10 Weekend Trips That Feel Like a Month-Long Journey

By

Lisette Marie

December 8, 2025

8. Big Sur, California — Cliffside drives and ocean-focused slow time

Photo Credit: Getty Images @Yarnit

Big Sur’s dramatic coastline and limited development make every stop feel consequential. Drive the Pacific coast, pause for a beach or waterfall walk, then stay in a coastal lodge or glamping spot that centers ocean sounds. The combination of driving rhythm, short hikes, and the sensory weight of ocean cliffs compresses a longer coastal tour into a single weekend. Logistics: from San Francisco it’s about a 3-hour drive depending on stops; from Monterey about 1 hour. Budgets (per person, As of November 2025): budget $140–$260; mid-range $260–$480; splurge $480+. Best season: spring through fall for clear coastal days. Accessibility & family note: short coastal viewpoints are accessible, but beach access can require steps. Quick itinerary: Friday evening — arrive and dinner with ocean view; Saturday — Bixby Bridge photo stops, short hikes, coastal picnic; Sunday — slow morning and drive back with planned stops.

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