This tour follows Highway 1 through Big Sur between Carmel-by-the-Sea and San Luis Obispo. 

Along the route, you'll visit popular highlights including: 

• McWay Falls
• Bixby Bridge
• Hearst Castle
• Pfeiffer Beach
• Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
• Morro Bay
• Cambria
• Elephant Seal Vista Point

Check out the itinerary for a complete list of stops, and be sure to review the Know Before You Go guide before your trip.

• Shaka Guide tour downloaded to your device
• Swimsuit
• Water shoes or flip-flops
• Refillable water bottle
• Comfortable hiking or walking shoes
• Weather-appropriate clothing and layers
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Small first aid kit
• Portable phone charger
• Phone mount for navigation
• Cash or credit card
• Camera or phone with storage for photos

How much you spend depends on the activities you choose along the route.

• Several California State Parks along the route charge day-use parking fees
• One California State Parks day pass is generally valid at participating parks for the remainder of the day
• Hearst Castle tours require paid admission
• Restaurants, shopping, and optional attractions may add to your overall budget
• Pfeiffer Beach charges a parking fee and can fill quickly during peak periods

Yes. The tour can be driven in either direction: northbound or southbound.

Yes, you can join along the route at any point that works for you.

Big Sur is beautiful year-round, but each season offers a different experience.

• Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and excellent sightseeing conditions
• Summer is the busiest season and can bring morning fog that occasionally obscures coastal views
• Winter often brings fewer visitors and increased wildlife viewing opportunities, especially elephant seals
• Winter storms can create hazardous driving conditions and increase the likelihood of road closures and landslides
• Always check weather forecasts and Highway 1 conditions before departing

Shaka Guide isn’t just about getting from point A to point B — it’s like having a tour guide in your car, sharing stories and local insights as you drive. Unlike other navigation apps, we’ve planned the route for you, so instead of focusing on directions, you can focus on the experience. This means you can’t customize the route, but that’s kind of the point. You’re still in control though, you can skip stops, go at your own pace, and explore freely. It’s not just about getting there; it’s about enjoying the journey.

Still have questions? Send us an email at aloha@shakaguide.com or give us a call at (808) 201-8138.