Headed to Big Sur From San Francisco

One of the most breathtaking views of the California Coast isn't in Big Sur but appears as you drop down Highway One from Serramonte, California, into the quiet town of Pacifica, California. The sight of waves crashing below the sheer cliff you're driving down serves as a humbling reminder of humanity's place on Earth.
Soothe your ego with a macchiato from Soul Grind. Their beans are locally roasted, and the bacon and avocado toast gives the classic BLT a twist with fresh cream cheese. It's a breakfast built for power.

Even if you do not surf, it's worth pausing at the spot where one of California's most famous big wave surf competitions takes place. No, not at this surf shop, but at a beach called Mavericks, located west of here off Capistrano Road and Prospect Way. Check with the shop staff to see if the waves are rolling; this can happen anytime during California's winter season, approximately from October to May. Ask for the best viewing spot, then head there.

This spot's name is something of a misnomer: Pie Ranch is a non-profit educational farm dedicated to cultivating a healthy and just food system. Stop by the farm stand and store to buy whatever is in season. The berries from this part of California are especially delicious, but you can also find jam, honey, and other farm-made products.
The stand is recognized for its pies (the lemon-buttermilk is especially renowned) which sell out quickly.
Please note that their opening times may vary depending on the day of the week, so make sure to check them in advance on the official website.

Many restaurants in Santa Cruz, California, design their meals to be taken to the region's many beaches, and The Picnic Basket is no exception. Located on the quieter end of Santa Cruz Beach, the restaurant has a narrow patio and an order window for easy service, especially when your feet are covered in sand.
Try the Reuben—they are known for it—but don't forget to check the daily salads. They change with the seasons and are built on what's freshest from local farmers.

Drive around Monterey Bay and take the 17-Mile Drive in Pacific Grove, California. On a sunny day, the sweep of beaches on the early part of the drive are practically begging for exploration.
There are plenty of turnouts—pick one and stroll along the beach. You might even spot a whale or a pod of whales on their annual migrations between Alaska and Mexico.

After you pass Pebble Beach, California, and the sweeping green fairways of its famous golf courses, the 17-Mile Drive ends at the town of Carmel, California, also known as Carmel-by-the-Sea. The community has worked hard to preserve the whimsical cottages scattered throughout the town, many of which were constructed in the early 20th century.
Park your car in the lot and explore the town on foot. Just be sure to check the time on the meter; the meter maids take their job very seriously!

Many of the cottages in Carmel-by-the-Sea are located in a four square-block radius between Ocean and 5th and Junipero and Santa Rita Streets. Did Alice truly fall down the rabbit hole here? Who really knows?
The town was built by artists, writers, musicians, and poets—a group that deeply understands the power of inspiration and creativity. The shops and restaurants of downtown are also close by.

For dinner, pop into La Bicyclette, a bistro offering rustic European cuisine. They update the menu weekly, but highlights include lobster spaghetti, gnocchi, pepperoni pizza, and the Pot de Mousse au Chocolat.
Please note that this spot is very popular, so it's strongly recommended to make reservations by phone.

Spend the night at Le Petit Pali on 8th Ave, a charming craftsman-style property featuring 24 rooms. It's just a stone's throw away from top restaurants, boutique shops, and the picturesque white sand beach of Carmel.