Reviews

Glen Yosimar Alonzo Zepeda

​"I give it 4 stars because it was cloudy when I went, and though I didn't get to see it on a sunny day—which I bet looks absolutely incredible—it's still beautiful and incredibly scenic right by the ocean. The weather is quite cold, but it looks so much better in person because photos really don't do justice to how breathtaking it is. The terrain isn't flat at all; the highway just hugs the edge of the cliff, leaving you right between the coast and these massive mountains."

Loretta Stokes

This beach is absolutely stunning. Never seen anything like this purple sand. There is a short walk to the beach. It is a very windy narrow road to get there. This was the favorite stop for me and my friends along Big Sur. Hardest part was just driving there.

Chris Westwood

Hiked mid-week the week before Easter and there wasn't too many people. There is a fee to park inside the park, however, once you pay it gives you access to the other parks in the area. I imagine this place can get very busy over the weekend and in peak season, so probably good idea to get here early. There are public restrooms and the park seems to be well maintained. Started off with the river walk hike (flat and easy) which takes you to both the Pfeiffer Falls and Valley View Trails. The Pfeiffer Falls trail is pretty easy though there are quite a lot of steps in areas which some people might have difficulty with. It's a beautiful walk though and also recommend making the effort to climb up the Valley View Trail for it's scenic views.

Jamie Heimforth

One of the most Beautiful State parks we have ever been to. Rugged cliffs, crashing ocean waves, Redwood trees and Cypress trees. Take a few days to unwind and walk the trails. Then come back to either the campsite or lodge. Swim and relax before dinner. Have dinner on site or one of the local fine dinning restaurants. Walk to your cabin. Light the fireplace and look at the stars.

Kunal Jaggi

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is an absolute gem in the heart of California’s coast. Walking through the park feels like stepping into another world — the towering redwoods create a peaceful canopy, and the fresh forest air instantly makes you slow down and breathe deeper. The trails are well-marked and offer something for everyone, from easy riverside strolls to slightly more challenging hikes like the Pfeiffer Falls and Valley View trails. The highlight for me was standing among the massive redwoods — some so tall you can barely see the tops — and realizing how old and resilient they are. It’s humbling and inspiring at the same time. The waterfall hike adds a beautiful touch of serenity, and if you climb up to the Valley View lookout, you’re rewarded with sweeping views of the Big Sur Valley all the way to the Pacific. Whether you’re coming for a short visit or spending the day exploring, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a must-see. It’s the perfect blend of majestic redwoods, peaceful river spots, and accessible trails. Truly a place that leaves you refreshed and grateful for nature’s beauty.

Mel Bo

First visit and easily one of my favorite parks! Spent the whole day hiking and wandering, seeing wildlife and seals! So many accessible paths, no extensive hiking experience required. Just be sure to bring water, a light snack, and a friend!

Kathleen Gonzalez

Beautiful park, trees. Saw wildlife skunks, foxes, deer, lots of birds. Kids played with crawfish. Nice river kid friendly nice to float like a lazy river. Gorge was nice too but busier.

Lea Fuji

Purple sand! What I came for, and it did not disappoint. It is a beautiful stretch of beach, a little rough, with some rock formations. Sunny, windy and chilly in early July. You could def make a day of it, if the weather is nice. This park does require you to pay $15 to get in (America the Beautiful and State Park passes do not work here) The drive and views to get here were amazing!

Tania Weatherington

What an adventure hiking the River/Valley View Trail in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park ~ it was certainly a peaceful and rewarding experience!!! The trail winds gently (but also steeply) through redwoods and oaks, with filtered sunlight and shade for much of the trail. The bulk of the hike is a climb, with amazing views of a stunning overlook of the Big Sur River Valley… totally worth the effort. But I will emphasise that it takes effort!! The hike is a mix of forest serenity and panoramic views, plus if you decide to visit Pfeiffer Falls it’s an additional hidden gem. Perfect for an adventure in the Big Sur!

Ida Karimi

Big Sur State Park is an awesome place to escape into nature! The walking trails are super clean and easy to enjoy, and the whole vibe is so peaceful. Between the fresh air, the sound of the river, and the gorgeous scenery spot to relax and unwind. Whether you're hiking or just soaking it all in, you'll leave feeling refreshed. Definitely recommend checking it out!

MFOXDM16

Stunning environment, from campground to coast. River running through the middle of the campground is a great place to put your lawn chair down and cool your feet on a hot day. Trees abound in the campground, and is a very family friendly place. (If you're allergic to poison oak, maybe stay elsewhere, because it's everywhere in the campground). The coastline along Big Sur is a bucket-list must see, and Monterey is only an 45 minute drive away, perfect for a day trip. 10/10 recommend this place.

Courtney Conovan

one of my favorite state parks! wasn’t too crowded when I went and wonderful range of scenery. stayed by the creek and played for a bit, well kept and fairly accessible.

Adam Overland

Pfeiffer Big Sur offers everything you could want in a park. Enchanting red wood trees, hiking galore, lots of little stores for supplies nearby, restaurants, and more. The campground has hot showers ($1 for 5 mins) and a dump station. And it’s a home base for one of the most beautiful stretches of America—and perhaps anywhere—that I’ve ever seen. It’s a land of towering cliffs alive with the breath of some unseen ocean creature who exhales a regular mist in the mornings and evenings that makes the land disappear. It is a painting by a master, magic by a wizard, a stretch of coastal perfection, nature so beautiful it seems unreal, like a postcard you want to climb inside of and mail to every human on planet earth: wish you were here.

Lauren Kang

Lovely park! We were camping here for 2 nights in December and the weather was perfect, not too cold :) The bathroom was clean and they had great hiking trails around the park. Highly recommend this place!

Lynsa Nguyen

Beautiful redwoods and trails along the Big Sur River. We did an easy trail along the river, but wished we had more time to check out some of the longer trails. The short trails did not offer any views of the coast. The cafe there was cute and gave us a chance to grab a snack on our way out.