When it comes to the most photographed road trip destinations in the Golden State, Big Sur always wins. Road-tripping along the California Central Coast, you will end up with an impressive Big Sur photo diary (even if you are not particularly fond of the photography or any other kinds of visual art).
Last updated: January 25, 2022
Meet Big Sur
Pristine, diverse, and unbelievably picturesque, Big Sur is arguably the state’s most famous road trip destination. This nearly 90-mile-long rugged stretch of California coastline between Carmel-by-the-Sea and San Simeon allures with its superior natural beauty, tranquility, and a sense of complete surrender to these dreamy landscapes. All you need here are green cliffs and hills, the vast ocean, its raging waves and white-sand beaches. No more and no less…
The classic drive along the coast never gets old. It amazes and overpowers you anew every time you drive here (even if it is your thousandth time). It fills you with gratitude and unimaginable happiness. You feel it every time you pull over to admire the magical views, breathe in the fresh air, and take the pictures to expand your Big Sur photo diary.
And with some of the most famous places in California and miles after miles of the gorgeous scenery, the number of such spontaneous stops can be endless. So, use your own judgment when choosing between popular, yet packed with tourists lookout points and secluded pull-offs. These little hidden gems always give you a chance to hike down the hill and feel like you have Big Sur all to yourself.
Tips for a More Creative Big Sur Photo Dairy
With that said, though, some popular places simply scream for your attention. The all-too-familiar and most photographed Bixby Creek Bridge, picture-perfect Pfeiffer Beach, and 80-foot-tall McWay Falls are absolute must here.
TIP: But do not follow the crowds in attempt to see these famed landmarks. Instead, stop somewhere in between, for example, on the opposite side of the bridge or the road. It is still close enough to enjoy the view, but pretty far away from the maddening crowd.
On top of avoiding that frustration when other people constantly get in front of you and block the view, you will get the best vistas from the very uncommon spots. Furthermore, your Big Sur photo diary will greatly benefit from such an untraditional angle. The unique pictures, not the all-too-similar images that flood the Internet, will crown your travel portfolio. And as a bonus, you can forget about excessive cropping and excellent Photoshop skills.
I hope now you can travel along and enjoy this Big Sur photo diary.
BIG SUR PHOTO DIARY
