Southern Big Sur Beaches

Sand Dollar Beach, Limekiln Beach, Creek Beaches

Sand Dollar Beach, Southern Big Sur, California
Sand Dollar Beach, Southern Big Sur, California

Southern Big Sur Beaches

Sand Dollar Beach, Limekiln Beach, Creek Beaches


Southern Big Sur Beaches

Between Lopez Point and Cape San Martin along the southern Big Sur coast are a number of great little beaches that are worth visiting. Anyone looking to play in the waves might do better farther north or south, but for fishermen, photographers, surfers, beach combers, campers, rock hounds, sun bathers, dog walkers, and adventurers - the southern Big Sur beaches are calling.

Caution: Check with rangers or lifeguards that conditions are safe for your planned activities.


Map of southern Big Sur beaches, CA

Sand Dollar Beach, Big Sur, CA

Sand Dollar Beach

  • Limekiln Beach - Part of Limekiln State Park, the beach makes a nice stop along the coast, whether to spend the night at the campground, hike to Limekiln Falls, or fish from the shore.
  • Sand Dollar Beach - Sand Dollar is the shining star of this cluster of beaches. It's expanse of sand is the largest in the region. Camp at nearby Plaskett Creek Campground and walk to the beach.
  • Jade Cove - More rock than sand, Jade Cove is famous for the jade that can be found there. The cove is only a half mile from Sand Dollar Beach.
  • Kirk Creek Beach - One of three beaches we have grouped as the Creek Beaches. The adjoining campground is located on the bluff overlooking the ocean. A trail leads down to the long, narrow beach.
  • Mill Creek Beach - Find a picnic area adjacent to the parking lot overlooking the beach. Interesting places to explore when tide is out.
  • Willow Creek Beach Good fishing from the shore. Bring a picnic and find a secluded spot along the rocky coast.
Big Sur coast at Mill Creek, California

Mill Creek Coast - Big Sur



Southern Big Sur Events and Attractions

Jade Festival

October TBA, 2024
New location for 2024 to be announced
Admission free
Big Sur Jade Festival

Point Piedras Blancas

Highway 1, 7 miles north of San Simeon.
A lighthouse and elephant seal rookery.
Free admission to elephant seals viewing areas.
Friends of the Elephant Seal docents are often on hand to answer questions.
Friends of the Elephant Seal Beach Webcam

Lighthouse Tours are offered at 9:45 AM every day except Sunday during the summer and Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays the rest of the year. Tours meet at the former Piedras Blancas Motel located 1.5 miles north of the light station on Highway 1.

Hearst Castle

Highway 1, San Simeon, CA
Tour the famous Hearst Castle.
A variety of tours are offered.


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Ocean Safety

California State Parks and Recreation cautions that "large surf, cold water temperatures, backwash, sudden drop-offs, pounding shorebreak, and dangerous rip currents can turn what seem like safe activities such as playing near the surf line, wading, or climbing on rock outcroppings, deadly." Learn more about ocean safety at CA State Parks: Ocean Safety