According to forum posts, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is highly recommended for viewing large redwoods in Big Sur. Some travelers suggested Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park as another excellent option, though it is not directly in Big Sur but nearby in the Santa Cruz area.

Travelers have called out McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park as a quintessential Big Sur experience, offering stunning coastal views. Pfeiffer Beach is also mentioned frequently for its unique purple sand and scenic beauty.

Forum posts highlight Point Lobos State Reserve as a must-see for its beautiful hikes, wildlife viewing, and scenic vistas. Additionally, Garrapata State Park offers great trails and beach access, appreciated for less crowding compared to other popular spots in Big Sur.

According to forum posts, a recommended itinerary for traveling from San Francisco to Los Angeles involves taking the scenic Highway 1 route. This route offers breathtaking views and numerous stops for sightseeing, including Monterey, Carmel, and the famous Big Sur. Travelers have suggested spending at least a couple of nights along the way to fully enjoy the scenery and attractions.

Some travelers suggested specific stops such as McWay Falls, Bixby Bridge, and the 17-Mile Drive near Carmel. However, they advise against trying to squeeze too much into a short period, suggesting instead enjoying a few key stops thoroughly. For lunch options, places like Nepenthe in Big Sur offer stunning ocean views, although they can be on the pricier side.

For overnight stays, towns like Monterey or Morro Bay are popular choices. Travelers have called out that accommodations in these areas can be expensive but are worth it for their locations and the natural beauty they offer. Booking in advance is recommended to secure the best spots and deals.

Lastly, forum users have emphasized planning for travel times, especially considering the winding nature of Highway 1 and potential traffic. They recommend starting the drive from San Francisco early in the day and being mindful of the shorter daylight hours if traveling outside of the summer months.

According to forum posts, Pfeiffer Beach officially opens at 9 a.m. Visitors planning to catch a sunrise may find this timing restrictive as the site does not open earlier.

Travelers have noted that Pfeiffer Beach's parking lot can fill up quickly, particularly during peak times like weekends or holidays. It's advisable to arrive early to secure a parking spot. Some users mentioned being turned away when the lot was full.

For those looking to enjoy natural phenomena, some users have pointed out that sunrises at Pfeiffer Beach might not be as spectacular due to the sun rising behind the mountains. However, the beach is known for its unique purple sand and the keyhole rock formation, which can provide extraordinary photographic opportunities during certain times of the day.

According to forum posts, the best route from Monterey to Big Sur involves taking Highway 1 south. This scenic route is favored for its stunning coastal views and direct access to major Big Sur attractions.

Some travelers recommended starting the drive from Monterey early in the day to fully enjoy the scenic stops and to avoid heavy traffic, which is common along this popular tourist route. They also suggested frequent stops to allow the driver to rest and enjoy the views, as the road requires careful attention due to its narrow and winding nature.

If Highway 1 is closed due to maintenance or natural occurrences, forum users have suggested using Highway 68 to reach Highway 101 as an alternative route to access Big Sur from the north. This detour is longer but ensures continuity of travel when Highway 1 is impassable.