Big Sur Private Tour with McWay Falls — 4 or 5 Hour Coastal Drive from Monterey
Drive Highway 1 with a local guide on a private 4‑ or 5‑hour tour from Monterey to Big Sur. Stops include Bixby Bridge, Nepenthe, redwood walks and — with the 5‑hour option — the McWay Falls overlook.
The Experience
Before You Go
Pick the 5‑hour option for McWay Falls
If seeing Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and McWay Falls matters to you, book the 5‑hour tour — the 4‑hour route skips the longer southern run.
Layer up for coastal weather
Morning fog and ocean wind can be chilly; bring a windbreaker and midweight layer for overlooks and Nepenthe’s patio.
Arrive with a charged camera
Cell reception is spotty; bring a fully charged camera or power bank to capture the bridge, cliffs and cove views.
Wear grippy shoes for short walks
Most stops are short walks on uneven trails or stairs — closed‑toed shoes with traction make viewpoints and short redwood strolls easier.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Rocky Point turnout for sweeping, uncrowded coastal vistas
- •Henry Miller Library — a small cultural stop for writers and local events (addable on the 5‑hour tour)
Wildlife
- •Sea otters in the kelp beds
- •California sea lions on offshore rocks (seasonal gray whale sightings in migration windows)
Conservation Note
Much of the coastline is state park land — stay on marked trails, respect signage at fragile overlooks and avoid flying drones in protected areas to limit disturbance.
Bixby Bridge (1932) is an iconic single‑span concrete arch built to complete Highway 1; Big Sur later attracted mid‑20th‑century writers like Henry Miller whose influence shaped the region’s cultural draw.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bixby Bridge northbound turnout for the classic arch shot
- • Nepenthe/Phoenix Cafe patio for panoramic ocean frames
- • McWay Falls overlook at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park for the cove view
What to Bring
Windproof jacketEssential
Protects against coastal wind and sudden fog on overlooks.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Needed for uneven trails at viewpoints and the redwood walk.
Camera or smartphone with extra batteryEssential
Captures long coastal vistas and architectural shots like Bixby Bridge.
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated during stops and short walks along the route.
Common Questions
Can I see McWay Falls on the 4‑hour tour?
McWay Falls and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park are included only with the 5‑hour option because they require additional driving and time at the southern end of Big Sur.
How many people fit in each vehicle?
The operator uses luxury sedans, full‑size SUVs, and a Sprinter; total capacity across vehicle types is up to 12 guests for a private booking.
Are parks and parking fees included?
The tour covers parking fees per the itinerary; some additional fees (special admissions) are handled by the guide but confirm at booking if you plan optional add‑ons.
Is the tour stroller accessible?
Yes — many stops are reachable from parking with short walks, and the operator notes stroller accessibility for infants and small children, though some overlooks have stairs.
What is the best time of day to visit Bixby Bridge and McWay Falls?
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds; midday can be bright but often brings onshore fog especially in summer.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure; bad weather may also trigger a cancellation per policy.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–5 hours
Location
Monterey, California
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required — able to walk short, uneven sections and climb a few stairs.
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