South of Carmel and winding down the central coast, you will pass by Point Lobos State Natural Reserve - a popular place to picnic, for hiking, jogging and learning about the birds and animals from the docents. And a very popular spot to observe whales during their migration.
A short distance South brings you to the Carmel Highlands. Famous for the Highlands Inn, now the Carmel Highlands Hyatt. You will find a variety of home styles from rustic cottages, either along the dramatic coastline, or tucked away in the mountains, to estate homes. The beautiful part of Carmel Highlands is that many homes enjoy beautiful ocean views due to the topography.
Continuing further South towards Big Sur, you will enjoy some of the most picturesque and beautiful scenery in California along this stretch of Hwy. 1. You will see only a few homes on this drive since the area is lightly populated and most are out of the viewshed. Cattle ranches, the Bixby Bridge, the Old Coast Road (used by the stagecoaches) and the Point Sur Lighthouse are all along the way.
With sandy beaches, hundreds of hiking trails, camping or lodging, Big Sur is a wonderful destination for all. Or you can enjoy the upscale Post Ranch Inn or Ventana Inn. Don't forget to get an Ambrosia Burger on the terrace of Nepenthe- a favorite spot for Steve McQueen and Henry Miller. (Check the weather cam.) After lunch, stop at the Coast Gallery and finish the day with a hot tub and massage at Esalen.
