Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

First visit and easily one of my favorite parks! Spent the whole day hiking and wandering, seeing wildlife and seals! So many accessible paths, no extensive hiking experience required. Just be sure to bring water, a light snack, and a friend!

What an adventure hiking the River/Valley View Trail in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park ~ it was certainly a peaceful and rewarding experience!!! The trail winds gently (but also steeply) through redwoods and oaks, with filtered sunlight and shade for much of the trail. The bulk of the hike is a climb, with amazing views of a stunning overlook of the Big Sur River Valley… totally worth the effort. But I will emphasise that it takes effort!! The hike is a mix of forest serenity and panoramic views, plus if you decide to visit Pfeiffer Falls it’s an additional hidden gem. Perfect for an adventure in the Big Sur!

Purple sand! What I came for, and it did not disappoint. It is a beautiful stretch of beach, a little rough, with some rock formations. Sunny, windy and chilly in early July. You could def make a day of it, if the weather is nice. This park does require you to pay $15 to get in (America the Beautiful and State Park passes do not work here) The drive and views to get here were amazing!

Big Sur State Park is an awesome place to escape into nature! The walking trails are super clean and easy to enjoy, and the whole vibe is so peaceful. Between the fresh air, the sound of the river, and the gorgeous scenery spot to relax and unwind. Whether you're hiking or just soaking it all in, you'll leave feeling refreshed. Definitely recommend checking it out!

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is an absolute gem in the heart of California’s coast. Walking through the park feels like stepping into another world — the towering redwoods create a peaceful canopy, and the fresh forest air instantly makes you slow down and breathe deeper. The trails are well-marked and offer something for everyone, from easy riverside strolls to slightly more challenging hikes like the Pfeiffer Falls and Valley View trails. The highlight for me was standing among the massive redwoods — some so tall you can barely see the tops — and realizing how old and resilient they are. It’s humbling and inspiring at the same time. The waterfall hike adds a beautiful touch of serenity, and if you climb up to the Valley View lookout, you’re rewarded with sweeping views of the Big Sur Valley all the way to the Pacific. Whether you’re coming for a short visit or spending the day exploring, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a must-see. It’s the perfect blend of majestic redwoods, peaceful river spots, and accessible trails. Truly a place that leaves you refreshed and grateful for nature’s beauty.

Beautiful park, trees. Saw wildlife skunks, foxes, deer, lots of birds. Kids played with crawfish. Nice river kid friendly nice to float like a lazy river. Gorge was nice too but busier.

Come see Big Sur redwoods, smaller species than Northwestern redwoods. Two trails, take the one to the falls, other leads to a overlook but it's mainly the valley and Highway 1 and not that remarkable. Trail is steepish but many stairs to make it easy for little kids.

We made a quick visit here, and will be back. We hiked to Pfeiffer Falls. It's a relatively short hike from the lodge, maybe 2 miles out and back. We were happy that the falls were there since it was late Sept, which is near the end of the dry season.