Gateway to Big Sur

If you're headed down California’s iconic Highway 1 toward Big Sur, you’ll pass through a magical stretch of coastline that locals fondly call the Gateway to Big Sur. This scenic area, stretching roughly from Monterey to Carmel. It’s a destination all its own, filled with incredible food, outdoor adventures and cozy accommodations that set the tone for your Big Sur journey.

Best Lodging:

Nestled just outside Big Sur, the Carmel River Inn & Cottages offers travelers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern comfort at the very start of the famous Highway 1 coast. Located at the “entrance of the stunning Big Sur coast”, this inn sits amid a pastoral river setting that serves as an ideal “basecamp to the adventurous areas” nearby, allowing guests to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Monterey Peninsula. Only a few minutes’ drive from Carmel-by-the-Sea, yet bordering the wild Big Sur region, Carmel River Inn provides a scenic, relaxing stop for road trippers, couples, and nature lovers gearing up to explore Big Sur.

Best Activity:

Big Sur Adventures

Big Sur Adventures offers one-of-a-kind tours of all of the area’s best sights! See Carmel, Monterey, and Pacific Grove on the back of one of our electric bikes – our powerful eBikes make climbing the region’s hills and inclines a breeze! Take the scenic route on the 17-Mile Drive Tour and see one of the country’s most picturesque rides. For beginner cyclists or those wanting a slower pace, our Family Friendly 17 Mile Drive Tour and Carmel-by-the-Sea Tour are made for you! With miles of ocean-front riding, you’re sure to spot tons of wildlife while you learn about our rich history. Looking for something a little more advanced? Our intimate Big Sur’s Old Coast Road Tour takes you into the back country on the old dirt wagon road. Optional hotel pickup in our open Jeep Wrangler adds to the adventure! We have public tours everyday, but if you want to have an intimate experience with your family, can readily organize a private experience of all of the above.

Best Dinner:

For dinner check out Le Bicyclette in Carmel-by-the-Sea or il vecchio in Pacific Grove.

Pre‑Big Sur dinner destinations! Memorable meals that set the tone before the epic coast ahead. Kick off your trip with French‑inspired flair at Le Bicyclette in Carmel or savor hearty Italian at il vecchio in nearby Pacific Grove. Both perfect preludes (or post‑coast celebrations) around your Big Sur adventure.

Both restaurants are located just north of the Big Sur stretch, making them ideal for a special send-off meal before driving into Big Sur’s wilderness.

Whether you’re seeking rustic European charm or soul-satisfying Italian fare, Le Bicyclette and il vecchio offer culinary experiences that elevate your Big Sur trip from scenic to unforgettable.

Best Lunch:

For Lunch grab Dametra Fresh Mediterranean, located in the Del Monte Shopping Center, Dametra Fresh Mediterranean is the quick-service sister of Carmel’s renowned Dametra Café. Perfect for travelers seeking flavorful Mediterranean fare without a long detour.

Also check out Toro Sushi in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Toro Sushi is a casual yet refined sushi bar known for its commitment to high-quality fish, thoughtful sake pairings and a friendly, welcoming vibe.

Best Breakfast:

Wake up to Rosines in Monterey. Rosine’s is a family‑run breakfast spot beloved for comfort food and nostalgic charm. It’s been serving hearty American‑Italian dishes for over 44 years, earning national attention after featuring on Diners, Drive-ins & Dives.

Don’t forget to go to Point Pinos Grill in Pacific Grove. Situated in the scenic Point Pinos golf course, Point Pinos Grill combines breathtaking ocean and fairway views with an award-winning breakfast and brunch menu. The Huevos Rancheros are the best on the peninsula, see the picture below.

Best Market:

Nielsen Brothers Market is one of the oldest grocery stores in the United States. Nielsen Brothers was founded in 1930 by Harold and Walter Nielsen offering fresh, locally sourced, natural and organic foods, wines and spirits. Nielsen Brothers was the first full service grocery store in Carmel By the Sea, the first grocery store to offer liquor after Prohibition was repealed and the first to offer local residents the convenience of home delivery services

Nielsen Brothers Market has been continuously family owned and operated for the last 94 years, and still locally owned and managed by an experienced husband and wife team that has renewed the store’s commitment to the founder’s vision of providing fresh, locally sourced, natural and organic foods, wines and spirits to our valued local residents and tourists.