2025 Best One-Day Scenic Drive Near the Bay: Big Sur Sunset Road Trip for Solo Travelers
I left the Bay Area around 10 a.m. with no tight plan—just a tank of gas, an extend backpack (a 20L waterproof daypack), and the idea of catching the sun dipping into the Pacific. Big Sur is dramatic even when you go slow. Here’s how it went.
🐚 Stop 1: Natural Bridge State Beach
A light coastal walk in Santa Cruz, just enough to stretch your legs and spot sea arches. No dogs allowed and easy to skip if pressed for time, but the breeze hits you early—bring layers. Windy already.
🐚 Stop 2: Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Probably the most cinematic part of the day. I walked out to Sea Lion Point where the cliffs drop steeply and the waves slam in rhythm. The loop took about 15–20 minutes. If you have time, keep going deeper—every turn is photo-worthy.
🐚 Optional: Carmel-by-the-Sea
A quick town detour if you want coffee or a bite. I skipped it on the way down, but it’s a nice pause if you prefer a slower day.
🐚 Stop 3: Calla Lily Valley
This one’s a hidden trail near the road—no signage, just a narrow dirt path. Walk ten minutes and the valley unfolds like a postcard. White lilies, tall grass, ocean at the edge. You can go all the way down to the sand.
🐚 Stop 4: Notley’s Landing Viewpoint
Off the road and often overlooked. Park easily, take in the wide open fields, cows, cliffs, and sea. I stayed here longer than I expected.
🐚 Stop 5: Bixby Bridge (and the workaround)
Skip the official viewpoint—parking is a nightmare and patrol cars are common. Drive a bit further to Hurricane Point. From there, the bridge looks even better—less traffic, better sunset angle, and plenty of space to stop.
🐚 Dinner (If Time Allows)
On the way back north, I did stop at Carmel for dinner. Flaherty’s is the classic pick, but I’d probably skip it next time—crowded and pricey. A few streets away, you’ll find quieter cafés with the same cozy vibe.
Itinerary Tips:
· Windproof layers are a must.
· No cell service past Carmel, so plan pins ahead.
· I carried everything in a lightweight, expandable backpack (20L was more than enough for jacket, snacks, and camera gear).
This wasn’t a hike-heavy day. It was just about being out there. And it reminded me—sometimes solo travel is about watching the coast change color, not chasing checkpoints.
