Our favorite stop along the coastal drive of California. Tucked away in Northern California lies one of the most beautiful towns in all of America: BIG SUR. Scattered with wellness resorts, hippie hiking spots, and breathtaking beauty. This magical oasis boasts amazing views of the coast, towering redwoods, and eco-chic accommodations. Even for the not so outdoorsy types (myself included), this place is a DREAM!
The fun is getting there! Our drive up the coast was more immense and beautiful than I could have ever imagined. This is where we really realized the extent of Jerome’s fear of heights. It will definitely test your limits, but the beauty around you takes your breath away. There are plenty of places t0 pull off to take it all in, and I recommend you take your time and enjoy the nature around you. Here is our complete 7 day guide up the California coast to help you plan.
TRAVEL TIP => Download google maps so when you lose service (which you will) you have a way to know where you are going.
DWELL:
Glen Oaks: Glamorously “roughing it” (my type of “camping”)
These chic little cabins are nestled in between towering redwoods. One of the things we loved about Glen oaks is it takes you away from the craziness of our lives and transplants you back to nature and genuine conversation with an actual human (and not thru text or social media). There is no television or internet at Glen oaks, but what they do have is board games, fire pits, and peace of mind. This is the perfect place to get back to nature and spend some quality time with the people you love.
TRAVEL TIP => Stop at the local general store upon arrival at Glen oaks and pick up some essentials: Wine (duh), local sandwiches and some snacks.
We checked into our remote cabin for the night and then ventured around the grounds to explore. These Cabins are incredibly remote and the scenery that surrounds them is astonishing. Makes you realize there is such a vast world to explore out there. Everywhere you look towering Muir Woods loom overhead, and of course, it wouldn’t be complete without a bubbling creek to explore.
After exploring we headed back to the cabin to change into comfy clothes, pop open some California red wine and enjoy dinner around the outdoor fire. Jerome is the one responsible for campfires so I let him get to work as explored what board games we had. We settled on Scrabble and I was sure I would win….well, I was wrong, he literally beat me every game, by a long shot. We had so much fun just enjoying each others company, around the fire, under the stars that night.
The beds are incredibly comfortable. One thing we loved is that there is no AC, so we slept with the windows open so the crip fresh air put us to sleep. We woke up refreshed and ready to take on the day.
TRAVEL TIP => Venture up to The Roadhouse for coffee, donuts, and some delicious eats.
WHAT TO DO:
- Explore the forest around you. Hikes range from beginner to expert. Check out the local hiking Guides HERE.
- Relax by the fire and enjoy some much-needed R&R
- Go for a run along the forest line
- Grab a bite to eat at the emphasis Nepenthe. This is a MUST see in Big Sur.
- Grab some to go wine and food at the local grocery store to enjoy in your cabin.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
- No Service/Internet
- Beautiful views that take your breath away
- Winding roads along the coast
- Environmental chic vibe
- Getting back to nature mindset
- Friendly locals and fellow hikers
- Crisp cool evenings
- Peaceful night sleep