Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Beautiful redwoods and trails along the Big Sur River. We did an easy trail along the river, but wished we had more time to check out some of the longer trails. The short trails did not offer any views of the coast. The cafe there was cute and gave us a chance to grab a snack on our way out.

If you're visiting Big Sur, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is one of the easiest places to see the redwoods! I'm a Big Sur wedding and elopement photographer and I always take couples here if they're not already booked at another hotel or private property with redwoods. Be sure not to confuse this with Julia Pfeiffer Burns Big Sur State Park (which is known for McWay Falls) or Pfeiffer Beach (which is known for the arch and purple sand), both of which have separate entrances and are 15 minutes south of this park. As far as trails go, I typically recommend the ones that are closest to the park entrance! These will give you a view of the redwoods without having to hike far. If you take the longer hikes, you'll meander through different forest views, but not necessarily more dense redwoods. Check the trail status on the state park website as well (Pfeiffer Falls Trails, for example, famously reopened in 2021 after 13 years, but then closed not long after due to strom damage). If you have some time to spend here and you're visiting on a hot day, you can't miss the Big Sur River Gorge! It's a beautiful swimming hole with clear waters. Just be sure to read up on the directions to get here, since it can be confusing to get here.

Lovely park! We were camping here for 2 nights in December and the weather was perfect, not too cold :) The bathroom was clean and they had great hiking trails around the park. Highly recommend this place!

One of the best decisions I’ve ever made——to drive to Big Sur during Covid. Big Sur is a breathtaking stretch of California’s central coast, where rugged cliffs meet the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean. Known for its dramatic beauty, the area offers unforgettable views along the iconic Highway 1, including landmarks like Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls. Outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring the trails in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park or admiring the purple sands at Pfeiffer Beach. With its blend of natural splendor, serene atmosphere, and cozy accommodations, Big Sur is perfect for both adventure and relaxation. It’s a magical destination that feels like a world away.

The trail straight to the falls was closed, so we had to take the longer, roundabout trail to the falls. I wish we hadn't. I'm 60 with a heart condition and no stamina. I was assured the straight-to-the-falls trail was doable for a person in my condition. But the longer trail is not meant for the faint-of-heart. So long, so steeply uphill, I had to stop and take many breaks and contemplated turning back many, many times. But I was also assured these falls were worth the trip. NO WAY JOSE! Skip, skip, skip these falls unless you love long, tiring, difficult hikes. The lodge is pretty even if the food is way overpriced, but sit in there if you can and drink or eat something you packed with you. So I'd like to give this place a 4 star rating for scenery, and a 2 star rating for overpriced food and underwhelming waterfall for the hard trip you have to make to get to it, so I'll average it out and give it 3 stars.