The 12 Most Romantic Things To Do In Big Sur (2024)
Want to know all the most romantic things to do in Big Sur? We’ve got you covered with everything you need to know!
Exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Big Sur, California, provides an idyllic backdrop for romantic experiences.
Whether it’s a serene sunset getaway, a secluded hike, or a tranquil beachside moment, Big Sur offers a multitude of opportunities for couples to connect intimately amid its natural splendor.
This coastal haven invites lovers to share in the beauty of their surroundings and create lasting memories together.
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Romantic Things To Do In Big Sur
As you embark on your romantic journey in Big Sur, you’ll discover that the region’s enchanting ambiance effortlessly fosters a deeper connection between partners.
From its rugged cliffs to lush forests, Big Sur’s unspoiled charm sets the stage for unforgettable romantic moments that will linger in your hearts long after your visit.
1. Take A Scenic Drive Around Town
Big Sur is known for it’s scenic views, so the best way to enjoy a romantic day in the area is through a self-guided audio driving tour.
We love to do these tours at various places we’ve visited because they’re just so user friendly.
You download the tour and it uses your GPS to track where you are on the route and will tell you about everything you’re passing by, where to go, and give you real time navigation.
👉🏼 Click Here To Download Your Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour Of Big Sur Today!
2. Take A Romantic E-Bike Ride
Taking an e-bike ride in Big Sur is a romantic activity that allows couples to explore the region’s stunning landscapes while enjoying a unique sense of adventure together.
The ease of e-biking makes it accessible for all skill levels, fostering a shared experience without the physical strain of traditional biking.
Riding along the scenic coastal roads and through lush forests, couples can bond over the beauty of their surroundings, stop for breathtaking vistas, and create cherished memories while immersing themselves in Big Sur’s natural charm.
The sense of freedom and togetherness that e-biking provides adds a romantic dimension to the exploration of this picturesque destination.
👉🏼 Click Here To Book Your E-Bike Tour Of Big Sur’s Old Coast Road Today!
3. Take A Romantic Stroll Along The Beach
Taking a romantic stroll along the beach in Big Sur is a deeply romantic activity due to its simplicity and the awe-inspiring beauty of the coastline.
The rugged cliffs, pristine sands, and the rhythmic sound of the crashing waves create a serene and intimate setting, allowing couples to connect and unwind together.
Whether it’s a peaceful morning walk or a twilight rendezvous, the beach in Big Sur offers couples a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and share moments of quiet togetherness against the backdrop of one of nature’s most breathtaking vistas.
It’s a timeless and cherished way for partners to enjoy each other’s company amidst the raw and unspoiled charm of Big Sur’s coastline.
4. Enjoy A Picnic On The Beach
Having a picnic along the beach in Big Sur is a romantic activity that combines the simplicity of sharing a meal with the beauty of the natural surroundings.
The vast and unspoiled coastline, with its rugged cliffs and soothing waves, provides a captivating backdrop for couples to enjoy an intimate and relaxed meal together.
The sound of the ocean and the soft sands underfoot add to the tranquil ambiance, allowing partners to connect and savor each other’s company in a picturesque setting.
It’s a serene and memorable way to create a romantic experience in the heart of Big Sur’s coastal wonderland.
5. Visit Pfeiffer Beach For Romantic Sunset Views
Watching the sunset from Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur is a romantic activity due to its secluded and picturesque setting.
The beach’s hidden cove offers couples a private and intimate atmosphere.
The sunsets and the soothing sound of crashing waves create a serene and captivating backdrop for the perfect date night.
6. Visit McWay Falls
McWay Falls is an 80 foot waterfall at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
The waterfall cascades directly onto a pristine, untouched beach, offering a view that is perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape.
When it’s high tide, the waterfall becomes as tidefall because it cascades directly into the ocean.
The secluded location and the sound of the gently falling water create an intimate atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for partners to share a quiet and romantic moment in the heart of Big Sur’s natural wonderland.
7. Explore Bixby Bridge
Bixby Bridge in Big Sur is a romantic activity owing to its iconic and picturesque setting.
Did you know Bixby Bridge is one of the most photographed bridges in the world?
The bridge spans across a deep canyon and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the Pacific Ocean.
Couples can share a moment of awe while standing on the bridge, taking in the majestic scenery.
The combination of the bridge’s architectural beauty and the natural wonder of Big Sur creates a captivating backdrop for partners to connect and appreciate the grandeur of their surroundings, making it a romantic spot to visit together.
8. Visit Point Sur Lighthouse
Visiting Point Sur Lighthouse in Big Sur is a romantic activity due to its historical charm and coastal vistas.
The lighthouse, perched atop a dramatic cliff, offers couples a unique opportunity to explore a well-preserved piece of history while taking in panoramic views of the Pacific coastline.
The remote and windswept location adds an element of adventure, and the sense of solitude enhances the intimacy of the experience.
Couples can share a moment of reflection and connection while enjoying the rugged beauty of Big Sur, making it an ideal romantic destination.
9. Take A Stroll Along Partington Cove Trail
Taking a stroll along Partington Cove Trail in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park in Big Sur is a romantic activity characterized by its secluded charm and natural beauty.
The cove’s tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by lush forests and dramatic cliffs, provides an intimate setting for couples to explore and share a sense of adventure.
The hidden beach, accessible through a short hike, adds an element of discovery to the experience, and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore enhances the romantic ambiance.
It’s a perfect spot for partners to connect, relax, and revel in the unspoiled splendor of Big Sur’s coastal landscapes.
This 1 mile roundtrip trail is a dirt wagon road that leads down to the ocean.
When you get to the bottom of the trail, you’ll reach Partington Creek, where you can choose to go north or south.
If you take the north trail, you’ll head to a small, rocky beach, but don’t go swimming in it due to the rough surf conditions in that area.
If you take the south trail, you’ll head to a historic tunnel and overlook, but don’t go further than the overlook bench due to the unstable rocks and rough surf conditions.
10. Enjoy Nature At Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
This state park has a nature center, walking trails, campgrounds, and regular events hosted by the park.
For example, they host plenty of movie nights, nature walks, clean-up days, and campfire programs.
You could make this a romantic weekend getaway out in nature enjoying the peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
11. Take A Historic Tour Through Point Sur State Historic Park
Point Sur is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the only complete, turn-of-the-century Lightstation that is open to the public in California.
It has been in continuous operation since 1889.
But what is really neat at this state park is the former Point Sur Naval Facility that opened in 1958.
This was a standalone station that tracked Soviet submarines during the Cold War.
There are a handful of remaining facilities like this, but this is the only one on the West Coast that is open to the public.
Tours are offered at 10:30 am each Saturday and are approximately 90 minutes.
Tour fees are $10 for adults, $5 for ages 6-17, and age 5 and under are free.
12. Ragged Point
Ragged Point is a scenic overlook located near Ragged Point Inn.
There is also the Ragged Point Cliffside Trail which leads down to a black sand beach and a seasonal waterfall.
You’ll want to make sure to wear good shoes though because it’s a steep decline down to the beach.
Romantic Places To Stay In Big Sur
Below are our best recommendations for a romantic weekend getaway in Big Sur.
💕 Big Sur Lodge
This cottage style lodge is located in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.
They have rooms with kitchenettes, fireplaces, and an outdoor deck where you can admire your views.
👉🏼 Click Here To Book Your Romantic Getaway To Big Sur Lodge Today!
💕 Alila Ventana Big Sur – Adults Only Resort
This all-inclusive resort includes meals, beverages, wellness programs, activities, cultural immersion and more.
Enjoy trying your hand at activities like axe throwing, foraging, hiking excursions, meditation, bike tours, painting, pottery, astrology readings, and more.
👉🏼 Click Here To Book Your Romantic Adults Only Getaway At Alila Ventana Big Sur Today!
More Romantic Things To Do Near Big Sur
Below are some more nearby places where you can enjoy a romantic getaway along California’s Central Coast.
🌹 Carmel-By-The-Sea
Carmel is perfect for a day of wine tasting and romantic dinners.
It’s especially beautiful when visiting during Christmas as it transforms into one of the most highly rated Christmas towns in the US.
🌹 Cannery Row In Monterey
Cannery Row in Monterey is along the bay and offers a variety of activities that are perfect for a date.
There’s wine tasting, escape rooms, scenic views, an aquarium, and some fantastic restaurants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are the most frequently asked questions we see about romantic things to do in Big Sur.
❤️ Why Do People Love Big Sur?
People love Big Sur for its breathtaking coastal landscapes, rugged cliffs, and lush forests that offer a pristine and unspoiled natural beauty.
Its serene and remote atmosphere provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life, attracting those seeking tranquility and solitude.
The region’s scenic drives and outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking and camping, draw nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Overall, Big Sur’s awe-inspiring scenery and tranquil ambiance make it a beloved destination for those who appreciate the raw and untouched charm of the California coastline.
❤️ How Many Days Are Enough For Big Sur?
The ideal duration for a visit to Big Sur depends on individual preferences and interests.
However, many visitors find that spending at least two to three days allows for a satisfying experience.
This timeframe allows for exploring the iconic sights, enjoying leisurely drives along Highway 1, and engaging in outdoor activities like hiking or beach visits.
Those seeking a more in-depth exploration may opt for a longer stay, while a shorter visit can provide a glimpse of Big Sur’s beauty but may limit the ability to fully immerse in all it has to offer.
❤️ Why Is Big Sur So Famous?
Big Sur is famous for its stunning natural beauty and dramatic coastal landscapes.
Its rugged cliffs, redwood forests, and pristine beaches make it an iconic destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
The region’s inclusion along California’s Highway 1, renowned for its scenic drives, adds to its fame, providing travelers with breathtaking vistas at every turn.
Additionally, Big Sur has been a source of inspiration for artists, writers, and filmmakers, further contributing to its worldwide recognition as a place of awe-inspiring natural wonder.
Conclusion: Romantic Things To Do In Big Sur
No matter how you spend your romantic days in Big Sur, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience that will leave you with romantic memories for years to come.
