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You are here: Home / USA / California / Big Sur / Ragged Point, California and the Million Dollar View

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Ragged Point, California and the Million Dollar View

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.

Views between San Simeon and Ragged Point, Big Sur, California

Views between San Simeon and Ragged Point, Big Sur, California

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
    • Ragged Point Inn
    • The Million Dollar View
    • Black Swift Falls
    • Ragged Point Fire Road Trail
    • Salmon Creek Falls
    • Attractions North of Ragged Point
    • Attractions South of Ragged Point
  • Recommendations for your visit
    • Related posts:

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.

Red Pagoda at Ragged Point Inn, Big Sur, California

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.

Sculpture at Ragged Point Inn, Big Sur, California

Trail to the base of the cliffs, Big Sur, California

Beach at the base of the cliffs, Ragged Point, Big Sur, California

Beach at the base of the cliffs, Ragged Point, Big Sur, California

 

If you visit, take also a look at the views to the south (the cliffs are to the north).  They are great as well!

IMG_0051

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?

If you enjoyed this post, remember to share!

Pin me for later!

Things to do in #BigSur, #California – Travel tips and ideas - Ragged Point, CA is the first official stop in Big Sur for those navigating the coast from the south. A stop in this spot will give you the opportunity to enjoy magnificent cliff and ocean views, waterfalls, oak forests, coves and even redwoods. So, get ready for a road trip full of camping, hiking and photographing (there are creature comforts too). My guide will point out what to do and see! #RaggedPoint #USA

Related posts:

McWay Cove and Falls, Big Sur, CaliforniaMcWay Falls: Stunning Spot in Big Sur China CovePoint Lobos: A Must Visit Along the California Coast Big Sur, CaliforniaThe Magic of Big Sur Aerial view of Bixby Bridge, Big Sur DriveBig Sur Drive: Ultimate Road Trip Planning Guide


52 Comments

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Comments

  1. Lauren Meshkin @BonVoyageLauren says

    September 17, 2014 at 3:02 am

    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 🙂

    Reply
    • Ruth says

      September 22, 2014 at 6:30 pm

      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.

      Reply
  2. Ruth Daly says

    March 19, 2018 at 9:30 am

    This looks amazing! And another place to add to my list of must-visit locations. Great info and photos, as usual.

    Reply
  3. Mary says

    March 19, 2018 at 9:43 am

    That is quite a spectacular view. It reminds me of the jagged cliffs in Lanzarote Canary Island. Raw beauty!!

    Reply
  4. image-in-ing: weekly photo linkup says

    March 19, 2018 at 10:37 am

    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

    Reply
  5. Carol says

    March 19, 2018 at 10:58 am

    I wrote a post last year about my favorite travel destination, the Monterey peninsula. Glorious photography! Love this post!!

    Reply
  6. Lady Fi says

    March 19, 2018 at 10:48 pm

    Such a lovely coastline!

    Reply
  7. Joyful says

    March 19, 2018 at 11:55 pm

    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.

    Reply
  8. photo cache says

    March 20, 2018 at 8:10 am

    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.

    Reply
  9. Kay L. Daviesw says

    March 20, 2018 at 5:21 pm

    Fabulous views. Almost too much beauty! I love the big O encircling the view.
    Kay
    An Unfittie’s Guide to Adventurous Travel

    Reply
  10. Mandy says

    March 21, 2018 at 4:22 am

    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!

    Reply
  11. Keri | Ladies What Travel says

    March 21, 2018 at 8:24 am

    Wow, what amazing views you had there! #WanderfulWednesday

    Reply
  12. Tanya says

    March 21, 2018 at 10:22 am

    Wow, your photos are amazing. Looks like you captured some multi-million-dollar views!

    Reply
  13. Nerissa says

    March 21, 2018 at 12:04 pm

    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.

    Reply
  14. Unta says

    March 21, 2018 at 12:11 pm

    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. 🙂

    Reply
  15. Annie says

    March 21, 2018 at 1:27 pm

    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 🙂

    Reply
  16. Sami says

    March 21, 2018 at 5:36 pm

    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!

    Reply
  17. Brianna says

    March 21, 2018 at 6:07 pm

    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!

    Reply
  18. Stella Jane says

    March 21, 2018 at 6:42 pm

    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.

    Reply
  19. Nicky says

    March 22, 2018 at 3:20 am

    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!

    Reply
  20. dorothy says

    March 22, 2018 at 4:26 am

    The Big Sur views are amazing, and you are right the artist did a good job capturing the scenery through the sculpture.

    Reply
  21. Vanessa Brune says

    March 22, 2018 at 5:02 am

    I’d definitely need to bring my anti-motion sickness meds but it looks like it’s totally worth it for that view! <3

    Reply
  22. Lisa says

    March 22, 2018 at 11:33 am

    Oh my – I can tell why it’s called the million dollar view. This really is super super super beautiful!!! #wanderfulwednesday

    Reply
  23. Sharon says

    March 22, 2018 at 8:41 pm

    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!

    Reply
  24. Kelleyn Rothaermel says

    March 23, 2018 at 1:33 am

    Gorgeous photos from my home state! I may be a southern girl now, but California always holds a special place in my heart.

    Reply
  25. Sandra says

    March 23, 2018 at 1:34 am

    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

    Reply
  26. Shivani Sharma says

    March 23, 2018 at 1:37 am

    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 😀

    Reply
  27. MEGAN - Truly MAdly kids says

    March 23, 2018 at 3:09 am

    I. Want. To. Go!! Very informative blog with fab pictures #farawayfiles

    Reply
  28. Clare (Suitcases and Sandcastles) says

    March 23, 2018 at 10:42 am

    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

    Reply
  29. Daniel says

    March 23, 2018 at 12:18 pm

    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

    Reply
  30. California Globetrotter says

    March 23, 2018 at 2:02 pm

    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!

    Reply
  31. Rhonda Albom says

    March 23, 2018 at 2:43 pm

    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.

    Reply
  32. jill says

    March 23, 2018 at 3:50 pm

    I’ve driven Big Sur twice but have never seen the view from Ragged Point. Beautiful! Gonna have to remember this for next time.

    Reply
  33. Danielle @ Along for Adventure says

    March 23, 2018 at 6:27 pm

    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!

    Reply
  34. Deborah Regen says

    March 23, 2018 at 7:18 pm

    Enjoyed this post. The hotel looks perfect in its environment and quite inviting. Pinned!

    Reply
  35. Megan Indoe says

    March 23, 2018 at 8:14 pm

    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!

    Reply
  36. Lori says

    March 23, 2018 at 8:54 pm

    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!

    Reply
  37. Annette @ A French Collection says

    March 23, 2018 at 9:13 pm

    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

    Reply
  38. budget jan says

    March 23, 2018 at 9:26 pm

    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.

    Reply
  39. Laureen says

    March 24, 2018 at 12:21 am

    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!

    Reply
  40. Emese says

    March 24, 2018 at 9:50 am

    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.

    Reply
  41. Jessica @ Independent Travel Cats says

    March 25, 2018 at 1:45 pm

    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!

    Reply
  42. Tracy says

    March 25, 2018 at 8:54 pm

    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!

    Reply
  43. Stephanie (1AdventureTraveler) says

    March 26, 2018 at 12:36 pm

    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

    Reply
  44. Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net) says

    March 27, 2018 at 7:19 pm

    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!

    Reply
  45. Sarah says

    March 27, 2018 at 8:14 pm

    Yup, I would say that million dollar view definitely deserves its title!!

    Reply
  46. David says

    March 28, 2018 at 6:06 am

    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

    Reply
  47. Hilary says

    March 28, 2018 at 8:55 am

    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

    Reply
  48. Angie (Feetdotravel) says

    March 28, 2018 at 11:49 pm

    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

    Reply
  49. Clair Kelly says

    March 30, 2018 at 3:04 am

    Amazingly photography and a very detailed and well planned out post. Will pin it for my next trip that direction!

    Reply
  50. Travel Lexx says

    March 30, 2018 at 11:37 am

    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

    Reply
  51. Scarlett Begonias says

    April 1, 2018 at 1:17 pm

    There is nothing like driving the West Coast, I just love that view. Breathtaking pictures 🙂

    Reply

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Ruth
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