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Big Sur

The Atlas Obscura Guide To Big Sur

4 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Big Sur, California

Updated February 13, 2023

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Unusual Attractions in Big Sur

Big Sur, California

McWay Falls and Waterfall House Ruins

This Big Sur waterfall drops 80 feet directly into the Pacific Ocean, and inspired the hillside house up top.

Not a bad spread

Big Sur, California

Nepenthe

Offering commanding views of the California coastline, this restaurant was a hub for the artists and bohemians of Big Sur.

Big Sur, California

Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach

Centuries of crashing waves carved out this small hole in the rock, which lights up at certain parts of the year.

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Big Sur, California

The Henry Miller Memorial Library

It's not your typical library, memorial, or book store.

Are we missing something unusual?

Point Sur Lighthouse

Monterey, California

Point Sur Lightstation

Life in this isolated, hilltop lighthouse was lonely, but it sure was lovely.

5 miles from Big Sur

Calla Lily Valley

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Calla Lily Valley

This little valley along Highway 1 is engulfed by thousands of lilies during the spring season.

11 miles from Big Sur

The chapel interior.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Carmelite Monastery

For almost 100 years, this site of peace and spirituality has existed on the California coast.

18 miles from Big Sur

Cool Places to Eat & Drink in Big Sur

Not a bad spread

Big Sur, California

Nepenthe

Offering commanding views of the California coastline, this restaurant was a hub for the artists and bohemians of Big Sur.

In partnership with GetYourGuide

Unforgettable Experiences Nearby

Explore Big Sur, California

Panoramas 1

Libraries 1

Ruins 1

Waterfalls 1

Restaurants 1

Parks 1

Monuments 1

Mountains 1

Water 1

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Stories About Big Sur

Podcast: The Henry Miller Memorial Library

In Big Sur, California, a library that's not really a library.

by The Podcast Team

February 13, 2023

Aerial image of Vietnam, displaying the picturesque rice terraces, characterized by their layered, verdant fields.

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