After about 30 miles, the golden rolling hills morphed into densely wooded cliffs.
‘Civilization’ was left behind. Road sign featuring the ‘s’ symbols started to appear more often. It was a clear announcement of the sharp curves we were going to encounter for the next 100 miles.
As we gained elevation, sea stacks, down at the crescent-shaped coves, started to look like minuscule points pounded by the wild Pacific Ocean. Patches of fog gave a hazy dream feeling to the entire scenery.
Then, we saw structures and cars and people. Also, I was able to catch a glimpse of a sign I have wanted to encounter for a long time, to be exact 12 years. After more than a decade-long wait, I felt a rush when I saw the “Welcome to Big Sur” sign.
Table of Contents
Things to See / Do in Ragged Point, CA
It looks like Ragged Point, CA is the first official stop in Big Sur for those navigating the coast from the south. This particular trip to this famous part of Golden State was put together at the last moment. A beaten map I got years ago at the Morro Bay Visitor’s Center served as my trustworthy guide. The Ragged Point Inn appeared on the map next to a caricature gas sign (there are only three gas stations in the area).
Ragged Point Inn
The Inn is located directly above the Pacific and affords glorious views of the ocean. The Inn itself is beautiful. Time should be taken to walk the grounds at a slow pace.
There are trees shaped by the wind, multicolored flowers and red paths connecting the different areas. The site not only offers lodging but there are other services like food, gas, and supplies are offered too.
Find more information about the Ragged Point Inn in here.
The Million Dollar View
This should not be a surprise, the view from the Ragged Point Inn, one of barren, steep cliffs rushing into the sea is called the “Million Dollar View.”
As we walked the grounds of the Inn, the fog dissipated and we were able to admire the view in its entire splendor.
After a few minutes, I realized something. The road we were about to continue driving somehow ran thru the rim of those cliffs. I got an uneasy sensation in my stomach. It seems like engineers didn’t take into consideration people with a fear of heights when they designed this road (CA-1).
Well, after all, I said to myself, there was a small price to pay in order to continue being blown away by a spectacle that only nature can deliver. Can you spot the road in the next picture?
There is a redwood pagoda (used in weddings and events) from where you can take a good look at the black sands and emerald water located at the feet of the cliffs.
As you can imagine, the view has inspired more than one artist. In the property, there is a sculpture reminiscent of a rounded ship cabin window. The amazing thing is that the sculpture perfectly frames the view.
If you visit, take also a look at the views to the south (the cliffs are to the north). They are great as well!
Black Swift Falls
There is also a trail to the black sand beach at the base of the cliffs (trailhead is located at the edge of the Ragged Point Inn property). The 300-foot Black Swift Falls (some say this are the tallest falls in the area) are visible from the trail. As with other waterfalls, the flow of water is stronger during spring.
Even though this trail is short (0.6 miles), it is considered strenuous. It should only be attempted by people in good physical condition wearing the proper gear (example, sturdy hiking shoes).
Ragged Point Fire Road Trail
If you are up for a little adventure and do not mind a bit of a steep trail, add to your bucket list the Ragged Point Fire Road Trail. The nice thing about this trail is that the surrounding slopes are covered in soft grass. That means tall trees are not going to block the magnificent ocean views!
The trail can be started from the Ragged Point Inn or from a parking lot a bit south of the lodging. This page shows specific details on how to access the trailhead.
Salmon Creek Falls
If you are a fan of waterfalls, an easy trail will take you to 120-foot Salmon Creek Falls. The trailhead to this marvel is located about 4 miles north of Ragged Point. There is a parking lot at the out-of-service Salmon Creek Ranger Station.
Seeing the waterfall will take 5 to 10 minutes. However, the actual trail keeps going for about 6 more miles. There is an elevation gain of more than 1000 feet so, it affords great views of the coast. You can go as far as you want (and turn back at any point).
Attractions North of Ragged Point
- Soda Springs Trail – 5 miles from Ragged Point, this hike provides access to coastal views, small waterfalls, and oak forests
- Other attractions close to Ragged Point cannot be accessed at the moment due to the closure of a small portion of CA-1. These attractions can only be accessed from the north (via Carmel)
Attractions South of Ragged Point
- Piedras Blancas Lighthouse and Elephant Seal Rookery – 12 miles from Ragged Point, historic lighthouse and elephant seal viewing point
- Hearst Castle – 15 miles from Ragged Point, one of California’s marvel, designed by architect Julia Morgan for media mogul Willian Randolph Hearst
- Cambria – 24 miles from Ragged Point, quaint town with beautiful beaches and preserves
- Cayucos – 38 miles from Ragged Point, a classic Californian beach town
- Morro Bay – 44 miles from Ragged Point, famous for its humongous rock (a volcanic plug) and estuary
Recommendations for your visit
- If you are looking into saving money, it will make sense to start the day by having breakfast at one of the towns south of Ragged Point. Good and services are expensive once you cross into Big Sur
- The same goes for gas. Fill up your tank before starting your drive. You do not want to see the gas prices at Big Sur (you can see them but you may have a heart attack)
- It is a good idea to have snacks, water and other essential on your car
- If you want to tackle a hike or two, wear the proper gear
- The road in Big Sur is twisty and through steep cliffs. Be prepared for motion sickness pills and anti-nausea medicine
What can I say? My first stop in Big Sur was conquered. Now, remember that scary looking road? Ahh, I took a deep breath while getting into the car to continue the journey. After witnessing the “Million Dollar View” I was determined to take it easy and enjoy every mile of the breathtaking road between Ragged Point and Carmel.
Have you been to Ragged Point, CA?
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Lauren Meshkin @BonVoyageLauren says
Incredible views and beautiful photos! Your posts always make me fall in love with my home state more and more. Thanks for sharing.
Happy travels 🙂
Ruth says
Lauren,
As always, thanks for stopping by.
You know this trip to Big Sur and the Monterey Peninsula helped me to see California with different eyes. It is difficult to believe how beautiful is this state. You are not the only one who are falling in love over and over again with California.
Ruth Daly says
This looks amazing! And another place to add to my list of must-visit locations. Great info and photos, as usual.
Mary says
That is quite a spectacular view. It reminds me of the jagged cliffs in Lanzarote Canary Island. Raw beauty!!
image-in-ing: weekly photo linkup says
Beautiful photos! Looks like a wonderful place.
Thanks for linking up at https://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2018/03/the-beautiful-biltmore-estate.html
Carol says
I wrote a post last year about my favorite travel destination, the Monterey peninsula. Glorious photography! Love this post!!
Lady Fi says
Such a lovely coastline!
Joyful says
Your photos are fabulous. It’s been a very long time since I’ve been to the Big Sur. It’s a place everyone should try to visit.
photo cache says
So beautiful. I’ve been longing to go for years and years too. And it’s not far from us either so I don’t know what’s keeping us from visiting. We have passed by it many times over the years and stayed in places nearby and yet.
Will have to remedy this omission.
Happy Spring.
Kay L. Daviesw says
Fabulous views. Almost too much beauty! I love the big O encircling the view.
Kay
An Unfittie’s Guide to Adventurous Travel
Mandy says
I’m currently planning a trip to CA but unfortunately will miss Ragged Point. 🙁 Hopefully, next time I visit, the road will be clear. Thanks for sharing the Million Dollar View!
Keri | Ladies What Travel says
Wow, what amazing views you had there! #WanderfulWednesday
Tanya says
Wow, your photos are amazing. Looks like you captured some multi-million-dollar views!
Nerissa says
Love that picture of the scenery through the round structure. Soooooo pretty! I would have been a bit nervous too driving along the cliff but it seems worth it for that view.
Unta says
Wow! That’s THE view! I love the feeling of standing on the edge with ocean in front of me, wind in my hear and salty air. I can imagine myself here. 🙂
Annie says
I’ve been to Monterey bay down route one from SF but didn’t make it as far as Ragged Point I’m afraid! I love the framing fo the view through the round sculpture! thanks for sharing 🙂
Sami says
I have always wanted to visit this part of California! Big Sur is STUNNING. The water and the cliffs … ah I need to visit soon!
Brianna says
Those are some stunning views! I’ve never been to California, but this would definitely be something I’d want to see! I know the drive can be pretty twisty though!
Stella Jane says
I’ve never even heard of Ragged Point before! It looks stunning. California just has those amazing coastlines. I can’t even find the road in that one picture. How nice that there are places with such natural beauty left in the US.
Nicky says
I can see why it’s called the Million Dollar View; it’s stunning! Reminds me of some the views on the Amalfi Coast! California looks like it has the most beautiful coastlines; how lucky you are to live nearby!
dorothy says
The Big Sur views are amazing, and you are right the artist did a good job capturing the scenery through the sculpture.
Vanessa Brune says
I’d definitely need to bring my anti-motion sickness meds but it looks like it’s totally worth it for that view! <3
Lisa says
Oh my – I can tell why it’s called the million dollar view. This really is super super super beautiful!!! #wanderfulwednesday
Sharon says
The steep mountain right down to the water — breathtaking! How I’d love to take one of the hiking trails here. Pinned for future travel planning!
Kelleyn Rothaermel says
Gorgeous photos from my home state! I may be a southern girl now, but California always holds a special place in my heart.
Sandra says
What an amazing place! I can understand why it’s called the million dollar view. I haven’t been there yet, but I’m adding it to my list.
#TravelPhotoThursday
Shivani Sharma says
The views are indeed gorgeous to drive on such a steep highway 🙂 Although I don’t consider myself a hiker but I am a big time waterfall fan. So I might just attempt walking till the black swift falls 😀
MEGAN - Truly MAdly kids says
I. Want. To. Go!! Very informative blog with fab pictures #farawayfiles
Clare (Suitcases and Sandcastles) says
I’ve driven this road, Ruth. It’s so beautiful but I’ll admit to finding some of those drops and bends quite hair raising too! I didn’t linger along the route as much as I’d have liked so I’d love to return and do some hikes and beach stops along the way. Thanks for sharing your fabulous photos and tips on #FarawayFiles
Daniel says
The photos on this post reconfirms that I MUST see more of the USA! Ive seen so much of the world and very little of my own backyard. These photos look stunning! Great info and read 🙂
#theweeklypostcard
California Globetrotter says
THIS is Cali?! I’ve never heard of this portion before! It’s stunning!! I’ve always wanted to drive the whole of PCH up to Big Sur so will have to add this! Thanks for linking up with #TheWeeklyPostcard!
Rhonda Albom says
I haven’t been to Big Sur in many years. Your shot through the circular sculpture is beautiful. Your photos remind me of the awesome views along the rugged California and Pacific Northwest coast.
jill says
I’ve driven Big Sur twice but have never seen the view from Ragged Point. Beautiful! Gonna have to remember this for next time.
Danielle @ Along for Adventure says
Your pictures are so beautiful! I’ve been to Big Sur multiple times but had no idea these hiking trails were there. I’ll defijitely have to check it out next time I’m in the area!
Deborah Regen says
Enjoyed this post. The hotel looks perfect in its environment and quite inviting. Pinned!
Megan Indoe says
Wow, those views are unreal! We haven’t made it up to Big Sur or that far north yet via car but we are dying to do so! We will make sure to stop at Ragged Point, great tip!
Lori says
This part of Cali has left a permanent mark. There’s something so magical about Big Sur and the million dollar views, but it’s the woods there that I love most!
Annette @ A French Collection says
I really loved seeing your photos of this area. I have visited it but really can’t recall the views or much about it. I was too busy looking after very little children and a baby on that long trip that many places blurred into each other. Thanks again for putting me back over there – minus the kids (who are now much older) 🙂 #TheWeeklyPostcard
budget jan says
It seems that every time I see the coast of California I can’t believe it is so gorgeous. Beautiful photos of Ragged Point. Today is my last day as Co-host. It has been lovely Co-hosting with you all this time.
Laureen says
Love all the info here. I love Big Sur but have not been to Ragged Point. Thanks for the details and I’ll make another visit soon. Cheers!
Emese says
Wow! Beautiful! I haven’t been there (or at least don’t remember being there), though we explored California over the years. Your photos are gorgeous, made me want to visit soon. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard.
Jessica @ Independent Travel Cats says
Lovely views here and all the other places you mention in the area, glad you finally got here after 12 years! I would love to return to this area again soon. Maybe next year. The California coastline is just a wonderful place to visit!
Tracy says
The closest I have been is passing by in the Coast Starlight a few years ago – it looks so beautiful and I would love to return and see more of the area!
Stephanie (1AdventureTraveler) says
Great information on hikes at Big Sur, tips, and the million dollar view. I have been to Big Sur before but it’s been a long time. Seeing this makes me want to go back and enjoy the views and hikes. You are correct about the gas prices. Fill up before you get there. I would love to just pack a lunch and enjoy the view. Thanks for sharing! #feetdotravel
Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net) says
I can’t really say I’ve been “to” Ragged Point so much as through. For whatever reason, it was never more than a pitstop for us on the way north. More often, we held out until Willow Creek or Sand Dollar Beach. But now I’m thinking some time at Ragged Point Inn would be time well spent! Sometimes, we really miss the Pacific and these parts of California, and we love reading your posts from there. Thanks for sharing!
Sarah says
Yup, I would say that million dollar view definitely deserves its title!!
David says
While I’ve heard of Big Sur, I hadn’t heard of Ragged Point or the Million Dollar View before. Really enjoying you showing me all these sides to California that I didn’t know about. Love how those those steep cliffs fall down into the water like that. #TheWeeklyPostcard
Hilary says
I’ve been taking the HWY 1 since childhood and it never gets old, though I agree with you about the heights thing! Hopefully it will all be open again soon. #farawayfiles
Angie (Feetdotravel) says
That view is definitely deserving of the title “million dollar view”! But that road?? Yes I can see it! I would have shut my eyes for that part of the journey haha (I don’t have a head for heights!). Stunning! #feetdotravel
Clair Kelly says
Amazingly photography and a very detailed and well planned out post. Will pin it for my next trip that direction!
Travel Lexx says
Another stunning part of the Big Sur – I feel I definitely need to drive that stretch again as the trip I was on didn’t have that many stops and while the views were amazing, we missed out on many areas like this! Thanks for sharing
Scarlett Begonias says
There is nothing like driving the West Coast, I just love that view. Breathtaking pictures 🙂