north. Be sure to check one of the boxes on the east side of the bridge at the entrance for a log book. It's for posterity! Haha!

Who doesn't like a landmark that's free? Bixby Bridge is one of those spots when traveling on Highway 1 that's a must stop for anyone especially if we have visitors in town. It's a beautifully made bridge and of course if you see this at sunset, even a more spectacular view. You can view it from the side as well as from the backside towards the ocean. Just depends on where you park. Heading south on 1, there's a small area for parking. It's awfully tiny and as many said, there's maybe a few parallel spots going north. There's another parking area when you go off the side road towards the back if you want to view it from the backside. Now I've never seen the backside as the front was always much prettier for me and also it was typically a quick stop and drive onwards to our next destination point. Just be careful when taking your photos. It does get steep at spots, so just pick an area with plenty of clearing so you don't fall backwards. Other than that. It's a lovely spot to take a photo just wish they had more parking.

I never understood the hype of Bixby Bridge until I saw it at the dusk of a busy day. The view is simply breathtaking. After seeing the bridge in the foreground of the coastal cliffside, pictures just don't give it justice! The biggest gripe would be the competition for parking at the sunset hours. The drive to this area of Big Sur is also quite a distance away from most big cities in California. This is definitely only a road trip stop.

How can this get anything other than 5 stars? It's one of only a handful of landmarks along one of the most scenic drives that I know of, and it fits right in with its magnitude between the mountains and ocean. If you're driving this route I'm sure you'll probably stop to take it in and stretch your legs, but be mindful of the fact that there are no services aside from a limited amount of parking along the side of the road. 10/10 would do it again.

Bixby Bridge was one of the main stops I wanted to make when I did the Pacific Coast drive. We started in LA and drove north towards San Francisco. As if we didn't already see breathtaking views for hours, this view was one one of my faves of the drive. It is said to be one of the most photographed bridges in California and I can see why. If you are driving north, you can cross the bridge and there is a small are to park and get out of you car. We were lucky enough to snag a parking spot as we pulled up because it seems like everyone has to stop and take pics when they get to this bridge. There was some slight fog coverage but we still got to see the bridge in it's entirety. We crossed the highway and got coast views as well as another view of the bridge. I highly recommend stopping here if you driving the Pacific Coast Highway!

Amazing location on Highway 1 that is great for pictures. Between two cliffs and overlooking the Pacific, Bixby Bridge is an iconic California viewpoint. Parking might be the largest issue - there are some spots to pull over but it would highly depend on the time of day. My group was able to find a spot heading north. You also need to be careful when crossing the street because cars are going very quickly. Weather would either be overcast or sunny. Fog is a possibility so might be better to go in the afternoon / evening. I'd highly recommend taking a moment to stop and take pictures if you're passing over it. Big Sur is also a great location to camp and hike. However, it's quite the distance from any cities - you'll probably have to make a dedicated trip out to central coast California to see Big Sur / Bixby Bridge. Definitely worth the trek, however.

The architecture of this bridge is impressive. We parked in the dirt lot before the bridge. There's a mailbox with a notebook where people can leave a note for memories. Of course, there are great picture opportunities!!

If you've been following the news at all, you've probably heard about the wildfires currently burning through Big Sur right by Bixby Bridge. As an East Coaster, it feels like there's so little I can personally do from across the country (besides donating to organizations helping wildlife, emergency responders, and residents, of course) so I decided to finally write this review. I know this inanimate bridge will never be able to read my glowing, 5-star Yelp review (how cool would that be though), and writing it doesn't magically put out the wildfires, but a girl can dream - and she can certainly reminisce of a time when this beautiful place wasn't in flames. Bixby Bridge is probably the most famous spot in Big Sur and once you see it in person, there's no question why that is. There's something about seeing an impressive, manmade structure paired against such an incredible natural landscape that is just... well, awe inspiring. In May of 2021, I did a road trip from San Francisco to Palm Springs and made sure to take Highway 1 to pass through Big Sur. I planned it so I would be driving through on a weekday to hopefully beat the crowds and the traffic. I definitely recommend planning your visit on a weekday because you'll enjoy the experience more and parking for overlooks such as this one won't be such a pain. I used up the whole day to do the entire Big Sur coast stopping along at all the normal sight seeing spots and then heading back up to Monterey to spend a night before I continued on my journey to LA. I've been to a quite a few places but Big Sur stands out as the most magical. It is the most beautiful place I've ever been by far and one of my all time favorite memories will be looking at Bixby Bridge towering over the crystal clear Pacific Ocean. Nevermind this review though, just take one look at the photos. And once these wildfires are contained (at least for the time being), go... before this place is drastically changed or gone. Just go!

It's a spectacular bridge and not easy to visit regardless if you are driving north or south. Parking can be extremely tight. There are maybe 10 spots in the small cutout heading south. If they are full, you simply have to wait for someone to leave. There's no other option for parking while heading south. Heading north is even worse. There is room for maybe three cars along the side of the road. The only park is on the north side of the bridge. The bridge has an interesting history which you can read about on the world wide web.

This is a very beautiful bridge, you can see it on your MacBook desktop. Crowded on weekend, but is definitely worth visiting

Absolutely stunning scenery and lots too see! The day I went, was little overcast but soon the sun came out and highlighted the beautiful bridge in the sunlight! Parking is very limited with many of the spots filled up along the road with a small parking lot on the North side. So on the weekends this spot will be incredibly busy. Would definitely recommend coming on weekdays to avoid the crowds and have ample time to park and enjoy your views without feeling rushed or bombarded with people.

Bixby Creek Bridge wow what an incredible marvel and observation overlook!!! Without a doubt...when you think of the true essence and epitome of what the California Coast looks like...all you have to do is come here to Bixby Bridge. You will certainly find fulfillment, or at least I did, lol. Bixby Bridge runs right along Cabrillo Highway/Highway 1 in Monterey, CA as you drive through the Big Sur area. I predetermined ahead of time that this stop would probably be the most worthwhile viewpoint along my journey down the coast. And it did not disappoint! I discovered Bixby Bridge through Google Maps. If you have any issues locating it, just plug it into Google and you're good to go. Also, I found that while driving the Coast, there wasn't much cell phone reception so I definitely had Bixby Bridge stored in my Google Maps memory just in case I needed to know where I was going. Upon arriving here, as I'm sure everyone else mentions, it was packed with cars! Just trying to locate a parking spot along the side of the road was a victory in itself. When I visited back over the summertime during the week, I fortunately located a spot pretty fast. Then all I had to do was cross the road and I was there! I had made it! Btw, if you do struggle to find a spot to park...do not give up! Because...this overlook CANNOT BE MISSED! It's pretty special. I was able to grab some good photos as best I could without being interrupted by other strangers taking pics with their families. I always prefer to be alone in my pics, so if you've ever read any of my reviews...lol, I hate being "photobombed". Along this roadside stop, the observation area does stretch long enough to allow for everyone to have their own moment for snapping efficient photos. Since parking is so limited...if you do grab a spot...you're pretty much guaranteed an amazing perspective for which to admire the setting. I also took a picture with the Bixby Bridge Sign...a good opportunity that certified I was officially here on the record books, lol. And what makes this overlook so unique is that it unites every great photogenic element you could ask for. You have this wondrous free standing suspension bridge 279 feet high that connects Highway 1 running down the California Coast. Meanwhile it affords tourists glorious views looking down at the rugged seashore with the beach waves crashing below. It's like a combination of all the best attributes within a picture frame. That's what makes the scenery here so famous! Just some last facts to mention... - It was a relatively overcast day when I stopped on by. Still, the clouds didn't disrupt the views for the most part. But if the sun were shining, my pictures could have appeared much clearer. If you have the time, remember to check the forecast. - I spent about 30 minutes here hanging out. It was enough time for picture taking and making a video as well. - Bixby Bridge is situated 18 miles south of Monterey, CA. - There's no fee for stopping here at the bridge and overlook. - There's no attendant, supervisor or rules for visiting. This Bixby Bridge is a first come, first served attraction. So...if you feel like beating the crowds, you can come here immediately in the morning at sunrise. Lastly, I want to mention how stunning this Bixby Suspension Bridge and vista point was. I mean, I had chills just standing at the cliff's edge and gazing down upon the surroundings. Just being here for 30 minutes helped me put into perspective just how gratifying it felt to have a chance to witness such an epic California landmark.

Obviously the best point to enjoy Big Sur view. The bridge itself looks pretty historical and full of stories. The Big Sur big canyon really lives up to its name. The photos taken there look too beautiful and even unreal, just like a painting or a postcard.

Beautiful breathtaking iconic bridge on Highway 1 Big Sur. It is more beautiful in person as you stop to enjoy the view. Comes here on a sunny warm day so you can walk both side to take pictures. Parking is limited but people are in and out often so don't worry. You can't miss this bridge because it is iconic if you want to go Big Sur on Highway 1.

This is a mist stop along Hwy 1. Beautiful views, picturesque and absolutely breathtaking. Parking can be challenging, but definitely worth the stop. Park on the opposite side (northbound) of the highway as there is a dirt lot which you can usually find parking, as most people will only stay for 10-15 min.

If you didn't already know, Bixby Bridge is one of the most popular (and most photographed) spots in Big Sur, and possibly the whole California Coast! It's massive, it's stunning, and it's a man-made wonder built into a cliffside full of nature-made wonders! If this wasn't already on your list of must-sees during your coastal road trip or Big Sur trip, it really should be! Plus it won't take long for you to enjoy and appreciate all its splendor! During our recent day trip to Big Sur for my birthday, we managed to fit in a solid hike, visited Bixby Bridge and McWay Falls, and just enjoyed the day cruising the coast. Since it was a Tuesday afternoon and we're still in a global pandemic (late Feb 2021), there were only a few other cars pulled over to view this iconic bridge and the gorgeous beach below. Friendly tips: Please be mindful of your surroundings and others. We all want a great photo of the bridge, so even a little bit of kindness and consideration goes a long way. Don't hang out in a spot for a long time when clearly others are waiting patiently to also take a picture there. Don't be obnoxious. And don't just leave your dog's poop on the ground right in the middle of where people are walking along the cliffs to get a good shot! (Yup, some lady did that and it was just rude and gross! What is the matter with you?!). Please don't be THAT guy/girl! Back to Bixby Bridge...it's even more magnificent in person than all those amazing photos you've seen online and on social media, so definitely go and check it out IRL!

No trip along Highway 1 (PCH for SoCal) is complete without stopping at Bixby Bridge and taking those prerequisite photos at least once in your lifetime. This is one of those "Bucket List" items that people can cross off since it's a famous and iconic spot that's been featured on many commercials, TV shows, movies, postcards and video games. Along with the Golden Gate Bridge, it's on top of the list of the most photographed bridges in the world due to its aesthetic beauty and backdrop. When it opened in 1932, spanning at 360 feet, 714 feet in length and 24 feet wide, it was the longest reinforced concrete open-spandrel arch bridge in California. It also cut off the travel time from Carmel and Big Sur significantly as the Old Coastal Road led 11 miles inland. The arch design of the bridge reminds one of old Roman architecture as the beauty is akin to Roman Aqueducts and Roman Bridges, whose arch designs are structurally and aesthetically far more superior. There are several spots that you can park (dirt lot) on the north side to get a good vantage point of the bridge, and you can get up close on the coastal side. In my opinion, the view from the inland side is better, especially on a clear day when the sky is a deep blue. Since this is the California coast, it often gets foggy and that just adds another element of beauty. Drive further down south and there's a small parking lot and vista view where you can view the bridge from a higher elevation, which is just as spectacular from afar. Go ahead, it's not that far. #YelpChallenge2020 review No. 80

One of them must see spots on Highway one PCH! We were lucky enough to make it just in time for sunset. There's a small dirt parking lot right next to the bridge where you can park your car and walk onto the bridge for view of the ocean and Big Sur. There is definitely a lot of people on both sides taking pictures. The history of the bridge is very interesting, and definitely one of the prettiest bridges I've seen in my life.

This place is beautiful! I wanted to go on a road trip. Seen this as a spot to go and I went! I was able to capture amazing photos and it's soooo beautiful. I just wanted to stay there forever. The parking is small but there seemed to be parking across the highway. If you travel down the road or up depending on whether you are coming from there's a bunch of open spots to park and scenery. There's a beautiful hikes a small waterfall. I definitely would love to stay up here next time get a cabin and be down at the beach.

Born and raised in CA and have never ever seen Bixby Bridge, I've been all over this state above and below but never to Big Sur. I've got in on the Big Sur marathon once, and due to scheduling didn't take the opportunity to participate in it the year I got in, so no running over this bridge yet for me. We were driving from Monterey to Big Sur for the day and of course had it on our list as a stopping point, it really does come up out of nowhere. You're driving along, no real clue as to where you are and spot a ton of cars, think to yourself this must be another great view then bam! There it is, and everyone is stopping and trying to park. It's one of those places that just feels like it should be on your list to see, especially if you're born and raised in CA and have never taken a PCH drive over it. I quickly turned on my Big Little Lies playlist as we hopped back in the car and continued over it and into Big Sur. Bucket List Bixby Bridge check! Should probably run this marathon one year, good luck getting in if that's on your list - I'm sort of kicking myself for skipping the year I did but you know how marathons go, there are always so many on the same day in so many locations you've gotta be selective. Enjoy the view! It's a nice one.

The main event when you drive Big Sur. There is a small off street parking area for you to stop and take pictures. If you are just wanting to visit the bridge and not do the mountain drive, you can take the back way from Carmel, only a 20 minute drive. I've done the mountain drive but I was not in to it this trip. Very busy stop, you may not find parking and will have to wait on the side of the highway. Neat bridge. I am a sucker for a random site. Worth the drive through.

Nothing comes close to the Golden Coast... even the bridges are pretty! We stopped by this landmark arch bridge before it got too crowded. It was our first stop at 8:30a in a series of bookmarked places we'd like to check off on our list. At the entrance of the bridge there is a turnoff from its northern end highway and we easily found a place to park. Parking is available on either side. The panoramic views from this bridge does attract a crowd. Crossing this unforgettable bridge leads into the iconic Big Sur. This bridge is a favorite attraction for photographers, both professional and amateur. We were able to take some beautiful photos of the coast with the bridge as a backdrop. We also went across to the other side to take advantage of the multiple viewpoints. The south end offers amazing views at sunset. It was a beautiful (but windy) sunshiny day. Definitely worth the stop! Review #1685

LA to Big Sur trip: as everyone has mentioned, your trip isn't complete without making a trip at this iconic bridge. We went during MLK Jr weekend (on a Saturday & Monday). PARKING: there are two areas you can park. There's a dirt road path that shows one side of the bridge. And one on the pavement that shows that more "popular" side/view of the bridge. On the Saturday visit (around 3pm), we were driving up to Big Sur and it was CLOUDY. So it had that mysterious look at the bridge. I'm assuming since it was a long weekend & a Saturday, it was PACKED. Cars were having difficulty finding parking or navigating in the dirt road. The cloudy look was pretty cool and it was COLD so bring a jacket if the weather shows cloudy ness. On the Monday visit (around 9am), we were driving back to LA and made another pit stop. A lot sunnier weather & less people. The view was amazing! I'd recommend seeing both sides of the bridge when you get a chance. You're already there so you might as well enjoy your time there. We probably spent 30 mins there enjoying the view & taking our pics.

Breathtaking, stunning and magical are just three words to describe this bridge and all of Big Sur really, There was a lot of people here when we went but I see why! Postcard and Instagram selfie worthy for sure

Tourist trap or death trap? I was fortunate, on my visit it was offseason when I was driving down the 1.. Still, people were slamming on their brakes trying to find a place to park alongside the road so they could get their selfies on. It's a nice looking bridge and I'm sure it's a marvel of civil engineering but it's not worth dying over. Keep in mind that there are so many other things to see on this scenic road that you don't have to slam on your brakes for every single one of them. #RoadsideSelfiesKill

Super cool stop, and a must-see if you're driving along highway1. The views from the overlook are spectacular on a clear day. You can see most of the bridge and the beach below. It can get pretty busy and there's limited parking. Highly recommend!

While your life won't come to an abrupt end without stopping at Bixby Bridge, if you've got the time it's a good place to take a break and snap some nice pictures. Given how popular a photo stop here has proven to be over the years, it's curious that the local Powers that Be don't seem to have put an effort into accommodating or directing the traffic that results from a substantial number of cars stopping along the side of the road to take pictures. Tip: If you're dead set on planning a stop here, it's sometimes almost impossible to find a place to stop on days when the weather is good, so the best days to stop are when it's cloudy and cold.

Such a nice view!! Narrow on the shoulder! Nice place to pull over and take pictures.

Iconic Big Sur monument to visit if you can bear the few obnoxious overbearing people who are impatient, inconsiderate and insensed with taking pictures of their loved ones. It was overcrowded due to social media posts and I am contributing to this mass histeria. Parking can be challenging at times but it will.pass. The views were spectacular but there was too much traffic and people. Try hiking in the less popular areas. They are equally if not more spectacular than this

We really liked this stop along the pacific Coastal highway because the view was stunning!! There were California ground squirrels hopping and bopping out of their little burrows everywhere! They were super cute. My kids were obsessed with them. The bridge looks so cool with the ocean right next to it. This is definitely a worthwhile scenic spot.

Amazing views. Must see spot along the way to Big Sur. Make sure you park and take some pictures!

A breathtaking bridge on Hwy 1 which connects 2 big cliffs. It has Pacific Ocean on one side. We passed many small bridges on our way but this one was worth stopping by. It is a part of the beautiful scenic drive along the Big Sur coast. I definitely suggest to pull off to the side and get a nice profile pic clicked. It doesn't have to be a long stop. Just admire it , get clicked and continue your journey. The bridge is at such a high height that it will give you goosebumps. But my fav is still Golden Gate Bridge A suggestion - Be considerate of the pedestrians walking. Can be a little risky. And there is no special assigned parking for the bridge. But you will find parking easily as cars don't stop here for very long. Just be careful.

One of the most overrated California tourist destinations is still a pretty one. Perfect the Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok, Grindr and whatever social media narcissist such as myself. Depending on your level of narcissism, you could spend 2 minutes or an hour here trying take that perfect selfie.

The bridge and the views from the bridge were amazing. The place is a bit scary as it doesn't have any proper protection.

As you're driving up the scenic highway in Big Sur, you gotta make a stop here as well. The Bixby Bridge is a famous landmark and it's really pretty to see while you're up there on the cliffs as you take in the beautiful beach view too. There's free parking along the shoulder. You might have to wait in your car for your turn to park since this is a popular viewpoint. A tidbit though, there will be some wild squirrels out there that don't mind walking up closer to you, so if you're a little sensitive to that (there were a few girls up there who were screaming and running around apparently), just be aware of that.