Known as the greatest meeting of land and sea on the planet, Big Sur is a majestic natural wonderland that inspires all who visit. Originally home to the Esselen Indians, the region is roughly 80 miles long and 20 miles wide. The region later became known to the Spanish, who settled on the peninsula to the north, as El Sur Grande, or The Big South. Eventually, a few rugged pioneer families settled in the area and a road was completed from north to south in 1937. Highway 1 winds along the coast and is used by an estimated 4 million cars a year. Homes are generally on small parcels of land surrounded by vast expanses of protected government parkland.
The region is intersected by the Big Sur River and is bound by the Carmel River to the north and San Carpoforo Creek to the south. The deep waters off the Big Sur coast are within a protected national marine sanctuary. Today, there are approximately 1,500 full time residents, primarily living along the coast of Big Sur.
Big Sur California is an outdoor recreation paradise, with opportunities for camping, hiking and beachcombing, and more. Big Sur is home to protected pristine old growth redwood forests. The area is also known for its rich artistic tradition, including many celebrated authors such as Jack Kerouac, Henry Miller, and Hunter S. Thompson. Many artists seek the region for its natural beauty and its simple, rustic solitude. Whether it’s a new community to call home or a great place for a family vacation, Big Sur, Monterey County is a choice you will not regret.
