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Pfeiffer State Beach, Big Sur

4.6
#2 of 14 in Parks in Big Sur
Beach · Nature / Park
The unspoiled Pfeiffer State Beach is a hit with locals but lesser known among tourists. Take a narrow road off the highway to reach this rugged oasis. Make sure to drive slowly, watching out for cars coming from the other direction. The beach's tranquil atmosphere and small crowds come at the cost of limited parking. You may have to wait for a spot. Once there, take a stroll, admire the dramatic views of offshore rocks and sea stacks, watch the waves crashing, and look for deposits of the area's unusual purple sand. You might even see a whale in the distance. Bring a sweater; it can get windy here. Use our Big Sur tour itinerary planning website to arrange your visit to Pfeiffer State Beach and other attractions in Big Sur.
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Pfeiffer State Beach reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
1,342 reviews
Google
4.6
TripAdvisor
  • By glennm921
    If you love rugged parts of the California coast, then Pfeiffer Beach is an excellent choice. It is day use only and access is via a one lane road. This is a scenic beach that is not ideal for...  more »
  • By Janjust16
    Wow 🤩! Just breathtaking. Fine sand, purple hue sand, caves, splashing sea 🌊 shell 🐚 mountain 🏔, amazing humongous ferny trees 🌳....  more »
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Google
  • By Satyendra Singh
    The access to beach was closed as of Oct 10
  • By David Henshaw
    Soft sand, cool breeze and the best the California coast has to offer.
See more on Google »

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