When you see locations on TV that feature remote ocean beaches that include exotic looking cliffs, rocky outcroppings, and gem-like, turquoise waters, it's easy to think that this type of place is only accessible to Samantha Brown on the Travel Channel, or models doing the Sports Illustrated photo shoot somewhere that requires a jet helicopter to bring them in along with their makeup crew and caterers.

Bixby Bridge, Northern Big Sur. Photo by David Baselt

The Big Sur region on California's Central coast is just such a place, with one major difference; anybody can enjoy it. The catch is that there are no major airports but, this is a good thing. Natural geography keeps the millions of visitors away. Yes, there are times when people are evident in some numbers, but it is not like visiting the Grand Canyon or Yellowstone in peak season.

The 2008 summer season saw a large fire strongly effect the coastal area but, many areas are still open and unaffected by firefighting bulldozers, crews or the fire itself.

The Pfeiffer Beach area requires a short .08 mile hike from parking to beach. The story here is the beach more than the trail. The area is absolutely beautiful. For one who grew up playing on Oregon and California's beaches, this is probably the most scenic beach any where. I wouldn't think twice about planning an entire vacation around nothing but Big Sur hiking trails, lodges, restaurants and the unmatched photo-ops. And for me, this would require quite a bit of planning as we live near Chicago these days.

There are three west coast beaches that I consider the most beautiful; Harris Beach in Southern Oregon near Brookings, Cannon Beach on Oregon's north coast just south of Seaside, and all of Big Sur's beaches.

And just because Pfeiffer Beach and Big Sur are remotely located doesn't mean that you can't get a latte' and post your beach photos at a wi-fi hot spot. From Carmel-by-the-Sea to the north, to San Simeon to the south there are dozens of stops and shops along the way.

Photos from Shirly Buxton

Another important travel attachment about Big Sur is that it is a part of Adventure-Crew's Northern Los Angeles Adventure-Loop in the L.A. Adventure-Zone.

Editor.

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Pfeiffer Beach Trail

by Linda Mullaly & David Mullaly

The short, sandy trail to the beach is the threshold into a surreal canvas of white sand against a backdrop of wave-sculpted rock arches. This beach’s isolated beauty and firmly packed sand combine to create a unique escape where you and your dog can spend anywhere from an hour to a day walking, picnicking, and savoring your good fortune that you can share this pristine, hidden beach together.

Pfeiffer Beach. Photo from photos.imageevent.com

Activity Type: Hiking 
Nearby City: Big Sur 
Length: 0.8 total miles
Elev. Gain: Minimal 
Trail Type: Out-and-Back 
Skill Level: Easy 
Duration: 0.5 hour 
Season: Year-round; foggy and cooler summer, clear and warmer fall 
Trailhead Elev: 20 feet
Top Elev: 22 feet
Local Contacts: Los Padres National Forest, Monterey Ranger District 
Local Maps: Pfeiffer Beach Trail Topo Map USGS Pfeiffer Point 
Guide Book: Best Hikes with Dogs: Central California Guide Book 

www.Trails.com