For a good introduction to Big Sur, start here: NYTimes: Big Sur Without the Crowds
Hikes & Strolls. A must read! This is a fantastic nature guide, regardless of the amount of energy you wish to expend: http://www.hikinginbigsur.com/
Stroll through misty redwood groves, scramble down grassy hillsides or play on the beach under a waterfall. You can do it all in this part of the word.
For a glimpse at our beloved Big Sur Bakery: read on
For the "official" guide to Big Sur: head here
"October brings Indian summer days with bright blue skies. The forest comes alive with color as leaves of deciduous trees turn golden. Monarch butterflies return to their annual wintering grounds and can be seen by the hundreds at Andrew Molera State Park and throughout Big Sur..."
"Summer and Fall bring us the largest mammals on earth, the Blue Whales. In addition, the Humpback Whales and Orcas are swimming in our coastal waters at this time of the year. Soon to be replaced by the spectacular annual migration of the Gray Whales whose total population swims by our coastline twice every year. Enjoy these amazing adaptations to life on the blue, watery planet conveniently from the roadside turnouts. Bring binoculars. Some of the best theater in town!"
And to wrap up, here are a few of our personal favorites:
- Deetjen's Big Sur Inn If there's time, grab breakfast or dinner at Deetjen's. Cozy & candle-lit....it's the epitome of Big Sur rustic beauty. http://www.deetjens.com/restaurant.htm
- Nepenthe Skip the food, but have a glass of wine (anything by Gary's Vineyard) on the upstairs deck of Nepenthe (you'll pass through the restaurant to get there). You will never, ever want to leave. Besides some of the best weather of the year (fingers crossed!), October brings with it the great migration of blue whales and humpbacks. The beasts are heading South to breed. With a little luck, you can sit on the deck (someone there always has binoculars), sip fantastic wine and watch them pass. http://www.nepenthebigsur.com/
- Post Ranch Inn Eeeek. One word: expensive! But the restaurant, Sierra Mar, is divine. Local, organic California fare in the most beautiful space I've ever chewed food in. If you feel like splurging, look no further. And truth be told, the lunch menu is doable. http://www.postranchinn.com/
- Esalen Natural hot springs under the stars. One catch: they only open their doors to us muggles (i.e. anyone not on a month-long retreat) from 1-3 AM. Sound crazy? You'll have to take our word, it's the best time to go. In this day and age, it's hard to catch stars like this anymore. On a good night you'll clock a shooting star every 20. You have to call ahead to reserve a spot, and the receptionists can be a little persnickety. If you're interested, just email us & we'll arrange it. for more: head here
