Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
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- GrandTour6179533321 contributionsAmazing redwood trails And a wonderful cafe & bar!We enjoyed the amazing redwoods on the path by the river and then on the hike to the Pfeiffer Falls. The Pfeiffer Falls trail was steep going up, but the redwoods make it worth the effort! We continued on from the Falls to the Valley View trail and we probably would not recommend that trail. It would have been more enjoyable for us to just walk back down the Pfeiffer Falls trail. We also were pleasantly surprised that the park had a cafe (we loved the shrimp tacos and the ice cream) with wonderful seating on the back deck -- with a bar, wine and beer. It was a delightful day in Big Sur!Visited August 2021Written September 8, 2021
- Nikko GandiaMonterey, California480 contributionshiking valley view to pfeiffer falls trail loop after 13 year closurei hiked the valley view to pfeiffer falls trail loop after a 13 year closure and posted a video that includes a vlog, tips and suggestions for all hiking levels, so future visitors can be prepared for the journey to come. you can find a link to my youtube on my profile or you can look me up by name “nikko gandia”. it's highly trafficked. if the lots are full, there's parking right outside the entrance. the loop is about 3 miles and 700ft of elevation gain. recommend going clockwise to see the falls last and because the decent is easier. waterfall only hike - i recommend going on the east side of the trail, it’s about 2 miles out and back. shorter, easier and more scenic.Visited July 2021Written August 8, 2021
- motherchristmas61Richardson, Texas862 contributionsBeautiful purple sandMy daughter and I and her 2 small children drove from Pacific Grove to Pfeiffer Beach. Beautiful coastal drive! There is a sign to turn for the beach, but is rather sharp and then it is a two mile drive on a one way dirt road to the beach parking. No large vehicles are allowed. If you are driving a motor home type vehicle, you can park on the main road and walk the two miles. The entry fee was 12.00. They like exact change or credit card. They are famous for their keyhole rock formation and their purple sand. We were told at the entrance the sand is only purple during the wet winter months because the rain loosens the manganese garnet rocks from the cliffs which turn the sand its beautiful pink and purple hues. We took our lunch and ate on the beach, enjoying the crashing waves. The kids enjoyed playing in the sand and climbing rocks. We planned it so we would be there at low tide and maybe see some tide pools, but they were having King high tides and it was barely low enough to walk the whole beach along the cliffs. There are restrooms and trash cans at the parking lot. Beautiful beach! We loved our day there.Visited January 2021Traveled with familyWritten January 8, 2021
- Thomas JFremont, California2 contributionsAmazing "Free Park". Hurry and don't linger there.Review: I hated every state parks because they cost money, but you can walk in trails with limited time for free. Limited parking time is enough for a small hiking trip with a picnic. The tall redwoods are amazing. A big quiet river flow slowly. There's tables for picnic. Blue birds will fly very close towards you. The park is a nice protected environment in the harsh Big Sur lands, I would pick this out of all the Big Sur state parks. Useful Plans For You If You Want To Go There: My family started the second day of SF-LA trip. We went from Monterey to Pismo Beach. I suggest you to buy lunch in Monterey and serve in the picnic tables. Hike the river trail. Pass the water. Have your lunch at the lunch tables. Hurry, or you can't reach San Luis Obispo by sunset. There's not a single campground or hotel for you after this park.Visited July 2022Written October 5, 2022
- Laura SSanta Ana, California80 contributionsBeautiful but not for the faint hearted.Stunningly beautiful but so windy sand pelted skin! There's a narrow road in but cars were courteous to pull aside for passing. There's a $12 parking fee and the lot is small. It was a beautiful sunny, sheltered spot. Then you walk a small trail to the large beach. As soon as you get to the opening you are hit by galeforce winds. As we went back to the car I had felt bad for all the families with toddlers who were joyfully taking along their sand toys. Not gonna happen! I'm not sure hiw regularly its rhat windy, but the gate attendant should let you know as you pay to enter. Or maybe it would be helpful to post the beach windspeed.Visited June 2021Traveled with familyWritten June 13, 2021
- SharpinvSisters, Oregon7 contributionsshort straw has to driveAmazing vistas with a color of ocean water I've never seen before. We came from the south and it's definitely a couple of hours of hard curvy slow driving so the passengers definitely get the most out of it. IF coming from the south, don't worry too much about trying to get into the little gravel turn outs for a view - the good views come later and have plenty of parking and much safer to enter/exit. For someone that had the choice and didn't want to make the entire drive, my opinion is that the top quarter is by far the prettiest and has the most "official" turn outs, etc. and if we had known that I wouldn't have stopped nearly as much on the southern three quarters. Still, glad we did it all but cherry picking the northern 20 miles gives you 90% of the experience with 25% of the hard driving.Visited May 2022Written May 27, 2022
- Christin LDowney, California15 contributionsWonderful CampgroundThis was our first time staying in the campground. After the initial frustration of trying to reserve sites 6 months in advance with everything selling out in the first few minutes, the rest of the check in process was easy. The sites are large and easily accommodated the 3 tents we needed. There was a creek a short walk from the site which everyone enjoyed. The bathrooms are well-maintained with soap and toilet paper. The showers always have hot water. Something we didn’t prepare for was hold cold it got at night. Since it was July, we assumed a couple blankets would be sufficient. In the end, we slept in sweatpants, sweaters, socks, and an extra picnic blanket to stay warm enough. Planning to come back next year.Visited July 2022Traveled with familyWritten July 10, 2022
- JBRetiredApple Valley, California466 contributionsPfeiffer Falls Trail don’t miss itThis trail has been rebuilt all new stairs and wide path. A lot of steps but take your time it is worth it. First it takes you through a magical woods of huge trees. At the end is the falls I would guess 60’ and runs all year. No it’s not a wide falls but it’s a beautiful setting. So let’s go!Visited March 2022Traveled as a coupleWritten March 23, 2022
- Gardengel-IoWWest Sussex, United Kingdom690 contributionstrekking only$10 to get in to park another 2 if you want a map of the paths. 4 small car parks all pretty close to each other, so cant see much of park by driving. We didnt have much time anyway so parked as near we could to stream and did a very short walk along stream shore. Ok but not spectacular. Over the road a short path 'nature walk' was just a walk through some trees where you could still see the road and nothing outstanding to see. Toilet facilities available once in car parks DisappointingVisited February 2020Written February 21, 2020
- NatureloverCalifornia156 contributionsParking challenging,beautiful parkAs always parking was challenging even on a Fri at 10am.It was probably more busy thought because it was right before Labor Day. We hiked Buzzard Trail,it’s a moderate hike with distance ocean views. Loved all the Redwood Trees. FYI some trails closed due to Dolan fire,most likely won’t be restored until 2026.Visited September 2021Traveled as a coupleWritten September 17, 2021
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.5
733 reviews
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10
Thomas J
Fremont, CA2 contributions
Jul 2022
Review:
I hated every state parks because they cost money, but you can walk in trails with limited time for free. Limited parking time is enough for a small hiking trip with a picnic. The tall redwoods are amazing. A big quiet river flow slowly. There's tables for picnic. Blue birds will fly very close towards you. The park is a nice protected environment in the harsh Big Sur lands, I would pick this out of all the Big Sur state parks.
Useful Plans For You If You Want To Go There:
My family started the second day of SF-LA trip. We went from Monterey to Pismo Beach. I suggest you to buy lunch in Monterey and serve in the picnic tables. Hike the river trail. Pass the water. Have your lunch at the lunch tables. Hurry, or you can't reach San Luis Obispo by sunset. There's not a single campground or hotel for you after this park.
I hated every state parks because they cost money, but you can walk in trails with limited time for free. Limited parking time is enough for a small hiking trip with a picnic. The tall redwoods are amazing. A big quiet river flow slowly. There's tables for picnic. Blue birds will fly very close towards you. The park is a nice protected environment in the harsh Big Sur lands, I would pick this out of all the Big Sur state parks.
Useful Plans For You If You Want To Go There:
My family started the second day of SF-LA trip. We went from Monterey to Pismo Beach. I suggest you to buy lunch in Monterey and serve in the picnic tables. Hike the river trail. Pass the water. Have your lunch at the lunch tables. Hurry, or you can't reach San Luis Obispo by sunset. There's not a single campground or hotel for you after this park.
Written October 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Laura S
Santa Ana, CA80 contributions
Jun 2021 • Family
Stunningly beautiful but so windy sand pelted skin! There's a narrow road in but cars were courteous to pull aside for passing. There's a $12 parking fee and the lot is small. It was a beautiful sunny, sheltered spot. Then you walk a small trail to the large beach. As soon as you get to the opening you are hit by galeforce winds. As we went back to the car I had felt bad for all the families with toddlers who were joyfully taking along their sand toys. Not gonna happen! I'm not sure hiw regularly its rhat windy, but the gate attendant should let you know as you pay to enter. Or maybe it would be helpful to post the beach windspeed.
Written June 13, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sharpinv
Sisters, OR7 contributions
May 2022
Amazing vistas with a color of ocean water I've never seen before. We came from the south and it's definitely a couple of hours of hard curvy slow driving so the passengers definitely get the most out of it. IF coming from the south, don't worry too much about trying to get into the little gravel turn outs for a view - the good views come later and have plenty of parking and much safer to enter/exit. For someone that had the choice and didn't want to make the entire drive, my opinion is that the top quarter is by far the prettiest and has the most "official" turn outs, etc. and if we had known that I wouldn't have stopped nearly as much on the southern three quarters. Still, glad we did it all but cherry picking the northern 20 miles gives you 90% of the experience with 25% of the hard driving.
Written May 27, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Christin L
Downey, CA15 contributions
Jul 2022 • Family
This was our first time staying in the campground. After the initial frustration of trying to reserve sites 6 months in advance with everything selling out in the first few minutes, the rest of the check in process was easy. The sites are large and easily accommodated the 3 tents we needed. There was a creek a short walk from the site which everyone enjoyed. The bathrooms are well-maintained with soap and toilet paper. The showers always have hot water. Something we didn’t prepare for was hold cold it got at night. Since it was July, we assumed a couple blankets would be sufficient. In the end, we slept in sweatpants, sweaters, socks, and an extra picnic blanket to stay warm enough. Planning to come back next year.
Written July 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JBRetired
Apple Valley, CA466 contributions
Mar 2022 • Couples
This trail has been rebuilt all new stairs and wide path. A lot of steps but take your time it is worth it. First it takes you through a magical woods of huge trees. At the end is the falls I would guess 60’ and runs all year. No it’s not a wide falls but it’s a beautiful setting. So let’s go!
Written March 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gardengel-IoW
West Sussex, UK690 contributions
Feb 2020
$10 to get in to park another 2 if you want a map of the paths.
4 small car parks all pretty close to each other, so cant see much of park by driving.
We didnt have much time anyway so parked as near we could to stream and did a very short walk along stream shore. Ok but not spectacular. Over the road a short path 'nature walk' was just a walk through some trees where you could still see the road and nothing outstanding to see.
Toilet facilities available once in car parks
Disappointing
4 small car parks all pretty close to each other, so cant see much of park by driving.
We didnt have much time anyway so parked as near we could to stream and did a very short walk along stream shore. Ok but not spectacular. Over the road a short path 'nature walk' was just a walk through some trees where you could still see the road and nothing outstanding to see.
Toilet facilities available once in car parks
Disappointing
Written February 21, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Naturelover
California156 contributions
Sep 2021 • Couples
As always parking was challenging even on a Fri at 10am.It was probably more busy thought because it was right before Labor Day.
We hiked Buzzard Trail,it’s a moderate hike with distance ocean views.
Loved all the Redwood Trees.
FYI some trails closed due to Dolan fire,most likely won’t be restored until 2026.
We hiked Buzzard Trail,it’s a moderate hike with distance ocean views.
Loved all the Redwood Trees.
FYI some trails closed due to Dolan fire,most likely won’t be restored until 2026.
Written September 17, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
GradingMachine
Oak Park, CA541 contributions
Jul 2021
My wife and I hiked to Pfeiffer Falls after parking at the lodge. We did NOT see any of the spectacular views on the state park website--mostly because the lodge offers 90-minute free parking for short hikes, all that we had time for. We weren't entirely prepared for the hike. It was more vertical and rigorous than we anticipated. White tennis shoes and Coach bags were not the best hiking attire/accessories although we received a few compliments. :) We made it! The falls are unimpressive due to the drought. The falls are more like a "trickle."
Written July 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael K
929 contributions
Aug 2022
This park has a bit of everything: redwood trees, waterfalls, and scenic river for dipping in the water. At the Big Sur River Gorge, there are quiet and calm sections of the river that are quite scenic and there are rocky areas with plenty of visitors enjoying themselves in the pools of water. To get there, park at the Day Use Lot 3 and follow the sign to the gorge. The Pfeiffer Falls is about 60- foot tall reachable from a "moderate" 1.3-mile out and back trail with lots of stairs. To get there, park at the Day Use Lot 1 and follow the sign to the fall.
Written August 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
phvi2617
Anaheim, CA485 contributions
Jul 2021
This is a really nice state park with great scenery and lots of amenities. The hike to Valley View overlook and Pfeiffer Falls is fairly easy (though with lots of stairs) and includes great views and a pretty cascade. There are some other nice little trails along the Big Sur River. The only drawback was that it was rather crowded for my taste. If you prefer more serenity, it may be better to visit during the off-season.
Written August 14, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Donald H
Houston, TX
How late can we arrive if we have reservations for a cabin in Big Sur State Park? How do we access the cabins after hours?
RoadScout
Las Vegas, NV55 contributions
Anyone have a rec for the best RIVER SITE that is the most secluded? Please share the site number, if you've been there. I've looked at the reservation site photos and it's hard to tell. Thanks!
kfpanda1
San Jose, CA416 contributions
Anyone been to the campground recently? With the ongoing drought, is there currently sufficient flow in the river to float down the river with float tubes? Thanks.
Is there a phone cell service or Wi-Fi at Pfeiffer Big Sur state park?
desending
Eastvale, CA428 contributions
The person above is right? It also depends who your phone carrier is AT&T or Verizon. But it’s vey slow. It works at Pfeiffer Big Sur Lodge. We just didn’t bother to try, just enjoy the Park. Take lots of pictures, and went to other places so we could use our WiFi. Remember you are really camping and the the WiFi signals can’t reach the towers. You can also call the Rangers Station for more information.
Leslielovestotravel8
Redondo Beach, CA
We have 3 cars (friends coming from all over CA)...looks like only 2 cars per site. Can anyone confirm if there are lots for multiple nights? All I see are day lots and en route overnight lots (one night only).
desending
Eastvale, CA428 contributions
Call the Ranger Station up at Big Sur I’ve seen camp areas with a couple of cars. But maybe you can get to camp sites side by side. Pfeiffer Big Sur Here camping vehicles must park in the parking spur for their designated camp sites. If the vehicles will not fit at the campsite the must park in lots 3 or 4. The area where you park your extra cars are safe. And close to by your camp area. I know because if you see in the pictures I had to park my truck in Area 3.
Can we bring a 20’ trailer with pop outs?
desending
Eastvale, CA428 contributions
Yes! You can! There’s and RV grounds there. Just make reservations 6 months ahead of time. My RV is Airstream and I seen a lot bigger then ours parked in the campground area like 28’
S1899RJandreaw
1 contribution
Does anyone know of any companies who will rent and also drop off trailers at this site?
BKennedy314
Saint Louis, MO146 contributions
I don’t know that you can camp of have a trailer dropped off here. Probably best to contact the park.
peiGuytoo
Charlottetown, Canada239 contributions
Hello!
Just wondering if there is a particular place with an easily accessed stand of redwoods?
Thanks for your help!
Worrals
San Diego, CA138 contributions
As the others have said the visitor area is a great place. We sat here and watched three deer, a mom and two young ones, just wandering slowly along the stream and into the woods. The area also attracts squirrels and birds. The trees are all around you here and the surface is fine for accessibility as are the nearby bathrooms.
Всем привет.Что нужно непременно посмотреть в Биг Суре? Где лучше остановиться на 2 дня?
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Claim your listingPfeiffer Big Sur State Park - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
- We recommend booking Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 6 Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park:
- Big Sur McWay Falls California Coast One Day from Monterey Carmel (From $278.00)
- Big Sur Self-Driving Audio Tour in California (Highway 1, Pacific Coast Highway) (From $14.99)
- Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1 (From $14.99)
- California Coast Big Sur Monterey to Los Angeles - 2 Day (From $418.00)
- Big Sur Private Charter from San Francisco by Luxury SUV 10 hrs (From $1,200.00)
- Hotels near Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park:
- (0.10 mi) Big Sur Lodge
- (0.93 mi) Glen Oaks Big Sur
- (1.80 mi) Post Ranch Inn
- (0.62 mi) Fernwood Resort
- (2.24 mi) Ventana Big Sur, An Alila Resort
- Restaurants near Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park:
- (0.19 mi) Homestead Restaurant at Big Sur Lodge
- (1.07 mi) Big Sur Roadhouse
- (0.63 mi) Fernwood Resort Bar & Grill
- (1.10 mi) Ripplewood Resrt Restaurant
- (1.83 mi) Sierra Mar
- Attractions near Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park:
- (0.36 mi) Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
- (0.87 mi) Pfeiffer Beach
- (0.52 mi) Big Sur Station
- (2.63 mi) Big Sur Tours and More
- (8.80 mi) Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Information
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| Very Good Reviews | 193 |
| Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Photos | 518 |














































































