Romance at the Edge of the Pacific: A 3-Day Itinerary

Start your adventure with a breathtaking walk along the rugged Big Sur coastline, where you’ll encounter one of California's most iconic sights: McWay Waterfall, which dramatically cascades into the Pacific Ocean. Arriving early ensures fewer crowds and the best light for photography. After soaking in the view, continue to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, where there are many short scenic hikes that take you through towering redwoods to another hidden waterfall. Wrap it up at a cozy cafe perched on the coast, sipping coffee while gazing over the endless horizon. This first day blends natural wonder with peaceful moments, setting the perfect tone for the rest of your journey.

Head into Carmel, a charming storybook town filled with cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and art galleries. Treat yourself to some locally made sweet treats at the Cottage of Sweets—my favorite is their peanut butter cups and the maple fudge. Then, drive along the 17-Mile Drive, stopping at all the lookout points—my favorite stop is the Lone Cypress Tree. End the evening at the Spanish Bay, sipping wine while watching the bagpiper play as the sun sets over the ocean—the best way to end the day.

Spend your final day immersing yourself in the beauty and luxury of Spanish Bay, one of the most beautiful locations. Begin the morning with a leisurely stroll along the scenic Spanish Bay boardwalk, where winding paths through sand dunes open up to sweeping ocean views and sounds of the waves crashing against the rocky shoreline. Then head over to Roy's at Pebble Beach for lunch. My favorite plate is the loco moco, and make sure to end lunch with the Kona mud pie—it's amazing!