Big Sur, California
Location: Big Sur is a rugged stretch of California’s central coast between Carmel and San Simeon. Known for its dramatic cliffs, ocean views, and redwood forests, it’s one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world. Traveling through Big Sur on Highway 1 is a breathtaking experience for RVers and road trippers alike.
About Big Sur
Big Sur is a place where the Santa Lucia Mountains meet the Pacific Ocean in a stunning collision of natural beauty. It’s home to towering redwoods, misty coves, iconic bridges like Bixby Creek Bridge, and quiet campgrounds that feel worlds away from the city. The region is dotted with viewpoints, hiking trails, and boutique lodges — but RV camping remains one of the most immersive ways to experience it.
Why Visit Big Sur
- Scenic Highway 1 drive: One of the most iconic road trips in America — winding along ocean cliffs and through coastal forests.
- Natural beauty: From Pfeiffer Beach’s purple sands to McWay Falls, Big Sur is a paradise for photographers and nature lovers.
- Hiking & adventure: Explore trails like Ewoldsen Trail, Limekiln State Park, and Andrew Molera State Park.
- Relaxation: Disconnect from the rush — limited cell signal and minimal commercial development make Big Sur a true retreat.
RV Rentals — Travel with ShareMyCoach
- ShareMyCoach: Offers fully-equipped RV rentals that can be delivered to Monterey, Carmel, or nearby coastal areas for easy access to Big Sur.
- Comfort for rugged terrain: Choose from luxury Class A motorhomes or nimble Class C RVs ideal for navigating winding coastal roads.
- Dry camping ready: Since most Big Sur campgrounds offer limited or no hookups, ShareMyCoach provides RVs with solar panels, generators, and fresh water storage.
Best Campgrounds for RVs in Big Sur
- Kirk Creek Campground: Perched on oceanfront cliffs — incredible views, dry camping only, limited sites for small to medium RVs.
- Ventana Campground: A glamping-style redwood grove with limited RV spaces (call ahead for size restrictions).
- Big Sur Campground & Cabins: Offers limited RV sites with electric hookups, nestled in the redwoods along the Big Sur River.
- Limekiln State Park: Small, peaceful campground with access to both redwood trails and a beachfront cove.
- Riverside Campground & Cabins: Partial hookups, close to town, with river access for swimming and fishing.
Helpful Tips for RV Travelers
- Book early: Campgrounds in Big Sur fill months in advance, especially during spring and summer.
- RV size limits: Many roads and campgrounds restrict vehicles longer than 30 feet due to narrow turns and limited parking.
- No full hookups: Prepare for dry camping — fill water tanks and bring solar/generators if needed.
- Fuel up early: Gas stations are limited along Highway 1 — plan ahead and refuel in Carmel or Ragged Point.
- Limited cell service: Embrace being offline — download offline maps and campground details before your trip.
Nearby Attractions & Routes
- Bixby Creek Bridge: One of California’s most photographed coastal bridges — don’t miss the scenic turnout.
- McWay Falls (Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park): An 80-foot waterfall that drops directly into the ocean — postcard-perfect.
- Pfeiffer Beach: Famous for its purple-hued sand and dramatic sea arch formations.
- Monterey & Carmel-by-the-Sea: Coastal towns just north of Big Sur — perfect for restocking, dining, and sightseeing.
Featured RVs from ShareMyCoach
- Class A Coastal Cruiser: Spacious luxury RV with panoramic windows — ideal for scenic drives and comfort.
- Class C Adventure RV: Compact, fuel-efficient, and perfect for navigating Big Sur’s curvy roads.
- Travel Trailer: Great for flexible camping setups at Kirk Creek or Limekiln — easy to tow and set up.
- Campervan: Best for solo travelers or couples looking to stay nimble and camp off-grid.
Exploring Big Sur in an RV lets you experience California’s coast at its purest — misty mornings, ocean sunsets, and peaceful nights under the redwoods. With ShareMyCoach, you can travel comfortably and self-sufficiently, allowing you to focus on what matters most: the open road, the sound of the waves, and the unforgettable beauty of Big Sur.
